Alyssa
As one of the largest cities in the United States, you could spend days upon days exploring all of the subcultures that reside here. We’ve spent many years on the opposite side of town for the mere reason that downtown was “too far of a drive”. This is completely understandable, especially when you find yourself on the outskirts of 1604. When we started Twenty Something SA, Jacqueline and I decided to toss our comfort zones aside; no part of the city was off limits, especially downtown. As we began driving to and from, we thought to ourselves, “We should vacation here – a staycation, perhaps.” And the staycation was born. This weekend we kicked off our first staycation at the Hilton Palacio del Rio.
Western decor, bright colors and modernized architecture make up the upscale Hilton Palacio del Rio. Located at 200 S. Alamo St., we found ourselves in the middle of downtown San Antonio with Houston St. only a couple blocks away and the infamous River Walk below us.
Originally built in 1968, the Hilton Palacio del Rio was built in an impressive 202 days with all rooms being constructed several miles away and put together one by one, as if it were a massive lego project. Complete with carpeting, furniture and television sets, modular rooms were constructed and lifted by cranes to create the 21-story hotel. In 2011, renovations began to upgrade and modernize rooms, even the very suite we sit in today.
Jacqueline and I arrived to the hotel with happiness flowing through our veins. We fully intended on having an amazing vacation and overall experience in our hometown. When we walked into our room, we were greeted with a bottle of Cabernet and the most beautiful cheese plate, which didn’t last very long at all. Thank you, Hilton Palacio del Rio!
The bedroom featured two, double beds with swivel lights in between, one full length mirror, a granite table and an amazing view of the San Antonio skyline.
Even the bathroom was picturesque! With round sinks, you really can’t go wrong. Outside of the bedroom was a large room with a dining room table, a kitchen complete with a microwave, kitchen and Keurig, and an inviting seating area. Did we mention the patios? Gorgeous views in every direction.
Once we drifted down from the clouds, we ventured out into the world of downtown San Antonio and walked to Main Plaza, Travis Park and even took a stroll along the River Walk. Everything was walking distance, but you can always take VIA’s E route back to your hotel of choice, especially if you’re exploring on a San Antonio, summer day.
Fast forward to 9 a.m. and Jacqueline and I woke up well rested and still exhilarated from our first staycation in downtown San Antonio. The breakfast buffet exceeded our expectations – fresh berries, pastries, bacon, sausage, bagels, muffins, omelets, pancakes, waffles and of course, coffee. Can we wake up to this every morning?
We want to know – will you be taking a staycation in San Antonio?