I may be a little pessimistic, but I think the River Walk is a bit overrated. There are a number of chain restaurants (with so-so quality) and it's a bit stinky from all the bird/animal droppings. The ambiance is fun (lights and drinks and such) but it's definitely just a tourist stop.
Do not leave town without going to the Riverwalk. It's much cooler lower than street level. Visit night after Thanksgiving to see all the super tall trees filled with Holiday lights, ride the River boats, catch a river parade, etc. Generally, it's not cold in Fall or Winter until December. Also, Fiesta is a great time to visit! Watch PBS on demand to see Joseph Rosendo's 2 trips to San Antonio!
Boat tours cost money but will let you see more without walking as much. Moat of the restaurants/bars are pricey, but mice and several are unique. Anywhere you park in the city is going to cost you. The Riverfront mall has a parking garage with options based on time and can be a better deal depending on where you are going. Most parking areas are not cast, they are pay by phone.
Head towards the "Museum Reach" area of the River Walk to The Pearl. There are lots of good restaurants there and shopping. Past The Pearl you will find the Witte Museum and the Smoke Shack. Both are worth your time. A good place to eat along the River Walk is Ocho and Tre Trattoria (which is attached to the San Antonio Art Museum).
Everyone needs to visit the Riverwalk at least once. The boat tours are great and very informational. Is it a "must do" everytime I visit...no, but it is a great place to go to eat and get souvineers.
My hotel was perfect, with warm lights, soft beds, everything that makes you feel at home. But the moment I stepped outside, the city felt different… almost hauntingly empty. At night, especially by the River Walk, the air turned cold and still. The sound of water echoed through empty streets, and the reflections of dim lights danced on the river like whispers from another time. It felt like walking through a beautiful ghost city mysterious, quiet, and strangely emotional.
Excellent location about 15 min walk to the River Walk. Room was clean and comfortable and the facilities (including gym and pool) were very good. Great choice for breakfast, with unlimited coffee and water throughout the day. Staff were very friendly and went out of their way to make our stay enjoyable. On one evening they organised a games night with the sister hotel, which included free beer, wine and soft drinks. Highly recommended and would stay again.
San Antonio
I had an amazing experience at the Maverick Hotel! The location couldn't be better, just steps away from the Alamo and the River Walk, making it perfect for exploring Downtown San Antonio on foot. The apartment itself was cozy, full of natural light, and had everything I needed for a comfortable stay. It truly felt like a home away from home. I’ll definitely be returning on my next visit! Highly recommended!
Such a lovely place, lovely people and great service. Hotel room was nice and clean. And definitely a plus that we were able to get on the river walk directly from the hotel, had a great time with my family!
An absolutely amazing apartment, a lot of space, washer and dryer, great kitchen fully equipped, the swimming pool is a dream and it’s right on the river walk. The parking spot is very convenient.
An amazing historic hotel in a phenomenal location right next to the Alamo and close the the river walk. The staff are helpful and the rooms are extremely comfortable.
Very helpful staff.The hotel is in a good situation for the river walk and if for some reason you got lost hotel has huge sign on top Drury Plaza .
Amazing hotel. Huge rooms. Great roof top pool and restaurants. The location was perfect. Right on the river walk. We loved it.
Fantastic hotel, great position on the River walk, most importantly though staff were amazing, friendly and attentive.
Literally on the river walk and short walk to Alamo, smells amazing in hotel, staff upgraded our room x