From Historic to High Rise: 8 Unique Luxury Hotels in San Antonio
In a city where unique, vibrant culture is the main attraction, San Antonio’s hotel and tourism industry has blossomed into a phenomenon all its own. Fed by a steady stream of devoted locals and curious out-of-towners (some 32 million of them per year), the Alamo City’s hospitality industry has grown into a something of a South Texas gem, generating an annual $13.4 billion and fueling one out of eight local jobs.
But the richness of San Antonio’s culture goes far deeper than the surface level skim most tourists are able to glean from a weekend visit. If you really want to soak up the old-world charm that is the Alamo City, hotel choice is of the utmost importance. You simply can’t settle for a cookie-cutter suite…even an all-inclusive one.
But somewhere along the road, “luxury hotels” and “interesting hotels” somehow became mutually exclusive. If you wanted top-of-the-line amenities and gorgeous perks, you’d settle for a boring, beige room. If you were interested in architecture and an authentic local experience, you were forced to skip the gourmet breakfast. Well, in true San Antonio fashion, several local hotels are breaking these stereotypes in style: offering luxurious rooms with unique vibes. Keep reading to explore 8 swanky hotels with character to boot...and maybe a few ghosts to keep things interesting.
Hotel Havana
Image Courtesy of Hotel Havana
On the north stretch of the San Antonio Riverwalk lies Hotel Havana, a beautiful building that captures the diversity of San Antonio culture. Originally opened in 1914 by local grocer Edward Melcher, Hotel Havana has always existed to be transport its guests to the old-world romance of the Caribbean. Richly handpainted headboards, leafy cypress and magnolia trees, and sparkling chandeliers create a colorful, dreamy vibe that walks the line between luxurious and devastatingly hip. The Mediterranean Revival-style hotel (recently renovated and currently maintained by renowned hotelier Liz Lambert) strives to tell a fuller story of San Antonio culture...from Native American to Mexican and Spanish to the American West. Nostalgia at its finest, Hotel Havana features Bastrop Pine floors, crisp white linens, and Smeg fridges stocked with Shiner Bock. Overall, Hotel Havana is a lush solace in the midst of the Texan heat.
...And don’t forget to pay a visit to Ocho’s: the Cuban-inspired restaurant and bar. Ocho’s is a local favorite for both its Latin fare and relaxed atmosphere. Stop in for a french press and plantain pancakes or stay for the weekend in the King Suite!
Hotel Contessa
Translated directly from Italian, the word “Contessa” means “Countess”, a royal position of power and prestige...and the original Latin “conte” means “close companion”. How appropriate! Hotel Contessa blends fit-for-royalty amenities with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. Although it’s one of the of the newest Riverwalk hotels, this hotel has managed to capture the true character of the Alamo City. Located close (but not too close) to the San Antonio Riverwalk, Contessa blends contemporary and southwestern to create an atmosphere unlike any we’ve come across before. Enjoy the rich textures of marble lobby floors and thick, leafy palm trees, relax in the “urban chic” rooftop pool, or book a massage at the day spa. Hotel Contessa has been described as the only “luxury all-suite hotel” in San Antonio with over 250 spacious multi-room suites with high ceilings and gorgeous views. As if you needed any more convincing, Contessa’s signature restaurant Las Ramblas cooks up delicious Spanish-American food on the daily, and The Cork Bar features live entertainment every weekend!
The Emily Morgan Hotel
If it’s a unique stay you’re looking for, you’ll find nothing but originality at the Emily Morgan Hotel, a converted 1920’s high-rise once used as a Medical Arts facility. Truly the best of both worlds, this unique building (which has been described as one of the finest examples of Gothic Revival Architecture in the US) has just undergone a major $4 million renovation...meaning the interior rooms are newly shiny and polished, furnished with luxury interiors and top-of-the-line amenities...and did we mention it’s right next to the Alamo? Famous San Antonio architect Ralph Cameron certainly held a penchant for the creative when he designed the Emily Morgan. If you look closely enough, the seemingly decorative terra cotta gargoyles on the first floor harken back to the building’s roots...each describing a different medical ailment. The building’s iconic exterior, beautifully renovated interior, and fascinating history combine to make the Emily Morgan Hotel one of the most interesting places to stay in San Antonio...and (according to rumor), one of the most haunted.
Marriott Rivercenter
Much like the Emily Morgan Hotel, The Marriott Rivercenter is an iconic high-rise...but with a totally different vibe. This modern, spacious hotel is a 38-story beacon of San Antonio’s growth and success. A proverbial castle on the hill, the Marriott welcomes visitors and residents to downtown as a markedly unique addition to the San Antonio skyline. Although the interior isn’t necessarily flashy, the hotel is polished, contemporary, and classic, featuring warmly decorated rooms and incredibly close proximity to both the Alamo and the Riverwalk. Catering to both high-end business trips and leisurely vacations the Mariott’s award-winning facility boasts over 60,000 square feet of premium meeting space, as well as 915 spacious guest rooms and 86 luxurious suites.
Menger Hotel
Image Courtesy of the Menger Hotel
San Antonio is a city full of stories. From the stately elegance of the Alamo to the admittedly spookiness of the abandoned Missions, San Antonio’s tales have captured the attention of famous storytellers like John Wayne, Oscar Wilde, and John Steinbeck. However, while the above-mentioned artists told of their experiences through written word and moving pictures, the Menger Hotel tells its story through physical brick-and-mortar. Over 150 years old, this family-owned property remains to this day the oldest continuously operating hotel this side of the Mississippi. Since its inception in 1836, the Menger has been a central piece of San Antonio culture and nightlife. The Menger Bar was a hub for local businessmen and politicians. Famous guests like Babe Ruth, Sam Houston, and Teddy Roosevelt have left their mark on the establishment. Stately wrought-iron gates and antique furniture add luxurious detail to Hotel Menger’s grand, Victorian-era architecture. Continually refreshed with luxury additions and updates, guests rooms and suites offer all the amenities you’d expect from a swanky hotel: free WiFi, flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers and desks, plus 24-hour room service. Suites include separate parlors and whirlpool tubs, and guests can take full advantage of the spa, heated pool, and fitness center. The historic property is hedged in by a blossoming Spanish Garden and sparkling fountain.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk
Hotel Valencia manages to exude classic luxury vibes without being stereotypical or stuffy. The palazzo-like architecture exudes old-world Spanish charm (complete with rich yellows and deep reds), while the interior suites remain crisp and sophisticated. Totally original to San Antonio, this luxury “boutique hotel” boasts premium Riverwalk balcony views and in-room spa services. We aren’t the least bit surprised U.S. News & World ranked Hotel Valencia on their list of “Best Hotels in the USA”. Romantic enough for a weekend getaway and more-than-accommodating enough for high-end business clientele, Valencia is perfect for anyone looking to remain in the heart of San Antonio culture and nightlife...in an elegant sort of way, of course.
Hotel Emma
Image Courtesy of Hotel Emma
Though technically located in downtown San Antonio, the Pearl’s deliciously unique Hotel Emma is a reclaimed turn-of-the-century masterpiece with an ecosystem all its own. Part industrial-chic, part opulent South Texas luxury, Hotel Emma exudes all the charm and mystery that comes from making a hotel out of an old brewery. From the seven penthouse suites with private balconies to the gorgeous lobby, (which includes a 3,700 volume library with plush leather armchairs...exclusive to guests), Emma has a vibe that manages to be both utilitarian and decadent. Complete with private dining areas, vaulted ceilings, original artwork, and a rooftop pool, Hotel Emma sets the bar high from the get-go...and yet continually manages to surprise its guests with thoughtful details like hotel-wide craft coffee service and complimentary Electra cruiser bikes for guests to use.
Eilan
Several miles north of downtown, Hotel Eilan offers a different side of San Antonio’s Hill Country culture. The breezy, Tuscan-inspired architecture of the spacious Eilan complex holds a soft romance. Architectural touches like archways, cascading staircases, and blush-and-salmon exterior walls make Eilan an experience reminiscent of a European vacation. Almost a city of its own, Eilan is a combination condominium + restaurant + hotel + curated shopping experience.
Guests can enjoy the luxe spa, ballroom dance studio, fitness center, golf simulator, tennis courts, and indoor lap pool. Still in the thick of San Antonio culture (just down the road from La Cantera, The Rim, and Fiesta Texas), Hotel Eilan also offers a literal breath of fresh air...and Texas Hill Country views.
The city of San Antonio is rich and vibrant in more ways than one...and its luxury hotel scene reflects that. Considering the diversity and richness of the above-mentioned hotels, you literally can’t afford to stay in a boring hotel suite. The thought alone makes us yawn...and not in a good “these pillows are so soft” kind of way. Whether you’re seeking a romantic weekend getaway, a historic adventure, or a relaxing escape, these San Antonio hotels offer a delectably unique way to experience the city.
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