Restaurant and bar owners along the River Walk are hopeful the spring break rush of visitors this St. Patrick’s Day weekend and a new city-led strategy could eventually help boost business.
Some businesses along the River Walk have indicated dipping sales during the summer of 2025, with declines of about 11–12% compared to the previous year, according to members of the River Walk Business Group.
“I think that there was a lack of advertising, promotion into coming to San Antonio. We got to improve menu boards, lighting, ADA access. People in wheelchairs need full access,” said Marco Barros, a trustee with the River Walk Business Group.
Despite the challenges, Barros believes signs of improvement are showing.
“We really did have a very difficult year last year,” Barros said. “But business is turning around and you can see the difference.”
City leaders are now working on a new River Walk strategic plan, the first comprehensive update in more than 15 years. The plan is expected to guide future improvements, investments and policies aimed at supporting businesses and enhancing the visitor experience.
The plan also is seeking public input on what changes people want to see along the iconic downtown attraction.
Terry Corless, who operates the Mad Dogs Restaurant Group, said his establishments are still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We’ve really never recovered from COVID,” Corless said.
Corless says sales spiked in 2022 as tourism rebounded, but reaching the levels seen in 2019 and earlier has been difficult. Still, he’s optimistic that upcoming developments and city projects could bring more visitors to the area.
In the meantime, he’s looking forward to a jolt in boost over the weekend.
“We’re extremely excited to be in San Antonio this time with Project Marvel, the airport and all the wonderful things that are coming on. In the short term this weekend’s St. Patrick’s Day and for people with a funny accent and love green beer we’re hopefully going to be doing a lot of business,” Corless said.
City leaders say the blueprints new strategic plan, expected to be completed this fall.
