San Antonio is a beautiful city with a rich heritage passed down through the years, and as touristy as it may seem, there is no better way to experience the city than through a River Walk Cruise. The City of San Antonio was founded as a Spanish mission in 1718, and much of its allure and romanticism is still based in its roots as a Spanish outpost in the new world. Of course, we all remember the Alamo — at this point, who could forget? — but there’s so much more to see in the city, and a River Walk cruise can help visitors — and even longtime residents — experience the city in a new way.
Miles and Miles
The River Walk is about 15 miles long overall, and five miles of that runs through downtown San Antonio. The cruise is a 35-minute ride that showcases San Antonio from the water, and it’s paired with a hop-on, hop-off bus tour that allows riders to explore parts of the city and then come back to ride in comfort to other destinations. Buses pick up and drop off passengers every 20 minutes or so. You’ll see the Alamo, for sure, but also the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Veterans Park, where we honor the soldiers who served in Korea and Vietnam with memorials. The tour also showcases the Historic Market Square and the King William Historic District.
Seeing the Sights
San Antonio’s deep and complex history as a Spanish mission is highlighted by San Fernando De Bexar Cathedral and the Spanish Governor’s Palace, both of which are available to be viewed on the cruise and bus tour. The boat specifically will pass the Shops at Rivercenter, the Arneson River Theatre, Marriage Island, La Villita, HemisFair Park, the Tower Life Building, the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Pearl brewery, and the city’s five Spanish colonial missions. All other attractions are reachable by the bus portion of the tour.
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When You Go
Remember that children must be accompanied by an adult, and the cruise is ADA compliant. Wheelchair accessible. Infants must sit on laps of an accompanying adult. Go have some fun and see our city in a brand-new light!
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