Time has a way of zooming past, and just like that, October is behind us, and November is here to greet us with a slightly crisper breeze. But don’t let that cool air deter you – the River Walk is buzzing with action throughout this month. Whether you’re on the hunt for Thanksgiving Day festivities or itching to venture beyond the heart of downtown and explore, we’ve got you covered. Dive into our ultimate November guide, tailored for every kind of traveler:
Photo by Biga on the Banks
THANKSGIVING DAY EATS
Each year, we’re flooded with questions about which River Walk spots are open on Thanksgiving Day. The good news is that most restaurants roll out special Thanksgiving menus for the occasion. Let’s take a peek at some of the eateries joining in on the Thanksgiving festivities:
Biga on the Banks | Adults $75 + Kids Menu Available $30 for 12 years old or younger | A special 3-course menu featuring lobster, Autumn Salad, and a special fall cocktail menu for the adults!
Hard Rock Cafe | $40 per person | Indulge in slow-roasted turkey, classic stuffing, sweet potato mash, cranberry sauce, and more! The price includes everything, and you can add child Thanksgiving plates, pumpkin pie, and beverages during checkout.
Brenner’s on the River Walk | $52 per person | Enjoy a signature menu featuring Chef’s Turkey Plate!
Boudro’s | $65 Adults, $25 Children | Experience a three-course menu that features roasted butternut squash, achiote butter-basted turkey, and sweet potato pecan pie!
Mad Dog’s | $24.95 per person | Mad Dog’s will serve a turkey plate with dressing and mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and a roll.
Crockett Tavern | $24.95 per person | Crockett Tavern will serve a turkey plate with dressing and mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and a roll.
Bier Garten River Walk | Throughout the day, they will serve turkey corndogs with cranberry mustard sauce. Make sure to try the pumpkin spice margarita and ask about our 1-liter beer of the day special!
Bubba Gump | Stop by all day and try the festive menu that includes turkey, ham, and all the fixings.
Here is a look at other restaurants also open during Thanksgiving and their hours:
Margaritavillie | 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Fogo de Chao | 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Dave & Busters River Walk | 3 p.m. – Midnight
Boiler House | 11 a.m. – 8 p.m.
NOTE: We’ll update this section by adding new restaurant menu offerings as we discover them!
Photo by Make Ready Market
EXPLORE MUSEUM REACH
When you think of the Museum Reach part of the River Walk, you probably think of the Historic Pearl. But there’s a new foodie hub opening in November! Nestled between Broadway and the San Antonio River North neighborhood, Make Ready Market brings together top local chefs and rising talents. Right now, you can visit for a taste of the latest brews at Idle Brewery and a cup of Mila Coffee. Other restaurants opening soon include BUJE Bev Co., Garaje Cantina, Four Brother Venezuelan Kitchen, Thai Bird, Pescado Bravo, Tiny Pies, eat-up burgers, fries and shakes, and Sofia’s Pizzeria.
Photo by El Camino de San Antonio Missions
EXPLORE MISSION REACH
If you head south of the Downtown River Walk, you’ll discover the El Camino San Antonio De Missions Trail. This unique trail takes you on a journey through history, offering a glimpse into the five Spanish colonial missions, including one of Texas’s oldest operational cathedrals. San Antonio is the only spot outside of Europe where you can officially embark on the El Camino de Santiago pilgrimage. You can also visit the new Pilgrimage Center and have lunch at the cafe.
RIVER WALK PARADES
November is bustling with exciting events and the start of holiday cheer! It all begins on November 4 with the spectacular Diwali Festival Parade of Lights, followed by the Yanaguana Indian Arts Festival on November 11. The day after Thanksgiving, we officially light up the downtown River Walk for the holiday season, a magical display that continues until January 7, 2024. On the very same day, don’t miss the Ford Holiday River Parade at 6 p.m. You can secure your spot with tickets, or for a cozier experience, check out the Restaurant and Hotel Dinner Packages. To wrap up the month in style, we kick off the Ford Holiday Boat Caroling event!