San Antonio's favorite historic hotel has earned a new award to add to its trophy case. Hotel Emma has claimed the No. 1 spot in U.S. News & World Report's just-released rankings of the Best Hotels in Texas for 2025 for the second consecutive year.
The 15th annual report by U.S. News analyzes more than 31,000 properties across the United States, Europe, Bermuda, Mexico, Canada and the Caribbean. Hotels are ranked based on industry awards, star ratings, published opinions from travel experts, and online guest reviews.
Hotel Emma continues its reign as the best Texas hotel, while also ranking No. 19 in the publication's national rankings. The historic hotel previously ranked No. 13 nationally in the 2024 report.
Hotel Emma is located in the Historic Pearl district, offering 146 luxurious industrial-style rooms inside a former 19th century brewery. Supper, the hotel's signature restaurant led by executive chef Geronimo Lopez, hotel bar Sternewirth, and Larder, the hotel's deli market, also reside in the same building.
"Visitors marvel at the refined industrial elements featured throughout — particularly in the lobby — and are equally impressed with the quality of the accommodations," Hotel Emma's profile says. "Guests report rooms to be exceptionally styled and comfortable, thanks to amenities like flat-screen TVs, plush beds, Frette linens and luxury bathrobes."
Hotel Emma's February room rates begin at $395 per night.Photo courtesy of U.S. News & World Report
The esteemed hotel has received many top awards of late, including earning 2 Michelin Keys in its inaugural Texas guide. The Two Key status is awarded for uniquely designed hotels that are guaranteed to provide the most memorable and exceptional guest experiences.
Four more San Antonio hotels earned recognition among the top 50 best hotels in Texas, including:
- No. 14 – Thompson San Antonio - Riverwalk
- No. 26 – Hotel Valencia Riverwalk
- No. 36 – Mokara Hotel & Spa
- No. 37 – San Antonio Marriott
The best resorts in TexasIn
U.S. News' separate ranking of the
best Texas resorts for 2025,
La Cantera Resort & Spa ranked No. 7 statewide, the highest out of all San Antonio-area resorts.
Besides its glorious Hill Country views, U.S. News says this luxurious resort is highly valued by guests for its expansive size and its numerous amenities.
"Spread out across 550 acres, the resort boasts an 18-hole golf course, several restaurants, five pools, a fitness center, tennis courts and a spa that spans 25,000 square feet," the resort's profile says. "That list doesn't even include the kids' amenities, which range from a supervised kids club to an on-site arcade."
La Cantera Resort and Spa is a 550-acre Hill Country oasis with a heavy emphasis on relaxation.
La Cantera Resort & Spa/Facebook
However, having a good view may make up for the resort's lofty room prices, according to the publication.
"Rooms are outfitted with Keurig coffee makers, minifridges, bottled water, complimentary Wi-Fi access and in select accommodations, balconies (a perk worth the inflated room rate, according to reviewers)," U.S. News said. "Keep in mind: The hotel charges a daily resort fee that covers resort activities, bottled water, and access to the fitness center and spa, among other amenities."
Other San Antonio-area resorts that ranked among the top 25 include:
- No. 14 – Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
- No. 16 – JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
- No. 21 – Tapatio Springs Hill Country Resort, Boerne
- No. 23 – Riverwalk Plaza Hotel and Suites