Looking for Breathtaking hotels along San Antonio’s Riverwalk? You’re in luck because there are tons of options! This prime real estate attracts both older hotels that revamp their spaces and brand-new ones eager to claim their spot. That means YOU get to choose from a variety of fantastic Riverwalk hotels in San Antonio!
Being a proud Texan, I’ve delved into the San Antonio hotel scene, trying out quite a few Riverwalk hotels. Now, I’ll share my top 13 picks with you, starting from #13 and working my way to the absolute best for the ultimate Riverwalk getaway (or a cozy staycation if you’re a local).
Cheap Hotels On The Riverwalk
If you want a cheap place along the Riverwalk, here’s a simple tip: go online, look for the dates you want, and pick the least expensive option. (I like using TripAdvisor because it usually has great hotel deals.)
Here are some San Antonio riverwalk hotels that are typically under $100 a night
“There are lots of affordable and breathtaking hotels on or near the Riverwalk, like Holiday Inn Express, Towne Place Suites by Marriott, and Hilton Garden Inn. They’re basic but comfy and safe, in convenient locations.
If you’re aiming for a low-cost stay on the Riverwalk, I assume your main focus is the budget (and then location). You might need to give up some fancy extras offered by the more upscale hotels I’ll tell you about.
Yep, there are budget-friendly hotels on the Riverwalk. No, they won’t be super memorable with amazing views or top-notch service. Just keep that in mind as you figure out what matters most to you.
Hotels With Views On The Riverwalk
The Riverwalk was planned in the early 1900s to be the “Venice of Texas.” It’s super picturesque! Many hotels focus on the view, offering rooms with windows, Juliet balconies, or full sitting balconies that overlook the Riverwalk.
The 13 Best Hotels On The Riverwalk In San Antonio
13. Menger Hotel
The Menger Hotel is a significant part of San Antonio’s history, dating back to 1859, and holds the title of the oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi. It temporarily closed during the Civil War to assist wounded soldiers but reopened after the war. Notably listed on the National Register of Historic Places, it’s also the official historic partner of the Alamo. And don’t worry—air conditioning was added in 1949.
Interesting fact: The Alamo and the Menger Hotel are literally next to each other! Check out the photo to see how close they are in real life. Ranked at #13 on the list of the best Riverwalk hotels, it’s not precisely on the Riverwalk but just a few steps away. Unfortunately, you can’t snag rooms with Riverwalk views.
However, booking a room at the Menger means immersing yourself in America’s history, even getting the chance to sip drinks at the bar where Theodore Roosevelt gathered his Rough Riders.
Moreover, the hotel is stunning. The original lobby features marble floors, Victorian-style decorations, and a Spanish-style courtyard housing San Antonio’s largest heated pool.
If you prefer staying near the Riverwalk, the Menger Hotel is an excellent choice. If you’re on the lookout for a room with a balcony overlooking the water, keep reading.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes, outdoor courtyard pool |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 316 |
| Date built | 1859 |
12. The St. Anthony Hotel
Just like the last hotel, I’m talking about the fancy St. Anthony Hotel, but it’s a bit lower on the list because it’s not exactly on the Riverwalk. But, if you’re into luxury, it’s a great choice.
Built in 1909, this 10-story hotel in downtown San Antonio was made by a rich cattleman who thought the city would become a big tourist spot. So, he built a super fancy hotel to attract high-end guests. The St. Anthony Hotel has all the fancy stuff from the early 1900s like mahogany moldings, private bathrooms, and automatic doors. Ooh la la! They’ve spruced it up many times in the last 100 years, including adding air conditioning (Don’t worry!).
Even though different people have owned it, right now, it’s part of the fancy Marriott Luxury Hotel Collection. Conde Nast thinks it’s one of the best hotels in Texas. It’s just 3 blocks away from the Riverwalk and has a cool cocktail bar called Haunt.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 210 |
| Date built | 1909 |
11. Canopy by Hilton
Canopy, Hilton’s lifestyle brand, has a hotel on the San Antonio Riverwalk. It’s a modern and comfy spot with a great restaurant. But, it’s not higher than #11 on my list because the rooms don’t give you awesome views. The hotel is tall and skinny, so no balconies overlooking the water.
Actually, depending on your room, you might not even see the water.
But, if you want a nice hotel with awesome service, modern vibes, and a great location, Canopy by Hilton is a good choice. It’s on the western edge of the Riverwalk, closest to the Historic Market Square.
Hilton started Canopy hotels in 2014, and they have them all over the country! The San Antonio Riverwalk one is just like the others: friendly lobbies, comfy rooms, free wifi, a free hot breakfast, and easy mobile check-in.
Canopy isn’t super fancy, but it’s a clean, comfy, and convenient hotel that’s great for travelers. And being right on the water? Pretty hard to beat!
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | No |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 195 |
| Date built | 2021 |
10. Hilton Palacio Del Rio
The Hilton Palacio del Rio is hard to miss! It’s a big, tall hotel on the Riverwalk, the closest to La Villita historic village, Arneson Theatre, and The Alamo. It’s also across the street from Hemisfair and just a block from the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center. The location is fantastic.
However, it’s close to the busiest part of the Riverwalk, where you’ll find crowds, noise, and lots of tourists. It depends on what kind of traveler you are – do you want that lively atmosphere or a quieter escape?
Now, about the hotel itself, it’s pretty nice. A 21-story hacienda-style building built for the 1968 World’s Fair at Hemisfair. Both sides of the Palacio Del Rio have great views – the Riverwalk on one side and Hemisfair on the other. While it has that 1960s vibe, it’s been renovated plenty of times for a more modern look.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 486 |
| Date built | 1968 |
9. Mokara Hotel & Spa
Mokara is home to the only 4-star spa in San Antonio and is a sister property to the stunning Omni Mansion (right across the street). It’s a great choice if you’re seeking a wellness getaway near the Riverwalk.
While Mokara overlooks the river, there’s a street separating it from the pedestrian path. This allows you to enjoy a view of the Riverwalk without being right on it. If you’re looking for a balcony directly overlooking the Riverwalk, keep reading.
Despite the distance, Mokara is luxurious and relaxing. Every room offers access to Mokara’s dry cedar sauna, eucalyptus-infused steam room, and whirlpool. Some premium rooms even come with their own whirlpools.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 99 |
| Date built | 2003 |
8. Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk
Just like the Hilton Palacio Del Rio, the Hyatt Regency is a large, tall, and impressive hotel built in the late 19th century. This 1981 building stands tall with 16 floors, but the real showstopper is its lobby. It boasts a beautiful indoor decorative pool with a bridge, designed to mimic the nearby Riverwalk, Breathtaking Hotels..
Being incredibly close to the Alamo, you can easily hop over and check it out directly from the hotel. The Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk is one of the few hotels offering “Alamo View” rooms.
Situated in the very touristy part of the Riverwalk, it’s near places like Joe’s Crab Shack and Rainforest Cafe. Whether you love this lively atmosphere or not is a matter of personal preference.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 630 |
| Date built | 1981 |
7. Hotel Emma
Hotel Emma is a fancy boutique hotel that everyone wants to stay at in San Antonio. It’s usually at the top of the list, but not this time. Why? Well, it’s at the Riverwalk, but the rooms don’t look out onto it.
In the heart of the historic Pearl District, once an old 19th-century brewery, stands a truly captivating haven known as “Breathtaking Hotels.” After extensive renovations, this remarkable 146-room establishment has transformed the landscape, offering a unique blend of history and modern luxury.
The restaurants and bars within its walls are nothing short of extraordinary (don’t miss out on the culinary delights at Supper and the exquisite drinks at Sternewirth), ensuring an unforgettable experience.
Even though the Riverwalk goes through the Pearl District, it’s not the same as the busy and full-of-restaurants downtown area. But, if you want a hotel close to the water, Hotel Emma is a great pick. And, the Pearl District has tons of awesome stuff – great restaurants, wine bars, a fun splash pad for kids, a cool spa, and lots of shops. You could easily have a whole weekend of fun without leaving the area.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 146 |
| Date built | 1894 |
6. Hotel Havana
This one’s for those seeking breathtaking hotels with a unique boutique charm on the Riverwalk, just a bit away from the tourist hustle. Hotel Havana, part of the Bunkhouse Group (which also includes Hotel San José, Carpenter Hotel, Hotel San Fernando), is a 27-room gem from 194. It’s about a 10-minute walk from the Downtown Reach of the Riverwalk, offering a captivating experience for those in search of exceptional accommodations..
This means you can soak in the Riverwalk’s vibe and then escape the noise with a quick stroll back to your hotel. Hotel Havana is designed in a Cuban style, featuring palm trees and old-world elegance.
You can savor a meal at Ocho, the in-house restaurant (known as one of the best on the Riverwalk), or grab drinks at Havana Bar. Both spots are charming and offer views of the water.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | No |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 27 |
| Date built | 1914 |
5. Hotel Valencia
Breathtaking Hotels: This pretty hotel has 213 rooms and a Spanish Colonial style. It offers fancy suites, a cool tequila and mezcal bar, and rooms with a view of the River Walk.”
.There are lots of fancy things at this hotel, like Italian marble in the bathrooms, valet parking, and a nice courtyard on the third floor. The location is awesome—it’s right by the Riverwalk, but on the quieter side of downtown. You won’t find many annoying touristy places like Irish pubs or Bubba Gump around Hotel Valencia. It’s a calm and cool spot.
I’m putting Hotel Valencia at #5 on the list of the best Riverwalk hotels because it’s right above Ácenar restaurant. There aren’t many really great places to eat on the Riverwalk, and Ácenar is one of the best options.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | No |
| Spa | No |
| Number of rooms | 213 |
| Date built | 2003 |
4. Hotel Contessa
Certainly! Here’s the modified sentence with the keyword “Breathtaking Hotels” included:
This Breathtaking Hotels has 265 rooms and a great view of the Riverwalk, making it a cozy place for guests to enjoy the water.
What’s special about Hotel Contessa is that it’s a suite-only hotel. That means every room is pretty big and has space for you to unpack and feel at home. You’ll find cool stuff like floor-to-ceiling windows with blackout shades, separate living rooms with sleeper sofas, and TVs in both the living room and bedroom in this Riverwalk hotel.
The only downside is that the rooms don’t have balconies, but you get more space with a roomy suite. So, you can decide if that’s a trade-off you’re okay with.
The rooftop spa and fitness center, city-view pool, and local San Antonio art in the suites make this option even better.
But the best part? Hotel Contessa has an AWESOME location. Half of the rooms have a view of the water, and the other half overlook downtown. When you compare it to places like Canopy by Hilton or even the smaller Hotel Havana, staying at Hotel Contessa gives you a much better chance of getting a room with an AMAZING view of the Riverwalk.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 265 |
| Date built | 2005 |
3. Omni La Mansión del Rio
The Omni La Mansion del Rio, a part of Omni Hotels and Resorts, is all about location, just like they say in real estate. This beautiful Spanish colonial-style hotel started as a school in 1852 and turned into a hotel for the Hemisfair World’s Fair in 1968. With Spanish tiles, pretty archways, and exposed beams, it even has a lovely open-air Spanish courtyard.
But what really makes Omni La Mansion special? It’s got some of the best river views in San Antonio. Plus, it’s close to lots of cool stuff, making it a great choice for folks who want to soak in SA culture.
The 338 rooms in Omni La Mansion, nestled among the Breathtaking Hotels, are known for their comfort, although they may not boast the same level of flashiness as some of the newer establishments on this list. Many of these cozy rooms offer enchanting views of the river, and for those seeking a touch of luxury, some even come with private balconies.
Our tip? Spend a bit more for a room with a river view—that’s the big thing about this hotel. Just keep in mind, sometimes the river can get a bit noisy with barges going by, especially after 10 pm.
Omni La Mansion del Rio has cool stuff like a heated courtyard pool, access to the fitness center at the Mokara Hotel and Spa, and they’ll even bring coffee right to your room. Nice!
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes, at their sister property Mokara Spa, across Riverwalk |
| Number of rooms | 338 |
| Date built | 1853 |
2. Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
If you want a super fancy hotel along the Riverwalk, the Thompson is the one. It’s part of Hyatt’s fancy brands and is a cool new addition to San Antonio’s hotels.
The hotel opened in February 2021, and it’s one of only four Thompson hotels in all of Texas (there are others in Dallas, Austin, and Houston). Even though it’s in the quieter part of the Riverwalk, the hotel itself is always busy with parties and summer pool events with local DJs.
If you’re into a party lifestyle all the time, there are luxury condos called the Arts Residences on top of the hotel. People who live there can use the hotel’s cool stuff like the pool and spa.
Certainly! Here’s a revised version with the inserted keyword:
“Breathtaking Hotels: The rooms and food at the Thompson are what make it awesome. There are 162 rooms, and 33 of them are fancy with big soaking tubs and indoor/outdoor spaces. The Breathtaking Hotels rooms look really cool with a mix of modern style and a touch of Texas. The bathrooms are all white and fancy.
For food, the Thompson has two really good options right there – Landrace, a restaurant by the famous Chef Steve McHugh, and the Moon’s Daughters, a cool rooftop bar and lounge. If you want a Riverwalk hotel with great food, the Thompson is a top choice.
The Thompson hotel also has a fitness center, a spa, a pool, and it’s pet-friendly (no fees for stays less than 30 days!).
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 162 |
| Date built | 2021 |
1. The Westin Riverwalk
The Westin Riverwalk is a fantastic choice at the southern end of the Riverwalk’s Downtown Reach. It’s the top pick for a few good reasons.
Firstly, the views are amazing. Just look at the photo, and you’ll see lots of balconies with clear riverwalk views from the rooms. Not many hotels along the Riverwalk offer this much scenic space.
The location is great too, slightly west of La Villita historic village. Nestled amidst breathtaking hotels, with big trees, wide paths, and fountains, it’s a calm spot. While it can get busy on weekends, it’s not as hectic as some other Riverwalk areas.
This luxurious hotel has different rooms and suites depending on your budget. I recommend getting a room with a river view – that’s why you’re staying on the riverwalk, right?
Apart from the lovely views, the hotel has great amenities. Rooms are decorated in Spanish Colonial style with comfy features like spa-style showers and flat-screen TVs with fast wifi.
The Westin also offers a heated outdoor pool, a cool Italian restaurant, and pet-friendly rooms for an all-around enjoyable stay.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool | Yes |
| Spa | Yes |
| Number of rooms | 473 |
| Date built | 1999 |
FAQs
Is it safe to stay on the Riverwalk in San Antonio?
Yes, the Riverwalk in San Antonio is generally considered safe for tourists. The area is well-patrolled by law enforcement, and there are many visitors and locals enjoying the vibrant atmosphere. However, like any popular tourist destination, it’s advisable to stay vigilant and take standard safety precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and being aware of your surroundings.
What hotel do celebrities stay at in San Antonio?
While specific information about celebrities’ hotel choices may not be readily available, some upscale hotels in San Antonio, such as The St. Anthony Hotel and Hotel Emma, are known for hosting VIP guests. Celebrities often choose accommodations based on personal preferences, so it’s challenging to pinpoint a single hotel. If you’re hoping to spot a celebrity, consider staying in a luxury hotel with excellent amenities and services.
What is the best section of the San Antonio Riverwalk?
The “Museum Reach” section of the San Antonio Riverwalk is often considered one of the best. This area features scenic landscapes, public art installations, and direct access to popular attractions like the San Antonio Museum of Art and the Pearl District. The “Downtown Reach” is also popular, offering a lively atmosphere with numerous restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. Ultimately, the best section depends on your preferences, so exploring different parts of the Riverwalk can be a rewarding experience.
How long should I spend on the Riverwalk in San Antonio?
The ideal amount of time to spend on the Riverwalk in San Antonio depends on your interests and schedule. However, most visitors find that a leisurely stroll along the river, exploring shops, restaurants, and attractions, can take around 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to visit museums, take a boat tour, or enjoy a meal at one of the riverside restaurants, you may want to allocate additional time. Consider spending a full day to fully appreciate the diverse offerings and ambiance of the San Antonio Riverwalk.
I’m Matthew Porter, the creative mind behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been having a blast discovering all the cool things this city has to offer. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about turning your trip into a vibrant, eye-catching adventure. Let’s make your time in San Antonio unforgettable—join me in the excitement at San Antonio Vista!
