Best Value Hotels in Downtown/Riverwalk, San Antonio

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 mid-range Crockett Hotel has been a downtown San Antonio landmark since it opened next to the Alamo back in 1909. Its location makes it a great base for exploring the famous River Walk and its many dining and nightlife options. The 138 rooms are clean and comfortable, but can vary greatly in size -- some are plain tiny. Highlights include an excellent free hot breakfast, a popular bar, a outdoor pool, and an impressive brick atrium. Guests also get free access to amenities at the upper-middle-range  sister property across the street (The Menger Hotel), which has a larger pool, a fitness center, and a spa. However, as rates are comparable at The Menger, travelers may prefer just staying there instead. 

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. 

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.

Housed in a 100-year-old bank office building, the 98-room Hotel Indigo San Antonio at the Alamo manages to preserve its historic originality while offering modern amenities and decor. Its prime location -- right next to the Alamo -- makes it a great mid-range pick for people who prefer the uniqueness of a boutique hotel.

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.

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.