The San Antonio Riverwalk Sightseeing, Restaurants, and Night Life

Known as "every Texan's favorite city," San Antonio has so many things to do that it's bound to become any visitor's favorite city. The culturally-diverse, historically-rich and stylishly-cool San Antonio has it all.

They say that everything's bigger in Texas, and when you're talking about the San Antonio Riverwalk, you'll realize how right they are. Featuring clubs, restaurants, hotels, theme parks and so much more, the San Antonio Riverwalk is the second most visited site in the area. This two and a half mile stretch is located on the beautiful waterfront of the San Antonio River and covers the area from the King William Historical District to Municipal Auditorium. Once used by Spanish explorers as a way to supply missions with water, this spectacular area is now filled with apartments, entertainment, restaurants, shopping, and businesses.

Shoppers will find themselves right at home along the Riverwalk. Many boutiques line the street and you'll be able to find anything your heart desires. On the south bank, you'll find La Villita. This was the site of the original settlement and was once the site of General Santa Ana's cannon line during the Battle of the Alamo. Today it is a flourishing art community with several well established galleries and dozens of shops and small cafes.

Entertainment along the Riverwalk

Entertainment is the focus along the Riverwalk and there is much to be done. Take a romantic ride down the river on a cruise, wind through the streets lined with old fashioned lamps in a horse drawn carriage or simply stroll along browsing the shops and enjoying the lush landscaping of the area. If you are looking for a bit more excitement step into one of the many clubs along Riverwalk including:

• Bonham Exchange
• Jim Cullum's Landing
• Polly Esther's
• Imax Theatre:   For an unforgettable experience be sure and visit the Imax Theatre at Rivercenter. Here you can view "Alamo — The Price of Freedom" on a giant screen, making you feel as if you're part of the action. Other attractions include the Ripley's Believe It or Not Museum and Dave and Busters.
• HemisFair Park:   Just a short walk from Riverwalk you can view a part of history at the site of the 1968 World's Fair. HemisFair Park includes a 15-acre park with waterfalls and fountains along with a children's playground. Travel more than 600 feet above the city for an awe inspiring view from the Tower of Americas. Originally completely for the World's Fair, the tower underwent complete renovations in 1990 and is now open to the public. The park also includes several shops, the Mexican Cultural Institute and the Institute of Texas Cultures.

Restaurants on the Riverwalk

After spending the day browsing the shops and strolling the walkways you'll be ready for a fantastic meal to rejuvenate you and get you ready for the night's festivities. If your expectations include only the traditional "Tex-Mex" style food then you're in for a big surprise. Dining options along the river walk are very diverse and you're certain to find a restaurant that will satisfy any craving.

• Tower Restaurant:   The observation decks provide spectacular views and visitors can enjoy a fantastic meal on top of the world in the revolving Tower Restaurant.
• High in the Sky Lounge:  Relax with cocktails and dancing.
• For the classic American meal you can choose from Champion Sports Bar & Restaurant, Fuddruckers, G.M. Steakhouse, The Bayou Riverside and The Cactus Flower.
• For food with a Latin, Cuban or Spanish flair visit Casio Rio Mexican Restaurant or Rio Rio Cantina.
• Steak and Seafood are the top menu items at Boudros on the Riverwalk and fans of Asian cuisine will enjoy their favorites at Hunan Garden Restaurant.
• For fine dining make a reservation at Biga On the Banks or enjoy the one of a kind experience of a wonderful meal on board one of the river barges.

From family fun to romantic nights, San Antonio Riverwalk has everything you're looking for. With the rich history of the area and widely varied entertainment there's never a dull moment here and there's almost certainly a party going on somewhere along the cobble walkways. After even a short stay here, San Antonio is sure to have you hooked and keep you coming back for more year after year!