riverboat tickets san antonio

San Antonio River Walk Boat Tours

River Boat Tours San Antonio

If you’re looking for a great way to spend your day in San Antonio, then why not try out a River Walk boat tour? Taking a leisurely cruise along the San Antonio Riverwalk is one of the most popular activities in the city, offering spectacular views and plenty of entertainment.

The best part of the San Antonio Riverwalk is arguably its lush scenery and vibrant atmosphere. The walkway itself passes by popular sights such as historic buildings and waterfront shopping centers, giving visitors plenty to do. It’s also been featured in several movies and TV shows, making it a memorable destination for many people.

Discover the River Walk firsthand on this one-of-a-kind tour of “The American Venice”. The River Walk Barges provide several different options for you to enjoy the River Walk on a boat. Below is all you need to know about the River Boats in San Antonio.

Narrated River Walk Tours

Step aboard a River Walk barge for an exciting and entertaining narrative of the rich history of the San Antonio River Walk . The cruises are about 35 minutes long and cover one and a half miles of the beautiful San Antonio River Walk. The River Walk boat tour connects you to the city’s timeless charm! Our enthusiastic, knowledgeable boat captains will share fascinating stories about the city’s culture, history, and architecture during your 35-minute tour along the San Antonio River .

• Tour Duration: 35 minutes
• Departures daily from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m., every 15 minutes (During peak season, wait times will be longer)
• Seating: Approximately 40 passengers

Community River Walk Dining Boats

Want to enjoy a River Boat while you are eating an amazing River Walk meal? Community Dining Boats are a great affordable way to make new friends and experience the River Walk in style. Simply contact one of the following River Walk Restaurants below for more information about community River Walk boat dining. These restaurants are the only restaurants on the River Walk that offer community dining boats.

Boudro’s (210) 224-8484 Boudro’s is an experience to savor, embracing all the flavor of our regional heritage with a distinctive menu of Texas and southwestern specialties.

Lone Star Café (210) 223-9374 A Texas-style steakhouse on the River Walk. Take a bite of a 12 oz. Abilene T-Bone and wash it down with buckets of your favorite beer.

Café Ole (210) 223-2939 The Place to come to satisfy your cravings for delicious Mexican cuisine, the home of the Ultimate Fajita and the 60 oz Margarita.

Michelino’s Ristorante Italiano (210) 223-2939 Try our fabulous Italian specialties, you’ll swear you are back in the old country!

Range @ Embassy Suites Riverwalk Hotel (210)227-4455 Range, a modern American chophouse, created by famed local chef and restaurateur Jason Dady is the new jewel on the San Antonio Riverwalk located in the Embassy Suites River Walk.

Private San Antonio Boat Rides

Dinner cruises seat 20 guests and offer the unique experience of dining on our boats with a wonderful meal catered by one of the many great restaurants along the river. If you have up to 30 guests, cocktail cruises are also available. Cocktail cruises are designed for appetizers and drinks catered by one of the River Walk Restaurants.

River Boat Taxis

Just trying to get from place to place as you explore San Antonio attractions? Look for the River Walk Taxi Boat signs that are located along the River Walk downtown and on the Museum Reach.

River Walk Taxi Boats are labeled with GO RIO Shuttle signs . The River Walk Taxi Boats run approximately every 60 minutes. Shuttle service begins at 10 am . Tickets also available for purchase on the boat or at any GO RIO Ticket booth.

The Monthly Pass is $25 for Bexar County residents, allowing locals to get on and off the GO RIO Shuttle, throughout both the Downtown and Museum Reaches, for an entire month!

The drivers do their best to accommodate most scooters. At times larger scooters are not able to load due to the size of the ADA area designated on the boat. Wheelchairs and strollers are always allowed though guests are asked to fold their strollers and place them in the back.

River Shuttle Options For Your Trip To San Antonio

River Walk Attractions: The Downtown Reach encompasses the center of San Antonio (downtown) with a wide variety of restaurants, theaters, and the beautiful San Antonio River Walk. The Downtown Reach is from Lexington to Nueva St.

Museum Reach The Museum Reach is north of downtown, pedestrian-friendly, and a great way to explore a quieter side of the river. The Museum Reach begins at Lexington and runs all the way up to The Pearl.

Where can I purchase River Walk boat tickets?

There are 3 ways you can purchase tickets:

1.  Online: Purchase tickets online.  Please note that purchasing tickets online ensures you a ticket, however, passenger boarding is first come, first served.  Also, keep in mind that your ticket is mailed to you after your purchase online.

2. In-Person: If you are already in San Antonio, head on down to one of the three kiosks located along the River Walk. So where are the kiosks located?  We went ahead and created this cool map so you can easily locate the nearest River Boat ticket booth to you.

Private River Boat Reservations

The easiest way to reserve your own river barge is to fill out our private riverboat reservation form. We take the information and send it to all the operators on the River Walk.

It is highly recommended that you plan at least 3 weeks in advance before your event. More time may be needed during the busy season.

The best time to for a boat to is usually from sunrise to mid-morning, but you’ll need to check the weather conditions to make sure that it’s safe. Swimming is not allowed in the San Antonio River Walk due to safety regulations – so stick to walking and boat rides for your explorations! Beer is allowed in certain parts of the River Walk, but it’s important to be mindful of local laws and regulations.

Unfortunately, swimming in the River Walk is not allowed. Although the water is relatively shallow and safe, it is full of plants and debris which can make swimming dangerous. Additionally, many of the pathways around the River Walk are filled with people and can be too crowded for swimming.

Drinking alcohol while walking around the Riverwalk is also not allowed, however, some restaurants and bars will provide special plastic cups that allow you to enjoy your beverage while you explore the area. It’s important to follow the laws though – drinking alcohol openly on the Riverwalk can lead to serious fines or even jail time.

The River Walk is open from 8 am until midnight, with certain areas staying open until 2 am at certain times of the year. The depth of the water varies along the length of the River Walk but generally ranges from about 2 feet to 6 feet deep.

It is generally safe to visit the River Walk at night, as there is a strong police presence in the area and it is well lit. However, visitors should always keep an eye out for their personal safety and belongings, even during daylight hours.

When it comes to finding the best part of the San Antonio Riverwalk, everyone has their own opinion! Many enjoy visiting the historical sites within walking distance such as the Alamo and other nearby attractions, while others love simply taking in all of the incredible sights along the walk itself.

The San Antonio Riverwalk is famous because of its beauty and charm. This two-mile stretch of winding pathways offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore natural scenery while enjoying access to some of the best shopping and dining in the city.

People very rarely fall into the River Walk – however, it does happen occasionally! Most likely this happens due to someone tripping over something or not paying attention to where they were going.

The main thing that makes the San Antonio Riverwalk special is its combination of natural beauty and bustling city life. You can experience both at any time of day or night and get a sense of why San Antonio is so beloved by locals and tourists alike.

The Alamo is located approximately one mile from River Walk and can easily be reached by foot if you choose to do so. San Antonio is known for its vibrant culture, diverse population, delicious food, and unique architectural design.

The River Walk typically shuts down around midnight each night. During peak holiday seasons such as Christmas, New Year’s Eve, Fourth of July, and Memorial Day weekend this could extend later into the night. It’s best to check ahead when possible.

When choosing what to wear to the San Antonio Riverwalk, it’s important to wear comfortable clothes that will keep you cool in the heat. Lightweight shorts and t-shirts are usually best. Additionally, you should bring a hat or sunglasses to protect yourself from too much sun exposure.

Floats down the river tend to cost around $20 per person for trips lasting around an hour. Prices may vary depending on your location.

The San Antonio Riverwalk occasionally gets drained for cleaning or repairs. This typically happens once every three years and allows workers to assess any potential problems more closely.

River Walk Bars & Nightlife

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Go Rio Cruises

As we reopen our cruises, we will continue to practice and take part preventative measures to ensure the safety of you and your family. We look forward to cruising with you again! 

View COVID-19 updates  here

With a fleet of eco-friendly electric river boats in vibrant colors inspired by Mexican folk art, GO RIO offers an unforgettable experience of the San Antonio River Walk that reflects the sights, wonders and culture of a unique American city.

Guests can take narrated or specialty river cruises, chartered excursions or catch a ride on our  GO RIO river shuttle  from downtown to the Museum Reach to experience the Soul of San Antonio.  (Specialty Cruises and River Shuttles are temporarily closed)

Guests may visit our GO RIO Beverage Bar and Retail location near the Rivercenter Ticket Booth for frozen margaritas, piña coladas, beer, sodas or water to sip on while they enjoy a GO RIO Cruise or during their visit to the River Walk. Guests can also stock up on souvenirs or other necessities like sunblock. 

Rivercenter Ticket Booth 849 E. River Walk San Antonio, TX 78205

Historia Ticket Booth 706 River Walk San Antonio, TX 78205

Aztec Theater Ticket Booth 731 River Walk San Antonio, TX 78205

Beverage Bar  and Retail Location  809 E. River Walk  San Antonio, TX 78205

Rio San Antonio Cruises

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GO RIO River Cruises Tours

Winding through downtown San Antonio, the world-famous River Walk is one of the most famous attractions in Texas. Rock walkways and bridges lead to an abundance of bustling restaurants, picturesque structures, and historic sites. While you can walk through much of it, why not see it all in style on a River Walk boat tour with GO RIO River Cruises ?

Available throughout the year, these excursions take you to some of the most interesting places in the River Walk area. Along the way, you’ll learn a thing or two about San Antonio’s culture and history. Find out more about the GO RIO River Cruises’ tours below, and plan your next adventure in downtown San Antonio today.

Narrated Tour

GO RIO’s narrated tours take you to some of the most significant historical sites in downtown San Antonio, including the city’s first neighborhood (La Villita), Old Mill Crossing, and past many architectural wonders. Throughout the 35-minute journey, you’ll also learn about the American, German, and Mexican cultures that helped transform the Alamo City into what it is today. Tickets for the narrated tours are available on GO RIO’s website. 

Adults: $13.50 Local Bexar County Resident: $11.50 Military: $10.50 Seniors (60+): $10.50 Children (1 – 5): $7.50

GO RIO Shuttle Service

Get around the San Antonio River Walk in style when you catch a GO RIO shuttle. These boats circulate throughout the area, picking riders up and dropping them off wherever there is a GO RIO Shuttle sign. Go from one attraction to another, then hop on the boat for a relaxing ride to your next destination on the River Walk. Tickets are available on the boat or at any GO RIO ticket booth.

Shuttle Service is temporarily closed.

Ticket prices are subject to change. Please check GO RIO River Cruises’ website for up-to-date prices and to book your next tour.

GO RIO River Walk Cruises in San Antonio

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The San Antonio River Walk is a lush oasis of cypress-lined paved paths, arched stone bridges and beautiful landscapes.

It gently winds through the city center, providing millions of visitors each year with easy access to the city’s cultural hot spots, historic sites and other attractions.

Just steps from the River Walk is Main Plaza - “the heart of the city.”

More Information at:

San Antonio Visitor Center, 216 East Crockett St, Next to The Alamo, 78205.

Tel: 210 224 8687. Open every day 8:30am -5:30pm

Lined by bars, shops, restaurants, nature, public artwork, and the five historic missions, the River Walk is an important part of the city's urban fabric and a tourist attraction in its own right.

The River Walk winds and loops under bridges as two parallel sidewalks lined with restaurants and shops, connecting the major tourist draws from the Shops at Rivercenter, to the Arneson River Theatre, to Marriage Island, to La Villita, to HemisFair Park, to the Tower Life Building, to the San Antonio Museum of Art, to the Pearl and the city's five Spanish colonial missions.

+1 (210) 224-8687 [email protected]

City Sightseeing Welcome Center, 111 Alamo Plaza, Alamo Plaza, Opposite H&M, San Antonio, Texas, 78205

Tel: 210 224 8687

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River Cruises

Please check back for future cruises..., dinner cruises on the san antonio river walk.

Enjoy a dinner aboard a river boat, whilst floating and dining on the towering cypress-lined San Antonio River Walk. We’ve created an Italian experience, full of fresh ingredients, bold flavors and legendary dishes like our famous Shrimp Paesano.

Cocktail Cruises on the San Antonio River Walk

Grab your friends, co-workers, or just the two of you, and join us for a great  evening of floating and refreshing cocktails on the San Antonio River Walk. Begin your 30-minute excursion at Paesanos Riverwalk, and we’ll take care of the rest – enjoy a guided tour and unlimited house margaritas, beer, and house wines.

Dinner Cruises in Downtown San Antonio

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There is no better way to see and enjoy the Riverwalk than by having a dining experience while aboard a river boat. You will marvel at the splendor of the Riverwalk while enjoying the excitement of dining while cruising. River boat dining is perfect for family, groups, entertaining customers, birthdays or any special event. And enjoying the Riverwalk is not just restricted to dining cruises. You can do lunch cruises, cocktail cruises and other themed events. Not all restaurants on the river do dining cruises. Boat availability is at the discretion of the river boat company, Go Rio Cruises. To contact Go Rio Cruises, visit their website at www.goriocruises.com . River boats for dining cruises need to be booked well in advance of the event.

Dining Cruises on the San Antonio Riverwalk

To dine on a river boat you first contact a Riverwalk restaurant and then they assist you in chartering the boat and cater the event for you.  A river boat/barge configured for dining holds a maximum of 20 people, but most recommend 16 to 18 people for comfort.  If you have questions about doing a dining or cocktail cruise, just send us an email by clicking here .

Community Dining Cruises On The Riverwalk

A “Community” dining cruise is one where small groups, couples and individuals can join others on a boat for a dining cruise.

March 2024 Dining Cruises from Paesanos

Great news! Our friends at Paesanos have announced their community dining cruise schedule for March 2024.

• Friday March 1, 2024: 7-9pm
• Friday March 8, 2024: 7-9pm
• Saturday March 9, 2024: 7-9pm
• Saturday March 16, 2024: 7-9pm
• Friday March 22, 2024: 7-9pm
• Saturday March 23, 2024: 7-9pm
• Friday March 29, 2024: 7-9pm
• Saturday March 30, 2024: 7-9pm

$75.00 per person plus 8.25% sales tax and 20% service charge.  Reservations are required and no walk ups are taken.

Private Dining Cruises by Paesanos

A private dining cruise is the perfect event for groups of all kinds. Cruise the river and enjoy an amazing meal from Paesanos Riverwalk. Great for corporate groups, convention attendees, military reunion groups and more. You will love it!

For more information on doing a private, chartered dining cruise contact Mike DeLuna at the Paesanos Group. You can email him at [email protected] or call at 210-598-5189.

Are you bringing a group to San Antonio and looking for private space for an event? We can help with that too! Just send us an email at: [email protected]

Do you have questions about doing a dining cruise on the Riverwalk? Email us at [email protected] and we will be happy to assist!

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Make your San Antonio visit even more memorable with the exclusive deals and specials now available at Hotel Valencia Riverwalk. From seasonal packages to romantic escapes and vacation packages, our boutique hotel is sure to have a deal that’s perfect for you. 

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Ride the River Walk into your Vacation or Getaway RIVERBOAT TICKETS & FREE PARKING

Enjoy the San Antonio weather while riding down the River Walk in the famed River Boats.

Package includes:

• Luxury accommodations for two
• 2 Complimentary Riverboat tickets, per reservation
• Complimentary valet parking, one vehicle per reservation
• Complimentary Wi-Fi

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Official River Walk Event Calendar

Events for every one, every season.

Explore the Official San Antonio River Walk Event Calendar for all of the best events happening on and near the River Walk! Whether it's lively river parades, awesome festivals, delicious culinary events, or other exciting happenings, there's something for everyone. Dive into the fun and discover the perfect event to make your time with us extra special!

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Sunset Cocktail Cruises on the River Walk

• Friday, Mar 29, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, Apr 5, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, Apr 12, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, Apr 19, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, Apr 26, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, May 3, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, May 17, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, May 24, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.
• Friday, May 31, 2024 at 6:15 p.m.

Event details are subject to change. Before attending, please check with the organization to confirm.

About the Event

Take your cocktail experience up a notch. Float along the famous River Walk while savoring cocktails, light bites, and panormanic views Buy Tickets

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River Shuttles

Hours: Operating Daily from 12 PM - 8 PM

GO RIO’s River Shuttle runs along the River Walk from downtown to Museum Reach. Look for the GO RIO Shuttle signs and boats labeled as GO RIO Shuttle.

Note: Shuttle services will be suspended beginning November 22nd until January 22nd. We look forward to welcoming you aboard in 2024!

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About the River Shuttles

Just trying to get from place to place as you explore San Antonio attractions? Look for the GO RIO Shuttle signs that are located along the River Walk downtown and on the Museum Reach. Boats are labeled with GO RIO Shuttle signs. Shuttles run approximately every 60 minutes. Shuttle service begins at 10am. Tickets also available for purchase on the boat or at any GO RIO Ticket booth.

River Shuttle Options For Your Trip To San Antonio River Walk Attractions:

The Downtown Reach encompasses the center of San Antonio (downtown) with a wide variety of restaurants, theaters and the beautiful San Antonio River Walk. The Downtown Reach is from Lexington to Nueva St.

The Museum Reach is north of downtown, pedestrian-friendly, and a great way to explore a quieter side of the river. The Museum Reach begins at Lexington and runs all the way up to The Pearl.

Combination Passes allows passengers to get off and on the GO RIO shuttle at their pace, throughout both the Downtown and Museum Reaches, for the entire day – available for 1 day or for 3 days.

The Monthly Pass is for Bexar County residents, allowing locals to get on and off the GO RIO Shuttle, throughout both the Downtown and Museum Reaches, for an entire month!

River Shuttle Schedule

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