The Best Hotels In San Antonio Texas

San Antonio, deep in the heart of Texas, is the second most populated city in the state and a melting pot of Spanish, Mexican, and American influences. With so many things to do in this city, staying at a great hotel is essential. Here are some of the best hotels and bed and breakfasts in San Antonio that will make your visit both authentic and enjoyable.

1. St Anthony, for 1900s charm

Chain Hotel, Spa Hotel, Luxury

Luxurious high-ceilinged lobby with piano, columns, fireplaces and chandeliers at The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel

This charming old hotel, three blocks from the Alamo, has witnessed a whole lot of San Antonio’s history and staff run tours of the hotel itself. Since 1909, it has offered state-of-the-art luxury for the discerning traveler. The emerald-green lobby retains its 1900s charm with towering ceilings, gold leaf impressions on armchairs, and an antique grand piano sitting pretty. Rooms are decidedly modern, overlooking Travis Park. Fresh Texan produce is whipped up into artfully presented dishes at award-winning ReBelle restaurant and no trip to the hotel is complete without a cocktail in the St Anthony Club, once a private meeting spot for the city’s big wigs and now open to all.

2. Thompson San Antonio Riverwalk, for dazzling city views

Hotel

Modern-looking bedroom with cobalt blue walls, a large bed, a TV in the middle of the room, a spacious couch and a private balcony at Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk

Towering above the city, this is probably one of the best places to stay in Antonio in terms of views. Head up to the rooftop lounge on the 20th floor and admire the twinkling city lights alongside a menu of craft cocktails and Mediterranean small plates. The signature restaurant is headed up by local celebrity chef Steve McHugh, using the best of Texan farm produce in his fine-dining menu. Classy rooms in a rich palette of teal and chocolate boast floor-to-ceiling windows looking out over the Riverwalk below.

3. Hotel Emma, for classy cocktail bar vibes

Hotel

If you’re a drinks lover wondering where to stay in San Antonio, this is the spot for you. Cast-iron tanks and brewery machinery remain in place inside since this old, red-brick building was a 19th-century brewhouse. Chandeliers are made from bottling equipment, and fermentation tanks have been converted to Moroccan-style seating nooks in the Sternewirth Tavern. You’re welcomed with a hand-crafted cocktail in the library on arrival, and there’s an icebox as a mini-bar in every room. Head to the sleek and stylish Supper restaurant for a lavish brunch, or a new American-style dinner with a focus on the seasonal and local.

5. The Hotel Contessa, for waterside suites

Hotel

San Antonio’s Hotel Contessa is situated on the River Walk, with luxury suites right on the water in a vibrant and extremely scenic location. The hotel’s design and style are inspired by 20th-century Spanish art and its complete wedding packages make it a popular location for couples to tie the knot. Close to all of the action downtown, Hotel Contessa is a perfect destination for your stay in San Antonio.

6. Hotel Havana, for a boutique feel

Hotel

Originally built in 1914, Hotel Havana is listed in the National Register of Historic Places and is one of the best hotels in the city of San Antonio. Nestled among the aforementioned hotels on the Riverwalk in the Museum Reach area, Hotel Havana is smaller than many of the major hotels, making demand for accommodation constantly high. Watch out for Ocho, the dining room and lounge in the hotel that’s rated as one of the best in Texas.

7. Mokara Hotel & Spa, for the massive spa

Resort, Hotel

Rooftop pool surrounded by white sun loungers at Mokara Hotel & Spa, San Antonio, TX

All of the hotels listed are quality establishments, but the Mokara is definitely up there for the most lavish hotel in San Antonio. Mokara is the only four-star hotel in San Antonio and backs up its ranking with a state-of-the-art spa that is spread out over 17,000sqft (1,579sqm). At Mokara you’re close to all of the action of the city. Take a boat tour to your favorite restaurant on the water or relax and enjoy the beautiful resort.

8. The Crockett Hotel, for a historic atmosphere

Hotel

Steps away from the Alamo is the historic and family-friendly Crockett Hotel, located at the site where legendary Texan hero Davy Crockett and his small band of soldiers defended the Alamo against a siege from the Mexican army in 1836. With 138 guest rooms and suites, visitors can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere in the many amenities the hotel has to offer, including a large outdoor pool and close proximity to all of the sites of the city.

9. The Menger Hotel, for old-school style

Hotel

The Menger Hotel is the oldest continually operated hotel located west of the Mississippi River. Near the Alamo and all of the sights of San Antonio, the Menger boasts an impressive 316 guest rooms. A walk through the lobby of the hotel shows how historic and important it is to the city; along the walls are pictures of famous guests of the hotel, including Teddy Roosevelt and baseball great Babe Ruth.

10. O'Brien Historic Hotel, for proximity to the sights

Boutique Hotel, Hotel

View of the exterior and balconies at OBrien Historic Hotel, San Antonio, TX

Right on the River Walk and close to all of the other city attractions in San Antonio is the O’Brien Hotel. This small boutique hotel offers 39 individually decorated rooms at an affordable rate. A stay in this historic building will only enhance your visit to San Antonio. Walk a few blocks out the front door to stroll along the River Walk, or to the Alamo and the many museums scattered throughout the area.

Suzy Pope contributed additional reporting to this article.

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