Fiesta is in full swing, but there's still time to make a staycation out of it at a top San Antonio hotel. Whether you're looking for something historic along the Battle of Flowers parade route or an upscale experience away from the main crowds, we've rounded up our favorite hotel choices for an unforgettable Fiesta.

The Westin River Walk
Nestled right on the Riverwalk, the Westin is one of your best bets for water-bound Fiesta events such as the Texas Cavaliers Parade. Sure, that already passed this year, but never hurts to make a mental note for 2024, and there are still plenty of reasons to reserve a room for the final weekend. The newly renovated Zocca Cuisine D’Italia is one of them: The gorgeous redesign is worth a visit in itself, and parade or not, there's no better place to people watch on the River Walk than dining al fresco on the lovely patio.

AC Hotel by Marriott/Element by Westin
Two of the newest kids on the block, these two sister hotels opened in late 2022. They both make for an excellent stay: The AC Hotel boasts excellent River Walk views, and the Element's fully equipped kitchens are perfect for both short-term and long-term stays. They both share the decadent 1 Watson rooftop bar, which makes for a pretty fabulous vantage point for the parades, and this weekend's parades will stomp right past the dual property's front porch on Commerce Street.

Thompson San Antonio River Walk
Whether you're looking to party, relax, or enjoy fine dining, the Thompson has you covered. The luxurious spa is one of our favorites in the city, and chef Steve McHugh's menu at Landrace features our current top contender for best steak in Texas. Add the Moon's Daughter's 20th-floor views and you have a strong case for a staycation any time of year, but don't miss the Fiesta parties: On April 28, the hotel will offer family-friendly activities for the day parade with a coffee bar, mimosas, breakfast tacos, and more. And on April 29, the hotel's Fiesta Block Party will feature fun activities, food and drinks, live entertainment, and excellent views of the Flambeau parade, America's largest illuminated parade.

Omni La Mansión del Rio
Another River Walk treasure, the Omni La Mansión del Rio is the perfect place to stay and discover Fiesta. The hotel is still offering a special Fiesta package, which includes luxurious accommodations, complimentary valet parking, and one Omni La Mansion del Rio Fiesta medal per registered adult. Guests will also receive a $25 credit for el Colegio: Commemorating the St Mary's School of Law, which first occupied the space in 1934, the bar's speakeasy vibes pair well with its menu of modern-day takes on classic cocktails from the 1930s and onward.

Hotel Contessa
The Hotel Contessa truly proves that it's never too late to book a last-minute Fiesta stay, with parties and events throughout the coming weekend. For those attending NIOSA, the hotel hosts its NIOSA Back Dock Party At Hotel Contessa daily from 5-9 pm, so guests can stop by before or after the event. There will be a bar, balloon selfie wall, cocktail tables, and a DJ keeping the party going. On April 28, enjoy a Mariachi and Margaritas event to celebrate the Battle of Flowers from 6:30-9 pm at Ambler. April 29 brings Live Music from Chris Cuevas and Live Fire Cooking with Fiesta Flair during the Flambeau Night Parade from 5-9 pm, and April 30 rounds it all out with a Fiesta Brunch featuring live music and a mimosa bar.

The Menger Hotel
There's likely not a better seat in the house for the Battle of the Flowers parade, especially for lovers of the Alamo. Situated right next to the historic site, the Menger is dripping with tradition and nostalgia itself, especially (check out the Menger bar, where Teddy Roosevelt famously recruited the Rough Riders). The hotel also claims the title of oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi, and its architectural grandeur and proximity to the parade route make it a perfect Fiesta stay.

Hotel Valencia
This River Walk hotel kicked off Fiesta celebrations earlier this month with a special tequila-infused pineapple cocktail, the Piña Fresca that is available through April 29, while supplies last. One or two of those is sure to have you considering a last minute stay, and the hotel is offering a special Viva Fiesta package for just such needs. The package includes accommodations for two, complimentary valet parking, and a commemorative 2023 Fiesta medal.

Bonus: Hotel Emma
Hotel Emma is always a good choice, and the signature Pearl property is making sure that San Antonio locals and visitors alike can keep the Fiesta spirit going long after April. Valid through June 21, the Fiesta at Emma package includes a $75 food & beverage credit, ensuring a taste of the extraordinary cuisine from Supper or cocktails inside the original Pearl brewery at Sternewirth. Guests can also enjoy 50 percent off of their third night when booking a two-night stay, as well as complimentary valet parking.

  

Courtesy The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

Zocca Cuisine D’Italia is a perfect River Walk dining (and parade viewing) option.