The colorful riverboats that drift past the rainbow of umbrellas that line the River Walk.
The locks inscribed with sentimental messages such as “love you forever” on the Kallison Love Lock Bridge.
The squeals of ecstatic toddlers as they run through the mist at the Union Pacific Railroad Splash Pad at Hemisfair.
Sometimes there’s nothing more charming than a quick visit to San Antonio.
As summer break was beginning to wind down in August, my two teen daughters and I decided to have one last hurrah by stealing off to San Antonio for a quick getaway. Our home base for the trip was Hotel Contessa, a AAA Four-Diamond, all-suite luxury hotel that seamlessly blends hospitality with the local culture that makes San Antonio so unique.
Local artwork adorns the rooms at Hotel Contessa in San Antonio. Contributed by Hotel Contessa
One of the first things that struck me about the hotel was its incorporation of local artwork, from its striking signature painting, “La Contessa de San Antonio,” by Kathy Sosa that greets visitors in the lobby (and is replicated on room keys) to the unique pieces that adorn the exposed brick walls in every guest room.
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I had booked myself a 50-minute signature Contessa massage, a delightful experience that blended locally sourced products with perfect execution. While I sipped a glass of champagne afterwards in the spa’s relaxation lounge, my daughters made their way to sparkling rooftop pool and hot tub, which offers breathtaking views of downtown San Antonio.
One highlight from our trip was our dinner at the hotel’s on-site Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails, which serves authentic Texas and American cuisine and is located directly the riverwalk. From its creative plates to its craft cocktails, the restaurant menus featured signature, locally sourced purveyors including Augusta Ranch and Merit Coffee Co. Menu standouts included the Texas-style guacamole and queso, deviled eggs, the Southern grilled chicken, and the grilled farm vegetables.
Ambler Kitchen + Cocktails serves authentic Texas and American cuisine. Contributed by Hotel Contessa
Because the hotel is ideally situated in downtown San Antonio, there are a multitude of attractions within walking distance, including the Alamo, La Villita Historic Arts Village, and the Henry B. González Convention Center.
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Looking to cool off from the three-digit temperatures after an hour of exploring, we ducked into The Shops at Rivercenter, where we were impressed to see a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions, including SEA LIFE Aquarium, Legoland Discovery Center, Holey Moley mini golf, the Titanic VR Experience, and the Mexico Ceaty food court, a 25,000-square-foot Mexican-inspired food hall and market by local Chef Jason Dady.
One night in San Antonio is never enough, but sometimes, it’s still worth it to get a taste of culture, a taste of art, and the last sweet taste of summer.
Learn more at: https://www.thehotelcontessa.com
