San Antonio's River Walk has just seen the last call for one of its most popular watering holes, the Bier Garten Riverwalk. After serving up brews and brats for a little over ten years, the German-themed establishment shuttered its doors on January 1, paving the way for the new Alamo Visitor Center and Museum. MySA reported the closure of the venue, once nestled between the iconic Alamo and the bustling riverfront, as a piece of history that's now making room for progress.

Despite its enviable location and a successful run that saw it claim to sell more authentic Hofbrau beer than any other place in Texas, Bier Garten had to say "auf Wiedersehen." "The fun party has gone on for over 10 years and the business has been a complete success," Terry Corless, CEO of Mad Dogs Restaurant Group, which owns the Bier Garten, was quoted saying by Express News. He added that they are looking to possibly quickly find a new venue to revive the beloved beer garden.

With the Bier Garten's closure, the Mad Dogs Restaurant Group aims to smoothly transition its 40 displaced employees to other restaurants within its portfolio, such as On the Bend Oyster Bar and Crockett Tavern. The social media announcement assured patrons and the public that this end wasn’t absolute.

The forthcoming Alamo Visitor Center and Museum, set to open its doors in 2027, promises to bring a wealth of attractions, featuring a rooftop restaurant, a 4D theater, a museum with possibly special event spaces, not to mention retail opportunities, and the Phil Collins collection. While loyal Bier Garten enthusiasts mourn the loss of their beloved spot, the future holds a new chapter for San Antonio's diverse and ever-evolving downtown scene.