Somewhere down south, between the Alamo and the ruins of the Old Spanish Missions, lies the heart of San Antonio. Whether your plans include a tour of historic San Antonio or an exuberant trip tubing down the rapids of the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers, you will find plenty of family-friendly hotels across the Greater San Antonio area to choose from. These include selections from waterfront hotels along the famous Riverwalk to resorts situated in the Texas Hill Country, take your pick of some of the most affordable kid-friendly hotels in San Antonio.
Omni La Mansion del Rio River Walk
Towering over the Riverwalk, within walking distance of The Alamo and the world-renowned Ripley’s Believe It or Not, you will find the Spanish-themed Omni La Mansion del Rio River Walk. The property caters to families traveling with children. Upon arrival, young guests are given a backpack packed with family-friendly activities and goodies that encourage healthy eating, as well as milk and cookies delivered to their room on the first night. The hotel also hosts a special scavenger hunt. Popular attractions such as the Riverwalk Boat Tours are located directly outside the property. You may also enjoy on-site dining at Las Canarias and Ostra restaurants, or spending time at the spa or the Courtyard pool.
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort San Antonio
Families interested in staying in more of a secluded location, the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort offers a whole host of activities for you and your family. The resort offers complimentary amenities like bikes, tennis courts and a sand volleyball pit. Of course, I can’t forget to mention the 5-acre water park located on the property, which includes a wading pool, cabanas, the Ramblin’ River and, for those looking for thrills, the 22-foot Edge Falls water slide or the Flowrider wave simulator. Families will also enjoy movies under the stars and making s’mores at the fire pit.
La Cantera Hill Country Resort
La Cantera Hill Country Resort replicates the Heart of Texas into resort form. La Cantera not only offers breathtaking views of the pristine Hill Country overlooking 2 Championship golf courses; but it’s also a short trip to the endless number of attractions in San Antonio, like Sea World and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. For those traveling with children, there are a number of accommodation options: connecting rooms, suites and private Casitas, secluded cottages that sit in a private complex within steps of the main resort. You will also find five swimming pools, along with the Teen Lounge, Kids Camp, and Kids Club that offer exciting activities for children of all different ages.
Hyatt Wild Oak Ranch Hotel San Antonio
If you are interested in experiencing authentic ranch life in style, the obvious choice would be the Hyatt Wild Oak Ranch Hotel where you can enjoy real Texas Barbecue, explore the native wildlife nature trails and stay in a 1-, 2- or 3-bedroom residential-style condominium. Children will enjoy Camp Armadillo, the property’s kids’ program that includes amusement park excursions and scavenger hunts, as well as activities like arts and crafts. The property also boasts the 800-foot Rattlesnake River Pool with water slide, three spa locations, and a fire-pit at the Wildflower Pavilion where you can take in a movie under the stars.
Westin Riverwalk Hotel San Antonio
The Westin Riverwalk Hotel offers the ideal downtown getaway, facing the lower loop of the River Walk, offering great panoramic views of the lively area. It is also a few blocks from the Buckhorn Saloon, The Alamo, and a short drive from the Tower of Americas. The Westin Kid’s Club provides young guests with goody bags that contain make-your-own postcards, a big world map to find their location and other materials to help them explore the hotel and beyond. Westin Service Express is available if diapers, playpens, bottle warmers, booster seats or strollers are needed. Suites are available for those who are wanting a little more space and don’t forget to take a dip in the outdoor heated pool.
San Antonio will always be one of my favorite vacation spots. The city is so rich in history and culture, it is impossible not to become intrigued. Regardless of where you choose to stay, you will find plenty to keep your family entertained.
Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a travel writer and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.