San Antonio Riverwalk
The riverwalk in downtown San Antonio is known throughout the nation and is one of our biggest tourist attractions. The San Antonio river walk is lined with stores, restaurants, specialty shops and all are accessible on foot or by the Yanaguana Cruise Line, which services the river with tours and boat rides through the historic San Antonio River and along the riverwalk. The riverwalk is a point of convergence during holidays and is even dyed green during St. Patrick's Day. As a centerpiece of San Antonio, the riverwalk is a large draw for visitors and local residents. Now you know why San Antonio is also known as the "River City".
"Paseo del Rio" is Spanish for "Pass of the River" or "River Pass"
About the Riverwalk
The San antonio Riverwalk is a major attraction in the Alamo City. It originates just north of downtown at a location known as the San Antonio Springs Blue Hole and runs through down town weaving between hotels and high rise office buildings. With river construction and upgrades dating back to the 1800's, the riverwalk has evolved over time to become a centerpiece for San Antonio's tourism industry. The river doesn't flood due to the initial engineering feats of the Olmos Dam and the bypass channel. Many upgrades to the San Antonio River flood management over time have resulted in the protection of the river and riverwalk from flooding. Today, the riverwalk is a San Antonio masterpiece attracting tourists from around the nation and world. The beauty of the riverwalk reflects the heritage and culture of San Antonio. See a detailed account of the San Antonio Riverwalk history.
San Antonio River Parade
Every year during Fiesta, the Texas Cavaliers host the only floating parade in the US. The river barges become floats and are decorated with lights and festive San Antonio flair. There are bands, fiesta royalty, local celebrities and more floating down the river in the nighttime river parade. Chairs line the river and an estimated 250,000 people turn out for this festive event along the San Antonio Riverwalk. River parade tickets are usually available starting in January. This is truly a spectacular, festive, and memorable San Antonio event.
Holiday Riverwalk Lighting Ceremony
The Christmas holiday season kicks off in San Antonio every November with the lighting of the riverwalk. Over 120,000 twinkling lights are illuminated by one switch. The riverwalk is lined with over 100,000 people to witness this festive event. There is also a smaller holiday river parade to celebrate this festive San Antonio event. The lighting of the riverwalk has been a tradition for over 20 years and has become known as the event that starts the Christmas season. Tickets are on sale through the Paseo del Rio Association.
Riverwalk Links
San Antonio Riverwalk - Paseo Del Rio Official Website
San Antonio Riverwalk Visitors Guide - from the San Antonio CVB