Cities are often located on rivers since rivers offer the possibility of commerce, an important ingredient in any society. Besides the economic benefit, rivers also offer recreational opportunities and aesthetic value. Come with me on a trip along some of the many waterways which traverse the cities of the world.
San Antonio has capitalized on its river by creating the Paseo del Rio (River Walk), a delightful collection of shops and restaurants which straddle the San Antonio River.
Providence, RI, has created an enchanting evening scene by burning wood in braziers mounted in the middle of its river. The phenomenon, known as Waterfire is attended by thousands during the summer and fall.
The Chicago River winds its way between the skyscrapers of downtown Chicago.
New Orleans is blessed with the mighty Mississippi River as its neighbor
as is St Louis.
Venice is, of course, famous for its canals which are the primary way that people move about in the city.
Even small canals are part of the network.
Bruges is also blessed with numerous canals
as is Amsterdam.
Zhouzhuang, a city west of Shanghai, is one of the “water villages” which have canals, somewhat like Venice, that are primary routes for travel within the city.
The Seine winds through the center of Paris. An excursion on a Bateau Mouche is a necessary activity while in the city. The tranquil, narrated tour is a good orientation for visitors.
London’s river, the Thames, also cuts through the center of the city.
Rome has its Tiber
Bern’s river is the Aare.
Luzerne’s Kapelbrucke, its signature attraction, straddles the city’s main waterway.
The Salzbach River runs through Mozart’s home town of Salzburg, Austria.
Ketchikan Creek gave its name to this Alaskan city.
.