River Walk Lodging
Stunning River Walk property books opening date for first of 2 new hotels
San Antonio is set to welcome a stunning new River Walk property this fall, and it's a two-for-one. In a press release on Monday, September 12, Winston Hotels LLC announced a slated opening date of October 6 for AC by Marriott and, later this year, Element by Westin.
Previously a mixed-use office space at 111 Soledad St., the property will become fully renovated, upscale home for the two hotels, as well as a new rooftop bar and lounge, 1 Watson. Overlooking the River Walk and across the street from Main Plaza and the San Fernando Cathedral, the hotels are walking distance to some of Alamo City's best downtown attractions.
While Element by Westin and 1 Watson are slated for later this year, AC by Marriott is set to open its doors within a matter of weeks. Featuring 181 rooms and occupying floors 13-20 of the building, the AC hotel will offer stunning views of the River Walk, downtown San Antonio, Hemisfair Park, and the Texas Hill Country.
“We are eager to open the doors of this modern, design driven hotel,” said Michael Dunbar, Marriott AC and Element by Westin General Manager, in the release. “Perfectly poised in downtown San Antonio, AC by Marriott will present business and leisure travelers with a new and enticing place of stay.”
A full-service bar in the first floor lobby will feature soaring, double-height ceilings; expansive wrap-around windows; and custom overhead lighting. Contemporary finishes and warm, wood tones pay homage to the region, playing with the light neutrals incorporated throughout the space.
The ultimate goal for the ongoing renovation is to preserve the original building's historical character while updating the property with modern design details for the contemporary traveler. Once both hotels are open, the property will employ approximately 150 individuals, encompassing nearly 300,000 square feet for a total project investment surpassing $100 million.
“AC by Marriott is a refreshing, revitalizing addition to downtown San Antonio, repurposing and adding value to existing infrastructure while providing an exciting point of interest to draw even more visitors to this pulsing, historic city,” said Dunbar.
The two hotels will share several amenities, including 4,000 square feet of meeting and event space; an 1,800-square foot fitness center; and the 14th-floor rooftop bar and lounge.
