When we visited the Hilton Palacio del Rio the day after Thanksgiving, cars were lined up for half a block waiting for their turn to check in at the hotel, located on the southern side of San Antonio’s River Walk. The annual Ford Holiday River Parade & Lighting Ceremony draws thousands of locals and visitors to the banks of the river.

Inside, the front desk staff greeted guests and answered dozens of questions as they quickly checked everyone into the 485-room hotel. We were given two fleece blankets and two insulated mugs to use while watching the parade from our reserved seats on the hotel’s outdoor patio; these were just some of the perks included with a holiday package.

While the hotel was originally built to accommodate the crowds that flocked to the 1968 World’s Fair, you’d never know it is nearly 50 years old. A recently completed $33 million makeover produced a sophisticated, contemporary feel.

Our eighth-floor standard room had a wood floor in the foyer and a bold-striped carpet under the king-sized bed. Above the bed was a hand-carved wood headboard. The room’s desert-colored palette was accented with silver finishes on the lamps and mirror. Every guestroom includes a small balcony. A work desk was tucked beside the dresser with a 37-inch flat-screen television. Bright blue mosaic tiles covered the bathroom walls and the counters were granite. A mini-fridge, coffeemaker and Hilton Alarm Clock Radio were appreciated amenities. Complimentary newspapers were available in the lobby.

In the evening, we stopped by the lobby bar for cocktails and another peek at the river, while a piano player performed. Our dinner reservations at the upscale Fig Tree restaurant were just steps from the hotel in one of the city’s first neighborhoods, La Villita. We popped inside a few shops and bought a souvenir in the Historic Arts Village.

In the morning, we mapped out our itinerary while eating pumpkin pancakes from the hotel’s River’s Edge Cafe and Patio Bar. So many attractions are nearby and many, like the Alamo, are within walking distance. After a bit of discussion, we decided to drive to the Saturday morning farmer’s market at the former Pearl Brewery and the McNay Art Museum, where an Impressionism exhibit was on loan from the National Gallery.

The Hilton Palacio del Rio is a well-run property. The efficient staff and full-service amenities, combined with a fantastic location, make it a great choice for families or couples wanting to explore San Antonio.

Hilton Palacio del Rio

200 South Alamo St.
San Antonio, TX 78205
tel 210 222 1400