Remember The Alamo

The Riverwalk

Just a short walk South of The Alamo, stairs descend to The Riverwalk, a row of shops and restaurants that stretches for a mile or more along a winding waterway built in the 1930s.

Here, the San Antonio river flows through an elaborate flood-control system beneath 35 arching and unique bridges, some dating from the 19th century. Boat cruise tours motor up and down The Riverwalk, while the knowledgeable guides offer insight into the architecture and local history. Although the water appears dark because of the green sloping concrete banks of the river, one guide demonstrated that the water is actually crystal clear. He wouldn’t drink it, though, because the San Antonio Zoo is upriver, not far away.

We had a late lunch at Schilo’s, a very popular German deli on East Commerce street. They make some great potato pancakes, a very formidable reuben sandwich, and the root beer (rüt bier?) was exceptional. We walked the length of The Riverwalk and stopped for a lingering Irish Coffee at a pub before heading back to the hotel for a swim.