Travel to San Antonio for a Romantic Riverwalk
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When one thinks of San Antonio attractions, the first thought is naturally the Alamo. Though obviously an important and historic site, a battle site is not always the best choice for a romantic getaway. Luckily, San Antonio has more to offer for the amorous vacationer. Many hotels in San Antonio cluster around one of their most romantic features: the Riverwalk.
The Paseo del Rio Riverwalk is the leading tourist attraction in San Antonio-not a bad accomplishment, considering the Alamo is in town. The walk is one story below street level and stretches for about three miles along the banks of the San Antonio River, right through downtown. Its beautiful stone paths connect the Riverwalk to many of San Antonio's featured tourist attractions. There are even plans to expand it to a total of 13 miles, connecting it to attractions in the north and south. The walk is a great mix of quiet scenic stretches and bustling centers of activity with bars, shops and even strolling mariachi bands. The lining buildings are beautiful and there are great places to watch the boars go by-it's not surprising that many San Antonio hotels are located near the Riverwalk. Below are a few of the closest and top-rated.
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk
Hotel Valencia is one of a few boutique hotels in San Antonio and has hosted stars like American Idol's Ryan Seacrest, Simon Cowell and Paula Abdul. With decor that is a modern take on traditional, paired with Spanish archways and columns along with polished concrete posts and dark-wood furniture, you'll feel immediately relaxed just walking through the hotel grounds. The beds in the rooms are custom-designed with imported designer linens and faux mink throws. The balcony rooms are the most romantic, overlooking the beautifully landscaped banks of the Riverwalk.
Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk
The Drury Inn & Suites is located in the landmark Petroleum Commerce Building right on the riverfront. These more romantic rooms have terraces overlooking the river and, though you would think otherwise, this is one of the more affordable San Antonio hotels near the Riverwalk.
El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel
This hotel captures the glitzy, Latin feel of an Acapulco resort. It has an aviary filled with tropical birds and there are exotic drinks available at the bar, making guests feel like they're a bit closer to paradise. For romantic views, ask for a riverfront room. Mangos restaurant features alfresco dining along a nice, quiet stretch of the Riverwalk.
Hilton Palacio del Rio
Located in a busy central part of the Riverwalk, the Hilton is close to many great restaurants and attractions. The rooms with a balcony overlook the river, making a cozy place to watch the barges and tourists go by.
Hotel Contessa Suites on the Riverwalk
This is an exceptional example of the new boutique hotels in San Antonio. This luxurious hotel features warm contemporary decor, with plenty of exposed brick, stone walls, and flowers. Hotels with suites are not too common right on the river, but these suites feature romantic amenities like fireplaces and marble bathrooms. There is an Aveda spa, a heated outdoor pool and a hot tub on the property, as well.
Hyatt Place San Antonio/Riverwalk
Hyatt Place is more stylish than you would expect from an established all-suites or extended-stay hotel. Every room features a luxurious "Grand Bed" and sleek furnishings. The hotel is located on a quiet stretch of the river, not too far from the entertainment district.
Omni Hotels & Resorts
The hotel, originally built as a school in 1852, features Spanish tiles and archways and exposed beams. Styled for romance, the hotel decor includes soft, earthy tones and is located on a quiet section of the river (although it's still very close to the entertainment district). For a romantic getaway, ask for one of the many rooms with a shared balcony or veranda overlooking the river.
San Antonio's Riverwalk Vista
Among boutique hotels in San Antonio, this is one of the most noteworthy. It features hardwood floors, exposed-brick walls and notable South Texas influences. Floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Alamo Plaza or the River Walk are available in almost every room. Every room also features slate-tiled walk-in showers.
Watermark Hotel & Spa
One of the more modern San Antonio Hotels was built within the shell of the historic 19th-century L. Frank Saddlery Building. This luxury dwelling has an entrance facing the Riverwalk and features sleek modern suites and rooms with 12-foot ceilings and marble whirlpool baths. Rooms have leather furniture, hardwood floors, and canopy beds. There are some rooms with balconies, too. There is even a European-style spa on the property.
San Antonio is not just for amateur historians-the Riverwalk offers a great place for a romantic stroll and a romantic stay in a quality hotel.
This guest post article was written by freelance writer Charles Watkins who is also an avid traveler and loves to write about his journeys.
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