El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel

Howdy, fellow Texans! When you think of the iconic San Antonio Riverwalk, you might picture the bustling pathways, vibrant restaurants, and charming boats. But did you know there's a hotel with a truly significant place in that history? The El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, located at 110 Lexington Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA, holds the distinction of being San Antonio's original Riverwalk hotel, first opening its doors in 1962. This mid-century modern marvel once hosted dignitaries and celebrities, a true beacon of chic hospitality in its prime.

Currently, the El Tropicano is undergoing a significant transformation. It's in the process of being thoroughly renovated and reimagined to restore its magnificence and transform it into a modern urban resort. This means that while some past guest experiences might reflect a hotel that was due for an upgrade, the future holds exciting promise for a revitalized property. This article will explore the hotel's historical importance, its prime location, the amenities it offers (or will offer), and why this landmark is set to become an even more suitable destination for Texans seeking a unique and comfortable stay in the Alamo City.

The El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel boasts an exceptional location at 110 Lexington Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA. This address places it directly on the banks of the San Antonio Riverwalk, offering guests immediate and unparalleled access to one of Texas's most famous attractions. You can literally step out of the hotel and onto the scenic pathways of the Riverwalk, which means exploring the city's vibrant dining, shopping, and entertainment options is just a stroll away.

While situated on the Riverwalk, it's particularly located on the "Museum Reach" section, which tends to be slightly less crowded than the main tourist core, offering a more tranquil setting. However, it still provides excellent accessibility to key downtown landmarks. The iconic Alamo is within a 15-minute walk, allowing you to easily immerse yourself in Texas history. The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts is just 0.2 miles away, making it incredibly convenient for those attending shows. Other nearby attractions include Travis Park, the San Antonio Majestic Theater, and various museums along the Museum Reach. For those arriving by car, the hotel offers both self-parking (approximately $29-$30 per day) and valet parking (also around $29-$30 per day), both including in/out privileges, which is a valuable amenity in downtown San Antonio. Its central location also ensures good connections to public transportation options, should you wish to explore beyond walking distance.

As the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel undergoes its comprehensive renovation, the scope of its services is being enhanced and modernized. Based on public data and future plans, guests can expect a robust array of amenities typical of a quality urban resort:

• On-site Dining and Bars: The hotel currently features a restaurant, Mangos, which serves breakfast (for a fee). It also has a bar/lounge and a poolside bar. Post-renovation plans indicate the introduction of multiple "signature food and beverage outlets," including a street-front café, a 3-meal restaurant, and an updated pool bar/lounge, significantly expanding dining options.
• Swimming Pool: The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, which will be part of an expansive 8,065 sq. ft. pool deck – projected to be the largest in San Antonio post-renovation.
• Fitness Center & Spa: A health club with a 24-hour fitness center is available. The renovation plans include a 5,000 sq. ft. fitness center and a spa, offering enhanced wellness facilities.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Free high-speed wireless internet access is available in all rooms and public areas, ensuring connectivity for all guests.
• 24-Hour Front Desk and Concierge Services: Staff are available around the clock to assist with check-ins, check-outs, luggage storage, and local recommendations.
• Business Center and Extensive Meeting Facilities: The hotel features a 24-hour business center. The renovation will expand event space to over 16,000 sq. ft., suitable for a wide range of gatherings.
• Parking: Self-parking and valet parking are available on-site for a daily fee.
• Room Amenities: Guest rooms typically include refrigerators, coffee/tea makers, desks, and flat-screen TVs. Post-renovation, these rooms are expected to be fully updated, offering modern comforts and stylish design.
• Daily Housekeeping: Ensures rooms are kept clean and tidy. While past reviews note occasional inconsistencies, the renovation is expected to improve all operational aspects.
• Pet-Friendly Accommodation: The hotel allows dogs for an extra charge (approximately $50 per pet, per stay, for dogs up to 20 lbs). Service animals are exempt from fees.
• Accessible Features: The hotel offers various ADA-compliant features, including wheelchair-accessible parking, public restrooms, and pool, as well as accessible paths of travel.

The El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel holds several compelling features, particularly when considering its ongoing transformation:

• Historic Significance and Mid-Century Modern Charm: Opened in 1962, it was the first hotel built on the San Antonio Riverwalk. This gives it a unique place in the city's history and an undeniable retro charm that sets it apart from newer constructions. The current renovation aims to restore and enhance this unique character while introducing modern luxuries.
• Prime Riverwalk Location: Its direct placement on the Riverwalk is a major draw, offering unparalleled access to the city's main attraction, including scenic views and convenient walks to dining, shopping, and entertainment. The upcoming new staircase connecting directly to the Riverwalk will further enhance this.
• Extensive Renovation and Future Vision: The most significant highlight is its current multi-million-dollar "full rehabilitation and restoration." Acquired by Trestle Studio in December 2023, the project will transform it into a "modern urban resort" with 315 updated guest rooms, a significantly expanded pool deck (poised to be the largest in San Antonio), new food and beverage outlets, a larger fitness center and spa, and exterior improvements including a new river-level deck. The hotel is expected to reopen in 2026.
• Unique Pool Deck: The planned 8,065 sq. ft. pool deck will be a major feature, offering ample space for relaxation and enjoyment by the water, unlike many other downtown hotels with smaller pool areas.
• Potential for Enhanced Service: While past reviews have noted inconsistencies in service or maintenance (e.g., housekeeping, bathroom smells, staff demeanor), the comprehensive renovation, new ownership, and vision to become a "world-class destination" suggest a renewed focus on exceptional guest experiences and professional service.
• Pet-Friendly Policy: Its welcoming policy for pets (with a fee) makes it a viable option for Texans who wish to travel with their furry companions.

It’s crucial for potential guests to understand that this is a hotel in transition. While the future promises a magnificent property, those staying during or immediately after the renovation might encounter ongoing adjustments as the hotel finds its new rhythm. However, the commitment to restoring its grandeur is evident.

As the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel moves through its renovation and towards its grand reopening, specific long-term promotions may evolve. However, based on typical hotel practices and its future positioning, Texans should look for the following types of offers:

• Grand Reopening Specials: Upon its projected reopening in 2026, expect special introductory rates or packages to celebrate its revitalization. These could include discounted room rates, F&B credits, or other perks.
• Advanced Booking Discounts: Hotels often offer lower rates for guests who book their stays well in advance.
• Seasonal Packages: As a resort-style destination, the hotel is likely to introduce seasonal packages coinciding with San Antonio's popular events, holidays, or summer travel.
• Extended Stay Offers: For those planning longer visits to San Antonio, look for promotions that offer reduced rates for booking multiple consecutive nights.
• Loyalty Program Integration: While not currently affiliated with a major chain loyalty program, a fully renovated property may seek such an affiliation in the future, which would open up member-exclusive rates and benefits.
• Direct Booking Incentives: Hotels often provide the best rates and sometimes additional perks (like free parking or F&B credits) for guests who book directly through their official website or phone.

It's highly advisable to monitor the hotel's official website (once updated with post-renovation information) and check major travel booking sites closer to its reopening for the most current and specific offers. Calling the hotel directly will also provide insights into any available deals.

For inquiries, updates on the renovation, or future booking information for the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, you can use the following details:

• Address: 110 Lexington Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205, USA
• Phone: (210) 222-2008
• Mobile Phone: +1 210-222-2008

It's worth noting that the phone number provided for "El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel" in the initial information, (210) 222-2008, is the same as the one provided for Hotel Havana. This might indicate an old contact or a shared management group. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, checking recent public listings or the hotel's evolving official web presence will be key.

For Texans looking for a truly unique and historically significant place to stay in San Antonio, the El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel, especially post-renovation, is poised to be an exceptional choice. Its status as the original Riverwalk hotel imbues it with a sense of place and character that newer hotels simply can't replicate. The ongoing, extensive rehabilitation signifies a strong commitment to transforming it into a top-tier urban resort, complete with an expanded pool deck, enhanced dining options, and modernized guest rooms, all while preserving its iconic mid-century modern aesthetic.

This revitalization means that while past experiences might have been mixed, the future promises a hotel that combines prime Riverwalk access with a high level of comfort and amenities. For locals, it offers an opportunity to reconnect with a piece of San Antonio's rich past while enjoying all the contemporary luxuries. Whether you're seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a luxurious staycation, the El Tropicano's unique charm and forthcoming enhancements will make it a compelling destination for Texans seeking an unforgettable experience right in the heart of the Alamo City.