The Ultimate Weekend Itinerary

Kick off your weekend by soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of the Downtown River Walk, the most popular stretch of this iconic waterway. Start your morning with a leisurely 1.5-mile stroll or Go Rio Cruises, taking in the bustling sights and sounds along the way. As a first-time visitor, be sure to check out key spots like the River Walk Public Art Garden, the Shops at Rivercenter Mall, and the historic San Fernando Cathedral.

Where to Stay

The Downtown River Walk is home to a variety of incredible hotels, each offering something unique to suit your travel style. Here's a curated list to help you find the perfect place to stay during your visit.

Breakfast

Begin your day with a tasty breakfast at La Villita Cafe, known for its delicious morning eats and creative coffee drinks.

Mid-Morning Activity

After breakfast, wander over to La Villita Historic Arts Village and explore San Antonio's oldest neighborhood, packed with unique shops, galleries, and local artwork.

Lunch

For lunch, savor authentic Tex-Mex at Casa Rio, a River Walk staple since 1946, featuring vibrant riverside seating and mouthwatering dishes that will delight your taste buds.

Afternoon Activity

Spend the afternoon at The Briscoe Western Art Museum, where you'll discover art and artifacts that vividly tell the stories of the American West.

Dinner

As the day winds down, head to Boudro's Texas Bistro for dinner. Enjoy a prickly pear margarita and their signature tableside guacamole while watching the riverboats glide by.

Late Night Activity

Finish the evening at Main Plaza for the mesmerizing San Antonio The Saga light show, a free, visually stunning display that brings the city’s history to life.

Where to Stay

For a more authentic local experience, consider staying in one of the Casa Azul Lavaca Rentals—a unique option that adds a special touch to your visit.

Breakfast

Begin with breakfast at Blush Restaurant, located in the heart of Southtown. Here, you’ll find classic breakfast staples like eggs benedict and creme brule french toast.

Photo by Contemporary at Blue Star

Mid-Morning Activity

Head over to the lively and artistic Southtown neighborhood, where you can explore gems like the King William Historic District. Enjoy a self-guided tour through its picturesque streets, admiring the beautiful architecture and soaking in the rich history. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Blue Star Arts Complex, home to local shops, art galleries, and creative spaces like Contemporary at Blue Star.

Lunch

For lunch, try Rosario’s Mexican Cafe y Cantina, a Southtown favorite known for its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful dishes, like the famous enchiladas de mole.

Afternoon Activity

In the afternoon, head to the Mission Reach section of the River Walk to explore the UNESCO World Heritage San Antonio Missions, including Mission Concepción and Mission San José. Rent a bike or take a leisurely walk along the trail that connects these historic sites.

Dinner

Wrap up your day with dinner at Little Em’s Oyster Bar, a chic and cozy spot known for its fresh, delicious oysters and seafood dishes. Enjoy the charming pink decor and relaxed atmosphere while savoring their signature cocktails and a variety of fresh catches, perfect for a delightful end to your Saturday.

Round out your weekend with a day on the culturally rich Museum Reach section of the River Walk.

Photos by Hotel Emma

Where to Stay

For a more luxurious stay, we recommend Hotel Emma, recently honored with two keys by the MICHELIN Guide.

Breakfast

Start your morning with a fresh brew from Mila Coffee and indulge in one of their delicious pastries to fuel up for the day ahead.

Morning Activity

After breakfast, make your way to the Pearl District, a vibrant cultural hub filled with unique shops, charming cafes, and the lively Pearl Farmers Market (open on weekends). Here, you'll find everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods and handcrafted local treasures.

Lunch

Enjoy a delightful lunch at the new Pullman Market, a modern food hall offering a variety of local eats + restaurants all under one roof.

Afternoon Activity

Visit the San Antonio Museum of Art and take a leisurely stroll along the river to see the public art installations. A little further north, don't miss the chance to see the beautifully restored Japanese Tea Garden, a serene oasis with koi ponds, stone bridges, and cascading waterfalls.

Dinner

Conclude your weekend with a visit to Makers Ready Market. This unique dining destination offers a variety of culinary delights from local vendors such as Thai Bird and Garage Cantina. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a diverse range of flavors and wind down after a day of exploring. BONUS: Make sure to check out its local market for souvenirs!