The best way to experience a destination is on foot.
I like to hike, pedal, or paddle whenever I visit a new destination. In San Antonio, you can do all three right inside the city limits.
When you think of the San Antonio River Walk, the heavily trafficked historic section located downtown may come to mind.
Offering tons of restaurants, hotels, and attractions, including the famous Rio Riverboat tours, this is the most visited section. Open only to foot traffic, you won’t want to miss it, but do yourself a favor and travel beyond to discover and explore all River Walk has to offer.
The San Antonio River Walk stretches over 15 miles, meandering alongside the SanAntonio River. Connecting to over 2,000 acres of public green space, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, world-class art, and gorgeous scenery, it is one of the most exceptional urban parks in the United States.
PEDAL
Cycling is a fantastic way to experience River Walk. After a hearty breakfast, I make my way to the San Antonio Mission National Historical Park, grabbing a map in the Visitor’s Center
The Mission Reach consists of five missions, including the Alamo, but I decide to head the opposite direction to check out Mission Espada, the southernmost, and least visited of the five. Use the portals along the trail to connect with the missions.
Cruise alongside the San Antonio River enjoying wildflowers and public art installations. Keep an eye out for wildlife. Be forewarned that there is little shade along this section of trail, so plan accordingly. A hat, plenty of water, and sunscreen are mandatory.
No bike? No problem. Rent one from B-Swell. It’s Simple – download an app, inexpensive – as little as $12 a day, and docking stations are scattered throughout the city.
PADDLE
While you can’t paddle from one end of the River Walk to the other, there are three areas where non-motorized watercraft are allowed. The easiest thing to do is to rent a kayak or canoe from one of the local outfitters or take a guided tour.
Mission Adventure Tours offers something to suit all tastes and skill levels. Paddle through the hip King William District or for the more adventurous, see the missions from a new perspective along the Mission Reach.
HIKE
The historic section of the River Walk is open to foot traffic only due to the higher congestion and narrow paths. An excellent section to explore, but don’t stop there.
A short trek north takes you through gorgeous landscaping, and past the impressive Tobin Center. Loads of sculpture, mosaic, and other public art line the path on the way towards the San Antonio Museum of Art. The museum is easily accessible from the track. If you’re up for more, head to the Pearl, another mile or so, for a bite to eat.
From the Pearl, it’s not too far to the Witte Museum, San Antonio Zoo, and Botanical Gardens. I found this section to be less picturesque, and a little longer than the previous, so I grabbed a bike from the B-Swell dock and cycled to my next stop. The choice is yours.
Exploring River Walk on foot is an excellent way to see the San Antonio sights and even get off the beaten path.
I met two other cyclists along the Mission Reach and a handful of walkers. Aside from the more congested downtown section, you may have the path to yourself. No matter what, I promise you’ll have a great day.
And, you won’t have to feel guilty about all the great food and margaritas that await.
Click here for more information about the San Antonio River Walk.
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