San Antonio International Airport (SAT): Approximate driving time is 18 minutes and distance is 8 miles.

Driving directions from SAT: Follow signs to Rte. 281 south and continue on I-37 south. Take Exit 141A (Commerce St./Downtown) and bear right onto E. Commerce. Turn right on Navarro St., then turn left on College St. and follow it to N. St. Mary's St. The hotel is on the corner.

Getting there: For solo travelers, the best option from the airport is the SA TRANS Airport Shuttle ($5–15). Groups of two or more will probably find it more economical to take a taxi ($16–25). (Fees subject to change without notice.)

Getting around There are several attractions within a short walk of the hotel. For other destinations, the VIA Streetcars (less than $5; fees subject to change without notice) stop 1 block from the hotel and offer convenient transport around downtown, and express service to SeaWorld and Fiesta Six Flags.

Ripples on the River Bar - Southwest-style bar overlooking the river. Full bar. Open mid-day until late night.

Amenity highlights: This 313-room hotel has a multi-leveled terrace leading guests to a secluded lap pool and spa tub bordered by plants and flowers. The mirrored fitness center has a wide selection of cardio equipment including a treadmill, stationary bike, stair-climber, weight machines, and free weights. A game room offers plenty of video games and vending machines.

Insider tip: For a romantic evening, Biga on the Banks is located 3 blocks from the hotel. This fine-dining restaurant is in an open and airy loft-like building overlooking the river. The cuisine blends the flavors, spice, and heat of Mexico and Asia. The menu changes often and includes seafood bouillabaisse, house-smoked salmon nachos, tasso-spiked shrimp dumplings, duck and venison, and desserts such as ginger-glazed lemon cake. On Sundays, the restaurant hosts their signature champagne brunch. Reservations are recommended.

The secluded, multi-leveled terrace has a lap pool and spa tub and offers quiet places to relax. The mirrored fitness center has a wide selection of cardio equipment, weight machines, and free weights. The hotel also has a video-game room and a gift shop selling souvenirs and sundries.