The Most Beautiful Riverwalks in America

In a country built on its rivers, it’s no surprise that some of the most captivating travel experiences unfold right along the water’s edge. But not all riverwalks are created equal. Some boast dramatic skylines and cultural energy; others offer peaceful hideaways framed by nature. Across the US, these riverwalks have become more than just walkways—they’re destinations in their own right, brimming with stories, scenery, and soul.

We narrowed it down to seven of the most beautiful riverwalks in America—places where landscape and lifestyle meet in unforgettable ways. If you’re seeking your next weekend getaway, cross-country road trip stop, or just a scenic stroll through city history, this list delivers.

San Antonio River Walk, Texas

Length: 15 miles

Best for: Cultural attractions, dining, and festive riverboat tours

Arguably the most famous riverwalk in the US, the San Antonio River Walk is a living postcard of Texas culture and hospitality. This winding, below-street-level network of paths hugs the San Antonio River as it snakes through the city center, creating an urban oasis unlike any other.

With around 15 miles of walkways, it’s best known for its vibrant downtown section, where visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere complete with margarita bars, mariachi music, and bustling restaurants. The Mission Reach segment offers a quieter experience with native landscaping and access to the historic missions. For a unique perspective, hop aboard a riverboat tour and float past the city’s eclectic architecture.

The River Walk comes alive during events like Fiesta San Antonio and the holiday season, when the trees light up in dazzling color.

Chicago Riverwalk, Illinois

Length: 1.25 miles

Best for: Architecture, city views, and riverside dining

Beneath the steel and glass giants of downtown Chicago, the Chicago Riverwalk carves a scenic, pedestrian-friendly path right through the city’s architectural heart.

Stretching 1.25 miles along the south bank of the Chicago River, this riverwalk is perfect for soaking up views of some of the most iconic skyscrapers in America. Riverfront bars and cafes offer ideal spots for cocktails or a quiet coffee, while floating gardens and public art installations add creative flair. You can rent a kayak or hop on a boat for an architecture tour that’s both informative and Instagram-worthy.

Whether you’re sipping wine by the river or watching the bridges lift to let boats pass, this riverwalk is a perfect example of urban design done right.

Tampa Riverwalk, Florida

Length: 2.6 miles

Best for: Families, art lovers, and nighttime strolls

Once an underutilized riverfront, the Tampa Riverwalk has become a vibrant waterfront promenade linking parks, museums, restaurants, and performance spaces along the Hillsborough River.

Spanning 2.6 miles, the walk is ideal for families, with kid-friendly attractions like the Glazer Children’s Museum and Tampa Museum of Art along the way. The riverwalk is known for its colorful LED lighting displays that illuminate the area at night, as well as public art that adds a cultural touch to every stroll. One of the most fun ways to explore is by hopping aboard the Pirate Water Taxi, which offers a whimsical way to move between stops.

At night, the Riverwalk glows with colorful lights and buzzes with activity. It’s a family-friendly escape with enough flair to entertain visitors of all ages.

Detroit International RiverWalk, Michigan

Length: 5.5 miles

Best for: Urban green space, waterfront parks, and family recreation

A shining symbol of the city’s revitalization, the Detroit RiverWalk showcases the Motor City’s grit, resilience, and growing green space.

Stretching over 5 miles along the Detroit River, this riverwalk features destinations like Milliken State Park and its functioning lighthouse, providing a welcome slice of nature in the urban landscape. Fitness zones, playgrounds, and public performance spaces invite visitors to stay active and entertained. With stunning views across the water to Windsor, Ontario, the international flavor is unmistakable.

This riverwalk is a testament to what’s possible when a city reclaims its shoreline. It’s where Detroit’s industrial past meets a brighter, greener future.

Falls Park on the Reedy, South Carolina

Length: 1.5 miles

Best for: Waterfalls, romantic walks, and small-town charm

Nestled in the heart of downtown Greenville, Falls Park on the Reedy is one of the most picturesque riverwalk experiences in the country. At its center: a dramatic waterfall flowing beneath a one-of-a-kind suspension bridge.

A series of interconnected trails weave through this charming park, which is centered around the Liberty Bridge—a uniquely curved pedestrian bridge offering unbeatable views of the cascading Reedy River Falls. Visitors will find peaceful gardens, creative public art installations, and easy access to Greenville’s Main Street, known for its shopping and dining.

This compact but impactful park is a perfect blend of nature and city life, often ranked among the top small city destinations in the US.

Charles River Esplanade, Massachusetts

Length: 3 miles

Best for: Fitness lovers, music events, and riverside recreation

For Bostonians, the Charles River Esplanade is more than a place to jog—it’s a cherished gathering space where fitness, music, and city views converge.

Running roughly 3 miles along the Boston side of the Charles River, the Esplanade is popular with runners, rowers, and cyclists. During the summer, the Hatch Shell hosts concerts and movie nights that bring locals and tourists together on the grassy lawns. Kayak and paddleboard rentals provide an adventurous way to experience the river, with views of Back Bay and MIT across the water rounding out the perfect cityscape.

Whether you’re watching regattas or attending a music festival, the Esplanade offers one of the most iconic urban riverfronts in the Northeast.

Savannah Riverwalk, Georgia

Length: 1 mile

Best for: History buffs, ghost tours, and riverfront nightlife

With cobblestone streets, historic steamboats, and antebellum charm, the Savannah Riverwalk feels like a step back in time—with a drink in hand and pralines in your pocket.

Spanning about a mile along the Savannah River, this riverwalk is packed with history and Southern charm. Historic brick buildings have been repurposed into boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants with riverfront views. Live music and street performers keep the energy high, while steamboat cruises and haunted walking tours offer unique ways to experience the city.

It’s a compact but unforgettable stretch of waterfront, especially enchanting in the golden light of evening.

Riverwalks That Leave a Lasting Impression

In cities large and small, riverwalks do more than decorate the landscape—they define it. They connect us to the water that shaped our communities, and offer a glimpse into a place’s identity through art, architecture, cuisine, and rhythm of life.

Whether you’re traveling to eat, explore, or simply unwind, these seven riverwalks offer an unforgettable blend of beauty and experience—each flowing with stories waiting to be discovered.