Tucked away at the south end of downtown and set on 6 palm-studded acres, this hotel feels like an island of tranquillity, though it’s convenient to the convention center and River Walk attractions. It incorporates four 19th-century buildings, saved from the bulldozer in 1968 during the creation of nearby Hemisfair Park; one houses the hotel’s health club and spa, the others are offices and conference centers. The hotel is scheduled for a remodel—the guest quarters and public areas look a little tired—but rooms are larger than the norm and most come with a balcony overlooking the hotel’s manicured grounds, including a croquet lawn.