Kimpton Santo leads the boutique pack with a 9.5/10 cleanliness score and zero pet fees. For historic charm on Alamo Plaza, the Menger Hotel’s 1859 origins and 9.4 location rating are tough to beat. Both prove San Antonio’s boutique scene runs deeper than the River Walk.
San Antonio’s boutique scene isn’t hiding — it’s just selective. I vetted 20 properties to find the ones with actual character, not just a lobby redesign.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 22,600+ total verified guest reviews to compile this list, prioritizing cleanliness scores 8.5+ and location ratings 9.0+ for the best boutique hotel in San Antonio search.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best for River Walk Access: #15 Kimpton Santo→ Rates
- Best Historic Boutique: #13 Plaza San Antonio→ Rates
- Cleanest Rooms: #15 Kimpton Santo→ Rates
#10 Drury Plaza Stone Oak→ Rates - Best for Pet Owners (No Fees): #15 Kimpton Santo→ Rates
- Best Value Boutique: #8 Hotel Gibbs→ Rates
#17 Element Riverwalk→ Rates - Best for Extended Stays: #17 Element Riverwalk→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. La Quinta Inn Market Square | (3400+ Reviews) |
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| 2. La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown | (2600+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk | (1850+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Menger Hotel | (1800+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Sonesta ES Suites Alamo Plaza | (1750+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Holiday Inn San Antonio-Riverwalk | (1250+ Reviews) |
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| 7. Omni La Mansion del Rio | (1100+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk | (1000+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Fairfield Inn & Suites Market Square | (1000+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Drury Plaza Hotel Stone Oak | (850+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Hilton Palacio del Rio | (850+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Canopy By Hilton Riverwalk | (800+ Reviews) |
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| 13. Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa | (650+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Homewood Suites Riverwalk/Downtown | (550+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Kimpton Santo San Antonio | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 16. Embassy Suites San Antonio Airport | (500+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Element by Marriott Riverwalk | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Days Inn by Wyndham Airport | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 19. DoubleTree Northwest – La Cantera | (400+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Embassy Suites Landmark | (350+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Top Boutique Hotel in San Antonio — The Full Breakdown
1. La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Antonio Market Square
The Vibe
Older property held together by a solid staff and a killer location — the River Walk is under a mile out the door. Don’t expect polish, but the 8.0 comfort and cleanliness scores say it delivers the basics without drama. Parking included is a rare downtown plus.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come with free WiFi (scored 8.1) and an outdoor pool that’s open seasonally. The continental breakfast is included — solid for a sub-$100 night. Limited to one vehicle per room, and oversize trucks won’t fit. Pets are allowed with a registration at check-in; no deposit required, which is unusual at this price. Kids 18+ are charged as adults, so factor that in.
Choose this if: You want Market Square and River Walk walkability on a strict budget — and you’re okay with worn edges.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta Inn by Wyndham San Antonio Market Square →
2. La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Downtown
The Vibe
This is the upgraded sibling — rooms feel newer, and the 8.7 cleanliness score backs it up. The real win? It’s right next to an H-E-B grocery store, making self-catering a breeze. Staff scores 8.9, and guests consistently mention the friendly front desk.
What You Actually Get
Good breakfast is included daily, and free on-site parking covers one vehicle per room. There’s an outdoor pool and a fitness center if you want to burn off the breakfast. Pets up to 75 lbs are welcome (2 max), with a dedicated dog walking area on property — a rare courtesy. WiFi scores 8.5. The 1-mile walk to the Alamo is flat and easy.
Choose this if: You’re driving in and want a clean, central base without paying $40+ nightly for parking.
Check Tonight’s Price for La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Downtown →
3. Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk
The Vibe
This is the River Walk address everyone wants. The 9.8 location score is the highest on this list — you’re steps from the water, restaurants, and nightlife. The rooftop pool and hot tub are a legit perk after a day of sightseeing. Cleanliness holds at 9.3, and the value score (9.1) is rare for such a central spot.
What You Actually Get
On-site covered parking runs $16/night — a steal compared to nearby hotels charging $55 for valet. A very good breakfast is included, and the evening 5:30 Kickback offers free hot food and cold drinks (beer, wine, soda) daily. Rooms are clean and quiet; guests often mention getting upgraded to a terrace room. Pets (cats and dogs, 2 max) incur a $35 nightly fee. WiFi scores 8.4. The only catch: the parking garage clearance is 6’6”, so oversized vehicles need to plan ahead.
Choose this if: You want to be ON the River Walk without paying luxury resort rates.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk →
4. Menger Hotel
The Vibe
You’re not just booking a room — you’re staying in San Antonio history. The Menger sits right on Alamo Plaza, and the 19th-century architecture (think antique furnishings and a colonial-style bar) delivers genuine character. Guests rave about the “historic charm and unique atmosphere.” It’s not the newest property — cleanliness sits at 8.4 — but the location is irreplaceable.
What You Actually Get
Rooms come in two wings: the historic side with period furniture and the newer side with modern amenities. The outdoor pool and on-site restaurant are solid, but there’s no free breakfast. Private parking is available (call for rates and availability). Pets are not allowed. WiFi scores 8.0. Groups booking more than 3 rooms hit special conditions, so contact the hotel directly for larger gatherings.
Choose this if: You care more about location and lore than modern finishes.
5. Sonesta ES Suites San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza
The Vibe
Suites with full kitchens make this the pick for longer stays or families who want to cook. The 8.6 cleanliness score is solid, and guests consistently note the spacious rooms and huge TVs. The continental breakfast is included, but the real value is the kitchen — you can stock the fridge and skip restaurant bills.
What You Actually Get
Two-bedroom suites with two bathrooms exist — each bedroom has a queen bed, plus a full-size pull-out sofa in the living area. WiFi scores 8.2. There’s an outdoor pool and fitness center. The big catch: no on-site parking. A public lot is half a block away (pay per day). Pets are allowed with charges. Kids 18+ are charged as adults.
Choose this if: You’re staying 3+ nights and want to cook some meals to save money.
Check Tonight’s Price for Sonesta ES Suites San Antonio Downtown Alamo Plaza →
6. Holiday Inn San Antonio-Riverwalk by IHG
The Vibe
A reliable chain on the River Walk — the 9.0 WiFi and 9.2 location are the draws. The value score drags at 7.8, meaning you pay for the address. Some rooms have balconies facing the river (king bed rooms only, and they cost more). Guests like the comfortable beds and in-room fridges.
What You Actually Get
The on-site restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and a good breakfast is available. Parking is on-site (pay per day). Rooms have air conditioning and balconies in select categories. No pets allowed. Groups booking more than 6 rooms face special policies. Check-out is at noon — a late perk compared to 11 AM standard.
Choose this if: You want a reliable IHG property on the River Walk with balcony options.
Check Tonight’s Price for Holiday Inn San Antonio-Riverwalk by IHG →
7. Omni La Mansion del Rio
The Vibe
This 4-star Spanish colonial property oozes romance. The 9.3 staff score suggests genuine hospitality — guests report anniversary chocolates and champagne surprises. The courtyard garden with a pool is a quiet escape from the River Walk bustle. Location scores 9.6, putting you right in the center of it all.
What You Actually Get
Rooms have balconies, terraces, or garden views. The Deluxe King room offers city, pool, or courtyard views. The Navarro suite has a separate bathtub — popular with couples. WiFi scores 9.4, the second-highest on this list. Pets are allowed (charges apply). Breakfast is available. The outdoor pool and fitness center are well-maintained. No free parking — valet only.
Choose this if: You’re on a romantic trip and want character + River Walk convenience.
8. Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
The Vibe
This is the hidden history pick. Hotel Gibbs sits inside the original 18th-century Alamo fort walls — no other hotel in San Antonio can claim that. The 8.9 cleanliness and 8.8 value scores are strong for a 4-star. Staff is polished and professional. The location (9.4) is seconds from the Alamo shrine and a block from the River Walk.
What You Actually Get
No balconies — but you don’t need one when you’re inside a historic fort. The American breakfast is complimentary (hot buffet included). WiFi is a perfect 10.0, the highest score on this entire list. Pets are allowed (charges apply). Valet parking is $42/night with in-and-out privileges; self-park options exist nearby. Check-in runs until midnight, so late arrivals are covered.
Choose this if: You want a truly unique San Antonio boutique experience with flawless WiFi.
9. Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Antonio Downtown/Market Square
The Vibe
This Marriott property nails the value equation: free parking, free airport shuttle, and a good breakfast all included. The 9.2 staff score is the standout — guests specifically name-drop front desk staff (Pamela, Danielle) and shuttle driver Jesus for going above and beyond.
What You Actually Get
The Market Square is a 4-block walk — easy for exploring El Mercado. The River Walk is about a mile away, and the free shuttle can drop you there. Rooms are clean (8.8) with comfortable beds. Outdoor pool and fitness center on-site. Kids 12+ are charged as adults, which is younger than most properties. No pets allowed. Free private parking for one vehicle per room.
Choose this if: You want a fair price that includes parking, breakfast, and airport transport.
Check Tonight’s Price for Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Antonio Downtown/Market Square →
10. Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio North Stone Oak
The Vibe
The highest-rated property on this list. A 9.4 overall with a 9.7 staff score means this hotel is run exceptionally well. It’s recently renovated and located 15 minutes from the airport. The free evening Kickback (5:30–7 PM) offers rotating hot food and cold beverages — guests love this perk. Cleanliness (9.5) and comfort (9.6) are near-perfect.
What You Actually Get
Excellent breakfast is included daily. Free on-site parking covers one vehicle per room. A king suite has a separate bedroom door — good for couples who want privacy while watching TV. Outdoor pool and hot tub on-site. Pets up to 2 allowed with a daily cleaning fee. WiFi scores 9.5. The King Suite separates the bedroom from the living area with a door. Located 18 miles from SeaWorld and 30 miles from Schlitterbahn.
Choose this if: You want a suburban retreat with top-tier service and free nightly drinks.
Check Tonight’s Price for Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio North Stone Oak →
11. Hilton Palacio del Rio
The Vibe
A classic. Built for the 1968 World’s Fair, this 4-star Hilton sits smack on the River Walk. The 9.3 location and 9.1 comfort scores reflect a well-maintained property in a prime spot. Guests praise the concierge (Cristina gets name-dropped) and the on-site restaurant’s food quality. The value score (8.3) is the weak point — you pay for the address.
What You Actually Get
River-view rooms are available but are assigned to lower floors. Breakfast is available for purchase at The River’s Edge Cafe + Patio Bar. WiFi scores 9.5. Valet parking is $55/night — no self-park option. Outdoor pool and fitness center on-site. No pets allowed. Check-in closes at 11:30 PM, so late arrivals should coordinate ahead.
Choose this if: You want Hilton points and a guaranteed spot on the River Walk’s main stretch.
12. Canopy By Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk
The Vibe
This is Hilton’s attempt at a lifestyle boutique, and it works. The 9.6 location score matches the Drury Inn, but the design is fresher — think local art, modern furniture, and a lobby that feels like a coffee shop. Guests call out the “attached restaurant” as fantastic. The 9.3 cleanliness and 9.2 comfort scores confirm it’s well-run.
What You Actually Get
Some rooms and suites come with private balconies — a rare find on the River Walk. The restaurant serves good breakfast. Pet-friendly with a non-refundable fee. The terrace is a nice spot for morning coffee. The only downside: valet parking only at $55/night. Self-park options at nearby Houston St. Garage or Market St. Garage. WiFi scores 8.2.
Choose this if: You want a stylish, design-conscious boutique on the River Walk with balcony options.
Check Tonight’s Price for Canopy By Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk →
13. Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection
The Vibe
This Autograph Collection property is the closest thing to a true boutique hotel in San Antonio. A spa, a garden, free bikes, and a 9.5 cleanliness score make it a contender for the top spot. Guests love being able to walk or bike everywhere. The staff (9.3) and facilities (9.3) are consistently praised. The garden view rooms are a real treat.
What You Actually Get
The outdoor pool is set in a garden — it feels like a resort escape within the city. Breakfast costs €16 (good, not great value). The spa offers massages and treatments. One pet under 30 lbs is allowed with a $100 non-refundable fee. WiFi scores 7.5 — the weakest on this list, so plan for cellular backup. No free parking. The incidental deposit is $150 for the entire stay.
Choose this if: You want a spa-focused boutique with garden serenity steps from the River Walk.
Check Tonight’s Price for Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, Autograph Collection →
14. Homewood Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk/Downtown
The Vibe
All-suite Hilton property directly on the River Walk. Each suite has a separate living area — good for families or colleagues traveling together. The 9.4 location is exceptional, but the 7.4 WiFi score is the worst on the entire list. Guests praise the “convenient location” and “clean rooms.” The pool requires time-slot reservations.
What You Actually Get
Two-room suites with a bedroom and a separate parlor with a pull-out sofa. No kitchen — just a microwave and mini-fridge. Good breakfast is included. Pets allowed (charges apply). Private parking available (pay). The outdoor pool is open but requires booking hour-long slots at the front desk. The River Walk access is direct, with major restaurants 1.5 blocks away.
Choose this if: You need a suite layout on the River Walk and don’t need blazing fast WiFi.
Check Tonight’s Price for Homewood Suites by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk/Downtown →
15. Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk by IHG
The Vibe
This 5-star Kimpton is the premium boutique hotel in San Antonio. The 9.5 cleanliness score ties for the highest on this list. The design — think bold colors, local art, and a rooftop pool — feels intentional. Guests rave about the “gorgeous design” and “fast room service.” The pet policy is unmatched: all sizes, all breeds, no extra charges.
What You Actually Get
The rooftop pool has city views — a great evening spot. Free bikes are available to borrow. The very good breakfast costs €26 per person. Rooms feature city views, bathtubs, and air conditioning. Valet parking is available. The $400 damage deposit is higher than most — incidental holds can tie up credit. WiFi scores 8.9. Check-out is at noon, giving you an extra hour vs standard 11 AM.
Choose this if: You want the best boutique in San Antonio with a design edge and zero pet fees.
Check Tonight’s Price for Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk by IHG →
16. Embassy Suites San Antonio Airport
The Vibe
This is the airport play, not a downtown boutique. But it’s the best airport hotel in San Antonio by a wide margin — 8.5 overall with an 8.8 cleanliness and a 9.0 staff score. Guests call out the chef, Jose, by name for the breakfast. The indoor pool is a bonus for year-round swimming.
What You Actually Get
Free shuttle to the airport and within a 3-mile radius. Wonderful breakfast is included. King suites have a sofa bed. There’s an on-site bar open nightly from 5–9 PM. Free parking. Indoor pool and fitness center. No pets allowed. Groups booking more than 9 rooms face special policies. No weapons allowed on premises per hotel policy.
Choose this if: You have an early flight or a layover and want a solid, clean place near the airport.
Check Tonight’s Price for Embassy Suites San Antonio Airport →
17. Element by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk
The Vibe
Marriott’s eco-forward brand lands well here. The 9.1 overall and 9.4 cleanliness scores show it’s run tightly. Each room has a kitchen (full-size fridge, stovetop, microwave) — ideal for extended stays. Free bikes are available to borrow. Guests love the breakfast variety and the friendly staff (9.3). The 9.0 value score is strong for a near-River Walk property.
What You Actually Get
Private parking is available via valet at $45/night (standard vehicles) or $59 (oversized). Max vehicle height: 6’5”. Pets are allowed with a $75 non-refundable cleaning fee (2-pet max, under 75 lbs each). Good breakfast is included. WiFi scores 8.9. The location is convenient to freeways, the River Walk, and Market Square. No pool on-site. Check-in is 4 PM.
Choose this if: You want a kitchen suite with Marriott consistency and a 9.1 overall score.
Check Tonight’s Price for Element by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk →
18. Days Inn by Wyndham San Antonio Airport
The Vibe
Budget pick for airport convenience. The free shuttle runs 6 AM to 11 PM, and the hotel is 1.1 miles from the terminal. Cleanliness (8.3) and comfort (8.3) are decent for a 2-star. Free private parking is included. No surprises — you get what you pay for.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is included (basic continental). Free WiFi scores 7.8. Outdoor pool available seasonally. No pets allowed. The shuttle requires a call after baggage claim for pickup instructions. Check-in is 4 PM — earlier arrivals may need to wait. Located off Interstate 410.
Choose this if: You need a cheap bed near the airport with a reliable shuttle.
Check Tonight’s Price for Days Inn by Wyndham San Antonio Airport →
19. DoubleTree by Hilton San Antonio Northwest – La Cantera
The Vibe
A solid 4-star in San Antonio’s Northwest corridor, across from UTSA and near La Cantera shopping. The 8.8 overall and 9.1 staff score show consistent quality. Guests appreciate the “gated parking” and “quiet, comfortable rooms.” The outdoor pool and on-site restaurant make it self-contained.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast is available (not free). Free on-site parking with gated access. Outdoor pool and fitness center. WiFi scores 8.5. Pets allowed with a $100 + tax non-refundable fee per pet. All rooms are non-smoking; designated smoking areas outside. No balconies. Check-out at noon. Located near the University of Texas at San Antonio.
Choose this if: You’re visiting UTSA or La Cantera and want a quiet, secure DoubleTree.
Check Tonight’s Price for DoubleTree by Hilton San Antonio Northwest – La Cantera →
20. Embassy Suites By Hilton San Antonio Landmark
The Vibe
Another strong Embassy Suites — this one scores 9.1 with a 9.5 location near The Shops at La Cantera. Guests love the “overall hotel vibe, evening reception, location and staff.” The two-room suites (bedroom + separate parlor with pull-out sofa) are spacious. Cleanliness (9.4) and comfort (9.4) are near-perfect.
What You Actually Get
Excellent breakfast is included daily. Evening reception with drinks and snacks (standard Embassy perk). Outdoor pool. Private parking available. No WiFi score listed — assume basic included WiFi. No pets allowed despite some FAQ confusion; official policy says no. Suites come with microwave and mini-fridge only (no full kitchen). Groups booking more than 9 rooms face special conditions.
Choose this if: You want a spacious suite near La Cantera with a top-tier included breakfast.
Check Tonight’s Price for Embassy Suites By Hilton San Antonio Landmark →
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#15 Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk
A 9.0 overall with 9.5 cleanliness, zero pet fees, and a rooftop pool — this is the definitive boutique hotel in San Antonio you should book first.
Check Tonight’s Price for Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk by IHG →
💰 Best Value
#17 Element by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk
A 9.1 rating with kitchen suites, free bikes, and a 9.0 value score — you get premium quality without the premium price tag.
Check Tonight’s Price for Element by Marriott San Antonio Riverwalk →
✨ Editor’s Choice
#8 Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
The only hotel inside the original Alamo fort walls with perfect 10.0 WiFi — a completely unique boutique experience you can’t replicate.
How We Ranked These San Antonio Hotels
I evaluated 20 downtown and River Walk-adjacent properties to find the best boutique hotel in San Antonio — cross-referencing 22,600+ guest reviews across Booking.com and filtering for genuine character, not chain uniformity.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 100+ verified reviews
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and staff scores — the categories that drive repeat bookings in San Antonio
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities (kitchens, pet policies, free parking) against guest review patterns
- Location signals: Distance to River Walk, Alamo, and Market Square — plus walkability scores from guest feedback
Frequently Asked Questions
Which San Antonio boutique hotel has the best River Walk access?
The Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk (H3) has a 9.8 location score — the highest on this list — and sits directly on the River Walk with a rooftop pool overlooking the water. The Canopy By Hilton Riverwalk (H12) also scores 9.6 and offers private balconies above the River Walk. Both are steps from restaurants and boat tours.
Are pets allowed at these San Antonio boutique hotels?
Yes — many top picks are pet-friendly. The Kimpton Santo (H15) allows pets of any size at no extra charge, which is the best deal on the list. The Omni La Mansion del Rio (H7) and Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk (H3) both accept pets with daily fees. Always call ahead to confirm weight limits and charges, as policies vary by property.
What’s the best time to visit San Antonio for hotel deals?
January and February offer the lowest hotel rates, with prices dropping 20-30% below peak summer and holiday levels. The weather is mild (50s-60s F) and River Walk crowds are thin. Fiesta San Antonio in April brings higher rates and minimum-night stays at boutique properties near the Alamo and River Walk.
Which San Antonio boutique hotels offer free parking?
Free on-site parking is rare near the River Walk. The La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown (H2) offers free parking for one vehicle per room — a $30-55 nightly savings vs valet. The Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk (H3) offers covered parking for $16/night. Most River Walk properties like the Hilton Palacio del Rio (H11) charge $55+ for valet-only parking.
How do I get from San Antonio International Airport to River Walk hotels?
The airport (SAT) is 8 miles from downtown. A taxi or rideshare costs $25-35 and takes 15 minutes. The Fairfield Inn & Suites Market Square (H9) offers a free airport shuttle from 7 AM to 10 PM. Many River Walk hotels like the Drury Inn (H3) don’t offer shuttles but are a quick rideshare from the airport.
Which boutique hotel has the best cleanliness score in San Antonio?
The Drury Plaza Hotel North Stone Oak (H10) and Kimpton Santo (H15) both score 9.5/10 for cleanliness — the highest on this list. The Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa (H13) also scores 9.5. For a downtown River Walk option, the Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk (H3) holds a 9.3 cleanliness score, making it the cleanest option directly on the River Walk.