Rio 2025 Q1

INSIDE

Maps + Coupons

DISCOVER THE

Many Charms of the River Walk Your Gateway to New Adventures

RIVER WALK EVENT SPACE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS

FOR MORE INFORMATI VISIT MADDOGSGROU MADDOGSGROUP.COM

CE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS where legends meet CrockettTavern.com

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT EVENTS@MADDOGS.NET

ION UP.COM

entertainment 7 NIGHTs a week MadDogsSA.com

Best RIVER WALK TERRACE & Patio ProstHausSA.com

oktoberfest ALL DAY EVERY DAY BierGartenSA.com

Live JAZZ, OYSTER BAR & Cigar Lounge OnTheBendSA.com

not your average IRISH SPORTS BAR MaddysSA.com

PROUDLY SERVING COFFEE & SNACKS AlamoPlazaCoffeeBar.com

FROZEN ALcoholic DRINKS to go FrostyDogSA.com

in this issue

15

26

18

FOODIES

THE RIVER WALK'S ELEVATED CULINARY SCENE

By Kimberly A. Suta

FEATURES

ART LOVERS

THE ARTISTIC SIDE OF SAN ANTONIO: MUSTSEE RIVER WALK ART

10 River Walk Events 14 How Do You Stay Real & True?

15 Foodies 18 Art Lovers 22 Cultural Connoisseurs 26 Adventurers 28 Families 30 Shopaholics 32 History Buffs 36 History & Culture

30

ADVENTURERS

shopaholics

By Drew Henry

By Kimberly A. Suta

THE RIVER WALK IS DISCOVER TREASURES YOUR GATEWAY TO UNTOLD ALONG THE NEW QUESTS RIVER WALK

By Dawn Robinette, CTA

GUIDES

40 Eat & Drink 41 Shop & Play

MAPS

42 Downtown 44 Museum Reach 45 Southtown & Mission Reach

COUPONS

46 Ways to Save

on the cover

The San Antonio River Walk is a charming and enchanting destination that captivates visitors with its picturesque setting, rich history and vibrant atmosphere.

With a network of easily accessible walkways that wind along the San Antonio River, bordered by lush greenery, colorful flowers and stunning architecture, the River Walk’s peaceful ambiance is enhanced by beautiful bridges, art installations and shaded areas that make it feel like an oasis in the heart of the city. The River Walk reflects the city's multicultural influences, from its Spanish roots to the blend of Mexican, Native American and European cultures. This is evident in the architecture, food, music and river parades that take place year-round, making it an ever-changing and lively destination. Visit www.TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com.

4 RIO Magazine

@TheSanAntonio RiverWalkOfficial

@thesanantonioriverwalk

@theSAriverwalk

#sariverwalk

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com

Rio Magazine is an official publication of Visit San Antonio.

All expressions of opinions and statements of supposed facts are published on the authority of the writer and cannot be regarded as expressing the views of Visit San Antonio or its Publisher. Advertisements do not imply sponsorship or endorsement by the Visit San Antonio or its Publisher. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

3/31/25

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 5

The San Antonio River Walk’s mission is to promote, protect and preserve the River Walk. This is done through special events, public education, social media and Rio Magazine.

For more information, visit www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com.

The Official Magazine of the River Walk

Publisher

LOUIS DOUCETTE louis@travelingblender.com

Editor

TRISHA HUTZLER trisha@travelingblender.com

Business Manager

VICKI SCHRODER vicki@travelingblender.com

Advertising Sales

San Antonio: GERRY LAIR gerry@travelingblender.com Austin: SANDY WEATHERFORD sandy@travelingblender.com

Design

JENNIFER NELSON jennifer@travelingblender.com @TheSanAntonio RiverWalkOfficial

@thesanantonioriverwalk

@theSAriverwalk

#sariverwalk

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com 6 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

3/31/25

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 7

editor’s letter

Discover the Many Charms of the River Walk Welcome to San Antonio, a vibrant city with a rich blend of history, culture and modern attractions. It is the second-most populous city in Texas and the seventh-largest in the U.S., but San Antonio is truly a small town at heart. Just as San Antonio is a city defined by its diverse heritage, where a vibrant collection of cultures coexists and celebrates each other’s unique identities, the River Walk provides plenty of entertainment to satisfy the interests of our many diverse guests.

With world-class entertainment, a flourishing artists’ community, exceptional cuisine, recorded history hundreds of years in the making and plenty of outdoor recreation, there is something for everyone to enjoy. See page 14 to discover the many ways to entertain everyone in your traveling group!

March is an exciting month along the River Walk. March 1 brings the annual Bud Light River Walk Mardi Gras River Parades with a wild and wonderful party all along the river walkways. You will have two chances to watch costumed performers decked out in flamboyant green, purple and gold floating along the river, plus live entertainment at the Arneson River Theatre, food, fun and lots of beads. So many restaurants along the River Walk will also transport you to NOLA, Rio or Venice for that Carnival atmosphere year-round!

Next, lose the purple and gold, and go all-out green with the River Walk’s Bud Light St. Patrick’s Celebration, March 15-16. This annual event includes eco-dying the river a vivid green, live entertainment and the highlight of the weekend — the two River Parades with serenading bagpipers and other entertainers. The budding landscape-lined River Walk is a perfect verdant backdrop for these early spring activities.

beginning on February 23 with the Opening Ceremony at the Alamo. The following day, the reading of Colonel William Travis’ “Never Surrender or Retreat” letter features his famous plea for reinforcements, and on March 1, there is a reenactment of the arrival of the 32 men who responded. The Texas Independence Day Celebration takes place on March 2 with music and living history demonstrations throughout the day. Then on March 6, there are several ceremonies honoring the Alamo defenders, beginning with “Dawn at the Alamo,” which describes the events leading up to the morning hour of the Alamo battle. I encourage everyone to visit www.TheAlamo.org for a complete list of activities and learn why our beloved Alamo is such an important part of our history..

February and March are also a special time in San Antonio, when Texans celebrate their independence. It will be 189 years since the 13-day Battle of the Alamo, with several events commemorating this historic time

So much more awaits you during January, February and March on the San Antonio River Walk. There really is something for everyone to enjoy, and I hope you discover them all!

Rio Magazine is published by Traveling Blender, LLC. (Publisher) on behalf of Visit San Antonio. Reproduction in any manner in whole or in part is prohibited without the express written consent of Visit San Antonio. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Visit San Antonio or its staff. Rio Magazine, the Publisher and Visit San Antonio reserve the right to edit all material for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. Rio Magazine does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial nor does the Publisher or Visit San Antonio assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photos are welcome and may be submitted to our office to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher and Visit San Antonio. All submissions become the property of Visit San Antonio. All Real Estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such a preference limitation or discrimination.”

@TheSanAntonio RiverWalkOfficial

@thesanantonioriverwalk

@theSAriverwalk

#sariverwalk

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com 8 RIO Magazine

Trisha Hutzler Editor, Rio Magazine

trisha@travelingblender.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

FAMILY OWNED AND CELEBRATING 50 YEARS

• Exclusive Private Barrel Anejo Tequila

Scan for specials

• Traditional Texas food from Burgers to BBQ • Local Beers and full Bar

(210) 226-6256

www.therepublicoftexasrestaurant.com Come enjoy riverside dining, fantastic margaritas and lovely staff.

It will be our pleasure to serve and celebrate with you.

Zocca Cuisine D’Italia in The Westin Riverwalk Zocca Cuisine D’Italia, located on the river level of The Westin Riverwalk, offers chef-driven dishes, regional wines, draft beers, and clink-worthy cocktails. An indoor-outdoor bar and patio along the river, live music on select days, Zocca-hosted river cruises, river parades, and culturecentric events offer engaging experiences like no other.

Zocca Happenings Page

210-224-6500 Zoccariverwalk.com

@zoccasa • thesanantonioriverwalk.com

@zoccaitaliasa

Main dishes include Gnocchi, Seafood Risotto, Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca, Braised Mushroom Ravioli, craft pizzas, fresh salads, and shareables, while cocktails include the Zocca Spritz, !Ay Caramba!, and San Antonio Fashion.

Special Event and Semi-Private Dining with specialized menu choices are also available.

RIO Magazine 9

river walk events

march merriness On the River Walk

By Ann Koehler

This March, the River Walk is decked out in green, purple and gold for an outrageous line-up of festivities! Begin the month with the Bud Light Mardi Gras River Parades and Celebration on March 1, then rest up for the Bud Light St. Patrick’s Parades and Celebration spanning the weekend of March 15-16. So, gather your fellow revelers and immerse yourselves in the rich traditions, dazzling costumes and infectious rhythms that make March celebrations on the River Walk a true feast for the senses.

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thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Fiume pizzeria

paesanos

on the bend

Let the Good Times Roll on the River BUD LIGHT MARDI GRAS RIVER PARADES Saturday, March 1 2:00 to 3:00pm – Museum Reach River Parade 5:00 to 6:00pm – Downtown River Parade

SECOND LINE YOUR WAY DOWN THE RIVER WALK Keep the Mardi Gras spirit year-round at these NOLA-inspired staples on the River Walk.

Join us for the Bud Light Mardi Gras River Parades along the Museum Reach and Downtown stretches of the River Walk. With a lineup of Mardi Gras events, the River Walk transforms into a Mardi Gras celebration, complete with two floating river parades carrying costumed performers, live entertainment at the Arneson River Theatre, food trucks, artisan vendors, handfuls of beads and plenty of family fun. So, don your masks, grab your krewe, and get ready to dance, laugh and celebrate life in the grandest way possible. Laissez les bons temps rouler! Free to attend.

Joe’s Crab Shack Get your Gulf Coast seafood fix at Joe’s Crab Shack. With dishes like the Cajun Steampot, crispy fried shrimp and loads of crab legs, you’ll feel like a real Louisianian in no time!

Dick’s Last Resort Down a couple of beers, peel some shrimp and savor your burgers with a heaping side of sarcasm. Remember, the Dick’s experience is all in good fun!

On The Bend Oyster Bar and Cigar Lounge

CARNIVAL-INSPIRED CUISINE With deep roots in Rio and Venice, where they call it Carnival, let's join in the Brazilian and Italian celebrations!

Located inside Hyatt Regency on the River Walk, On The Bend Oyster Bar offers a moody terrace setting paired with cigars, oysters on the half shell and lively jazz quartets. Now, this is what we call Big Easy living!

Fogo de Chão Brazilian Steakhouse Indulge in endless tableside carved meats and maybe even squeeze in a samba dance between courses. Experience the flavors of Rio with views of the beautiful San Antonio River.

Fiume Pizzeria Gather for Neapolitan-style pizza with authentic Texan flavors from their fiery riverside pizza oven, then end the evening with a Venetian gondolainspired river cruise from GO RIO Cruises, located right across the river.

Paesanos Paesanos has been a San Antonio staple for over 50 years. Relax on the patio as you take in the river views and dine on old-school Italian classics, or try the favorite dish of San Antonio locals — Shrimp Paesano.

Zocca Cuisine D’Italia With a new menu featuring traditional Italian dishes with a creative Texas twist, like Lone Star Bolognese with brisket and Italian boar sausage, Zocca, in the Westin Riverwalk, is the place to savor multiple courses while patio dining on a quiet stretch of the River Walk.

BUD LIGHT MARDI GRAS RIVER PARADES BUD LIGHT ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATION AND PARADES RIVER WALK ARTISAN SHOWS www.TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com DICK’S LAST RESORT www.DicksLastResort.com DURTY NELLY’S www.DurtyNellysPubSA.com thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIVER WALK ROYALTY CORONATION Saturday, March 1 4:15 to 4:45pm A Royal Coronation ceremony at the Arneson River Theatre kicks off the Bud Light Mardi Gras River Parade. The River Walk Royalty serve as ambassadors for the San Antonio River Walk, promoting all events and parades, and the money they raise to be on the Royalty Court goes to fund scholarships. Help us send off our outgoing River Walk Royalty and watch us crown our brand-new River Walk Royalty Court for 2025! To learn more and contribute to the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation, visit www.VisitSanAntonio.com/ members/partner-with-us/san-antonio-hospitality-foundation/.

FOGO DE CHÃO www.FogoDeChao.com FIUME PIZZERIA www.FiumePizzeria.com JOE’S CRAB SHACK www.JoesCrabShack.com

ON THE BEND OYSTER BAR AND CIGAR LOUNGE www.OnTheBendSA.com PAESANOS www.PaesanosRiverwalk.com ZOCCA CUISINE D’ITALIA www.ZoccaRiverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 11

Feeling Lucky?

May the Luck of the Irish shine on you at the Bud Light St. Patrick’s River Parades, Celebration and Dying of the River Green! The San Antonio River Walk and The Harp & Shamrock Society of Texas have a fun-filled weekend in store, with live entertainment, the official Dyeing of the River Green and two festive River Parades.

DYEING THE RIVER GREEN, SPONSORED BY MAD DOGS Saturday, March 15: 11:00am to Noon, Museum Reach 1:00 to 3:00pm, Downtown Sunday, March 16: 1:00 to 3:00pm, Downtown Every year since 1968, the River Walk is magically transformed into the River Shannon as an eco-friendly green dye is swirled into the water to the tunes of a performing bagpiper. This year, the transformation begins on Saturday on the Museum Reach and moves to the Downtown portion of the River Walk, followed by a second Downtown dying on Sunday, with free viewing along the entire River Walk passage. The color is instantly apparent and intensifies with water movement by the boats. It is a great time to sit on a patio and enjoy a pint, or two. Free to attend.

BUD LIGHT ST. PATRICK’S CELEBRATION AND LIVE ENTERTAINMENT Saturday & Sunday, March 15-16, 1:00 to 6:00pm The Arneson River Theatre is putting on an Irish shindig, with familyfriendly activities and vendors in the adjacent La Villita Historic Village.

Free to attend.

BUD LIGHT ST. PATRICK’S RIVER PARADES Saturday, March 15 2:00 to 3:00pm, Museum Reach 5:00 to 6:00pm, Downtown Since 1969, the highlight of the River Walk’s St. Patrick’s Celebration is the procession of Irish-themed floats carrying bagpipers and other entertainers. No matter where you find yourself on the River Walk, you have been gifted the Luck of the Irish! Free to attend.

Durty Nelly's

ST. PATTY’S DAY EVERY DAY Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub The original Durty Nelly's Irish Pub dates back to Ireland in the 1620s at Bunratty Castle, and in 1974, an identical pub was built at the Hilton Palacio del Rio. Since then, River Walkers looking for a real Irish pub experience have had a place to call home, complete with traditional pub grub favorites like a good ol’ basket of fish and chips and draft beer. The sounds of nightly sing-alongs and piano tunes leap from the doors drawing in tourists and locals alike. Come in for a pint and stay for the charm with world-class piano entertainment, and strangers who become fast friends.

Go Green with Margs and Guac Forget green eggs and ham. And cabbage and green beer are not the only festive food and bev options in March. San Antonio celebrates green grub every day with the quintessential combo of margaritas and guacamole. Drop in nearly any restaurant along the River Walk for their spectacular versions of San Antonio’s favorite pairing.

RIVER WALK ARTISAN SHOWS The Artisan Shows let you experience the beauty of the San Antonio River Walk while shopping over 40 handmade artisan booths, including pottery, textiles, jewelry, woodwork, paintings, beadwork and more.

Vendor booths are located at the River Walk Extension, near the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Building and the Shops at Rivercenter.

Free to attend.

Mardi Gras Artisan Show February 28 – March 2, Friday-Sunday Friday & Saturday: 11:00am to 11:00pm Sunday: 11:00am to 8:00pm St. Patrick’s Artisan Show March 14 – 16, Friday-Sunday Friday & Saturday: 11:00am to 11:00pm Sunday: 11:00am to 8:00pm

go green with margs and guac

river walk artisan shows

Boudro's 12 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

MARCH 15TH & 16TH • 1PM

ST. PADDY’S PARTY PARADE $30 /TICKET

INCLUDES 2 COMPLIMENTARY DRINKS, PARTY FAVORS, AND A SPOT ON OUR PARTY PARADES!

CALL US FOR YOUR NEXT PARTY OR SPECIAL EVENT

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

FOR INFORMATION, CONTACT EVENTS@MADDOGS.NET

RIO Magazine 13

real & true

how do you stay Real & True?

San Antonio is an extraordinary destination, with real stories to tell and true experiences to share. At the heart of the city is the San Antonio River Walk. This famous 15-mile urban waterway, with an incredible history, is surrounded by food, art, live entertainment, boutiques, missions, museums and more. Whatever your passion or pastime, you will find many ways to experience everything right along the River Walk! How do you stay real and true?

FOODIES: When you visit San Antonio, you’ll understand why we call ourselves the Culinary Capital of Texas®. Our experiences, traditions and culture will always shine through the dishes plated in front of you.

As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, San Antonio’s confluence of cultures is evident from the one-of-a-kind culinary fusions created by celebrity chefs, to the authentic dishes of our early settlers.

FAMILIES: The River Walk’s family-friendly atmosphere welcomes

ART LOVERS: Art installations line the River Walk from the Museum

SHOPAHOLICS: From beautiful indoor and outdoor malls, to charming boutiques and artisan shows, there are so many opportunities to find bespoke treasures or kitschy souvenirs to remember your time spent in San Antonio. Don’t forget to check out museum shops for one-of-a-kind finds on your shopping spree!

Reach through Downtown to the Mission Reach. There are three museums along the River Walk with rotating exhibits, as well as downtown hotels and restaurants that support the arts. So, whether you’re looking to explore the hidden art surrounding the river’s winding paths, or lose yourself in one of the museums, you will discover local and world-renown art and traditions that are endearing to the Alamo City.

CULTURAL CONNOISSEURS: Downtown San Antonio has four historic theatres on or steps from the River Walk. All built in the early 1900s as glamorous architectural feats of the day, after loving and determined restorations, they are still as magnificent. Each venue brings world-class performances in live theatre, music, dance and comedy. It’s always showtime on the River Walk!

ADVENTURERS: The River Walk provides many opportunities for both open-air and indoor adventures. From kayaking, hiking and pedaling along the river banks, to indoor climbing, there is always something exciting and stimulating to experience. For more leisurely pursuits, this is the perfect time to wander the River Walk as the budding landscape offers a vibrant backdrop for exploration.

14 RIO Magazine

visitors of all ages. It’s easy, even for our youngest visitors, to appreciate the unique beauty of the River Walk while dining riverside on a scrumptious meal. But there are so many activities and new experiences that both parents and kids will enjoy, from marveling at sea creatures and feeding giraffes, to scoring at a game of mini golf.

HISTORY BUFFS: When you visit San Antonio, you will be immersed in more than 300 years of history — a history unlike any other place in the world! Simply strolling along the River Walk’s pathways and bridges transports you to another time. You can’t go wrong with the five Spanish colonial missions, preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and celebrated for their historical significance and architectural beauty, but branch out to explore the many museums and other historic landmarks to discover the events that shaped our city.

With so much rich art, local history, unique food, global culture and thrilling entertainment around every corner, there’s always something worth celebrating on the River Walk! We hope that you’ll spend your time here exploring everything our vibrant city has to offer. Read on to learn more!

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

foodies

biga on the banks

the river walk's

Elevated Culinary Scene

By Kimberly A. Suta

In 2017, San Antonio was designated as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, one of only two in the U.S., because of the city’s unique culinary heritage. The River Walk is abundant with a variety of choices for elevated dining featuring a breadth of cuisine from the city’s multi-layered confluence of cultures. Here’s where to kick off your culinary journey!

BIGA ON THE BANKS One of San Antonio's most iconic fine dining restaurants on the River Walk is Biga. Owner, Chef Bruce Auden, is a legend in this town for his superb world fusions and what they call his brand of “nouvelle American cuisine.” What’s most important to know is that dining at Biga is about as good as it gets anywhere in the state of Texas.

biga on the banks thesanantonioriverwalk.com

The menu changes daily and is updated every day on the website.

However, some good examples of what luscious treats are in store for you include Chicken Fried Texas Gulf Oysters and Habanero Jerk Scallops, Baked Wild Alaskan Halibut with a spicy sweet potato puree and charred tomato, a Mustard-Crusted Australian Lamb Rack with cheesy Texas Grits, and a Braised Berkshire Pork Osso Bucco. The list goes on! This is an absolutely do-not-overlook dinner. Biga’s desserts are also a thing of legend.

RIO Magazine 15

OCHO Located inside the Cuban-inspired historic Hotel Havana along the northern part of the River Walk, Ocho is a world-renowned restaurant situated inside a stunning glass conservatory overlooking the river. Twotime winning Food Network star, Chef Jesse Kuykendall, or Chef Kirk, is at the helm of this local gem, which is a perfect spot for drinks, dinner and weekend brunch. The innovative Latin menu is fresh and decadent with features like Costilla Lomo Saltado with garlic herbed polenta and stir-fried vegetable for dinner, and a colorful Concha French Toast with berry jam, fresh berries, candied pecans and a creamy caramel sauce for brunch, as well as seasonal cocktails.

“As I've traveled more, I've met amazing people, and through sharing recipes and memories, it has helped me explore new regions and flavors. San Antonio is a melting pot of cuisines and, as we move forward, I want to provide a menu that has something for everyone. Food is a love language.

I want to share my growth as a chef by bringing a nuevo Latino menu that makes Ocho and Hotel Havana a San Antonio gem,” said Chef Kirk.

ocho

BOUDRO'S TEXAS BISTRO With riverside seating, Boudro’s is an ideal choice for a delightful taste of South Texas traditions. This long-standing restaurant has been a San Antonio staple since 1986, and they are guaranteed to never disappoint with their signature prickly pear margaritas and tableside guacamole.

This bustling restaurant is fun for groups of friends and family for either lunch or dinner. The Chicken & Tortilla Caldo or Black and White Soup are popular options for lunch, while dinner features everything from Boudreaux’s delectable Shrimp and Grits, Blackened Gulf Fish Fillet, and a Filet of Beef Tenderloin with Grilled Jumbo Shrimp Churrasco.

And don’t forget dessert. Perhaps their Louisiana Bread Pudding … or another margarita!

boudro's texas bistro BRASSERIE MON CHOU CHOU At the Historic Pearl, Mon Chou Chou satisfies all your cravings for an authentic French Brasserie experience. This restaurant has been a hit since they first opened their doors, and folks just can’t get enough.

From a to-die-for lobster bisque encased in a ginormous puff pastry to the Instagram-worthy warm and gooey Raclette cheese sandwich on a crisp baguette with Bayonne ham, smoked paprika aioli and cornichon, this Parisian-style destination always leaves you wanting more. The Classic Chicken Cordon Bleu with ham, Emmental cheese and pan butter, Prime Ribeye Steak or Provençal Mussels in a tomato coulis are all excellent choices. Make sure to end the evening with their old fashioned creme brûlée or chocolate profiteroles for the sweetest au revoir.

brasserie mon chou chou Photo by John-Paul Garrigues

16 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

carriqui

domingo Photo by Lucero Trevino

CARRIQUI

DOMINGO

Nearby, on the periphery of the Historic Pearl, is yet another intriguing delight known as Carriqui, named after a singing bird also called the green jay. The Carriqui’s flight path serves as the restaurant’s inspiration, which ranges from the Rio Grande Valley to the Texas Coast to, of course, San Antonio.

Heading back downtown, Domingo, located in the Canopy by Hilton Riverwalk, has an exceptional patio along the river that is artfully contained using planter walls to enhance an intimate outdoor meal.

Domingo offers a modern tribute to South Texas cuisine with everything from a knockout classic guacamole and honey butter-slathered skillet cornbread to Green Chile and Chicken Enchiladas, Baja Fish Tacos, and a melt-in-your-mouth slow-roasted pork shoulder with a citrus achiote marinade, pickled onions, salsa and corn tortillas on the side.

The dishes are mainly crafted using custom-forged pits, a smoker or grill and native wood. You can expect all house-made items from warm tortillas to icy margaritas. They have several menus, including an all-day, lunch, brunch, sweets, cocktails and happy hour. Some highlights include their Texas redfish ceviche, sweet corn cakes with herb butter, Cabrito Birria, Smoked Texas Brisket, Grilled Ribeye Fajitas and Smoked Country Fried Quail. But what’s even more incredible is the beautiful historic building in which the restaurant is situated. So light, airy and exquisite, it feels both relaxing and exotic.

BIGA ON THE BANKS www.Biga.com BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO www.Boudros.com BRASSERIE MON CHOU CHOU www.BrasserieMonChouChou.com CARRIQUI www.CarriquiTx.com DOMINGO www.DomingoRestaurant.com OCHO www.BunkhouseHotels.com/hotel-havana/eatdrink/ocho-lounge TOKYO COWBOY www.TokyoCowboyTx.com

Tokyo cowboy TOKYO COWBOY "Comfort Meets Japanese Street Food,” certainly piques curiosity. The menu is a unique fusion of cultures, and is as balanced as each perfectly curated and exquisitely styled dish, offering something for everyone. A pork belly is garnished with a spicy Szechuan Doña, a hint of fish sauce caramel and fresh radishes, while their selection of Karaage ranges from crispy chicken tossed in a tangy tamarind-lime gastrique or as a chopped salad with a citrus vinaigrette, toasted peanuts and shallots.

The menu of whiskey-based cocktails is intriguing, too!

Bon Appétit, friends!

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 17

art lovers

"Stargazer" by Pedro Reyes

The Artistic Side of San Antonio: Must-See River Walk Art

By Dawn Robinette, CTA

The San Antonio River Walk is much more than a scenic waterway and a bustling hub of restaurants and shops — it is an art lover’s paradise. Lined with museums, public installations and historical treasures, the River Walk offers a rich tapestry of creativity and culture that reflects San Antonio’s vibrant heritage. Whether you are a longtime local or a first-time visitor, soaking in San Antonio culture and beauty by enjoying art along the river is an experience not to be missed.

THE BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM: TELLING THE STORIES OF THE WEST A treasure trove of art, history and culture celebrating the American West, the Briscoe Western Art Museum’s historic home in the heart of the River Walk is filled with paintings, sculptures and historical artifacts that capture the beauty, resilience and complexity of the West’s landscapes and people. Highlights include works from the fathers of Western art, Frederic 18 RIO Magazine

Remington and Charles Russell, as well as contemporary artworks that reflect the pioneering spirit of the West and showcase the pillars of Western Art: cowboys, Native Americans, wildlife and nature and, in Texas, the influence of Tejanos and vaquero culture.

Included in the museum’s 14 permanent galleries are spaces dedicated to working cowboys, women of the West, Southwest and Native American art thesanantonioriverwalk.com

and a gallery showcasing Spanish, Mexican and Tejano influences on the West. A standout feature of the museum is the McNutt Sculpture Garden, an outdoor oasis with larger-than-life bronze sculptures depicting iconic Western figures and moments. With 35 sculptures around the museum’s 1.4 acre campus along the River Walk, the garden and museum provide a serene space for visitors to reflect on the artistry and heritage of the West

“Visions of Change”

while enjoying the lush surroundings. Together, the museum’s galleries and garden create a comprehensive and immersive experience that honors the enduring legacy and beauty of the American West. Don’t miss the museum’s annual community days, including January’s Wild West Wildlife Festival on January 25, to enjoy arts, crafts, music and more, or its free weekly tours included with museum admission.

“Wedding Day”

the briscoe western art museum

THE SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART: A GLOBAL COLLECTION WITH LOCAL ROOTS

Photo by Felicia Sealey

Along the River Walk’s Museum Reach, immerse yourself in art from around the world at the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). Housed in a former brewery with striking architecture that blends industrial history with modern design, SAMA’s collection spans 5,000 years of global art, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations.

SAMA is renowned for the most comprehensive ancient Greek, Roman and Egyptian art collection in the southern United States. Its Latin American art wing spans the ages from the ancient Americas to the present and includes an outstanding collection of popular art. In the contemporary galleries, works of internationally recognized artists share prominence with notable Texas and regional art. The comprehensive Asian art wing displays works from Korea, India and Japan and includes an important Chinese ceramics collection.

Don’t miss “Envisioning the Hindu Divine: Expanding Darshan and Manjari Sharma” opening in March. The special exhibition features 40 historical objects from India and Southeast Asia and nine photographs by global contemporary artist Manjari Sharma, showcasing nine of the most significant deities of the Hindu pantheon and their contemporary relevance in art and faith. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

the san antonio museum of art

“Maa Laxmi,” from the Darshan Series,

by Manjari Sharma RIO Magazine 19

THE RIVER WALK PUBLIC ART GARDEN: A CELEBRATION OF CREATIVITY Nestled at the intersection where Market and Alamo Streets meet on the San Antonio River Walk is an open-air art gallery waiting to be explored. Just look for the large “Welcome to the River Walk Public Art Garden” sign by San Antonio Artist Gary Sweeny and you’ve found a treasure of outdoor art in the heart of San Antonio.

A tribute to the profound powers of art, self-expression, human connectivity and social justice, the garden is designed to engage the community and spark conversations about art, culture and the role of public spaces in urban life. The art garden celebrates both San Antonio and international artists with a public art experience that includes permanent and rotating installations with free-standing sculptures and wall-mounted art. Some of the works serve as teasers or as introductory pieces that nod to largerscale versions of the installations that can be found throughout San Antonio.

The largest of the works, “Stargazer,” by Mexican Artist Pedro Reyes, invites everyone to move around and see the sculpture from different angles — and in doing so, you will discover other public art treasures commissioned by the City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture.

“Spheres of Reflection” by Kaldric Dow

“Najo Jām” (Our Home) by Carlos Cortez and Doroteo Garza “Bloom” by Leticia Huerta

BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM www.BriscoeMuseum.org RIVER WALK PUBLIC ART GARDEN www.TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com/listig/river-walkpublic-art-garden/2991/ SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART www.SAMuseum.org SAN ANTONIO RIVER FOUNDATION www.SARiverFound.org/art-along-the-river/ SAN JOSE TILES www.SusanFrost.org

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thesanantonioriverwalk.com

SAN JOSÉ TILES: HISTORY AND BEAUTY

Tile Spottings:

As you explore the River Walk, the colorful ceramic tiles adorning staircases, bridges and walls are sure to catch your eye. Known as the San José Tiles, they are a vibrant reminder of the city’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. The Mexican Arts and Crafts Workshop turned out tile from 1931-41 in downtown San Antonio. In 1941, the workshop, now called Mission Crafts, moved within the walls of Mission San José — hence the tiles’ name — where artisans created tile and pottery until 1977.

Twin Cypress — Located on the stairway at the intersection of Commerce and Houston.

The handcrafted tiles you will see along the River Walk were created in the 1930s as part of the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Designed by artist Ethel Harris, each tile tells its own story, with intricate patterns and vibrant colors that reflect San Antonio’s Spanish colonial heritage.

These timeless works of art are not just decorative — they’re a cherished piece of San Antonio’s history, showcasing the enduring beauty of handcrafted artistry.

Maverick — Located near Hugman Dam, just north of the Lexington Street Bridge.

Old Mill Crossing — Located near Navarro Street Bridge at the intersection of Presa and Navarro.

Menger Mosaics — Located in the Menger Hotel courtyard.

Photo by Ansen Seale

SAN ANTONIO RIVER FOUNDATION ART: A VISION FOR THE RIVER’S FUTURE A fantastic example of San José tiles you can enjoy as you explore the River Walk was not produced as public art. The Maverick Tile mural was rescued from a private home before it was demolished, then restored and installed on the Museum Reach thanks to the San Antonio River Foundation, which has played a pivotal role in enhancing the River Walk with public art projects that celebrate the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Photo by Ansen Seale

“Old Mill Crossing”

Maverick Mural

“F.I.S.H.” by Donald Lipski

The Menger Hotel Fountain

Blending creativity with nature, other installations include iconic works like Donald Lipski’s “F.I.S.H.,” featuring illuminated, oversized fish suspended under the I-35 overpass, which come to life at night. Another standout is “The Grotto” by Carlos Cortés, a whimsical and immersive cave-like sculpture carved into the riverbank, complete with intricate faces, aquatic creatures and hidden details. These pieces, along with others, reflect the foundation’s mission to enhance the river’s

cultural and ecological value through art that inspires interaction and exploration. Further down the river on the Mission Reach, the foundation’s installations include pieces like “Whispers,” an interactive sculpture that encourages visitors to listen closely and engage with the environment in new ways, and pathways leading to and from Confluence Park are lined with other interactive sculptures.

The River Walk itself is an ever-evolving work of art, with its pathways, bridges and landscaping thoughtfully designed to create a vibrant and inviting space. Whether you’re exploring the historical San José Tiles, marveling at the Briscoe’s sculptures or snapping photos of “F.I.S.H.,” the River Walk invites you to immerse yourself in San Antonio’s unique blend of art, history and natural beauty.

Confluence Park

RIO Magazine 21

Cultural Connoisseurs

Unforgettable Nights

of Culture & Entertainment

By Kimberly A. Suta

A night out at one of San Antonio’s exceptional historic theatre and event venues is an experience full of excitement, anticipation and the thrill of live theatre. So, slide into those heels, cowboy boots or whatever suits your fancy and step into the limelight!

MAJESTIC THEATRE Starting with the Majestic Theatre, this stunning jewel of the city’s cultural and architectural history was built in 1929 and was once the largest theatre in Texas, and the first to be fully air-conditioned. Designed by renowned architect John Eberson, it is still a shining example of atmospheric theatre design, where patrons are transported to a Mediterranean courtyard under a dazzling starry sky.

The Majestic continues to shine bright in early 2025 with an impressive array of performances. From January 29 to February 2, the Tony Award®winning phenomenon “Les Misérables” immerses audiences in a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. On February 14, experience a sensory feast when “Laser Spectacular presents SHINE ON,” a scintillating tribute to Pink Floyd that blends music and cutting-edge laser visuals. Then, from February 25 to March 2, Broadway classic “Funny Girl” takes center stage, bringing its timeless story of ambition and love to life with showstopping numbers like “Don’t Rain on My Parade.”

"Les Miserables"

majestic theatre

"Funny Girl" 22 RIO Magazine

Photo by Matthew Murphy

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

CHARLENE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE The Empire Theatre is another historic gem that has stood the test of time and serves as a symbol of our city’s rich heritage. The theatre, which opened in 1914, began as a grand venue for vaudeville performances and silent films, boasting elegant architecture and a luxurious interior that aptly represented the glamour of its era. Today, this beloved venue thrives as the Charline McCombs Empire Theatre and showcases live performances, from concerts and comedy shows to plays and musicals. Its enduring legacy makes it a cornerstone of San Antonio’s vibrant arts scene.

In the first quarter of 2025, the Empire sets the stage for an eclectic mix of performances. On January 14, guitar virtuoso Dweezil Zappa brings his technical brilliance and innovative sound, celebrating the musical legacy of his father, Frank Zappa. Following that, Dean Z, the acclaimed Elvis tribute artist, delivers a two-night extravaganza on February 22-23, bringing the King’s hip-shaking charisma and timeless hits to life. Comedy fans won’t want to miss Marc Maron on March 9, as the celebrated comedian and podcast host has folks in stitches with his trademark wit and sharphumored storytelling.

Charlene McCombs Empire Theatre

Dweezil Zappa

Marc Maron

AZTEC THEATRE Without a doubt, the Aztec Theatre is yet another breathtaking testament to the opulence and imagination of the 1920s in the Alamo City. In 1926, this atmospheric theatre was created to enliven patrons with the grandeur of an ancient Mesoamerican temple, complete with intricate Aztec motifs, murals and a dramatic Mayan calendar centerpiece. Originally built as a silent movie palace, the Aztec’s innovative design included a state-of-theart air-cooling system, making it a cozy escape from the Texas heat. Like many historic theatres, it fell into decline in the mid-20th century but was later restored to its former splendor.

The Aztec kicks off 2025 with a superb lineup of live performances. On January 12, get ready to groove with “Who’s Bad,” the ultimate Michael Jackson tribute experience that brings the King of Pop’s hits to life with verve and showmanship. Next, on February 16, the Grammy Awardwinning Los Lonely Boys take the stage, blending Tex-Mex rock and blues in their signature “Texican” style. Rounding out the season, grab your tickets for “Taylor Shines-The Laser Spectacular” on March 8, where nonstop Taylor Swift hits blend seamlessly with a laser light show.

Los Lonely Boys

aztec Theatre

"Taylor Shines - The Lase Spectacular"

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RIO Magazine 23

tobin center for the performing arts TOBIN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is a modern marvel rooted in historic significance. Originally built in 1926 as the San Antonio Municipal Auditorium to honor American soldiers killed in WWI, the building served as a hub for civic events, concerts and gatherings for decades. After sustaining damage in a fire and undergoing various renovations, the decision was made to transform the space into a state-of-the-art performance venue, and the Tobin Center officially opened in 2014.

In early 2025, the Tobin hits the mark per usual with an exhilarating lineup of shows perfect for all ages. On January 25, the musical “Ain’t Too Proud” brings the titillating story of The Temptations to life with choreography and popular Motown hits. Families will delight in “Jim Henson’s Fraggle Rock: Back to the Rock Live” on February 13, an enchanting, interactive performance featuring iconic characters from the classic series. Then, on March 16, get ready for the thrill of live game show action with “The Price is Right Live!” where audience members have the chance to compete for fantastic prizes.

STABLE HALL At San Antonio’s undeniably beautiful event venue, Stable Hall at the Historic Pearl, you’ll discover both history and charm. Originally built in the late 19th century as part of the Pearl Brewery complex, the building was once home to the horses that pulled the brewery’s delivery wagons. Reflecting its utilitarian origins, the building featured sturdy brickwork and practical design, which have been preserved and reimagined in its modern restoration. Today, Stable Hall has been transformed into a striking performance and event space with an industrial heritage and modern amenities.

Stable hall

Entertainment at the 1,000-seat Stable Hall includes national touring acts as well as musicians from Texas, Mexico and the Americana Music Triangle.

On January 17, “Eclipse: A Tribute to Journey,” relives the sounds of one of music’s most iconic rock bands, while the following night brings a DJ-based disco dance party with “Gimme Gimme Disco.” For folk and indie rock lovers, check out "An Intimate Evening with Gregory Alan Isakov" on February 6.

And on March 12, Donavon Frankenreiter’s Get Out of Your Mind Tour is a unique blend of laid-back grooves and philosophical lyrics.

AZTEC THEATRE www.TheAztecTheatre.com CHARLENE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE www.MajesticEmpire.com MAJESTIC THEATRE www.MajesticEmpire.com STABLE HALL www.StableHall.com TOBIN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS www.TobinCenter.org

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thesanantonioriverwalk.com

www.fiumepizzeria.com

200 S Alamo St. on the River Walk

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RIO Magazine 25

adventurers

the river walk is

Your Gateway to New Quests

By Drew Henry

At first glance, the River Walk might look like a relaxing spot to sip a margarita and watch the GO RIO boats cruise by. (And it is!) However, there is a new adventure awaiting at every turn in the river bend. A daring few are bold enough to explore what lies ahead. (And we think that’s you!)

Adventure awaits, and there’s plenty of fun in store. So, let’s embark and explore together!

KAYAK ALONG THE RIVER WALK Of course, it’s fun to stroll the River Walk, but a true adventurer makes a splash! Take on a whole new perspective of the iconic sights from a kayak. Mission Kayak opens back up for the 2025 season in March and offers kayak rentals along specific stretches of the river by reservation, only. Check their website for details, grab a paddle, launch your kayak, and embark on one of the most unique ways to explore the River Walk.

BIKE THE MISSION AND MUSEUM REACHES WITH BCYCLE The Mission Reach offers over 16 miles of trails along the river, south of Downtown. Breathtaking landscapes, art installations and internationally recognized National Parks are just a snapshot of what’s in store to explore. You can certainly bring your own bike, but the best way to take it all in is to hop on a BCycle, a pedal-assist bike rental program with docking stations that run all along the Mission Reach. A day pass gives you access to the ultimate sightseeing adventure. In addition to the landscape, make sure you go off trail to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Missions, Confluence Park and more stunning sights. BCycle is also available in the Museum Reach, north of the Downtown section of the River Walk. Here, more riverside art awaits, along with the San Antonio Museum of Art and the nearby Historic Pearl.

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kayak the river walk thesanantonioriverwalk.com

liggettville adventure center

tower of the americas

WALK THE HIGH ROPE AT LIGGETTVILLE ADVENTURE CENTER

hot wells hotel ruins EXPLORE THE HOT WELLS HOTEL RUINS

Are you ready to take on the tallest indoor ropes course in Texas?

Located at the Shops at Rivercenter, LiggettVille Adventure Center is an active playground for thrill seekers of all ages. Explore the bi-level Sky Trail ropes course, sitting at heights up to 35 feet. The little adventurers in your group can explore the Sky Tykes course, which is positioned three feet off the ground. If that isn’t enough, you can also ride a zipline through the park and test your rock-climbing skills on indoor rock walls. We can feel our hearts pumping already! Do you have what it takes to master the course (and reach soaring new levels of fun)?

ASCEND 750 FEET TO THE TOP OF THE TOWER OF THE AMERICAS Are you ready to climb 750 feet into the atmosphere? OK, you can take the elevator! The Tower of the Americas, located in Hemisfair, was originally built for the 1968 World’s Fair and has remained a city icon ever since. Take a thrilling ride up to the top for sweeping panoramic views over the entire city. The observation deck is a great place to take it all in, but you can also dine at Chart House and enjoy a rotating 360-degree view over a bite to eat.

The views don’t stop there. Back on the ground, you can board for the “Skies Over Texas” 4D Theater Ride. This ride takes you on a journey over the Lone Star state, incorporating all the sights from a Friday Night Lights football game to a NASA space shuttle launch. Get a front-row seat to all the action!

The Hot Wells Hotel was once one of San Antonio’s grandest resorts, where guests gathered to enjoy the therapeutic powers of the hot sulfuric waters that flowed from the well. Now, all that remains are ruins.

Do you think you’re daring enough to go on this spooky adventure?

The original Hot Wells Hotel opened in 1893 and burned down within months after a ravenous fire. It reopened in 1901, bigger and better, and attracted famous movie stars like Charlie Chaplin. Prohibition hit the hotel hard, and it closed its doors in 1923. But the story is just getting started.

Other ventures went into the space, but fire struck again. In 1942, a businesswoman turned the space into The Flame Room, an ironically named restaurant, motel and campground. It burned again in 1977 (and then two more times after that)! Now, the area has been converted into a park where you can get a look at the remaining labyrinth of ruins. Keep an eye out because this spot is rumored to be a hotbed for ghosts!

Admission is free, seven days a week from 9:00am to 6:00pm.

THEN TAKE A DIP IN THE CAMP HOT WELLS SPRINGS The natural springs at Hot Wells are what attracted all those celebrity hotel guests back in the day. Now, you can experience thermal mineral soaking for yourself! Camp Hot Wells is a beautifully landscaped retreat nestled next door to the Hot Wells ruins. Here, you can book a soak and relax with drinks and snacks. Even better, book the entire venue for your corporate group or private event! To us, this sounds like the perfect way to unwind after a busy day of San Antonio adventures!

BEXAR COUNTY HOT WELLS HISTORICAL PARK www.Bexar.org/3057/hot-wells-of-bexar-county

MISSION KAYAK www.MAT-Tx.com

CAMP HOT WELLS www.CampHotWells.com

SAN ANTONIO BCYCLE www.SanAntonioBCycle.com

LIGGITTVILLE www.Liggittville.com

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK www.NPS.gov/saan/index.htm TOWER OF THE AMERICAS www.ToweroftheAmericas.com

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RIO Magazine 27

families

SEA LIFE

the river walk

Where Everyone Has a Great Time!

By Drew Henry

San Antonio is one of the top destinations in the United States for family vacations.

Once you’re here, it’s easy to see why. There’s truly something for everyone in the family to enjoy, from the kiddos to the great-grandparents! To help you plan the perfect day out with the fam, we’re sharing some of our most beloved family attractions along the River Walk. Get ready, because family fun is launching in … three, two, one, go!

SEA LIFE

MAGIK THEATRE

If you have a kiddo who dreams of exploring the deep blue sea, you don’t have to look any further than SEA LIFE, located in the Shops at Rivercenter. Get ready to take the whole family on an underwater exploration featuring experiences like touching a real sea star in an interactive tidepool, watching jellyfish and sea horses play, and walking through San Antonio’s only ocean tunnel. There’s nothing quite like looking up to find a stingray floating above your head!

The Magik Theatre, located in Hemisfair, takes your favorite children’s tales and brings them to life on the stage. From February 1 through March 23, the family can catch a performance of Elephant and Piggie’s "We are in a Play!" This production is based on books by Mo Willems, with a musical performance that is full of fun, dancing and sing-alongs, perfect for ages 3 and up. The Magik Theatre also offers sensoryfriendly performances so everyone can enjoy a show.

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HOLEY MOLEY GOLF CLUB The Shops at Rivercenter’s newest family attraction is Holey Moley Golf Club! You may have played putt putt golf before, but never like this. Recently opened, the Holey Moley complex spans 10,000 square feet and offers 27 holes of the most radical mini golf you’ve ever seen, along with a restaurant and bar. The courses are challenging but also highly Instagrammable, filled with retro 80s and 90s themes the parents in the group are sure to love. But the fun doesn’t stop there!

Holey Moley also offers private karaoke room rentals so you can sing your heart out after a round of golf. Plus, there is plenty of food and drink to keep you energized and the family fun going. This destination is a hole-in-one!

HOLEY MOLEY GOLF CLUB

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER LEGO® is the toy made for ages 1 through 99, so the LEGOLAND Discovery Center at the Shops at Rivercenter is truly an experience for the whole family! Step inside and learn how to become a LEGO building master, or hop aboard one of the thrilling rides and attractions. You can venture on an interactive quest to save the LEGO princess, pedal into the sky on an oversized LEGO cart, or take in the miniature San Antonio skyline constructed entirely out of LEGO bricks. (This mini version of the city contains over 1.5 million bricks!)

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER

YANAGUANA GARDEN AT HEMISFAIR Yanaguana Garden sits in the center of Hemisfair Park. You’ll know you’re there once you walk through the weaving metallic arch nestled under the trees. The whole family can gather to enjoy this outdoor wonderland, designed for accessible play for all ages and ability levels. The kids can go exploring in the Sand Play area or cool off in the Union Pacific Splash Pad, while the grown-ups challenge each other to a game of ping-pong or take a relaxing rest in the shade. Adaptive play equipment allows wheelchair users and little ones easy access so that everyone can join in the playground fun.

SAN ANTONIO ZOO Get ready to go wild at the San Antonio Zoo! Located in Brackenridge Park, the zoo offers over 50 acres of animal habitats to explore, and over 750 different species live inside. You can spend the entire day with the family here. First, plan to meet Timothy, the hippo who has a love of social media and is making quite a splash online. Next, book a giraffe feeding and follow that up with a family lunch at one of the zoo’s many restaurants. Then, head over to the Neotropica exhibit, where you can see jaguars cross a bridge above your head! Finally, end your day by grabbing a souvenir at one of the Mold-a-Rama kiosks, where you can watch plastic giraffes, lions and gorillas form before your eyes.

yanaguana garden at hemisfair

KIDDIE PARK If the grandparents in your family visited San Antonio as kids, there’s a chance they spent the day at Kiddie Park! Opening its doors in 1925, Kiddie Park is America’s oldest children’s amusement park. It’s gone through changes over the years, one of the biggest being its relocation from Broadway Street into historic Brackenridge Park, right in front of the San Antonio Zoo. The original charm has been preserved through its renovation, including the old-fashioned Ferris Wheel and famous hand-carved Herschell Spillman carousel. The rides are designed for ages 1 through 12, and adults can join in the fun on the carousel, too!

HOLEY MOLEY GOLF CLUB www.HoleyMoley.com/locations/sanantonio

MAGIK THEATRE www.MagikTheatre.org

KIDDIE PARK www.KiddiePark.com

SAN ANTONIO ZOO www.SAZoo.org

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER www.LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com

SEA LIFE www.VisitSeaLife.com

san antonio zoo

kiddie park

YANAGUANA GARDEN www.Hemisfair.org

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RIO Magazine 29

shopaholics

discover treasures untold Along the River Walk!

By Kimberly A. Suta

The person who coined the phrase “shop till you drop” must have been talking about San Antonio. With the array of magnificent River Walk-centric shopping options available, from locally owned boutiques, gift shops and galleries to big-name brands, you’ll be busy shopping until the cows come home — another saying that surely must have started in Texas!

La Villita Historic Arts Village Let’s start with La Villita, one of the oldest and most beloved shopping and cultural hubs in the city that hugs the banks of the River Walk, just a few blocks south of the Alamo. This vibrant “village” dates back to the 18th century, when the original inhabitants made a home out of land that they likely didn’t legally own. German immigrants came in the mid1800s, followed by refugees from the Mexican Revolution in the early 1900s. But by 1939, the old adobe homes were crumbling. The city’s

major conservation efforts revitalized the village, establishing artisan workshops that were the forerunners of what you see today.

La Villita is now a popular and charming shopping destination where cobblestone streets lead to a variety of one-of-a-kind boutiques and galleries in many of the restored old homes. Visitors can discover something special for just about anyone, including themselves, from handmade jewelry to traditional Mexican folk art, and paintings and stunning ceramics created by local artists.

A must-stop while in La Villita is Plaza Taxco, renowned for its exquisite silver jewelry imported directly from Taxco, Mexico, a town made famous for its exceptional silversmithing tradition. Whether you’re looking for intricate earrings or bold statement pieces, each piece of jewelry reflects this timeless craftsmanship.

la villita historic arts village 30 RIO Magazine

Other shops include Scentchips for their popular wax melts; Capistrano Soap Company for luxurious bath and body products inspired by global travels; Yolix Luna for paintings and fine art prints; and many other galleries and gift shops. So, if you’re hunting for souvenirs, gifts or more, add this little village to your agenda. La Villita has great restaurants as well, for when you need a break from shopping! thesanantonioriverwalk.com

The Historic Pearl If you venture just a few minutes up Broadway from downtown, you’ll find the world-renowned Historic Pearl in the Museum Reach section of the River Walk. Not only is the Pearl a huge mixed-use attraction filled with top restaurants and bars, it also highlights exclusive retail shops for those looking for something more bespoke.

The Pearl is home to one of the last independent bookstores in town, The Twig, where you can find both national bestsellers and books by local authors. Fashion-forward boutiques also abound at the Pearl, for those looking for one-of-a-kind outfits and accessories. Adelante Boutique offers eclectic apparel, while Dos Carolinas sells handcrafted guayaberas you won’t find anywhere else. Feliz Modern POP will catch your eye with its vibrant colors, gifts and home decor that whispers San Antonio, and Rancho Diaz is a hot stop for vintage and modern finds with

a “Tex-Mex sensibility.” Ten Thousand Villages supports global artisans, while Niche offers modern apparel designed and made right in San Antonio. There are even pop-up stores for unique seasonal finds. And the list goes on…

Shopping on weekends is even more exciting when the Pearl Farmers Market and Makers Market pop up every Saturday and Sunday yearround. Besides seasonal produce and fresh meats from local farmers, both markets feature gourmet prepared foods and numerous craft-made artisan products ideal for take-home treats.

the historic pearl Felix Modern Pop

Pearl Markets

Shops at Rivercenter Of course, if you are looking for all of your favorite name brands, head straight to the Shops at Rivercenter. This favorite one-stop-shop for locals and tourists features a wide variety of restaurants, an IMAX Theatre, family fun faves like LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Dave & Busters, SEA LIFE, Holey Moley and LiggittVille, a Marriott Hotel and more than 100 retail stores.

The bustling downtown mall, located on the world-famous River Walk, is home to all the top shops, including H&M, Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle Outfitters, Francesca’s, Buckle, Hot Topic and so many more.

So, for retail therapy or a shopping frenzy, start walking the River Walk, where you are sure to find plenty of treasures to take home. May the force (i.e. your credit cards) be with you!

shops at rivercenter

THE HISTORIC PEARL www.AtPearl.com LA VILLITA www.LaVillitaSanAntonio.com SHOPS AT RIVERCENTER www.ShopRivercenter.com

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RIO Magazine 31

history buffs

the alamo

rich heritage

& Historic Destinations

By Kimberly A. Suta

2025 marks the 10th anniversary of San Antonio’s five beloved and beautiful Spanish Missions, which includes the famous Alamo, being designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But the Alamo City landscape is rich with many other historical sites and museums where you can discover the cultural influences that shaped San Antonio, making it such a unique and special place.

THE ALAMO Originally named Mission San Antonio de Valero, construction of the Alamo began in 1740, almost 22 years after Spanish settlers first established the mission on the banks of the San Antonio River and relocated twice before building in its final location. The structure served many purposes over the years, including a mission, a military outpost and a commercial center after the army left in 1877. Of course, most people know of the Alamo because of the historically significant Battle 32 RIO Magazine

of the Alamo in 1836, when Texas colonists underwent a 13-day siege led

by Mexico’s General Santa Anna and lost this pivotal battle during the Texas Revolution. Almost two centuries later, the Alamo still fascinates visitors from around the world with its many attributes, including the historic church, the Long Barrack, a Living History Encampment, Alamo artifacts in the Ralston Family Collections Center, an 18-Pounder Cannon and much more. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK While the Alamo is undeniably a top destination, history buffs should also make an effort to visit the other historic missions on the Mission Reach section of the River Walk. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes four of the five Spanish frontier missions that were designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015. The missions’ histories and distinctive architecture are intriguing, making for a great day trip adventure.

Each of the four missions are also active Catholic parishes and hold regular services. The four missions include Mission Concepción, known for its Spanish colonial architecture; Mission San Juan, which features a historic acequia, or irrigation ditches, and colonial demonstration farm; Mission Espada, which has a striking bell tower and one of the nation’s oldest acequias in continuous use; and lastly Mission San José, called “Queen of the Missions,” which is home to the park’s Visitor’s Center

Mission Concepción

Mission San Jose

Mission San Juan

Mission Espada Photo by Bob Howen

the bexar heritage center

go rio cruises

THE BEXAR HERITAGE CENTER

GO RIO CRUISES

Yet another fascinating destination, located inside the Bexar County Courthouse in the heart of downtown, the Bexar Heritage Center features exhibits that highlight historic treasures and contemporary amenities. For example, you can learn about Bexar County’s early geographical footprint and how it evolved, the history of the Bexar County Courthouses and Spain’s past influence on our “New World.” The Center is free and open to the public every Monday through Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm. thesanantonioriverwalk.com

GO RIO River Cruises is a fun way to explore some of San Antonio’s flavorful history. Serenely float along the river in one of the many colorful barges while enjoying the endless sights and sounds that make up the famous River Walk. The tour guides give you an exciting glimpse into the past as you learn about the Alamo City’s vast culture, history and architecture. Cruise options abound, from 35-minute narrated cruises to luxurious dinner cruises. Take your pick, but one thing’s for certain, you will cherish the memory forever.

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JAPANESE TEA GARDEN

WITTE MUSEUM

The Japanese Tea Garden, provides a free botanical paradise to the public, often used as the backdrop for proposals and other special moments. What began as a limestone quarry and cement factory, in 1916 it was reimagined by the city parks department as a Japanesestyle garden. Lovingly maintained by the San Antonio Parks Foundation, you can immerse yourself in this tranquil oasis throughout the year and be continuously inspired by the natural wonders and cultural charm to be found here. Visitors love the breathtaking views, massive ponds filled with vibrant large Koi, cascading waterfalls, an ornate pavilion and exotic plants and flowers amidst the stone pathways and bridges that wind throughout the entire garden.

Not far from the Japanese Tea Garden, you will find the Witte Museum.

This family-friendly museum is dedicated to celebrating Texas’ dynamic heritage, as well as cultural and natural wonders you won’t see anywhere else. Current special exhibitions include "Black Cowboys: An American Story," through February 9, which explores the lives and work of the numerous Black men, women and children — enslaved and free — who labored on the ranches of Texas and participated on cattle drives before the Civil War through the turn of the 20th century; and "Mary Virginia Carson: Pioneer Artist Capturing Rock Art with Watercolors," through March 23, which highlights the first person to document the ancient rock art murals of the Lower Pecos Canyons in 1931.

japanese tea garden

witte museum

AMIGO WALKING TOURS Amigo Walking Tours is your ticket to diving deep into the captivating history of San Antonio. They offer both free public tours of downtown as well as paid private tours that are tailored to your interests. Seasoned and friendly guides are not only history buffs, but immersive storytellers that paint a picture of this incredible city’s past, from its Spanish colonial beginnings to its world-renowned cultural fusions. Guests appreciate how personalized and authentic each tour is, delving into our San Antonio’s storied past and meaningful traditions.

Get ready history buffs — San Antonio’s historic destinations are about to take you on a magnificent ride back in time!

san fernando cathedral

THE ALAMO www.TheAlamo.org

GO RIO CRUISES www.GoRioCruises.com

AMIGO WALKING TOURS www.AmigoWalkingTours.com

JAPANESE TEA GARDEN www.SAParks.org/japanese-tea-garden

BEXAR HERITAGE CENTER www.Bexar.org/3185/bexar-heritage-center

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK www.NPS.gov/saan/index.htm

THE WITTE MUSEUM www.WitteMuseum.org

34 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 35

history & culture

36 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

It Happened on the River Walk.

Really!

By Susan Yerkes

Something's always happening on the River Walk, from memorable moments to "oops" occasions. Most folks see the lush, shady walkways, quaint bridges and colorful shops and restaurants. But beyond the surface, there's much more. River Walk residents and workers can tell stories galore. Grackles and gators, steamboats and swan boats, squirrel power, mud monarchs, and a naked iguana star in some of those tales.

SQUIRREL POWER The River Walk is magical during the holidays. It shimmers and twinkles, with over 100,000 colorful lights dangling from majestic cypresses lining its banks. But in 2011, it took squirrel power to preserve the tradition. That year, city leaders decided to switch from mellow incandescent bulbs to energy-efficient LEDs and to wrap the trees with the light strings instead of letting them hang down to cast colored reflections everywhere.

Citizens fumed about the change, but the city held firm. Then River Walk resident squirrels developed a taste for the wires conveniently wrapped around their tree trunks and gnawed their way through thousands of dollars’ worth of holiday décor.

The following year, dangling lights were back. Chalk one up for urban wildlife.

BOOM, CHICK-A-BOOM!

LATER, GATOR

Great-tailed grackles are big black birds that squawk and screech. And they flock to the River Walk, with its thick tree canopy and food-scrap buffet. As many as 80,000 grackles have reportedly nested in the area in years past, and their poop piled up on River Walk paths, bridges, outdoor tables, downtown sidewalks, cars and more. It's a federal crime to kill, harm or capture any native birds or their eggs. What could be done? Over the years, the city has tried to evict the grackles permanently by firing blank "cracker shells" from shotguns, shooting off pyrotechnic "bird bangers," using "bird screamers," bringing in birds of prey, and placing fake decoy owls and scaryeye balloons in the trees. Nothing worked well — until lasers.

"For the past five years, we have effectively used green or blue lasers, combined with the essential assistance of a party noise maker," according to Centro San Antonio General Manager Mike Pacheco. Weird, yes. But it works.

One full-grown gator made a splash on the River Walk as a featured guest in a daytime river parade. Local theatre promoters borrowed the gator from the San Antonio Zoo to ride a float with costumed actors promoting their production of Peter Pan. Since alligators become dormant in cold temperatures, zookeepers cooled the beast down to sedate it for the occasion. But the day heated up, and the gator, though still sedated, thrashed its tail. Tinkerbell let out a blood-curdling scream, dived off the float and swam for her life, leaving Peter and Captain Hook behind. The gator went back to sleep and rode out the parade.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Alligators aren't just for boots in Texas — they're not uncommon in South Texas lakes and rivers. They rarely visit downtown San Antonio. But in 1998 and '99, alligators turned up on the River Walk two years in a row. Both were youngsters — 2 feet and 3 ½ feet long. The San Antonio Express-News reported that the threefooter "was spotted by park rangers swimming towards the Bayous Restaurant and the Naked Iguana Lounge." In both cases, Texas Parks and Wildlife officers escorted the little critters to remote stretches of river to the south.

RIO Magazine 37

ROLLING ON THE RIVER The sightseeing barges that cruise the River Walk's Great Bend and Museum Reach are sophisticated craft — all-electric barges with steel hulls and illuminated pastel papel-picado (cut paper) designs. River Walk watercraft had humble, sometimes far-fetched beginnings. From the 1700s onward, canoes, rafts, rowboats and flatbottomed barges plied the San Antonio River until the first section of the River Walk was finally built with the help of Roosevelt's Works Progress Administration. In 1946, a businessman named Alfred Beyer opened Casa Rio, now the oldest restaurant on the River Walk. Byer thought boats — for transit or dining — would add a new dimension to attract visitors. He tried out all sorts of watercraft. Most didn't work out. Motorized Venetian-style gondolas proved impractical. A large swan boat was decapitated by Rosita's Bridge. The fake "paddle wheels" on a Mississippi-style riverboat dumped water on the passengers. Beyer's steam-powered dinner barge, the S.S. Enchilada, capsized mid-meal, diners, dinner and all. Byer had better luck with barges. Those have evolved from wooden platforms atop floating oil drums to today's modern fleet.

WE LOVE A PARADE The River Walk is the perfect place for waterborne parades, and San Antonio puts on the best. But sometimes stuff happens. One year, a float carrying Fiesta VIPs in fancy dress sank like a rock in front of Dick's Last Resort during the Texas Cavaliers River Parade.

Sometimes, the drama is behind the scenes. Former Paseo del Rio director Gayle Spencer was the lead organizer of some river parades. This job often required diplomatic skills. "For one parade, I got the mascots from festivals and attractions in small towns around San Antonio together on a float," Spencer said. "We had the Turkey from Cuero, the Goat from Cascade Caverns, Mermaids from Aquarena Springs, Ralph the Diving Pig, Miss South Texas and Miss Vacant Lot of the World. Miss South Texas got upset about sharing a barge with Miss Vacant Lot, and it was like brokering peace at the UN to get that barge down the river."

MUD MADNESS

SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK www.TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com “AMERICAN VENICE: THE EPIC STORY OF THE SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK” https://Tupress.org>american-venice VISIT SAN ANTONIO www.VisitSanAntonio.com

38 RIO Magazine

Spencer helped create one of San Antonio's quirkiest events — the rowdy Maybe Annual River Bottom Festival and Mud Parade, held in January during the annual 10-day river draining and cleaning. The idea was to entertain River Walk visitors who were disappointed to see a muddy ditch instead of a flowing channel. "Let the mudslinging begin!" was the motto. Local notables, including Spurs great George "the Iceman" Gervin, bought fivecent votes (“a time-honored Texas tradition”) for the dubious honor of being Mud King.

Clad in a fuzzy bathrobe, he led merry bands of friends, fans and innocent bystanders along the bleak, empty channel in short marches. The tradition ended when river draining became semi-annual. Mud royalty morphed into more conventional Kings and Queens of the River Walk during Mardi Gras. But they still have to buy votes to win. Now River Walk Royalty raises money for the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation for scholarships. Visit www.VisitSanAntonio.com/members/partner-with-us/san-antonio-hospitality-foundation/.

LEAPIN' LIZARD! How times have changed! In the '80s, the Naked Iguana Tequila Lounge stirred up controversy when it opened next to Rio Rio Cantina. Some members of the River Walk Commission warned that a business with “Naked" in its name could "open the floodgates" to a tsunami of sin. If naked iguanas were allowed, would strip clubs be next? The bar owners won the fight. Iggy the Iguana, a lacquered lizard with electric red eyes, was installed on the building. Alas, poor Iggy! A few years later, he was stolen, either by vandals or prudes. He never reappeared. His River Walk story remains an unsolved mystery, but his legend, like many others, lives on.

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 39

eat & drink AMERICAN 1 WATSON ROOFTOP BAR

www.1WatsonRooftop.com ALAMO BEER COMPANY

www.AlamoBeer.com

AMBLER TEXAS KITCHEN + COCKTAILS

www.AmblerSanAntonio.com AMELIA SOCIAL LOUNGE

www.AmeliaSATX.com

BAR THREE TWENTY ONE

www.Bar321SA.com BAR ROJO

www.Hyatt.com BE KIND & REWIND

www.BeKindAndRewindSA.com BIGA ON THE BANKS

www.Biga.com BLUSH

www.BlushRestaurant.com BOILER HOUSE TEXAS GRILL

www.BoilerHouseSA.com BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

www.BombayBicycleClubSA.com BOUDRO’S TEXAS BISTRO

www.Boudros.com BOX ST. ALL DAY

www.BoxStAllDay.com BURGERTECA

www.ChefJohnnyHernandez.com

THE GOOD KIND SOUTHTOWN

www.EatGoodKind.com

THE GUENTHER HOUSE

www.GuentherHouse.com HARD ROCK CAFÉ

www.HardRockCafe.com HAUNT LOUNGE AT THE ST. ANTHONY HOTEL

www.HauntLounge.com HOWL AT THE MOON

www.HowlAtTheMoon.com ISIDORE

www.Isidore.SATX.com JIMMY BUFFETT’S MARGARITAVILLE

www.MargaritavilleSanAntonio.com

ASIAN

MEDITERRANEAN

BEST QUALITY DAUGHTER

LADINO

www.BestQualityDaughter.com HUGMAN’S OASIS

www.HugmansOasisSATX.com

MEXICAN

TOKYO COWBOY

ACENAR

www.TokyoCowboy.com

BBQ

CASA RIO

SMOKE BBQ RIVERBAR

DOMINGO RESTAURANT

www.PinkertonsBarbecue.com www.SmokeDowntown.com

LONE STAR CAFÉ

MAD DOGS BRITISH PUB

www.MadDogs.net

www.MerkabaTX.com

CAJUN

THE MOON’S DAUGHTERS

PAT O’BRIEN’S RESTAURANT & BAR

ORO RESTAURANT AT THE EMILY MORGAN

www.PatOBriens.com

www.EmilyMorganHotel.com

FRENCH

PARAMOUR & COLLETTE AT THE PHIPPS

BRASSERIE MON CHOU CHOU

www.BottlingDepartment.com

www.CasaCatrinaSA.com www.Casa-Rio.com www.DomingoRestaurant.com FRUTERIA

www.ChefJohnnyHernandez.com GUADALAJARA GRILL

www.GuadalajaraGrill.us IRON CACTUS

www.IronCactus.com LA GLORIA

www.ChefJohnnyHernandez.com LA MARGARITA MEXICAN RESTAURANT & OYSTER BAR

www.LaMargarita.com

www.BrasserieMonChouChou.com

LA PANADERIA

GERMAN

LUNA ROSA

www.ParamourBar.com PEARL FOOD HALL AT BOTTLING DEPT.

www.CafeOle.us

PINKERTON’S BARBEQUE

BRITISH

www.TheMoonsDaughters.com

CAFE OLÉ

CASA CATRINA

www.CountyLine.com

www.LaVillitaCafe.com

MERKABA

www.Acenar.com

THE COUNTY LINE

LA VILLITA CAFÉ

www.LoneStarCafe.com

www.LadinoSATX.com

KÜNSTLER TAP HAUS

www.LaPanaderia.com www.LunaRosaTapas.com

CACTUS FLOWER & BORN AND RAISED AT THE MARRIOTT RIVERWALK PHARM TABLE

www.KuenstlerBrewing.com

MALA FAMA SOCIAL CANTINA

www.Marriott.com

www.PharmTable.com

PROST RIVER WALK PATIO & ALCHEMY BAR

PINK SHARK BAR

www.LittleRheinProstHaus.com

MEZQUITE

CARRIQUI

www.CarriquiTX.com CASA HERNAN MEXICAN CANTINA

www.CasaHernan.com

COLONIAL ROOM & MENGER BAR IN MENGER HOTEL

www.MengerHotel.com CROCKETT TAVERN

www.CrockettTavern.com

www.PinkSharkBar.com

www.MalaFamaTX.com

www.MezquiteSATX.com

SCHILO’S DELICATESSEN

www.Schilos.com

MI TIERRA CAFÉ Y PANADERIA

RAINFOREST CAFÉ

THE REPUBLIC OF TEXAS

IRISH

OCHO & HAVANA BAR AT HOTEL HAVANA

www.RainforestCafe.com www.TheRepublicOfTexasRestaurant.com RE:ROOTED 210 URBAN WINERY

www.ReRootedWine.com

DURTY NELLY’S IRISH PUB

www.DurtyNellysPub.com

www.MiTierraCafe.com

www.HavanaSanAntonio.com OTRO ROOFTOP BAR

www.DomingoRestaurant.com

ITALIAN BATTALION

THE ORIGINAL MEXICAN RESTAURANT

www.RiversEdgeCafeSA.com

www.BattalionSA.com

www.OriginalMexican.com

SAM’S BURGER JOINT

DOUGH PIZZERIA NAPOLETANA

PICO DE GALLO

STERNEWIRTH & LARDER AT HOTEL EMMA

FIFE & FARRO

POBLANOS MEXICAN RESTAURANT

www.FifeAndFarro.com

www.PoblanosOnMain.com

FIUME PIZZERIA & WINE BAR

Q KITCHEN | BAR

www.FiumePizzeria.com

www.Hyatt.com

www.SupperAtEmma.com ELSEWHERE GARDEN BAR & KITCHEN www.ElsewhereTexas.com TELLER’S BAR AT THE

NONNA OSTERIA

RITA’S ON THE RIVER

www.NonnaSA.com

www.RitasOnTheRiver.com

THE ESQUIRE TAVERN

PAESANOS RIVERWALK

ROSARIO’S

www.PaesanosRiverWalk.com

www.RosariosSA.com

TRE TRATORRIA

SEAFOOD

DAVE & BUSTER’S

www.DaveAndBusters.com DEVILS RIVER DISTILLERY

www.DevilsRiverWhiskey.com DOUBLE STANDARD

www.DoubleStandardSATX.com EL HONKY TONK

www.ElHonkyTonk.com

www.EsquireTavern-SA.com FOUR BROTHERS SOUTHERN PROVISIONS & COLEGIO BAR

www.OmniHotels.com FULL GOODS DINER

www.fullgoodsdiner.com 40 RIO Magazine

THE RIVER’S EDGE CAFÉ & PATIO BAR

www.SamsBurgerJoint.com

www.TheHotelEmma.com

SUPPER AT HOTEL EMMA

DRURY RIVERWALK

www.DruryHotels.com TRIBUTARY

www.TributarySA.com YARD HOUSE

www.YardHouse.com

www.DoughPizzeriaOnlineOrders.com www.LaFamiliaCortez.com

www.TreTrattoria.com ZOCCA CUISINE D’ITALIA

www.ZoccaRiverWalk.com

BUBBA GUMP SHRIMP CO.

www.BubbaGump.com

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

shop & play CHART HOUSE AT THE TOWER OF THE AMERICAS

www.TowerOfTheAmericas.com DICK’S LAST RESORT

www.DicksLastResort.com HOOK LAND & SEA

www.HookSATX.com JOE’S CRAB SHACK

www.JoesCrabShack.com LANDRY’S SEAFOOD HOUSE

www.LandrysSeafood.com

JAPANESE TEA GARDEN

SAN ANTONIO VISITORS CENTER

KIDDIE PARK

SAN ANTONIO ZOO

MAGIK THEATRE

SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL/ THE SAGA

www.SAParksFoundation.org

SHOP & PLAY THE ALAMO

www.TheAlamo.org ALAMODOME

www.Alamodome.com AMAZING MIRROR MAZE & THE VAULT LASER CHALLENGE

www.AmazingMazes.com

www.KiddiePark.com www.MagikTheatre.org MAJESTIC THEATRE

www.MajesticEmpire.com MARKET SQUARE/EL MERCADO

www.MarketSquareSA.com

AMIGO WALKING TOURS

MCNAY ART MUSEUM

ARNESON RIVER THEATRE

MEXICAN CULTURAL INSTITUTE

www.OmniHotels.com

ARTPACE SAN ANTONIO

MISSION HIKE & BIKE TRAILS

SOUTH AMERICAN

AZTEC THEATRE

DORREGO’S & NARANJA TEQUILA & MEXCAL BAR AT HOTEL VALENCIA RIVERWALK

THE BLUE STAR ARTS COMPLEX

ON THE BEND OYSTER BAR & CIGAR LOUNGE

www.OnTheBendSA.com OSTRA

www.Dorregos.com

FOGO DE CHÃO BRAZILIAN STEAKHOUSE

www.FogoDeChao.com

www.AmigoWalkingTours.com www.LaVillitaSanAntonio.com www.ArtPace.org

www.TheAztecTheatre.com www.BlueStarArtsComplex.com

BRISCOE WESTERN ART MUSEUM

www.BriscoeMuseum.org BRACKENRIDGE PARK

www.BrackenridgePark.org

STEAKHOUSE

BUCKHORN SALOON & MUSEUM

BOHANAN’S PRIME STEAKS & SEAFOOD

CENTRO DE ARTES

www.BuckhornMuseum.com

www.Bohanans.com

www.GetCreativeSanAntonio.com

BRENNER’S STEAKHOUSE

CHARLENE MCCOMBS EMPIRE THEATRE

www.LandrysInc.com

MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE

www.Mortons.com THE PALM

www.ThePalm.com RANGE

www.RangeSA.com RUTH’S CHRIS STEAK HOUSE

www.RuthsChris.com

SALTGRASS STEAKHOUSE

www.Saltgrass.com SILO PRIME

www.SiloSA.com

COFFEE & SWEETS

www.MajesticEmpire.com CONFLUENCE PARK

www.SARiverFound.org COWBOY’S ALAMO CITY HARLEY-DAVIDSON BOUTIQUE

www.CowboysAlamoCityHarley.com

LA PANADERIA

www.LaPanderia.com MR. ICE CREAM

www.MrIceCreamSA.com NICOSI

www.NicosiSATX.com PALETERIA SAN ANTONIO

www.OmniHotels.com MORGAN’S WONDERLAND

www.MorgansWonderland.com MURAL RIDE BIKE TOURS

www.SanAntonioMuralRide.com NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS

www.NaturalBridgeCaverns.com NIGHTLY SPIRITS

www.NightlySpirits.com OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

www.SPCCulturePark.com

SAN PEDRO SPRINGS PARK

www.SanAntonio.gov

SAN ANTONIO SIDECARS

www.SanAntonioSidecars.com SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO

www.SeaWorld.com

THE SHOPS AT LA CANTERA

www.TheShopsAtLaCantera.com SISTERS GRIMM GHOST TOURS

www.SistersGrimmGhostTour.com SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS

www.SixFlags.com

SLINGSHOT RENTALS

www.SlingshotRentalsSA.com SPA AT HOTEL CONTESSA

www.HotelContessaSpa.com SPANISH GOVERNOR’S PALACE

www.SpanishGovernorsPalace.org

www.TrolleyTours.com

STABLE HALL

PADRE MARGIL PILGRIMMAGE CENTER

THOMPSON HOTEL SPA

www.CaminoSanAntonio.org RJA GHOST TOURS

www.RJAGhostTours.com RIVER WALK PUBLIC ART GARDEN

www.GetCreativeSanAntonio.com

www.StableHall.com www.Hyatt.com/thompson-hotels TOBIN CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

www.TobinCenter.org

TOWER OF THE AMERICAS

www.TowerOfTheAmericas.com

www.RubyCity.org

WITTE MUSEUM

SAN ANTONIO AFRICAN AMERICAN COMMUNITY ARCHIVE AND MUSEUM

YANAGUANA GARDEN

www.GarciaArtGlass.com CASA NAVARRO STATE HISTORIC SITE

www.thc.texas.gov GO CITY

www.GoCity.com

BAKERY LORRAINE

www.CremeSATX.com

MOKARA SPA

SAN PEDRO CREEK CULTURE PARK

GARCIA ART GLASS, INC.

www.TheDoSeum.org

GUADALUPE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER

CRÈME COFFEE SOCIAL

www.NPS.gov/saan/planyourvisit/ hikebike

www.SFCathedral.org / www.

MainPlaza.org

RUBY CITY

GO RIO RIVER CRUISES

www.BakeryLorraine.com

www.Facebook.com/mexculturesa

www.SAZoo.org

THE DOSEUM

ALAMO PLAZA COFFEE SHOP & BAR

www.AlamoPlazaCoffeeBar.com

www.McNayArt.org

www.VisitSanAntonio.com

www.GoRioCruises.com

www.GuadalupeCulturalArts.org

www.SAAACAM.org

SAN ANTONIO FIRE MUSEUM

SHOPS AT RIVERCENTER

SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN

www.SABOT.com

SAN ANTONIO CITY PASS

www.SanAntonioFireMuseum.org

HENRY B. GONZALEZ CONVENTION CENTER

SAN ANTONIO RIVER AUTHORITY

THE HISTORIC PEARL

SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL HISTORIAL PARK

www.AtPearl.com HOPSCOTCH

www.LetsHopscotch.com

LA VILLITA HISTORIC ARTS VILLAGE

www.CityPass.com

www.SanAntonio.BCycle.com

SAN ANTONIO PEDICABS

www.SAHBGCC.com

www.Hemisfair.org

www.LaVillitaSanAntonio.com La Villita has a variety of shops and galleries, including: • Capistrano Soap Company • Plaza Taxco • Scentchips USA • Yolix Luna Fine Art

SAN ANTONIO BCYCLE

HEMISFAIR

www.Hemisfair.org

www.WitteMuseum.org

www.SAPediCabs.com

www.SARiverAuthority.org

www.NPS.gov/saan/index

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART

www.SAMuseum.org

www.ShopRivercenter.com Shops at Rivercenter have over 100 retailers.

LEGOLAND DISCOVERY CENTER

www.LegolandDiscoveryCenter.com SEA LIFE SAN ANTONIO

www.VisitSeaLife.com

LIGGETTVILLE ADVENTURE CENTER

www.Liggettville.com

www.PaleteriaSanAntonio.com thesanantonioriverwalk.com

RIO Magazine 41

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TOWER OF THE AMERICAS ALAMODOME

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

downtown

locations listings SHOP & PLAY Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

11

The Palm Restaurant

74 Silo Prime

15

Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk

12

La Panaderia

75 Künstler Tap Haus

16

Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk

13

Four Brothers Southern Provisions & El Colegio Bar

76 Dough Pizzeria Napoletana

17

Omni La Mansion del Rio

77 ReRooted 210 Urban Winery

18

Club Wyndam Riverside Suites

78 Box St. All Day

19

Maverick, powered by Placemakr Riverwalk

79 Bombay Bicycle Club

20

Hilton Garden Inn Downtown San Antonio

80 Paleteria San Antonio

21

Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk

81 Chart House & Bar 601

22

The Historic Crockett Hotel

23

Historic Menger Hotel

24

Canopy by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk

25

Mokara Hotel & Spa

26

Marriott Rivercenter on the Riverwalk

27

Homewood Suites by Hilton Riverwalk

28

The Westin Riverwalk San Antonio

29

Hotel Contessa

30

Hilton Palacio del Rio

31

San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk

32

Riverwalk Plaza Hotel

33

Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk

34

Hyatt Place San Antonio Riverwalk

35

Fairmount Hotel

Veteran’s Memorial Park 1

Maverick Carter House

14

Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

2

Hopscotch

15

Mala Fama Social Cantina

Travis Park

16

Joe’s Crab Shack

3

San Pedro Creek Culture Park

17

Landry’s Seafood House

4

Artpace San Antonio

18

Mad Dogs British Pub

5

Charline McCombs Empire Theatre

19

On The Bend Oyster Bar & Cigar Lounge

6

Majestic Theatre

20

Q Kitchen/Bar

7

Buckhorn Saloon & Museum & The Texas Ranger Museum

21

Frosty Dog

22

Oro Restaurant at the Emily Morgan

23

The Colonial Room & Menger Bar

24

Crockett Tavern

8

Harley Davidson

9

San Antonio Visitor Information Center

10 Amazing Mirror Maze &

The Vault Laser Challenge

11 Old Towne Trolley Tours 12 San Antonio BCycle

Alamo Plaza The Alamo

25

1 Watson Rooftop Bar

26

Hugman’s Oasis

27

Tokyo Cowboy

28

The Esquire Tavern

29

Domingo & Otro Rooftop Bar

30

Iron Cactus Mexican Grill and Margarita Bar

31

Rita’s on the River

32

Ostra at Mokara

33

Fat Tuesday

34

County Line River Walk

35

Hard Rock Café

36

Paesanos Riverwalk

37

Howl at the Moon

38

Merkaba

39

Saltgrass Steakhouse

40

The Original Mexican Restaurant

41

Boudro’s Texas Bistro

42

Mr. Ice Cream

43

The Republic of Texas

44

Rainforest Cafe

45

Dick’s Last Resort

46

Brenner’s Steakhouse

47

Lone Star Cafe

48

Café Ole

49

Restaurante Pico de Gallo

50

Mi Tierra Café y Panaderia

51

La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar

52

Biga on the Banks

53

Zocca Cuisine D’Italia

Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center

54

Ambler Texas Kitchen + Cocktails

Hemisfair

55

Schilo’s Delicatessen

27 Yanaguana Garden

56

Casa Rio

28 Instituto de Mexico

57

Bar Rojo

(Mexican Cultural Institute)

58

Pat O’Brien’s Restaurant and Bar

Tower of the Americas

59

Morton’s The Steakhouse

The Alamodome

60

Dave & Busters

29 The Magik Theatre

61

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville

EAT & DRINK

62

Fogo de Chao

63

Ruth’s Chris Steak House

1

The Moon’s Daughters

64

Yard House

2

Ocho & Havana Bar

65

Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub

3

Pinkerton’s BBQ

66

The River’s Edge Café & Bar

4

Range

67

Fiume Pizzeria & Wine Bar

5

Haunt Lounge in St. Anthony

68

Prost River Walk Patio & Alchemy Bar

6

Devils River Distillery

69

Smoke BBQ River Bar

7

Double Standard

70

Casa Catrina

8

Acenar

71

La Villita Café

9

Dorrego’s & Naranja Tequila & Mezcal Bar

72

Guadalajara Grill

73

Nonna Osteria

13 San Antonio Fire Museum

Historic Market Square 14 Centro de Artes Gallery

Spanish Governor’s Palace 15 Culture Commons Gallery

San Fernando Cathedral Main Plaza 16 Bexar Heritage Center 17 Aztec Theatre

Torch of Friendship Shops at Rivercenter 18 Holey Moley 19 LEGOLAND Discovery Center 20 LiggettVille Adventure Center 21 SEA LIFE 22 Casa Navarro State Historic Site 23 Marriage Island 24 Briscoe Western Art Museum

GO RIO River Cruises Arneson River Theatre at La Villita La Villita Historic Arts Village 25 San Antonio African American

Community Archive & Museum

26 River Walk Public Art Garden

10 Bohanan’s

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

STAY 1

Hotel Indigo Riverwalk

2

Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk

3

The Hotel Havana Riverwalk San Antonio

4

Embassy Suites San Antonio Riverwalk

5

The Gunter Hotel

6

St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel

7

Hotel Gibbs

8

The Emily Morgan

9

AC Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk

10

Hampton Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk

11

Home 2 Suites by Hilton Riverwalk

36

Kimpton Santo Hotel

12

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk San Antonio

37

Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa

13

Holiday Inn Riverwalk

14

Courtyard by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk

03/31/25

RIO Magazine 43

locations listings

museum reach

1

P

281

SHOP & PLAY

3

DR TULETA

2

WA YS T

BRACKENRIDGE PARK

RE

DO AK R

N.

P

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ST .M AR Y’S

ST

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5

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1

4

1

San Antonio Zoo

2

Japanese Tea Garden

3

Witte Museum

4

San Antonio Botanical Gardens

5

The DoSeum

6

Brackenridge Park Golf Course

7

San Pedro Springs Park

8

Stable Hall

9

San Antonio Museum of Art

THE HISTORIC PEARL RESTAURANTS Bakery Lorraine Best Quality Daughter Boiler House Texas Grill & Wine Garden Brasserie Mon Chou Chou Carriqui The Culinary Institute of San Antonio Freight Fried Chicken Full Goods Diner Ladino La Gloria Larder Fine Groceries and Prepared Goods Pearl Food Hall at Bottling Dept.

Sternewirth at Hotel Emma Supper at Hotel Emma

THE CREAMERY DISTRICT RESTAURANTS

BRO ADW AY S T

Amelia Social Lounge & Lunatique Rooftop Garden Crème Coffee Social Hook Land & Sea

THE CREAMERY DISTRICT

3

LAM

4

T

E.

O ST

EAT & DRINK 5

THE HISTORIC PEARL 8 1

N. A

N. ST. MARY’S ST

7

ST

W. GR AYSON S

LI

Būjē Garaje Cantina Thai Bird

2

PHINE

C EU

Fife & Farro Isidore Mezquite & Mezcaleria Nicosi

MAKE READY MARKET RESTAURANTS

E. JOS E

VE DA

PULLMAN MARKET RESTAURANTS

P

6

281

1 Jardin 6

2 Mila Coffee 3 Josephine Street

E. GRAYSON ST

4 Down on Grayson 5 Sam’s Burger Joint 6 Restaurant Claudine

281

7 Tre Trattoria at the Museum 8 Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen

35

NEW

PULLMAN MARKET

ELL

7

10 Paramour Bar & Colette at the Phipps

35 ON

ES

AV E

10

8 9

STAY 1 Hotel Emma 2 Wyndam Garden San Antonio Riverwalk

37

BROA

E. J

DWA Y ST

9

2

9 Hot Joy

AVE

MAKE READY MARKET

44 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com

ST

S AL

S PR

IA M W ILL

ST

LA MO SA

S ST.

5 Bar America

7 Luna Rosa Puerto Rican Tapas y Mas 8 Pharm Table

ST

6 La Frite Belgian Bistro

Y’S MAR

4 Blush Restaurant & Bakery

9 Little Em’s Oyster Bar

ER

10 Liberty Bar

ST

T BAN PRO

5

2 Rosario’s Comida Mex & Bar ST 3 Battalion

SA ST S P RE

SA

GH

T Y’S S MAR

11

ST H NT UE EG

MO LA

1 Maverick Texas Brasserie

LEI

S ST.

P

13

14

A ST EREID

ST

LABOR ST

ST

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EAT & DRINK

8

LABO R ST

AV E

S FL ORE S

7 9

SA ST

ER

12

ST

4 Ruby City

S PRE

TH

4

3 Villa Finale Museum & Gardens

2

5 Blue Star Arts Complex

3

10

EN

1 Garcia Art Glass 2 San Antonio Art League & Museum

6

1

2

LIKE US!

SHOP & PLAY

3

4 5

1

GU

locations listings

Z BLVD . CHAVE CESAR E

southtown

W

T TS

SA

VA ST

KE AR M

NUE

11 The Good Kind

TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com

12 The Guenther House

15

13 The Fruteria

S PR

16

14 Casa Hernán Cantina

ESA

15 Burgerteca

P

10

1

locations listings

STEV 4

37

1 Confluence Park

VE TA VEL

SA ST

OSE

2 Caliente Hot Glass 3 Mission Concepción 4 Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center 5 Riverside Golf Course

E. SOUTHCROSS

7

BR

LS

AV E

11 Hot Wells 12 Mission Hike & Bike Trails 13 Stinson-Mission Municipal Airport

ROOSEVELT AVE

14 Texas Air Museum at Stinson Field

@TheSanAntonioRiverWalkOfficial

15 Brooks City Base

MI

RY S.E. MILITA

17 Mission San Juan

D NR

IO SS

16 Espada Aqueduct

DR

18 Mission Espada 12

S ST

E LOR

S. F

PLEASANTON RD

11

A ST S. PRES

13 14

E. ASHLEY RD

37 Access Point Padre Park 10

FE

P

P

9 Mission Reach Paddling Trail

AU N

A ST

DR

8

10

8 Mission San José

RES

9

RE

P

S. P

D PA

6

7 Mission County Park

S. NEW

RD

P

E SOUTHCROSS

S.E. MILITARY DR

SHOP & PLAY

6 Mission Marquee Plaza

ION

S ST

E LOR

MISS

S. F

PLEASANTON RD

S. HACKBERRY ST

S. PRE

D

RO

ION R 5

FAIR AVE

CLARKE AVE

P

STEVES AVE

S. NEW BRAUNFELS AVE

ES AV2 E

3

MISS

PROBAN DT ST

ST

16 Künstler Brewing

@theSARiverWalk

15

@thesanantonioriverwalk9203

P

MOURSUND BLVD

P

16

mission reach thesanantonioriverwalk.com

410

P

17

@thesanantonioriverwalk

18

RIO Magazine 45

coupons

WAYS to SAVE FREE CHIPS & QUESO with Purchase of 2 Entrees

Scan for specials

(210) 226-6256

www.therepublicoftexasrestaurant.com

10% OFF this La Villita location

Plaza Taxco (Excluding Sales Items)

See our ad on page 7

3/31/25

Fiume_RIO Ad_Coupon.pdf

2

7/15/22

C

M

12

SAVE UP TO

$

Get $2 off each adult and $1 off each child’s full price Discovery Tour ticket. Enter code 10166 online or show onsite.

Limit 6.

210-651-6101 • www.naturalbridgecaverns.com Not Valid With Any Other Discount or Program.

Expires 6/30/25 10166

Y

231 S Alamo Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205

(210) 890-2225

www.littlerheinprosthaus.com

CM

MY

FREE KRAUTWURST BALLS with Any Food Purchase One coupon per table.

CY

CMY

K

3/31/25

For dine in guests only. Expires 03/31/2025

MDG-03

3/31/25

3/31/25.

FREE FLAUTA APPETIZER

(seasoned chicken rolled up in a tortilla)

with the purchase of 1 entrée Coupon not valid with other offers or coupons.

Please present coupon to server at time of ordering.

46 46 RIO RIO Magazine Magazine

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RIO Magazine 47

48 RIO Magazine

thesanantonioriverwalk.com