Reopening San Antonio

Hill Country resort opens limited lazy river day passes for locals

The resort is opening limited passes for SA locals.

Photo courtesy of Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa

If the dog days of summer seem particularly brutal this year, you're not alone. One Hill Country resort is making them a bit more bearable with the return of its popular day-pass program.

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, located about 15 miles west of downtown San Antonio, is now offering limited day passes for residents, giving access to some of the resort's most popular attractions. Those looking to beat the heat can choose from one of two day pass options for use Mondays through Thursdays.

The general day pass is priced at $75 per person and includes access to the Hyatt Regency's expansive, five-acre water park. Pass holders can float the 950-foot lazy river, modeled after the Guadalupe; coast down the two-story waterslide; and take a dip in multiple pools, including an adults-only section with a waterfall jacuzzi.

Those really looking for a full vacation experience can purchase the cabana pass for $600. The pass includes the same water park access as the general option, but for up to six people, as well as access to the resort's premium cabanas. In addition to offering much needed shade, each cabana comes equipped with a flat-screen TV and other perks, such as a safe and refrigerator stocked with water and fruit. Chairs and umbrellas are also provided.

In addition to water features, guests with either pass can take advantage of complimentary bike rides, a beach volleyball court, free parking, and access to the property's two restaurants. According to a release, each eatery has installed Plexiglass barriers and is set up for a contactless experience. Poolside drink and food delivery is also available.

“We are excited to offer day pass options to our beautiful Hill Country resort,” said Joe Herman, the resort's director of spa and recreation. “The day pass options allow local guests to enjoy all of the benefits of a resort getaway without having to stay overnight."

Resident day passes are limited depending on the number of overnight guests, so make sure to book before heading to the four-star resort. Both the pools and cabanas are open from 8 am to 8 pm.

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Airline News

San Antonio gets nonstop flights to this Washington, DC airport

Photo courtesy of American Airlines

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American Airlines will soon introduce long-awaited nonstop flights between San Antonio (SAT) and Washington, D.C. (DCA). One flight will be scheduled daily, starting in March.

Tickets for the new service will be available on sale starting December 23 through aa.com or American’s mobile app.

The route was tentatively announced in October, but the U.S. Department of Transportation has now formally approved the application by American Airlines.

“This new service will offer convenient nonstop access to our nation’s capital for San Antonians, while helping further connect customers to our comprehensive global network," said Brian Znotins, American’s Senior Vice President of Network and Schedule Planning, in a press release. "American thanks the many elected officials and citizens who supported our application, and we look forward to welcoming customers onboard this new service soon.”

Flight 1718, reflecting the year San Antonio was founded, will depart SAT at 6:35 am and arrive in DCA at 10:41 am. Flight 1947, reflecting the year the U.S. Air Force was established, will depart DCA at 7:45 pm and arrive in SAT at 10:43 pm.

“This long-awaited connection to our nation’s capital is a game changer for our community, opening doors to countless opportunities for travel and economic development,” said San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg. “I’m grateful to those who have championed this effort and for the bipartisan support of our representatives in the Senate and House, whose advocacy was instrumental in making these flights a reality. We look forward to the positive impact this nonstop service will have for years to come."

San Antonio City Manager Erik Walsh echoed the sentiments about economic development and pointed out some growth already happening in San Antonio. The release also notes that San Antonio is the largest city in Texas lacking nonstop service to DCA and the largest city in the U.S. with a majority Hispanic population without nonstop service to DCA.

“Serving the fastest-growing city in the country, SAT has achieved record-breaking passenger numbers throughout 2024. This nonstop service to and from DCA addresses a need for our military, business, educational and research communities, among others. It also promotes competition and offers more travel options for passengers flying to and from San Antonio, enhancing connectivity as we continue making progress on the airport Terminal Development Program.”

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