San Antonio International Airport (SAT): Approximate driving time is 18 minutes and distance is 10 miles.

Driving directions from SAT: Follow signs to Rte 281 south, then take Exit 141A (Commerce St/Downtown). Bear right onto Commerce St, turn left on S St Mary's St, and turn left again on W Market St.

Getting there: For solo travelers, the best option for getting to the hotel is the SA Trans Airport Shuttle ($5–$15). For groups of two or more, a taxi is a better value ($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 best option is the VIA streetcars (less than $5; fees subject to change without notice). The streetcars stop near the hotel and offer convenient transport around downtown, and express service to Sea World and Fiesta Six Flags. Taxis are also available.

Rincon de Maria - Sophisticated lobby bar offering a wide variety of tequilas and specialty margaritas poured tableside. Tapas menu. Open daily from early afternoon until late night.

El Cafeto Bakery - Freshly baked goods and specialty coffees available all day. Also serves fresh fruit, bagels, gourmet coffee, and desserts. Open daily from early morning until late evening.

Pool Bar - Open seasonally, serving cocktails, beer, and wine poolside from mid-morning until afternoon every day.

Room Service - Available 24 hours daily from Caliza Grille menu.

Amenity highlights: The 24-hour fitness center provides locker rooms, a sauna, strength training equipment, free weights, and an array of cardio machines. Guests can step outside to the terrace pool and seasonal poolside bar overlooking the Riverwalk. Spa services are available upon request. Meeting spaces are available for business and social gatherings of 10-800 people. The Westin Kids’ Club program provides fun activities for children up to 12 years old.

Insider tip: Marriage Island, located on the river side of the hotel, was the site of San Antonio’s first Catholic mass in 1691, and there is a sculpture to commemorate that event. Now, the oak-shaded tiny island is the site of 80 weddings per year and considered a good-luck spot for couples.

Down one corridor of the hotel are river-view loggias—quiet, intimate spaces reminiscent of Italian balconies. Guests are welcome to read, enjoy morning coffee, or just watch the comings and goings along the Riverwalk. The loggias can be reserved for small gatherings and events.