San Antonio Lodging in a Nutshell |
by Ellen Chang, Contributing Writer |
 Although San Antonio is America’s 8th largest city and has a population of more than one million, it has the uncanny distinction of being a metropolitan city that acts much like a large town.
Located in the center of Texas, San Antonio is warm, friendly and inviting. It offers luxurious, historical, quaint, and inexpensive places to stay. With over 25,000 hotel rooms, finding your type of accommodation is an easy task, often without a reservation.
Many of the city’s better known resorts and hotels are located in the heart of downtown and along the infamous Riverwalk, just a short walk from the Alamo. Just because a hotel is located downtown does not mean it is expensive. There are many new and cheaper chain inns and motels cropping up. Along the magnificent Riverwalk, where cobblestone and flagstone paths border both sides of the San Antonio River and is 20 feet below street level, there are tons of hotels and lodges to choose from. Staying there gives you the opportunity to thoroughly explore the Riverwalk and all of the restaurants and shops.
Other hotels in the downtown area are only a mile or so from Riverwalk, and are suitable if you do not mind walking. It is also a short drive from the Alamodome.
Downtown is also suitable for the business traveler since the convention center is located there. Staying in the downtown area also helps you avoid the hassle of having to drive for a short distance and find parking. There is also a free trolley that goes through downtown if walking or taking a cab is not in your game plan. Parking at meters is free after 6 p.m. and spaces often are easy to find, even by the Alamo.
Nearby downtown is the city’s zoo, botanical gardens, several museums and a historical district called King William. So, if you are planning to stay in San Antonio for several days and visit these spots, driving is ideal.
There are many hotels and motels throughout the city, many of which rest along San Antonio’s major highways. You can also choose to stay in a bed and breakfast which are mainly located in the downtown area or nearby. Many have carriage houses that cater to families or those traveling with pets.
If you plan to hit some of the amusement parks, including SeaWorld and Fiesta Texas, you might choose to stay in hotels that are close-by. The Texas heat and humidity can be draining and taxing for those not used to the hot weather or being outdoors for several hours in an amusement park.
If you choose to stay in one of the more popular hotels, including the Hilton Palacio Del Rio, it is wise to make reservations ahead of time - especially during Fiesta, a two-week long festival, and during the major holidays.
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