By Christie Leman
Located in the heart of historic downtown
San Antonio, Texas the San Fernando Cathedral plays a major role in the city's Catholic culture. Not only does the San Fernando Cathedral date from the 1730s and hold the title as the oldest cathedral in the U.S., it still remains the focal point of the predominantly Catholic city and is the seat of the archbishop of San Antonio. Visitors to downtown San Antonio have many options when it comes to accommodations close to the cathedral, as there are many 4 star hotels near the San Fernando Cathedral.
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
Just a block away and situated conveniently on the Riverwalk, the Drury Plaza Hotel is a centrally located hotel near the San Fernando Cathedral. Housed in the former Alamo Bank, the hotel is a national landmark that has been renovated to appeal to modern visitors while still maintaining its historical elegance. Features of the Drury include the lobby replete with stained glass windows and 50 feet ceilings, a free hot breakfast and evening beverage reception, indoor and outdoor pools, fitness center and business center. Rates begin at $130 a night.
105 South St Mary's Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205
Tel: (210) 270-7799
www.druryhotels.com/PropertyOverview.aspx?Property=0130
Omni La Mansion del Rio
The Omni La Mansion del Rio holds a place as one of the most acclaimed hotels in San Antonio. Just two blocks from the cathedral, this hotel features a grand hacienda style with antique furnishings and balconies either overlooking the river, the interior courtyard or the city in every room. Rates begin at $200 a night.
112 College Street
San Antonio, TX 78205
Tel: (210) 518-1000
www.omnihotels.com/FindAHotel/SanAntonioLaMansionDelRio.aspx
Sheraton Gunter Hotel
Another historic hotel near the San Fernando Cathedral, the Sheraton Gunter Hotel was built in 1909 and is just two blocks away from the cathedral. Featured amenities of the Sheraton Gunter include an old-fashioned barber shop, business center, outdoor pool, the acclaimed Gunter Bakery with pastries and sweet treats, a casual/elegant full service restaurant and a pub. Room rates at the Sheraton Gunter begin at $110 a night.
205 East Houston Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205
Tel: (888) 999-2089
www.gunterhotel.com
The Westin Riverwalk
Situated directly on the Riverwalk, the Westin Riverwalk is an elegant hotel near the San Fernando Cathedral. Also just 2 blocks away from the cathedral, the Westin features 450 guest rooms with marble baths, luxurious beds, a garden terrace, a fitness center, full service Mexican restaurant, cigar and cocktail bar, and onsite bakery. Nightly rates begin at $150.
420 W. Market Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205
Tel: (210) 224-6500
www.starwoodhotels.com/westin
The Watermark Hotel and Spa
For a luxurious, top-rated hotel near the San Fernando Cathedral, many visitors look no further than the acclaimed Watermark Hotel and Spa. Just over two blocks from the cathedral, the Watermark offers a peaceful, luxurious environment with amenities including marble bathrooms, wrought-iron four-poster beds, renowned spa facilities, rooftop pool and cafe, and the fine dining Pesca on the Riverwalk restaurant. Room rates start at $300 per night.
212 W. Crockett Street
San Antonio, Texas 78205
Tel: (866) 605-1212
www.watermarkhotel.com
About the Author:
Christie Leman is a public educator who has been writing informative articles on a variety of topics for five years. Her articles have appeared on several websites, including eHow, Associated Content and Examiner.com. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish and history from Texas A&M University and is a certified Texas teacher.
