Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Downtown/Riverwalk, San Antonio

Hotel Contessa, located on a quiet stretch of the River Walk, sells itself as San Antonio's "only luxury all-suite hotel," and in many ways it lives up to that claim. The 265 suites range in size from 500 to 800 square feet, and all feature separate living rooms and bedrooms with contemporary, southwestern-inspired decor, two 37-inch flat-screen TVs, and free Wi-Fi -- but microwaves or mini-fridges only upon request, for a fee. The urban chic rooftop pool and Jacuzzi area is a nice perk, but the pool is small and gets crowded quickly. Those looking for some quiet relaxation should head to the adjacent rooftop day spa.

The two-and-a-half pearl Comfort Suites Alamo/Riverwalk is a good budget option for families and couples with cars who don't mind driving to nearby attractions. The Riverwalk may be only three blocks, but it takes about eight minutes of walking through a gritty neighborhood to get to the far end, opposite of where the prettiest parts are located. There's a shuttle to the River Walk, but no return service. Free Wi-Fi, a free hot breakfast, and outdoor swimming pool are great perks for this price point, but expect to pay for parking. Management offers a midweek wine and cheese reception. There's a fitness center and small putting green. Rooms are nicely sized and include small kitchenettes and bathtub/shower combinations.

The upscale St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is an elegant Victorian-era landmark centrally located just three blocks from the Alamo. Built in 1909, the hotel's architecture and decor evoke its rich history, while serving up modern comforts and plenty of style. Its 277 chic guest rooms mix contemporary furnishings with vintage touches and have sleek bathrooms, though Wi-Fi incurs an extra fee (free for SPG members). A lovely rooftop pool offers private cabanas and cozy fire pits, while dining options include a fine-dining restaurant, historic bar with a Jazz Age feel, and a cocktail lounge with a menu inspired by rumored ghosts haunting the property. In addition to a bright fitness center, the hotel offers 15 meeting rooms. The nearby Mokara Hotel & Spa offers free Wi-Fi as well as a spa, but rates are more expensive.

The Westin Riverwalk enjoys a quiet location on a secluded stretch of San Antonio’s famed waterway -- a nice change of pace from the hectic, touristy parts of the River Walk. Although it has 473 guest rooms, it feels far from a mega-chain hotel thanks to its elegant, traditional decor, and intimate seating areas throughout the stately lobby and terrace overlooking the river. Rooms start at a spacious 420 square feet, and feature comfortable and pretty antique-style furnishings; some have bathrooms with separate walk-in showers and soaking tubs. There's also a small, lovely rooftop pool surrounded by plantings and ample lounge seating (a perk when the pool bar is open). Westin Riverwalk has 23 meeting rooms, including multiple ballrooms, but business travelers nonetheless may prefer Grand Hyatt San Antonio for its location directly next to Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center.

The
313-room, mid-range Holiday Inn Riverwalk sits in a central location that makes
the River Walk area’s numerous attractions easily accessible on foot; the back
of the property leads directly onto the River Walk itself, and the restaurant
and some rooms have impressive views. Bright and contemporary decor gives a
pleasant feel to the hotel, and rooms are large and airy. That said, Standard Rooms lack balconies, and only Suites have in-room safes. The outdoor heated
pool is small but attractive, and there's also a hot tub. The hotel has a pleasant business center and meeting room as well, and free Wi-Fi access is available throughout. Breakfast at the hotel’s chic
restaurant is included in some but not all room rates. Travelers could compare rates with the Crockett
Hotel, where the outdoor pool has an attractive rock garden.

Though noticeably older than its Grand Hyatt counterpart, this 632-room luxury hotel features a prime location right on the River Walk in the heart of Downtown San Antonio. Its 16-story atrium lobby offers striking views of the surrounding city and the rushing water below. Rooms are comfortable and stylishly furnished, but privacy and noise levels vary.

The 338-room Omni La Mansion del Rio's Spanish Colonial architecture gives the upscale hotel a relaxed hacienda feel. The vibe carries to the spacious and classic rooms, which have beamed ceilings and charming Spanish details; the heated outdoor pool, where mariachi bands frequently perform; and at Las Canarias, one of the best restaurants in the city. Some guests may miss the presence of an on-site spa and fitness center, but these are found just across the River Walk at Omni La Mansion's sister hotel, Mokara Hotel & Spa, a five-minute walk away.

The upper-middle-range Embassy Suites is in a prime downtown location, close to tons of restaurants, nightlife, and major attractions -- and directly on the famous River Walk. It's popular with both families and business travelers, featuring a free breakfast/cocktail hour, and meeting space. But while the two-room suites are modern and spacious, those not facing the river have not-so-appealing views of the parking lot and lobby.

Located across from the famous Alamo and boasting a rich history (as well as, potentially, a few ghosts), the Emily Morgan Hotel is an excellent upscale property in downtown San Antonio. Its well-preserved 1920s building is a Gothic-Revival-meets-Texas style, with interiors that benefitted from a 2013 renovation when it was bought by Hilton. The 177 modern rooms have flat-screen TVs, tubs, robes, and iHome docking stations. An outdoor pool, free Wi-Fi, American restaurant and bar, and 24-hour gym complete the offerings, plus the property is close to many San Antonio attractions. For a location right on the River Walk, however, guests might look to the historic Omni La Mansion del Rio, which features hacienda flair, a lively pool area, and kid-friendly perks.

A well-located budget alternative to its full-service sister properties, the Marriott Plaza makes a comfortable base for exploring downtown San Antonio and its historic attractions. But it lacks some basic in-room amenities found in its competitors’ rooms. It's a good choice for business travelers, as it boasts 17 meeting spaces -- and a nice pool for unwinding.

The mid-range Hotel Indigo San Antonio Riverwalk provides a useful location right on the San Antonio River in walking distance to the heart of the River Walk promenade. Its 149 rooms are spacious and comfortable with kitchenettes, Keurig coffeemakers, and stylish bathrooms, though guests have complained about thin walls and inconsistent housekeeping. The hotel also provides a small pool, a limited fitness center, and a business center. Breakfast (for a fee) and dinner are served in the on-site restaurant as well. But travelers could compare rates with the three-pearl Holiday Inn Riverwalk, which has a slightly more central location and includes breakfast in most rates.

As at many budget-friendly options, staying The Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Antonio - Downtown Market Area means a tradeoff between price and location. It’s a bit far from the action and you’ll need a car to see the sights from here. There's nothing much nearby except a biker bar and a Pizza Hut. But the rooms are spacious (though dark), suites are available, and basics like an outdoor pool and fitness center are covered. It's an okay choice if you are all right with driving everywhere -- even to grab dinner.

The Four Points Sheraton San Antonio Downtown is a good choice for business travelers seeking a comfortable, spacious place to get work done during their stay, or for families needing just a little more space. Although still technically downtown, the trade-off for the lower price point and extra space is being a little farther from the main tourist areas than other downtown hotels. But for the price, the spacious and comfy rooms, and lovely outdoor pool create a great value -- as long as you don't mind the extra walk.