Confluence Park

Where Rivers Meet: A Green Urban Oasis

Tucked along the San Antonio River, Confluence Park spans 3.2 acres of what used to be just another industrial storage yard. As the name suggests, this thoughtfully designed space marks the meeting point of the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek. Since opening in 2018, the park offers a peaceful retreat from city life, open daily from 8AM to 11PM for anyone wanting to enjoy nature and riverfront views.

Concrete Petals That Catch the Rain

The first thing you'll notice at Confluence Park is the BHP Pavilion with its enormous concrete "petals" soaring 26 feet skyward. These aren't just architectural features - they're actually inspired by plants that channel rainwater to their roots. The pavilion collects rainwater into an underground system that keeps the park's landscaping hydrated.

This unique structure is popular with photographers. From graduation shoots to prom pictures and even wedding ceremonies, these dramatic concrete curves provide a distinctive backdrop.

Nature's Classroom

Confluence Park also functions as a place where you can learn about South Texas ecosystems and the San Antonio River watershed. The landscaping features native plants from various regional ecosystems, giving you a mini-tour of Texas flora without leaving the city.

Sustainability is incorporated throughout the park. Solar panels generate 100% of the energy needed year-round, while a pollinator garden filled with native Texas flowers supports local butterflies and bees. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot turtles sunning themselves or birds flitting between trees.

Learning by the River

The Estella Avery Education Center sits at the heart of the park's educational mission. With its green roof providing natural temperature regulation, this multipurpose space transforms into a classroom that opens to the pavilion area.

Since opening, over 32,000 students have participated in more than 350 educational programs here. But learning isn't limited to school groups - the community regularly gathers for yoga sessions on Sunday mornings, occasional concerts, art installations, and seasonal events that connect people to this unique environment.

Beyond the Park: Trails and Explorations

Confluence Park is more than a destination - it's also a gateway to greater adventures. As an entry point to the Mission Reach trail system, part of the San Antonio River Improvements Project, you can easily set off on hiking, biking, or paddling excursions from here.

The paved trails connect downtown San Antonio in one direction and lead to the historic missions in the other. Morning joggers, casual walkers, and cyclists particularly appreciate these scenic riverside paths that offer miles of exploration.

Practical amenities make visits comfortable - clean restrooms, dog-friendly policies (bring a leash and clean up after your four-legged friends), and waste stations throughout. While the parking lot isn't huge and can fill up during events, you can usually find street parking nearby if needed.

At less than half a mile from Mission Concepción, the park also represents a convenient jumping-off point to explore the San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage Site - making it both a destination in itself and a good starting point for exploring more of San Antonio.