Fodor's Expert Review Omni La Mansión del Rio

Originally built as a school in 1852 and then converted to a hotel for the HemisFair, the 1968 World's Fair, today the Omni La Mansión del Rio is replete inside and out with Spanish tiles, archways, exposed beams, and soft, earthy tones. Many rooms share balconies or verandas looking out on the River Walk, and some have private balconies—be sure to request a river-view room. Location is a big selling point for this hotel, on a quiet section of the river but still within easy walking distance of the entertainment district. Some rooms feature River Walk views; others have a view of the lush European-style courtyard with fountains and native foliage. The excellent on-site Las Canarias restaurant is right on the River Walk. El Colegio bar is a cozy, welcoming spot with a good selection of offerings. Omni La Mansión del Rio is a sister property to the Mokara Hotel & Spa across the river—they share valet parking, the excellent Mokara spa, and the popular Ostra restaurant.