Texas getaways
6 best Hill Country and San Antonio hotels for a sophisticated getaway
The new Monarch Hotel has opened near the iconic Hemisfair.
The San Antonio area is buzzing with a number of freshly renovated hotels and brand-new accommodations that are beckoning for a weekend getaway. Head south just four hours from Dallas and settle into a romantic Hill Country retreat or check into a hip stay in the heart of Alamo City.
From romantic Hill Country havens to buzzy downtown hotels that have just opened their doors, here are our top picks for a chic San Antonio stay this fall.
The Gunter Hotel
This downtown San Antonio hotel’s multimillion-dollar renovation wasn’t just about adding fancy new furniture; it was about honoring the property’s storied history. Inspired by Robert Johnson's history-making stay in Room 414, the Gunter serves as a love letter to San Antonio’s music heritage. Add elegant rooms and suites, refined American fare at Jots, the city’s first Paris Baguette location, and a street-level speakeasy, and you've got more than enough excuses to book a stay.
The Monarch Hotel
A new kid on the block, this Hemisfair hotel takes flight from the second you step into the lobby. But the snazzy design is second to the dining. Grab a morning pastry at the Nectarie Café, splurge on steaks at Oak & Amber, then have after-dinner drinks underneath the butterfly wing eaves of Alateo. Theme continues outdoors with the property’s La Mariposa sculpture — the perfect backdrop for a vacation selfie.
The InterContinental Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
This underrated property scores high marks with those who seek the buzz of the city core. Located within walking distance of multiple popular restaurants and bars, the hotel itself also has a dining standout with Cavalier, offering a globally-inspired menu of coq au vin, picanha, short rib, lamb shank, and more. The social set will want to check out its frequent wellness events and movie nights and pony up for a suite with access to the posh Club InterContinental.
The Ranch Motel
During the day, this Broadway spot’s pool is home base for the see-and-be-seen crowd, with snacks served by some of Alamo City’s hottest pop-ups. After the sun sets, it feels even more exclusive thanks to a dimly lit upstairs mezcal lounge and showers stocked with Le Labo products.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Villas
This Hill Country retreat is located near SeaWorld San Antonio, but don’t waste a minute finding Nemo. Instead, head to the crystal lagoon for some splashy fun, get a massage at the spa, and share some charcuterie at Antlers Lodge. After a full day, sink into the bed outfitted with luxurious linens — part of a massive $100 million renovation.
JW Marriott Hill Country Resort
This secluded hideaway near Stone Oak sprawls out on 600 acres. Every type of weekend warrior will find something to explore — from multiple restaurants for foodies to a 9-acre waterpark for adventurers and a 36-hole golf course. Later in the year, snuggle up and enjoy some frosty holiday activations.

Chef Tim Love will take part in the 2026 Austin Food & Wine Festival. Courtesy photo