5 Best Hotels in San Antonio, Texas

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.

A 15-minute drive northwest of downtown, you'll find this full-service resort at the base of Texas Hill Country. SeaWorld is only a mile away, with complimentary shuttle service to and from the park on a first-come, first-served basis from 9 am to 10 pm.

The hip Hotel Havana is a boutique oasis on the north end of the River Walk with colorful Cuban-inspired flair and bold artwork housed in its rather modest outward appearance. Originally built in 1914 as a hotel residence by a local grocer, the hotel has changed hands numerous times over the past century, transforming the grand Mediterranean Revival building into a secluded destination along the far reaches of the River Walk. Rooms are sparse but meticulously outfitted with vibrant vintage furnishings and decor, and each room has its own unique touches. A stay at this chic-yet-cozy accommodation isn't complete without a stop at its riverside restaurant, Ocho, which sits just overlooking the river as a sort of robin's-egg blue aviary serving up a sexy selection of cocktails and a menu of Latin-influenced snacks and dishes.

Located across the San Antonio River from the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, at the Thompson you are in the heart of the arts district, and fairly close to major sights like the Alamo and the Pearl (both about a mile away). Luxurious, beautifully appointed rooms range from a cozy 600-square-foot studio to the 2,100-square-foot penthouse suite with everything a penthouse suite should be. Rooms (including 33 suites) feature floor-to-ceiling windows, blackout curtains, luxury bedding, spa-inspired showers, and even a clothing steamer. The full-service 5,000-square-foot spa has five treatment rooms, sauna and steam rooms, and a fitness center. The Cenote Pool Deck is a retreat with a lounge area and pool bar; private luxury cabanas are available and include TV and VIP service. The Moon's Daughters is an enchanting, indoor-outdoor, 20th-story rooftop lounge with a full bar and Mediterranean-style menu and, always, those amazing views. A unique feature of the hotel is the eye-catching artwork that graces virtually every space. The on-site fine dining restaurant, Landrace, boasts renowned chef Steve McHugh, who works with Texas farmers and growers.