Retro-Glam Hotel Overlooks Popular River Walk

Nicknamed the “Texas Whitehouse” during President Johnson’s time in office, the historic El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel has also hosted such stars as Rock Hudson, Julie Andrews, Dolly Parton, and the Rolling Stones since opening in 1962. Palm fronds wave lazily in the breezy, open-air lobby of this chic vacation spot, which maintains a sleek '60s retro vibe and surprises visitors with its easy-to-stroll location. Pulling up under the sunny grand main entrance, Groupon customers may park with in-and-out privileges in the on-site lot. Inside, bright red, mod leather couches and spotless, white tile floors guide those checking in toward the Expresso Bar off the main lobby. From the terrace, guests can glimpse the bustling River Walk below between frothy latte sips and breaths of complimentary air.

Lodgers make their way to their choice of recently redecorated rooms for the night—either a king bedroom with San Antonio River views, a room with two full beds on the poolside, a king tower room, or a tower room with two full beds. With all options, red plush coverlets tempt tired toes onto cushy beds, and free WiFi and a 25-inch TV with premium channels make a solid case for staying in for the night.

Venturing outside the rooms, travelers discover tongue-in-cheek tropical beach décor, an expansive heated outdoor pool with dive-in movies shown during splash sessions, a well-appointed fitness center, and the Tiki Bar lounge overlooking the river and serving up fruity libations. Though this Groupon does not include alcohol, it comes with a hot breakfast buffet for two, silencing plaintive bellies with veritable mountains of eggs, hash browns, breakfast meats, and pastries. A local trolley smoothly transports guests to the River Walk for $1.10 per person, aiding in the search to soak up local sites just beyond the hotel grounds.

San Antonio’s River Walk: Stylish Promenade Steps from History

El Tropicano lords over the bustling downtown River Walk, an area packed with restaurants and shops and noted for its walkability. Lodgers wandering out the hotel's front doors will find themselves suddenly shaded by cool, leafy branches hanging over the river, greening up an already-picturesque walk dotted with arching stone bridges and gently lapping water. History buffs can visit the nearby site of the Battle of the Alamo or check out the plethora of quirkier museums in the area.

The River Walk's restaurants cling to the very edges of the water, adding eye-popping color to strolls with dazzling hanging lights, bright umbrellas, and the chance to eavesdrop on gossiping mermaids. Diners can pop into a casual eatery for fresh seafood on an outdoor patio or grab drinks in a cozy wine bar on the way to hear live music at one of the neighborhood's many venues.

Though there's no shortage of activities accessible by foot, the nearby downtown neighborhoods of San Antonio are worth exploring, especially for lovers of the Old West. A quest for custom cowboy hats and boots in mind make for an inimitable San Antonian day of shopping.

Though El Tropicano Riverwalk Hotel sometimes features a discounted price online, this Groupon still offers the best deal available.