Aug 7 2008
San Antonio's River Walk is a tourist's paradise. You will find shops, restaurants, and hotels lining the San Antonio River. With sidewalks, stairs to the street level, historic sites to tour, and boats floating lazily down the canals, you will find plenty to enjoy in this area of San Antonio. In late November, the River Walk takes on a holiday glow. The colorful lights along the river will put you in the holiday mood.Holiday Festivities
The most spectacular holiday event is the river parade and lighting ceremony. Taking place in late November, this event celebrates the illumination of over 122,000 twinkling lights, suspended in the trees along world famous San Antonio River Walk. Immediately following the lighting ceremony, spectators will witness the spectacular one-hour parade along San Antonio's River Walk featuring decorated and illuminated floats with celebrities, bands and lavishly-costumed participants.
This is a time for crowds along the River Walk. If you want to avoid the crowds and simply enjoy the lights, avoid the kick-off ceremony and choose another day for your river cruise. You will experience the beauty of the lights, the sounds of strolling musicians and the fun of choosing a riverside restaurant.
History
The River Walk area is a history buff's delight. In Texas, water has been a lifeline for many generations for centuries past. Native Americans first lived along the San Antonio River, calling the area "Yanaguana," which means "refreshing waters," or "clear waters." A band of Spanish explorers and missionaries came upon the river in 1691, and because it was the feast day of St. Anthony, they named the river "San Antonio." The actual founding of the city came in 1718 by Father Antonio Olivares, when he established Mission San Antonio de Valero, which became permanently etched in the annals of history in 1836 as The Alamo where 189 defenders held the old mission against some 4,000 Mexican troops for 13 days. Located in the heart of downtown, today The Alamo is a shrine and museum. It is easily accessible from the River Walk.
Where to Stay
We recommend a hotel right on the River Walk. You can step out of the lobby and take just a few stairs down to the River. It is a welcome respite from fighting traffic, and if you spend your entire visit on foot, you will see much of San Antonio’s historic district and come back from your trip just a little more fit! The River Walk site lists hotels that are right on the river.
Where to Find the Boats
You haven’t seen the River Walk until you take a narrated boat cruise. Not only will you tour the entire length of the River Walk, you will find out interesting historical tidbits, have a few laughs and rest your feet for awhile. The San Antonio River Walk website has all you need to know about the boat cruises. Rio San Antonio Cruises is the boat ride company that offers tours. You can purchase tickets for the tour at any of the three locations on the river: Rivercenter Mall, across from the Hilton Hotel, or at The Links Grille. For information contact the Reservation Center, phone: 1-800-417-4139 or local (210) 244-5700. Website.
What to Pack
The temperatures range up to the 70’s in the day and 50 degrees or below at night. It has been known to be cooler in San Antonio. Be sure and pack warm clothing for evenings and layer for the day time. The boats on the river are open. The area is fairly sheltered against winds.
Bring a flashlight for evening walks. The main parts of the River Walk are lighted but some of the areas farther from the central district may be dark.
Purchase a map or guidebook so that you can find the historical sights, and keep on track as you amble along the River Walk.
When You Go
What to Do First: After breakfast on your first day, head down to the River Walk and take a boat tour. It is the best way to get oriented, pass by a great selection of restaurants and learn a little more about the area.
Safety: Although the river is fairly shallow, you CAN fall in. The paths along the river have no guard rails. You are on your own so take a flashlight at night and limit the number of margaritas!
Best Time to Walk: The best time to walk the River Walk for exercise or to see the whole area is early morning. The best time to stroll and people-watch is evening. This is the time when musicians entertain you as you walk or dine at the riverside restaurants.
