Chicago official calls San Antonio River Walk 'cheap and crappy-looking'

Here are 20 things that every San Antonian should know about one of the city's most famous attractions. Here are 20 things that every San Antonian should know about one of the city's most famous attractions. Photo: Rick Hunter, San Antonio Express-News Photo: Rick Hunter, San Antonio Express-News Image 1 of / 28 Caption Close Chicago official calls San Antonio River Walk 'cheap and crappy-looking' 1 / 28 Back to Gallery

When an out-of-state city official made a snide remark about the San Antonio River Walk, he probably didn't know what exactly he was talking about.

In an April meeting to discuss changes to the Chicago Riverwalk, Brendan Reilly, an official on the city council, said he did not want his riverfront to turn into San Antonio.

"What we don't want to do is see it turned into a San Antonio River Walk, which is cheap and crappy-looking, " Reilly said, according to Loop North News.

Reilly, who does not appear to be a fan of his own city's river design, said the way the Chicago Riverwalk is currently set up is a "god-awful looking patchwork of aesthetic."

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Now, if Reilly needed some sort of inspiration for how to fix his own city's so-called river walk, he may want to re-think his San Antonio statement and see how the Alamo City has evolved its waterfront space.

Click through the slideshow above to discover little-known facts and secrets about San Antonio River Walk.

Not only is the San Antonio River Walk home to many of the city's beloved landmarks, greenery, restaurants and hotels, it has expanded in recent years to reach museums, parks and the historic missions.

North of downtown, the River Walk features stunning art installations and features that lead up to the San Antonio Museum of Art and the bustling Pearl area. South of downtown, the Mission Reach has become a gathering place where locals and visitors enjoy history along with the outdoors.

The downtown zone of the River Walk is the classic symbol of the city's identity, showcased on NBA TV broadcasts and in iconic films. The River Walk is also the place were hundreds of couples have chosen to tie the knot.

Though outsiders may dismiss it with dusty old stereotypes, the River Walk is a lot more than just shops and restaurants. It provides a connection between San Antonio's historic past and its modern self, and may be able to teach Mr. Reilly (and Chicago) a thing or two about riverfront aesthetics.

kbradshaw@express-news.net

Twitter: @kbrad5