The San Antonio River Walk is a feast for the senses, offering a kaleidoscope of colors and vibrant energy that captivates visitors with lush greenery, including towering cypress trees and blooming flowers in a variety of hues; pathways lined with colorful umbrellas from riverside cafes, creating a cheerful and inviting atmosphere; historic bridges and buildings that add architectural charm; and festive, iconic river barges that transport visitors along the meandering waterway. During festivals and events, the River Walk becomes even more lively with decorations, parades and live music. It's a place where nature, culture and community come together in beautiful harmony. Whether you're strolling during the day or enjoying the nightlife, the River Walk offers a colorful and unforgettable experience.
By Ana Flores
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Welcome to the San Antonio River Walk, an enchanting destination that captivates both locals and visitors with its picturesque setting, rich history and vibrant atmosphere. As spring transitions to summer, the scenic beauty and pleasant weather along the River Walk is undeniable. With a network of accessible walkways bordered by lush greenery, colorful flowers and stunning architecture, its peaceful ambiance is enhanced with historic foot bridges, art installations and riverside patios for dining.
Lined with charming restaurants, cafes and bars offering a range of cuisines, including traditional Tex-Mex, gourmet meals and plenty of healthy treats, the River Walk’s culinary options truly support San Antonio’s UNESCO designation as a Creative City of Gastronomy. Be sure to enhance your dining experience in a range of exceptional venues. From historic to rooftop to absolutely funky and fabulous, there is a place to match any vibe. Then there’s boat dining, where you can gather friends to book a private dining experience from River Walk restaurants. But if you really want a true sampling of River Walk cuisine, hop on board for the annual Stella Artois Drift & Dine in May, where you actually drift, dine and enjoy everything our local chefs from multiple restaurants have to offer.
Follow the Downtown River Walk in either direction and you will discover two other distinct escapes from your daily hustle and bustle. To the north, the Museum Reach is known as the Cultural Corridor, and includes museums, parks and historic spaces reimagined as dining and entertainment venues. It’s easy to spend a perfectly delightful day wandering in this area. The Mission Reach, to the south, is home to four of the five Spanish Missions that garnered recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with outdoor activities like hiking, biking and kayaking that are enhanced by an extensive urban ecosystem restoration. This is also the best place to spot Texas wildfowers!
But that’s not all that’s wild! Built on a foundation of history and traditions, the River Walk comes alive with annual events that honor its multicultural influences. Fiesta® San Antonio brings the Texas Cavaliers River Parade and the Ford Mariachi Festival in April, while June highlights include the Pride River Parade and Fiesta Noche del Rio — two lively and colorful celebrations.
I encourage you to visit www.TheSanAntonioRiverWalk.com to browse past issues of Rio Magazine to discover even more adventures along the River Walk!
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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.
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
On the River Walk! Spectacular Celebrations Await river
By Ann Koehler
April, May and June bring cherished and exciting events to the San Antonio River Walk. In April and June, the river comes alive with vibrant festivities during two iconic river parades that celebrate the city’s culture, diversity and generous spirit. The Texas Cavaliers River Parade in April is a Fiesta® tradition that honors San Antonio’s rich heritage, and in June, the Pride River Parade showcases the heart and energy of the LGBTQ+ community while spreading a message of inclusivity and love. The annual Drift & Dine takes place in May with a delightful culinary experience aboard beautifully decorated boats that glide from restaurant to restaurant. Each stop offers a chance to savor delicious dishes, creating a unique culinary journey. Get ready to create unforgettable memories!
THE TEXAS CAVALIERS RIVER PARADE
Monday, April 28, 7:00 to 9:00pm
The Texas Cavaliers River Parade, part of Fiesta® San Antonio, began in 1941 when a band of Texas Cavaliers became entranced by boats and barges decorated with flowers in the “floating gardens” of Mexico City. This happened to coincide with the San Antonio River Bend restoration, so the Cavaliers thought it would be a great idea to recreate it in the Alamo City, and they were right. The first Texas Cavaliers River Parade included a number of boats for schools, local businesses, civic organizations and the Army. Boats were decorated with flowers and bright colors, and the tradition began. Now, festive music fills the air and vibrant floats pass by as more than 250,000 spectators come out each year to watch from the banks of the River Walk. This year’s parade takes place on April 28, and since 1989, funds raised go towards local children’s charities through the Texas Cavaliers Charitable Foundation. Tickets are available on their website.
the texas cavaliers river parade
pride river parades & celebration
FIESTA ARTISAN SHOW
Friday-Saturday, May 2-3, 11:00am to 11:00pm Sunday, May 4, 11:00am to 8:00pm
Art enthusiasts should mark their calendars for the Fiesta Artisan Show, which takes place directly on the River Walk near the Chamber of Commerce and Shops at Rivercenter. This unique event allows you to experience the beauty of the River Walk while exploring stunning handmade artwork from more than 40 different artisans. Shop for jewelry, pottery, textiles, paintings, woodwork, beadwork and more, and the best part is it is free to attend.
MEMORIAL DAY ARTISAN SHOW
Friday-Sunday, May 23-25, 11:00am to 11:00pm Monday, May 26, 11:00am to 8:00pm
Later in May, there’s another opportunity to shop from more than 40 different artisans over the long Memorial Day weekend. Like the Fiesta Artisan Show, this free event takes place near the Chamber of Commerce and Shops at Rivercenter.
DRIFT & DINE
May 13-15, Reservations from 6:00 to 9:00pm
May 13 & 14
Launch Location: River level under the International Center (203 S. St. Mary’s Street at Market Street)
May 15 Launch Location: Sol Cypress Hotel – Roam & Range Patio (103 9th Street)
Get ready for another elevated dining experience during the annual Drift & Dine 2025! With a nautical theme and a fresh lineup of restaurants, this year promises to be the best one yet!
New this year is a themed dress night on May 14, with an “All Aboard in White” festive party. Then on May 15, Drift & Dine heads north to the Museum Reach, with all-new stops, flavors and views on this scenic stretch of the River Walk.
Our chefs are curating exclusive dishes just for this experience, and featured restaurants include The Republic of Texas, Hard Rock Café, Boudro’s, Range, Prost Haus, Casa Catrina, La Gloria and so many more.
Tickets are sold at designated launch times, so if you’re sailing with friends, be sure to book the same launch time and boat to enjoy the ride together — each boat can host 12-20 guests. Your admission includes food and drink tickets, with additional drinks available for purchase at each stop. Be sure to check in 30-45 minutes before your boarding time because your journey begins with a lively Cast-Off Party!
drift & dine
Please note: This experience includes stair-climbing and multiple boat boardings, which might not be accessible to all guests, and we are unable to accommodate dietary restrictions due to the variety of food offerings. Tickets are transferable but non-refundable, and in the event of severeweather,the event will be rescheduled forthe same dayof the following week.
Prepare yourself for an evening of delicious flavors, great company and scenic views along the river!
PRIDE RIVER PARADES AND CELEBRATION
Saturday, May 31
Show your pride for the LGBTQ+ community with a fabulous celebration on the River Walk. La Villita Historic Arts Village will be colorfully decked in Pride regalia. Shop the charming shops along with many vendor booths, grab some grub and enjoy an afternoon of live on-stage entertainment from DJs, bands, impersonators, dancers and more at the Arneson River Theatre on the River Walk. The 3rd Annual Pride River Parade will begin on the Museum Reach of the River Walk. Then, it will dazzle the Downtown Reach of the River Walk with more than 17 colorful barges. Parade viewing is free to attend. Visit the River Walk website for times and more information.
pride river parades and celebration
THE 2025 RIVER WALK ROYALTY IS CROWNED, AND SETS A FUNDRAISING RECORD SURPASSING $100,000!
Since 1987, River Walk Royalty has upheld a cherished tradition, serving as ambassadors for the San Antonio River Walk. Originally known as the Mud King and Queen, where citizens pledged nickels to elect the royals during the week of the River Walk’s annual draining, this tradition has evolved into a dedicated group of individuals campaigning to earn their place on the River Walk Royal Court. After months of fundraising, they are officially crowned each spring, marking the beginning of their yearlong reign. The amount of funds raised by each candidate determines the royal titles they receive.
Through their efforts, they raise funds for the San Antonio Hospitality Foundation, Visit San Antonio’s 501(c)3, to benefit local tourism, hospitality and culinary students. Their contributions make a significant impact on students in our community attending UTSA and St. Phillips College.
This year, the fundraising record was broken with over $100,000 raised. “This is a significant moment for San Antonio’s tourism and hospitality industry as we embolden the next generation of leaders who will leverage their unique story to shape and transform our industry,” said Marc Anderson, President and CEO for Visit San Antonio. “These scholarships are more than financial aid — they are a testament to our commitment to the people and the future of this great city. It is important for us to invest in its future by supporting the bright minds who will carry forward our legacy of service, innovation and cultural pride.”
Since its founding in 2023, the Foundation has granted a total of $175,000, benefiting a total of 18 students throughout South Texas. With the new funds raised, totaling more than $100,000, the Foundation’s grand total raised now exceeds $277,000 in just two years.
“The Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the River Walk Royalty Court for their hard work and unwavering commitment toward raising an impressive amount of funds that sets a new benchmark for future royalty,” Marc said.
THE 2025 RIVER WALK ROYALTY COURT
King: Samuel Hernandez
Queen: Karsen Maldonado
Prince: Julian Tovar
Princess: Melissa Gonzales
Duke: David Martinez, Jr.
Duchess: Annette Champion Flores
Countess: Kristy Ward
Viscountess: Millisa Picazo
river walk royalty
The2025 RiverWalk RoyaltyCourt (L-R): Duke: David Martinez,Jr.; Prince:JulianTovar; King: Samuel Hernandez;Queen: Karsen Maldonado; Princess: Melissa Gonzales; Duchess: Annette ChampionFlores;Countess:KristyWard;Viscountess:MillisaPicazo
Let’s Explore the museum reach
San Antonio’s Cultural Corridor
By Drew Henry
The San Antonio River Walk offers so many things to do that it can be hard to narrow down your itinerary and fit everything into one day. We’ve done the hard work for you and planned the perfect day exploring the Museum Reach of the River Walk — an area filled with opportunities to discover the city’s rich history, art, cuisine and other attractions.
START YOUR DAY WITH BREAKFAST AT AMBLER TEXAS KITCHEN + COCKTAILS
First things first, we’re starting the day with a hearty breakfast at Ambler in Hotel Contessa. This spot is centrally located along the River Walk, and specializes in cuisine with a classic Texan twist. The breakfast and brunch menus include traditional omelets, bagels and
flapjacks, and Lone Star-inspired dishes like Chicken-Fried Steak Benedict and Smoked Texas Style Street Tacos. What better way to start the morning than dining riverside with huevos rancheros and a glorious view?
ambler at hotel contessa
STROLL ALONG THE MUSEUM REACH TO SAMA
Next, we’ll take a morning stroll north along the Museum Reach stretch of the River Walk, which runs from Downtown to the Historic Pearl District. This quieter section of the river is dotted with public art installations, including sculptural trees, flying fish and a bubbling grotto.
It’s about a one-mile walk to SAMA, the San Antonio Museum of Art. This museum is housed in the former Lone Star Brewery and features an art collection spanning over 5,000 years of art history from Greek, European, Latin American and South Pacific artists. SAMA is the only encyclopedic museum of fine art in South Texas, making it a researcher’s dream!
GRAB A BITE FOR LUNCH ON YOUR WAY TO THE HISTORIC PEARL
After a morning at the museum, it’s time for a lunch break as we make our way further up the river to the Historic Pearl. One option is Tre Trattoria, an Italian restaurant by local celebrity Chef Jason Dady, located on SAMA grounds. This restaurant features a breathtaking terrace overlooking the river. If you are eager to make your way up to Pearl, you can check out the Boiler House. This sit-down restaurant has an industrial feel and serves modern takes on American classics. It also has an extensive wine list and craft cocktail selection. If you want a more casual lunch spot, head over to the Food Hall at Bottling Department, also at Pearl. The Food Hall offers counter service takeaway options from pizza to tacos to fried chicken, plus there is also a bar. Grab your eats, and head to the Pearl Lawn for an impromptu picnic. From there, you can stroll and browse all the shops and attractions Pearl has to offer.
san antonio museum of art
tre trattoria
Boiler House
pearl park
CHOOSE YOUR OWN AFTERNOON ADVENTURE IN BRACKENRIDGE PARK
Now that we’ve completed the morning itinerary, it’s time for you to choose your own adventure for the afternoon. We’re headed to Brackenridge Park, home to some of the Cultural Corridor’s best activities. Mix, match and choose as many as you’d like.
Our first suggestion is for those who are willing to take a walk on the wild side. The San Antonio Zoo offers 35 acres of exhibits and experiences. Here, you can see over 3,500 animals representing 750 species. While at the Zoo, you can take a ride on the Zoo Train, feed giraffes, or even get up-close and personal on a behind-the-scenes excursion.
The next stop on the list is for the kids. Kiddie Park is America’s original and oldest children’s amusement park that’s been delighting kids since 1925. The park has preserved its 1920s style by maintaining all the original rides, such as its old-fashioned Ferris Wheel and famous hand-carved Herschell Spillman carousel. The park underwent massive renovations in 2019 and moved to its new location just steps from the Zoo.
brackenridge park
The San ANtonio Zoo
If you need a moment of Zen to relax after a busy day, recharge at the Japanese Tea Garden. Located adjacent to the Zoo, on the site of a former rock quarry, the Japanese Tea Garden offers meditative winding paths that cross over lily and koi pods, under a waterfall, and through stretches of towering bamboo. It’s the perfect place to reconnect with your thoughts and chat over a cup of tea served at the Jingu House restaurant.
Want to make it a museum double feature? The
San Antonio’s natural history museum. Here, you can explore centuries of Texas wildlife going as far back as the dinosaurs. When you enter the museum, you will be greeted by the smiling fossil display of a massive T-Rex. Other galleries cover the Texas cattle industry, flora and fauna, and hunter-gatherers. The Witte Museum also offers hands-on experiences that are great for kids, like the H-E-B Science Treehouse.
Japanese Tea Garden
The Witte Museum
kiddie park
Witte Museum is
HAVE A FOODIE DINNER AT PULLMAN MARKET
We’re headed back to Pearl for dinner, but this time, we’re checking out one of the newest additions to the area, Pullman Market. This specialty grocer celebrates all things food and is home to nine eateries that use local ingredients from the market. Some of our favorites include Mezquite, which celebrates the cuisine of the Sonoran region and offers grilled meats, flour tortillas and delicious cocktails. Another choice, Fife and Farro, takes inspiration from Italy, cooking up sourdough pizzas and house-made pasta that you can watch the team roll out in front of you. You can even buy a bag to take home!
pullman market
mezquite
Fife & Farro
KEEP THE PARTY GOING WITH DRINKS DOWNTOWN
Now, after a fun-packed day exploring the Museum Reach, it’s time to head back Downtown. But you didn’t think we were stopping there, did you? Keep the party going, and stop at Hard Rock Café to grab a drink and listen to your favorite classic rock tunes. Or, join the party that’s always happening at Howl at the Moon. You can share a bucket cocktail with your friends and join in a song with other guests as you sing the night away!
GO RIO RIVER SHUTTLES
Why walk when you can ride? A fantastic way to explore the River Walk is on a GO RIO River Shuttle. These river shuttles offer a unique perspective of the vibrant River Walk, allowing you to enjoy scenic views and historic landmarks from the comfort of a boat as you cruise along. Shuttles run throughout the Downtown River Walk and up through the Museum Reach, where you can hop on and off at the San Antonio Museum of Art, the F.I.S.H Sculpture, The Grotto and on to the Historic Pearl. Shuttles run every 60 minutes between noon and 8:00pm daily. Purchase 1- and 3-day passes on their website, at GO RIO Ticket Booths and on the shuttle boats. GO RIO Shuttle signs line the River Walk and boats are marked with GO RIO Shuttle signs. It’s the ideal way to get from one place to another on the River Walk!
mission reach
in full bloom
By Drew Henry
Here in Texas, we’re known for our wild, free spirit. So much so, that even our flowers are wild! It’s wildflower season here in the Lone Star State, which means you can spot bluebonnets (our beloved state flower) blooming in the Hill Country, alongside the highways, and lining parts of the River Walk. We’re sharing the best spots to catch blooms on the river, from Downtown’s lush urban gardens to the sprawling lawns of the Missions.
Downtown: Cypress Trees and a Cool Breeze
The Downtown stretch of the River Walk is known for its towering cypress trees, winding paths and historic foot bridges. In the springtime, the landscape becomes even more vibrant as the lush verdant landscaping is dotted with bright and colorful blooms in the flower beds that line the banks. Some of the best flower photo ops include Marriage Island, the staircase to La Villita, and the waterfall at the Omni La Mansion del Rio hotel.
Fun Fact
Did you know the River Walk enjoys its own microclimate thanks to its positioning below street level? Even on warm Texas days, the temperatures are anywhere from five to seven degrees cooler, making for a pleasant stroll. Remember, where you find cypress trees, you’ll find a cool breeze!
downtown reach
RIVER WALK PUBLIC ART GARDEN
If you come up from river level, you’ll find the River Walk Public Art Garden just a few steps past the Torch of Friendship and Shops at Rivercenter. This urban garden offers a peaceful place to stroll in the heart of the hustle and bustle. Here you can find the city’s newest public art displays, marking the gateway to San Antonio’s art scene. While there are plenty of blossoming flowers to enjoy along the way, you’ll want to stop and smell the art. The Bloom series by San Antonio artist Leticia Huerta gives you a new perspective on nature — literally. Next to these giant flowers, you’ll understand what it’s like to be a butterfly or a ladybug in the garden! Make sure to keep an eye out for other popular installations like Stargazer — Mexican artist Pedro Reyes carved this piece from volcanic rock to form a woman who appears to be gazing at the stars. (But we think she may be looking for wildflower blooms!)
Bloom by Leticia Huerta
Museum Reach: Grottos and Gardens
North of Downtown, you’ll find the Museum Reach stretch of the River Walk. This path is lined with beautiful landscaping and public art installations, like The Grotto. The Grotto, designed by artist Carlos Cortes, sits at the corner of Camden and Newell Streets near San Antonio’s Historic Pearl District. Enjoy a moment for urban cave exploration, as you take in the stalagmites, stalactites and splashing waterfall on your path. If you look closely, you’ll even find some cacti and wildflowers growing atop The Grotto’s peak!
JAPANESE TEA GARDEN
Located in historic Brackenridge Park, the Japanese Tea Garden sits on the former spot of an abandoned rock quarry. After the quarry closed its operation in 1908, the site presented challenges for park leadership. The solution: transform the quarry into a meditative garden with winding paths, a lily pond and a towering waterfall. Completed in the 1920s, the site features a popular koi pond, an overlook pavilion, towering bamboo and plenty of colorful blooms along the paths. A testament to the city’s limestone quarrying history and cultural diversity, the garden is now designated as a landmark on the National Register of Historic Places.
The Grotto by Carlos Cortes
Japanese Tea Garden
SAN ANTONIO BOTANICAL GARDEN
There is no better place to explore the flora and fauna of Texas than the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Positioned in the center of San Antonio’s Cultural Corridor, the garden offers over 30 acres of native Texas foliage, blossoming blooms and beautiful greenhouses. You can appreciate everything from the most delicate orchids to rustic desert cacti. In addition to providing beautiful grounds for strolling, the Botanical Garden also has weekly events, tours, culinary demos and classes. Classes include learning how to cook with locally sourced ingredients, developing your own garden and children’s story time in the garden. So, after you enjoy taking time to stop and smell the roses, you can learn how to plant your own rose garden back at home!
Mission Reach: Texas Wildflowers and Wildlife
Now, the best stop to get a glimpse of the Texas wildflowers during peak bloom is on the sprawling lawns of the San Antonio Missions and the wild banks of the Mission Reach, which comprises the southern end of the San Antonio River. It is home to four of the five UNESCO World Heritage Site missions, including Mission San Juan Capistrano, Mission Espada, Mission San José and Mission Concepción (the Alamo is in the heart of Downtown).
And the Mission Trail connects you to all of them, along with stunning art installations and views on the way. This 8-mile linear park has over 16 miles of trail along the river for pedestrians and bicyclists to enjoy, plus a paddling trail for canoeing and kayaking. While you’re exploring, you may notice that the Mission Reach looks much different than the historic Downtown River Walk and its Museum Reach counterpart. Here, nature truly rules. Conservation efforts by the San Antonio River Authority have established this stretch as a shining example of urban ecosystem restoration. In other words, keep your eyes peeled not only for Texas wildflowers, but also Texas wildlife!
Mission San José
antonio botanical Garden
Courtesyof SARiverAuthority
6/30/25
6/30/25
the river walk
Delights with Healthy Bites
By Kimberly A. Suta
As we relish this beautiful spring weather in the River City, summer is just around the corner. Though our health-focused resolutions may have waned after the first few months, glorious days of sunshine beckon us back outdoors, and the thought of swimsuit season motivates us to refocus on nutrition. But that doesn’t mean we can’t also eat well. These local River Walk restaurants make a point of offering healthy bites, locally-sourced veggies and yummy shareable items where you can enjoy a fabulous meal with friends.
LADINO
While the modern Mediterranean grill at the Historic Pearl, Ladino, may not intentionally focus on healthy offerings, it’s well known that the Mediterranean diet is one of the healthiest to follow because it’s typically high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish and nuts, and limits saturated fats. It doesn’t hurt that it’s also absolutely scrumptious.
Ladino offers a unique perspective on Mediterranean cuisine, as it’s derived from the Judeo-Spanish culture — a mix of Castellano, French, Italian, Greek, Turkish and Hebrew. Chef Berty Richter just so happens to be Ladino and conceives every dish from the heart. From Pork Souvlaki and Mushroom Shawarma to Saffron Chicken and Harissa Shrimp, the options are delectably one-of-a-kind and often heart healthy.
For a special experience, opt in for the chef’s choice, “Mezas de Alegra” or tables of joy, where the chef chooses your menu for a shared dining experience. This prix fixe menu is where the restaurant truly shines. There’s nothing more exciting than the surprise of trying dishes you might never think to order, but fall in love with just the same.
The restaurant also features a cozy upstairs bar overlooking the patio, which is perfect for enjoying a few cocktails and sharing a few bites during happy hour, such as their hummus, spicy feta or Tirshi (a squash dish with harissa and crispy, chili pepitas). And, excitingly, Ladino just introduced a new Turkish brunch on the weekends with a prix fixe option as well as individual items like a Sufganiya, a rose pastry cream stuffed donut, which is simply out of this world.
ladino
ladino
Photo by MarsTello
PHARM TABLE
Located in Southtown, Pharm Table has become a go-to destination for health-conscious visitors from all around the world. Notably, they’re easily San Antonio’s most health-focused restaurant, where you can virtually dine guilt-free, knowing owner, Chef Elizabeth Johnson, has done the work for you by sourcing the most high-quality, mindful and often locally-grown ingredients.
This modern “apothecary kitchen” with an Ayurvedic twist is also dairyand gluten-free. Options, such as the Peruvian Salmon Ceviche, Spice
Route Beets with a cashew green goddess, succulent Braised Wagyu Short Rib on cauliflower puree and the HI-FI Oyster Mushroom Steak will satiate your belly as well as your soul.
Thoughtful touches like their ginger meal starter with citrus and pickled ginger to kindle that digestive fire, not to mention one of the best (Cilantro Coconut) guacamoles in town, take your dining experience to the next level. Keep in mind that the menu is seasonal, which is just one of the perks at Pharm Table.
CASA RIO
The historic Casa Rio restaurant is a cherished landmark along San Antonio’s bustling Downtown River Walk and continues to captivate visitors with its familiar Tex-Mex flavors and inviting atmosphere. Known for its signature dishes that have delighted locals and tourists alike for decades, Casa Rio also offers an array of healthy and shareable bites perfect for families and friends. Start your meal with their house-made tortilla chips paired with fresh salsa and house-made guacamole.
For the main course, Casa Rio’s menu features lighter yet yummy options such as their Shrimp Ceviche or Shrimp Cocktail, made with a
homemade sauce and served with guacamole. Or, dive into a guiltless Linda’s Ensalada De Colores, bursting with fresh mixed greens, grapefruit and orange slices, red onion, bell peppers and your choice of dressing. Grilled fajitas are also a great option.
These dishes, along with other offerings, showcase the restaurant’s dedication to balancing traditional Tex-Mex fare with modern, healthconscious twists and even features a menu of dishes mindful of dietary restrictions. No matter who you’re with, everyone will undoubtedly find something delicious.
casa rio
IRON CACTUS—MEXICAN GRILL AND MARGARITA BAR
As we wander further back Downtown along the River Walk, you’ll be delighted to step into the long-standing restaurant, Iron Cactus. Diet or not, you should definitely kick off your meal with a margarita. Good news is they offer a top shelf skinny version, ideal for those counting calories. Of course, if you’re wishing to splurge, you might want to order a frozen cocktail with a strawberry or prickly pear swirl.
Iron Cactus offers guests an inviting blend of healthy dining and shareable plates that capture the essence of Southwestern cuisine. With a focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, this lively spot creates an atmosphere where families and friends can gather to enjoy the best of Texas flavors. The menu is designed for communal enjoyment, featuring crisp salads, colorful vegetable platters and creative small plates.
A popular dish is their Shrimp Tacos — soft tortillas filled with blackened wild-caught shrimp, crunchy slaw, cotija cheese, Baja sauce and a tangy lime crema that perfectly balances vibrant flavors with healthful ingredients. Equally enticing is their Herb-Grilled Vegetables on the Sizzling Fajitas menu, but you can also order your fajitas with tequilamarinated chicken breast, Angus beef or adobo-marinated shrimp.
iron cactus
SUPPER
Back at the Pearl, Supper in Hotel Emma has long been lauded for their appreciation and incorporation of veggies, often sourced from the farmers that visitors can also find at the Farmer’s Market on Saturdays.
Executive Chef Geronimo Lopez, new to the restaurant, is redefining their offerings with menus that are as healthful as they are delicious. A proud recipient of the James Beard Foundation’s “Taste Twenty” program, Chef Lopez infuses every dish with his passion for local, nutrientrich vegetables and seasonal flavors. By partnering with small local producers, farmers and artisans — including longtime collaborators like La Babia Beef and the San Antonio Food Bank — he ensures that every bite supports homegrown South Texas traditions. Diners can start with
supper
enticing dishes such as Scallop au Gratin drizzled with a zesty salsa macha verde, paired with tangy quesillo and lime, and an indulgent Caviar Kit featuring Osetra noir, served alongside potato chips and chive crème fraîche.
Other innovative entrees you might find (on the seasonal menu) that highlight global influences and fresh, local ingredients include the Black Cod al Pil Pil and the Stuffed Quail with a rich, dirty rice, chicken liver and chicken demi. Complementary sides like creamed greens, charred cabbage and roasted baby carrots with chimichurri and miso butter round out the experience. Make sure to give yourself a little extra time to explore the stunning gem that is Hotel Emma.
bars raising bars
By Drew Henry
Looking for some spirited fun along the River Walk? Of course, nothing beats sipping cocktails riverside at one of the lovely patios that line the River Walk. While there is no shortage of margaritas, we’re looking for bars that are mixing things up and adding a dash of something special. From historic haunts, stylish rooftops and funky finds, these bars are pouring up the most unique experiences in the city.
otro
Historic Bars
Searching for a drink distilled in history? Look no further.
FOUR BROTHERS SOUTHERN PROVISIONS
The Four Brothers bar is located inside the Omni La Mansion del Rio Hotel. It’s named for the four brothers of the Society of Mary who established St. Mary’s College here in 1853. Today, the bar and restaurant serve drinks and dishes inspired by Southern Texas cuisine.
EL COLEGIO
El Colegio is also nestled in the halls of the Omni La Mansion del Rio and pays homage to St. Mary’s College, which was housed at the site until 1966 and was reimagined into the hotel it is today by former students in 1968. The bar serves prohibition-era-inspired cocktails and offers upwards of 75 premium spirits, craft beers and wines produced in the great state of Texas.
ESQUIRE TAVERN
The Esquire is the oldest bar on the River Walk and has one of the longest bar tops in Texas at over 100 feet. What can we say? Everything’s bigger in Texas! The Esquire opened in 1933 to celebrate the end of prohibition and has been a San Antonio favorite ever since.
STERNEWIRTH
Sternewirth is tucked away inside the Hotel Emma in the Historic Pearl District. Once part of the former Pearl Brewery, the space features soaring vaulted ceilings and relics of the manufacturing days. The bar is named for the “Sternewirth Privilege,” which entitled employees of 19th-century breweries to free beer during the workday.
EL COLEGIO
Rooftop Bars
Ready to take your night to new heights?
OTRO
Otro sits atop the Canopy Hotel, perched among the canopied treetops of the River Walk’s cypress trees. The treehouse-like atmosphere boasts a feeling of refined playfulness, where you’re free to kick back and enjoy the view beginning at 3:00pm daily. The bar offers an extensive tequila and mezcal menu and spicy takes on classic cocktails as well as sharable Tex Mex apps.
THE MOON’S DAUGHTERS
Floating 20 stories above the River Walk, The Moon’s Daughters gets you as close to the starry San Antonio night sky as you can be. Unwind in the lounge or rooftop terrace as you peruse options from a Mediterranean-inspired menu and cosmic cocktails.
AMELIA SOCIAL LOUNGE & LUNATIQUE
Amelia Social Lounge is set in The Creamery District just steps away from the Historic Pearl. Downstairs offers a swanky cocktail lounge feel with a menu of classic cocktails, including several takes on the martini, old fashioned and Amelia’s Aviation. Upstairs, however, opens up to the bright rooftop garden, Lunatique. This sister bar offers an Instagram-worthy skyline view and trendy cocktails like espresso martinis, ranch waters and even an Aperol spritz tree.
1WATSON
1Watson offers sweeping city views from the 15th floor of the AC Hotel. The spot gets its name from an 1883 Texas poker game where a gunfighter named Thompson won a $200 marble tombstone from a stonecutter named Watson. This was the “1” and only time Thompson accepted winnings other than cold, hard cash. As luck would have it, he died in a shootout a week later. In addition to serving choice views, 1Watson offers a full cocktail menu as well as Texas-inspired bites.
the moon's daughters
Funky (and Fab) Bars
Let’s get groovy!
ELSEWHERE GARDEN BAR & KITCHEN
Are you ready to go, Elsewhere? Elsewhere is nestled along the banks of the River Walk under a canopy of trees and dripping flowers. This picturesque patio bar offers plenty of photo ops and a magical experience to disconnect from the outside world and let your mind flow, elsewhere. The menu includes over 30 draft beers, seltzers, wines, margaritas and even spiked coffee, and the kitchen serves up classic burgers and bar bites. Of course, the patio itself offers a wonderland of play, including games, live music and even fire dancers.
BAR 601
This next spot requires a trip 750 feet into the sky. Bar 601 is located at the top of the Tower of the Americas and might just be one of the best-kept secrets in San Antonio. Take the Tower elevator straight to the top and get a bird’s eye view of the city with a cocktail in hand. Bar 601 offers a happy hour on weekdays from 4:30 to 7:00pm, making the view from the top that much sweeter.
BOTANERO LOUNGE
Famed SA Chef Johnny Hernandez’s vibrant new Botanero Lounge and Margarita Garden in Southtown offers a trio of FREE botanos (sharable snacks), served with favorite signature beverages. This prime happy hour spot opens at 4:00pm Tuesday-Saturday so pop in to enjoy margaritas, specialty cocktails and fruit-forward drinks in this chill, contemporary Mexican lounge. Menu highlights include Picana Aguachile, Mole Blanco, Mar y Tierra (Surf & Turf), Queso, Flautas de Pollo, a Takis Fisherman Platter, quesadillas, guacamole, house-made tortillas, chips and more.
HUGMAN’S OASIS
Robert H. H. Hugman was the architect who designed the San Antonio River Walk, and we’re pretty sure he’d spend his evenings after work at Hugman’s Oasis. This decked-out tiki bar transports you to the South Pacific, complete with luau huts, tropical drinks and even an hourly thunderstorm show. As the only tiki bar on the River Walk, this is a must-see spot to dive into some tiki fun!
bar 601
botanero lounge
hugman's oasis
history meets arts, culture & charm
at La Villita
By Ana Flores
Tucked away in the heart of downtown San Antonio and steps from the bustling River Walk, La Villita is a cornerstone of San Antonio’s foundation and a thriving hub of creativity, culture and community. Its cobblestone streets, simple adobe structures and shaded plazas transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into the diverse influences that have shaped San Antonio’s past and continue to define its thriving artistic community today.
La Villita Historic Arts Village, the city’s first neighborhood, was established in 1719, just a year after the City of San Antonio’s founding. Initially settled by early pioneers along the San Antonio River, the neighborhood grew into a thriving multicultural community of primarily Spanish, Mexican and German residents. It played a key role in the Texas Revolution, witnessing key moments like the five-day Siege of Bexar in December 1835. In the late 19th century, La Villita flourished with skilled artisans, shopkeepers and tradespeople who helped drive the city’s growth, but by the early 20th century, the “little village” had fallen into
disrepair. Recognizing its historical importance and future possibilities, Mayor Maury Maverick led the district's restoration beginning in 1939, transforming it into a destination that preserved its history and promoted cultural unity.
Today, many of the buildings within La Villita, which were once part of the city’s early residential landscape, house a thriving community of boutiques, galleries and restaurants. Visitors can explore the work of over 200 artisans, including metalsmithing, jewelry making, painting
and body care. And whether its bold Tex-Mex flavors, Texas BBQ or Bavarian bites, La Villita is home to several locally owned and operated restaurants, each serving up mouthwatering meals crafted with tradition and local flair. From quick, casual bites for those on the go to elevated dining experiences with picturesque patios and thoughtfully crafted meals and beverages, there’s something to satisfy every palate.
Beyond its charming shops and dining gems, La Villita hosts events throughout the year, including several at the iconic Arneson River Theatre. From cultural celebrations to live performances and parties with a purpose, here are a few ongoing and upcoming can’t-miss events:
DOWNTOWN TUESDAYS
Select Tuesdays through May
As the day winds down, La Villita comes alive on Downtown Tuesdays. This community-driven event series invites locals and visitors to the city center to unwind, get creative and dance the night away while taking advantage of free parking in all city-managed parking facilities, including garages, lots and on-street meter/pay station spaces from 5:00pm to 2:00am.
Creativity takes center stage on the second Tuesday of each month with Craft Tuesday, a two-hour, hands-on crafting experience such as painting classes led by local artists and seasonal projects like pumpkin decorating. A recent crowd favorite included Chef Johnny Hernandez teaching attendees how to grind cacao beans for authentic hot chocolate. Guests learned about the traditional process and decorated souvenir mugs. Craft Tuesday is free, with all materials provided; however, attendees must register.
Downtown Tuesday shifts gears on the fourth Tuesday of each month for Dancing in the Dark, an evening of music and movement. Guests can participate in a free, two-hour dance class led by Jeremy Zipagan, professional dance instructor and choreographer for the legendary Fiesta Noche del Rio shows. The lineup includes a mix of styles from Texas Two-Step to Line Dancing and Salsa to Conjunto, ensuring there’s something for dancers of all skill levels.
Beyond these monthly gatherings, La Villita regularly introduces special events throughout the year. To stay in the loop and register for upcoming activities, follow along on social media for the latest updates.
STARVING ARTIST ART SHOW
April 12-13
10:00am to 6:00pm, each day
Now celebrating its 63rd year, the Starving Artist Art Show, one of the largest of its kind in the United States, is a haven for art lovers. The event brings together over 1,000 artists and craftspeople, featuring everything from paintings and sculptures to handmade jewelry and crafts.
More than just a celebration of creativity, the event serves as an annual fundraiser for the Little Church of La Villita, a non-denominational church. Funds help support the church’s mission to provide food and assistance to families in need and the unhoused.
Whether you’re an avid collector or looking to explore local artistry, the Starving Artist Art Show is an inspiring testament to the power of art and community.
starving artist art show
NIOSA®
April 29-May 2
5:30 to 10:30, nightly
It’s not Fiesta® San Antonio without NIOSA – A Night in Old San Antonio®! The four-night festival, proudly sponsored by and benefiting the Conservation Society of San Antonio, is the top fundraiser for historic preservation in the United States. Celebrating its 77th year in 2025, the high-energy and culturally rich event is held on the La Villita grounds and features over 155 booths brimming with food, drink and a delightful atmosphere, alongside continuous live musical performances, children's games and souvenirs.
This signature, immersive experience invites visitors to sample a variety of flavors, with everything from escargot to funnel cakes to bratwurst — of course, Fiesta wouldn’t be complete without the infamous chicken-on-a-stick.
Whether dancing in the streets, collecting Fiesta medals, smashing colorful cascarones or indulging in San Antonio’s rich culinary flavors, NIOSA is the ultimate Fiesta experience. Viva NIOSA!
FORD MARIACHI FESTIVAL
April 30-May 1
6:00 to 9:30pm, each day
For more than 50 years, the Ford Mariachi Festival has brought the sights, sounds and spirit of San Antonio to life. This free, twoday festival transforms the River Walk into a joyous celebration of culture as mariachi bands and Folklorico dancers from local schools don their best traditional attire and dazzle audiences while floating on colorful, decorated river barges.
Since 1972, this beautiful, uniquely San Antonio tradition and official Fiesta San Antonio event has brought the energy and passion of mariachi music directly to visitors along the River Walk and from the Rivercenter Mall stage, immersing them in a oneof-a-kind experience celebrating the heart and soul of Mexican heritage.
FIESTA NOCHE DEL RIO
June 6-August 2, every Friday & Saturday evening
8:30pm
Since debuting in 1957, this San Antonio summer series has been a cornerstone of River Walk entertainment. Over the years, this spectacular celebration of music, dance and culture has wowed audiences with dancers in dazzling costumes performing several styles of dancing, including Folklorico, Flamenco, Jazz/Hip-Hop, Country Western and more at the Arneson River Theatre, one of the most beautiful backdrops in the city.
The Alamo Kiwanis Club has produced the show since its inception, and proceeds from the event, which has raised over $5 million, benefit local children’s charities, making it a celebration with a purpose. Past recipients include ChildSafe, disABILITYsa, Respite Care of San Antonio, San Antonio Public Library Foundation and The Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas.
ford mariachi festival
a quest
for San Antonio’s Quatrefoils
By Susan Yerkes
Here’s a little-known fact about San Antonio: It's the barbed quatrefoil capital of the U.S. and maybe the world.
"The one place in the U.S. where the barbed quatrefoil has been widely adopted is in and around San Antonio, Texas," wrote David Vaccari of the Stevens Institute of Technology in a 2018 paper titled "The Barbed Quatrefoil is a 1500-Year-Old Symbol of Architectural Advance."
Guess what? The barbed quatrefoil is also the official brand logo of the City of San Antonio. We'll get to "why" in a minute.
First, you may be thinking, "What's a quatrefoil?"
Think trefoil with a "qua" in front. (The famous Girl Scout Trefoil cookie is actually a quatrefoil.) It's a historic symbol shaped like a square with four symmetrical "lobes" around it. It's been associated with a four-leaf clover for good fortune in faith, hope, love and luck. In ancient Mesoamerica, the quatrefoil shape was sometimes used to represent a gateway between heaven and earth. In Christian symbolism, it can represent the four gospels or their authors, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. It's also
associated with the four cardinal directions and the cross. It has been used in building domed temples and churches. It also pops up in stained glass, arches, fountains and tiles.
Barbed quatrefoils are an artistic variation, with triangular points (the "barbs") poking out between each lobe. They've been called the thorns of the rose.
Now for the San Antonio connection. It started with a mission and a window. In the 1700s, Franciscan friars accompanied Spanish military expeditions to North America. They stayed to build missions to spread the Christian faith to indigenous people. Mission San Jose y San Miguel de Aguayo is one of five Spanish missions built near the San Antonio River in the 1700s. Today, the missions are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. San Jose, the largest of the five, is known as the "Queen of the Missions" for its size and beautifully restored architecture. Most of all, for the Rose Window.
The Rose Window is not an actual "rose window" — those are circular. It's a quatrefoil. It's not even a typical quatrefoil. Elongated rather than circular and 7-feet high, it faces south from the side of the mission. A priest could stand in the window and perform the Rite of Communion to the indigenous mission inhabitants gathered outside. And it has its own legends. The sculptor, Pedro Huizar, was a highly skilled Spanish craftsman who came to San Antonio to assist in building San Jose. The best-known story is one of tragic romance. In it, Huizar's sweetheart, Rosa, was drowned when the ship she took from Spain to join him sank, and he dedicated the window to her.
The window is the most famous, but it's not San Jose's only quatrefoil. In its early years, the whitewashed walls of the mission church were covered with bright red and blue barbed quatrefoils, faded fragments of which evoke San Jose's glory in its prime.
The fame of the Rose Window launched many different uses of the form, particularly in its hometown. According to the City of San Antonio Historic Preservation Specialist Lauren Sage, “The quatrefoil design is a common architectural feature for the Mission Revival architectural style — think stucco, red clay barrel roofs and flat roofs with an Alamoshaped parapet." (The "hump" on the front of the Alamo chapel, which was added to the structure years after the famous battle, resembles the top lobe and side angles of a barbed quatrefoil.)
“The quatrefoil's popularity has come and gone in different styles," said San Antonio architect Killis Almond, who is nationally known for his work on historic buildings. "Often, you find it in stained glass windows, especially the more artistic ones. A lot of Mexican tile has the motif. If you start looking, you'll start to see it."
You almost can't avoid seeing it in downtown San Antonio, especially since the city replaced the old-fashioned, ornate city seal with a barbed quatrefoil as its official logo a few years ago.
It's a simple, streamlined shape in Corazon Red. This color was chosen to represent "the unbridled passion and heart that's inherent in all (people) of San Antonio," according to Luke Simons of the city's Communications & Engagement Department. And it's everywhere. Look on the cover of this magazine and you will find the San Antonio River Walk logo is a quatrefoil. As Almond said, once you start identifying quatrefoils, you keep seeing them.
The Rose Window Mission San Jose
Shops at Rivercenter
Walkway near San Fernando Cathedral
The Alamo
Mission San Jose World Heritage Light Show
Color Fragment on Mission San Jose
San Fernando Cathedral Entrance
Start with the Rose Window look-alikes. The eight display windows around Shops at Rivercenter on Alamo Street are the easiest to find. Added to the venerable Joske's department store in a 1939 renovation by architect Bartlett Cocke, they display ads for the mall and its tenants today. The magnificent old Bexar County Courthouse is another place to see Rose Window replicas — 15 of them, uncovered during a courthouse renovation and then restored, decorate the stately double-height courtroom used for County Commission meetings.
Windows aside, there are scores more quatrefoils to be found. They come in various sizes and shapes — some enormous, like the giant Corazon Red tile quatrefoil embedded in the wide stone path between San Fernando Cathedral and historic City Hall on the next block. Few people who walk that way notice it, and most of them never know its significance — but you will. Find the simple quatrefoils on the baroque façade of the San Fernando Cathedral itself. Inside, you'll find them on the pews and painted ceiling.
At the Historic Pearl District, in the Museum Reach of the River Walk on Broadway Street, you'll find the boldest collection of quatrefoils in town on the face of the connected Credit Human and Oxbow (named for the Oxbow Bend in the River Walk) buildings. The buff brick façade is covered with hundreds of stenciled quatrefoils based on the original designs on Mission San Jose's church. Spectacular three-dimensional tile murals by renowned ceramicist Diana Kersey titled “The Riparian Edge” (the edge between river and land) are set above two entrances to the building. They feature assorted river creatures inside a giant barbed quatrefoil — surprise!
Find more quatrefoils on Alamo Plaza. Some are squarish, like the small top-floor windows of the old U.S. Post Office and the "Davy Crockett's Cabin" sign on a stone pillar at the Menger Hotel. There’s an art piece featuring columns of perfect quatrefoils in a black metal tower. Now, look at the Alamo. Do you see the top of a barbed quatrefoil in the shape of the parapet?
Credit Human Building with Diana Kersey Tile
Want to see more? A new mural honoring HemisFair ’68 was recently unveiled on the Magik Theatre building on the Alamo Street side of the Hemisfair grounds. The piece features scenes from the area’s past, present and future, with a giant barbed quatrefoil as the centerpiece. It wraps completely around the northwest corner of the building, so the quatrefoil juts out at the viewer like an approaching ship’s prow, with eerie effect.
A block away, check out the brightly patterned quatrefoils positioned modestly on single tiles on the pillars of a shelter by Commerce Street Bridge and stairs to the River Walk. Take the steps down to the shady riverside path. Now that you're a quatrefoil expert, here's a challenge: start your own scavenger hunt for quatrefoils on the River Walk. Start off easy with a directional sign and go from there. Remember to notice what's underfoot, as well as what's up. With cool cafes and bars every few yards, you can rest and regroup anytime. Happy hunting!
“THE BARBED QUATREFOIL IS A 1500-YEAR-OLD SYMBOL OF ARCHITECTURAL ADVANCE."
https://personal.stevens.edu/~dvaccari/ Vaccari%20-%20Sancta%20Sophia.pdf QUATREFOIL AND BARBED QUATREFOIL www.Lynn-Byrne.com/posts/designdictionary-quatrefoil
