San Antonio River Walk
A boat passes walkers on the
San Antonio River Walk in
downtown San Antonio, Texas.
Aztec Decor in Texas
The San Antonio River Walk
features water features and
more.
San Antonio River Walk - San Antonio, Texas
ExploreSouthernHistory.com - San Antonio River Walk, Texas
ExploreSouthernHistory.com - San Antonio River Walk, Texas
San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is an oasis of scenery,
history, shopping and entertainment that winds
through downtown San Antonio, Texas.
San Antonio's Downtown Oasis
One of the most beautiful attractions in any
city in the world is the scenic San Antonio
River Walk in San Antonio, Texas.

Although it appears small today, the San
Antonio River has been both a blessing and
a plague on the city over the years. The river
provided water for the original Spanish
missions and forts, among them the mission
of San Antonio de Valero (
the Alamo).

The river also flooded often, however,
washing away homes and leaving behind
misery and devastation. In September of
1921, for example, a terrible flood caused
millions of dollars in damage and left over 50
people dead.

In the years that followed, city leaders
considered possibilities. In the end, those
who saw the potential of the San Antonio
River as a spot of beauty won out. The San
Antonio River Walk became a reality.

The masterpiece of urban design seen today
was the dream of architect Robert H.H.
Hugman. He believed that the beauty of the
San Antonio River Walk could one day rival
that of the famed city of Venice, Italy. It was a
dream that has been achieved.

Long encompassing about two miles of land
on both sides of the river, the River Walk
attracts millions of visitors each year and is
free to visit. But visitors to the River Walk this
year will have much more to explore! A major
project is underway to expand the walk from
two to 13 miles.  The first section of that
expansion is now open, more than doubling
the length of the famed attraction.

The River Walk is a great place to learn more
about the history of San Antonio. It winds
through the old downtown area and many
noted historic sites are within easy walking
distance.

River cruises are available with interpreters
who tell stories of the history of the city and
point out points of historic interest.

The River Walk also links entertainment
areas, museums, shopping areas, dining
establishments and much more.

The San Antonio River Walk is part of the
city's public parks system. Widely regarded
as one of the finest urban landscapes in the
country, it is one of the most popular
destinations in the historic city.  Other
features include lush gardens, pathways,
waterfalls, patios, outdoor art and a variety of
other amenities and points of interest.

The River Walk can be accessed from points
in downtown San Antonio.  
Please click here
for more information on this fascinating
attraction.
San Antonio River
The San Antonio River
provides the setting for the
city's famed River Walk, an
oasis in the downtown area.
San Antonio River
The San Antonio River
provides the setting for the
city's famed River Walk, an
oasis in the downtown area.
Gurney's 125 x 125
Photos by Christina Martin
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Copyright 2011 by Dale Cox
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