Ice Cream on Riverwalk San Antonio (and Nearby at Holy Pops)
- Cyril Tangunan
- Sep 12, 2025
- 4 min read
If you’re planning a trip to San Antonio, chances are the famous Riverwalk is on your itinerary. With its lively mix of restaurants, shops, and entertainment, the Riverwalk is the heart of downtown San Antonio. And when the Texas heat kicks in, nothing sounds better than a cold, creamy scoop of ice cream.
But here’s the secret: while you’ll find plenty of treats downtown, some of the best ice cream near the Riverwalk is just a short drive away at Holy Pops, San Antonio’s go-to spot for refreshing handcrafted paletas and creamy pops made with fresh, natural ingredients.
In this guide, we’ll explore why ice cream and the Riverwalk are the perfect pair, how to enjoy frozen treats downtown, and why locals and visitors alike make their way to Holy Pops after exploring the city.
Why Ice Cream is a Must on the San Antonio Riverwalk
The San Antonio Riverwalk is a sensory experience: the sound of mariachi bands, the aroma of Tex-Mex, and the sight of colorful boats gliding by. After walking under the Texas sun, a frozen dessert feels less like a luxury and more like a necessity.
Ice cream on the Riverwalk is more than a way to cool down. It’s:
Family-friendly: A treat everyone enjoys, from kids to grandparents.
Instagram-worthy: A cone or paleta makes the perfect photo accessory against the Riverwalk’s vibrant backdrop.
Part of the experience: Strolling the Riverwalk with something sweet in hand makes the moment feel complete.
Where to Cool Off with Ice Cream in San Antonio
If you search for “ice cream on Riverwalk San Antonio,” you’ll find plenty of mentions of dessert shops scattered along the downtown strip. These are great for convenience when you’re right in the area. But here’s the truth: the Riverwalk can get crowded, and sometimes you want a more relaxed, local spot with unique flavors.
That’s where Holy Pops comes in.
Located just 20 minutes north of the Riverwalk, Holy Pops offers a refreshing escape from the tourist bustle. Our shop specializes in handcrafted paletas, fruit-based pops made from fresh, natural ingredients, as well as creamy pops for when you’re craving something richer.
Unlike the typical downtown options, Holy Pops gives you:
A wide range of flavors (from tangy mango chamoy to indulgent cookies and cream).
Healthier choices with real fruit and dairy-free options.
A family-friendly environment where locals and visitors feel at home.
So while the Riverwalk is perfect for sightseeing and dining, the best way to cap off your San Antonio adventure is with a stop at Holy Pops.
What Makes Holy Pops Worth the Short Drive from the Riverwalk
It’s no secret: locals know the best spots aren’t always in the busiest tourist areas. At Holy Pops, we’re proud to be a San Antonio favorite, serving both locals and visitors who want something authentic, refreshing, and a little different from the usual.
Here’s why people come back again and again:
Unique Flavors You Can’t Find Downtown
From tropical fruit blends like pineapple-coconut to traditional Mexican-inspired flavors like tamarind, every bite at Holy Pops feels like a taste of culture.
Made Fresh, Always
Our pops are handcrafted in small batches with natural ingredients, so you’ll never get that artificial aftertaste.
Something for Everyone
Whether you’re vegan, dairy-free, or a classic chocolate lover, there’s a Holy Pops flavor for you.
Instagram-Ready Treats
Our colorful pops look as good as they taste, perfect for snapping a post-Riverwalk picture.
Best of all, Holy Pops is just a short drive from the Riverwalk area. After a day of exploring downtown San Antonio, head north and treat yourself to something truly special.
HOLY POPS
📍 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy Ste #303, San Antonio, TX 78258, United States
📞 +1 210-992-3029
Tips for Visiting the Riverwalk and Stopping by Holy Pops
Want to make the most of your San Antonio trip? Here are a few tips:
Best Time for Ice Cream on the Riverwalk - Late afternoons and evenings are perfect for cooling down with a frozen treat while enjoying the Riverwalk nightlife.
Pair Your Riverwalk Trip with a Holy Pops Stop - Plan a day of sightseeing downtown, the Alamo, boat tours, and shopping, then drive north to Holy Pops for dessert in a calmer, local-friendly setting.
Bring the Family - Kids love our fruit pops, while adults can enjoy creamy, indulgent flavors. It’s the perfect family outing after a busy day.
Beat the Crowds - The Riverwalk gets packed on weekends. If you want a relaxed treat experience, Holy Pops gives you space to sit, savor, and enjoy.
FAQ: Ice Cream on the San Antonio Riverwalk
1. What is the best place for ice cream on the Riverwalk?
The Riverwalk has plenty of dessert shops, but for unique flavors and handcrafted quality, many locals recommend taking a short drive to Holy Pops. Our shop gives you a San Antonio ice cream experience you won’t forget.
2. How far is Holy Pops from the San Antonio Riverwalk?
We’re located about 20 minutes north by car, an easy drive for a sweet reward after exploring downtown. The short trip is worth it for fresh, natural pops that beat the usual tourist treats.
3. Does Holy Pops offer dairy-free or vegan ice cream?
Yes! Our fruit paletas are naturally dairy-free, and we have options for all dietary preferences. Everyone can enjoy something refreshing at Holy Pops.
4. What makes Holy Pops different from ice cream shops on the Riverwalk?
We specialize in fresh, handcrafted pops with flavors you won’t find downtown. From fruity to creamy, Holy Pops offers a more authentic, local experience.
5. Can I visit Holy Pops after sightseeing in San Antonio?
Absolutely. Many visitors plan their day around the Riverwalk and finish with a refreshing stop at Holy Pops to cool off. It’s the perfect way to wrap up a day of exploring.
Final Scoop
San Antonio’s Riverwalk is an experience you can’t miss, and pairing it with ice cream makes it even better. While there are plenty of options along the river itself, the best ice cream near the Riverwalk is waiting just a short drive away at Holy Pops.
Whether you’re a tourist looking for a local gem or a local wanting a sweet escape from the Riverwalk crowds, Holy Pops is the perfect place to enjoy handcrafted paletas and creamy pops made with love. Stop by today and see why San Antonio can’t get enough of Holy Pops!
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