About the River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk (Paseo del Río) is a 15-mile network of walkways along the San Antonio River, one city story below street level. It's the most visited attraction in Texas, drawing over 11 million visitors annually.

What to Know Before You Go

Best Time to Visit

• October-November: Perfect weather, fewer crowds
• March-April: Fiesta San Antonio (mid-April) is a must-experience event
• Avoid: July-August (triple-digit heat and humidity)

Getting Around

The River Walk has two main sections:

• Downtown Loop: The iconic horseshoe bend with restaurants, shops, and hotels. This is where most tourists spend their time.
• Museum Reach: North extension past the Pearl District. More local, less touristy, great breweries and galleries.
• Mission Reach: South extension connecting four UNESCO World Heritage missions. Best for cycling and walking.

Top Restaurants

Splurge

• Biga on the Banks — Fine dining, locally sourced, stunning river views
• Ostra — Seafood-forward with a beautiful patio

Mid-Range

• Casa Rio — The original River Walk restaurant (since 1946). Tex-Mex classics.
• Iron Cactus — Reliable Mexican food, great margaritas

Budget

• Mi Tierra — 24/7 Tex-Mex institution in nearby Market Square
• Schilo's Deli — German-Texan comfort food since 1917

Hotels on the River Walk

• Hotel Emma (Pearl District) — Boutique luxury in a converted brewery. Our top pick.
• Drury Plaza — Great value, free evening food and drinks, right on the river
• Omni La Mansión — Classic River Walk luxury, walking distance to everything

Free Things to Do

1. Walk the entire downtown loop (about 2.5 miles)
2. Visit the Alamo (free admission)
3. Browse the Pearl Farmers Market (Sat & Sun mornings)
4. Watch the river barges go by from any bench
5. Visit the San Fernando Cathedral light show (Tues-Sun evenings, free)

Pro Tips

• The River Walk is below street level — look for stairway access points marked with signs
• Download our interactive map before you go
• River cruise tours are $15 and worth it for first-timers (35 minutes)
• Bring comfortable walking shoes — the stone paths can be uneven
• Restaurants directly on the river charge a 10-20% premium — one block up is usually cheaper and just as good