San Antonio River Walk
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Built on grounds that were part of the Villa de Bejar outpost in the 1700s, the San Antonio River Walk is among the most visited attractions in Texas today. After a flood in 1921 on the San Antonio River, the area now known as the River Walk was initially planned as a means of flood control. It now spans 15 miles and connects to the San Pedro Greenway. In addition to the many shops, restaurants, and hotels that have popped up in the area, the River Walk hosts community celebrations.
How to Get There
The San Antonio Airport is 9 miles from the River Walk. The closest major thoroughfare is Interstate 37, less than a half-mile from the Shops at Rivercenter access point. You can access the River Walk through various street-level points and hotels, bars, and restaurants. The Shops at Rivercenter is one of the most common access points because it is near the boat tours, a parking garage, and Alamo Plaza.
Rent an RV For Your Visit to San Antonio River Walk
Visit San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk lines the San Antonio River in the downtown area and is one story below the busy city streets. Numerous stairways and footbridges are available for navigation. Walking along the San Antonio River Walk is a great way to explore some of the city's top-rated attractions. In addition to its location near the Shops at Rivercenter, it is close to the Alamo, HemisFair Park, the Pearl, and the San Antonio Museum of Art. It is also the location of the annual Fiesta San Antonio event, which brings tens of thousands of visitors and locals to the area. This area of Texas has long summers and shorter winters, and the River Walk is open year-round. The most pleasant time to visit is in the spring and fall when the weather is mild. Additionally, because this is an outdoor venue, you should check the forecast to plan what to wear.
Ticket Information
Strolling along the River Walk and exploring the sites is free. River Walk boat tours are popular, and they depart every 15 minutes between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. daily except on major holidays. These narrated tours are approximately 35 minutes long. Tickets are $15.70 and can be purchased on-site near the Shops at Rivercenter or online.
Family-Friendly Options
The San Antonio River Walk is a family-friendly attraction. Families with children often visit the IMAX Theater, take river tours, and stop by Ripley's Believe It or Not! However, you should be aware that maneuvering strollers over the stone pathways and up and down the busy staircases can be challenging.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
The San Antonio River Walk can get busy on the weekends and when events are happening in town, such as a Lackland Air Force Base graduation or a Spurs home game. Crowds give the River Walk a more vibrant feel. However, if you prefer to tour the area in a relaxed fashion, consider visiting earlier in the day, during the middle of the week, and when events are not taking place. Because so many attractions are along the River Walk, consider creating a customized itinerary and path to your top spots. Be sure to bring a camera as the River Walk is a gorgeous destination from sunrise until well after the sun goes down in the evening.
San Antonio River Walk Accommodations
Campgrounds Nearby
Traveler’s World RV Resort is just 12 minutes south of downtown San Antonio on I-37, making it easily accessible. It sits along the scenic banks of the San Antonio River, right next to a large golf course and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Just minutes away, you’ll also find a large shopping center, the Walmart Supercenter, and a number of different restaurants.
Located close to famed historical site the Alamo, this is one of the best places in Texas to take a new RV. This KOA books groups from churches, clubs, and other organizations for big events and has something of a Southwestern history and culture theme with chuck wagon breakfasts, bicycle rentals, and fishing being some of the included amenities. Best of all, it’s securely located behind a locked gate.
Mission Trails is a mid-sized park. This is a great choice for people who want to be close to downtown San Antonio, which is just a five-minute drive from this campground. There is also public transit nearby.
Activities Near San Antonio River Walk
Things to Do
Hiking
To enjoy time outdoors in the city's center, visit Travis Park, Yanaguana Garden, or King William Park. These parks offer hiking and walking and host numerous community events yearly.
Fishing
Angling is a popular activity among locals and visitors alike. Some popular fishing spots are Canyon Lake, Lake Dunlap, and Calaveras Lake.
Flora and fauna
While San Antonio is an urban area, you can get to know the local flora and fauna without driving too far out of town. The Medina River Natural Area, the Guadalupe River State Park, and the Blanco River Park are easy to get to. You can see sycamore, elm, basswood, and pecan trees at these locations. You may also spot deer, armadillos, and a variety of songbirds.
National Sites
Weather, Safety & Accessibility
Weather & Packing
San Antonio has mild and enjoyable weather conditions throughout the spring and fall. Having layers with you will allow you to change clothing to adapt to chillier morning and evening temperatures. Summers are long and hot, and extreme heat is typical. If you visit during the hotter months, ensure you have a wide-brimmed hat and plenty of water. During winter, plan on needing a jacket and a warm hat. Make sure you have comfortable shoes whenever you visit because you will have to do a lot of walking to enjoy everything the River Walk offers.
Safety & Accessibility
The San Antonio Park Police Department Riverwalk Patrol Section is responsible for security on the River Walk 24 hours a day. Even with the officers in place to ensure your safety, it is always a good idea to make sure a group member has a cellphone to call 911 for an emergency.
The City of San Antonio has been actively eliminating barriers and creating wheelchair accessibility to and along the River Walk since the 1980s. They have improved more than 50 locations during this time and continue to work with local establishments to install elevators at key access points. Before visiting, you can peruse the city's River Walk Maps & Accessibility website to find maps that highlight the locations of elevators, wheelchair-accessible paths, and ramps.
Conclusion
Strolling along the San Antonio River Walk is a memorable way to experience the culture of this region of Texas and explore the area's history. After visiting the River Walk, consider exploring more of Texas and other unique locations found in the United States during your RV trip.
FAQ
Camping is prohibited at the River Walk or any of the adjacent parks. However, you can camp at the Alamo KOA and the Lost Woods Campground, which are a short drive away.
It may be difficult and frustrating to park a large RV close to the most popular access points to the River Walk. However, you can park your RV at the Travis Park parking meters or The Alamodome, which are within walking distance.
To avoid the crowds, you may want to visit on a weekday and avoid arriving on the dates of popular events. In addition, if you plan on having dinner on the River Walk, making a reservation in advance is a good idea.
The San Antonio River Walk is a family-friendly destination with numerous dining, entertainment, and historical venues to explore nearby. Accessibility for strollers and wheelchairs is offered at select entry points, so you are encouraged to review a map before arriving.
The San Antonio River Walk is pet-friendly. Some restaurants allow you to dine with your pet on the patio, and a few have menu selections catering to your four-legged family members.