Downtown San Antonio hotels tend to be short on nice spas, but Mokara has one of the best in the area. In fact, everything about this centrally located River Walk hotel—it’s close to downtown’s three major theaters and several fine dining venues—feels peaceful and restorative: From the moment you enter the lobby, the soft palette of vanilla hues, natural wood, and white limestone creates a sense of calm. An overstuffed leather couch pays tribute to the building’s past: It was once a saddlery. Rooms are comfortably sophisticated, with high ceilings, luxe bedding, oversize bathrooms with jetted tubs and separate showers, and touches of a Texan leather-and-wood aesthetic; many have balconies overlooking the River Walk. A small rooftop cafe and pool is another pleasant place to relax, while the state-of-the art fitness room will let you work off any residual stress. Ostra offers excellent seafood, including an oyster bar, in a sleek modern room with some outdoor tables overlooking the river. One of the perks of staying here is that guests have charging privileges at sister property Omni La Mansión del Río hotel, directly across the river from Mokara.