Rio San Antonio Cruises River Tour ~ San Antonio, Texas

I grew up in San Antonio, going to the Riverwalk all the time.  But I never really appreciated how beautiful and historical of a landmark it was until I had the pleasure of taking a cruise down it a few short weeks ago.

The history of the San Antonio River dates back to Indians describing it back in the 1500’s.  In 1825, United States immigrants reached San Antonio and began purchasing land along the river.  So much history occurred along these banks, most importantly involving the Battle of the Alamo.  But it wasn’t until the 1930s when local businessmen called for ‘beautification of the River’, the San Antonio River Authority was created.

Fast-forward many years.  Flood gates and channels were developed and hotels and restaurants popped up along the river. Locals and tourists both enjoy the laid-back atmosphere created along the shady riverbanks.  And daily, Rio San Antonio Cruises takes dozens of friendly faces on a historical tour of the river.

The Rio San Antonio Cruises River Tour is a two and a half mile, 45 minute ride that cruises along some of the most scenic parts of the San Antonio River.  The river itself is only 3 or 4 feet deep and the boat putts along, so it is a nice and relaxing ride.

We cruised by some gorgeous areas, such as “Marriage Island” where over 360 weddings occur each year under the 250 year old cypress tree.

And the wonderful smell of mexican food makes your stomach growl as you cruise by the colorful umbrella-covered patios.  There are so many excellent restaurants down here, it is hard to choose where to go!

The tour guides are charming and funny yet very knowledgable.  I was pleasantly surprised to learn as much as we did on our cruise.

We learned about interesting buildings….and how some are in the Guinness Book of World Records (I’m not going to tell you which ones…you have to take the cruise!!).

And we some some important historical sites….like the bridge that Jennifer Lopez sang on in the movie, “Selena”.

All kidding aside, this is a great tour to take the entire family on.  It is a wonderfully relaxing way to learn more about this historical city.  Plus it is a fun way to see all of the gorgeous Riverwalk.