Get FREE email communications from Fodor's Travel, covering must-see travel destinations, expert trip planning advice, and travel inspiration to fuel your passion.
Many visitors choose to stay downtown to be close to the Alamo, River Walk, museums, and other attractions. Once you're downtown, almost everything is accessible on foot or via river taxi or trolley; a car isn't needed and parking can be expensive. The city has one shuttle service from the airport that serves all downtown hotels ($14 one way, $24 round-trip). It runs from 7 am to 11 pm right from the airport. Several national chain hotels are concentrated along the River Walk and adjacent to the convention center. The Menger and Crockett hotels lead the list of historic hotels next to the Alamo. In recent years several boutique hotels have opened up, promoting spa weekends and indulgent getaways. Downtown has also seen the opening of some larger, value-oriented and extended-stay chains.
Several full-service resorts within the city limits, most near Sea World and Fiesta Texas amusement park, offer golf, tennis, on-site water parks, children's activities, restaurants, and the services you'd expect from a resort—a good option for families. Most major resorts are a 15- to 20-minute drive from downtown.
Bed-and-breakfasts are concentrated in a few of the national historic districts but still offer a range of mid-range and pricier room options. Virtually all are no-smoking, and only a few accept children younger than 12.
San Antonio is a major convention destination, so it's feast or famine for hotel rooms; peak seasons are generally spring and late fall. At the right time you can get some great deals for top-quality accommodations, but during special events (Fiesta week, the NCAA Final Four tournament, during major conventions) expect to pay top dollar and make reservations months in advance. Because of the city's appeal for business travelers, you can actually find lower rates on weekends at many hotels.
The first bed-and-breakfast in the King William Historic District, Brackenridge House has a two-story veranda overlooking a tree-lined street. Enjoy the view from front-porch rockers and porch swings. Rooms are lushly decorated with turn-of-the-20th-century accoutrements, a truly lovely setting.
One of the best values among River Walk hotels, the Drury Inn & Suites is located in the historic 1921 Petroleum Commerce Building. Ask for a room with a terrace overlooking the river. This isn't a posh or luxurious getaway, but if you're on a budget or want a kid-friendly hotel, you can't beat it. There's a heated rooftop pool and whirlpool and in-room amenities include free Wi-Fi. There's also a free hot breakfast buffet and an afternoon free dinner buffet reception with two free alcoholic beverages.
This Fairfield Inn looks like every other in the chain, but it's clean and comfortable, with easy access to all of San Antonio's downtown sights. The good location also puts it two blocks from Market Square and a quick VIA bus ride to the River Walk and the Alamo. There's a 24-hour fitness center and a free hot breakfast buffet.
