Hotel Havana in San Antonio TX: Review and Closure Update

One reason this hotel stood out to me was its location. Step outside and you’re right near the heart of San Antonio’s historic downtown, but on a quieter stretch of the River Walk with a little more breathing room than some of the busier sections.

It’s also just a short walk from the famous Tobin Center, so it’s a popular go-to spot before a show. Venture a little farther to discover the rich history of San Antonio at the iconic Alamo. Don’t miss the vibrant Pearl District, home to trendy restaurants, lively bars, and a bustling farmers’ market.

With so much to see and do just steps away, this area is still a great part of San Antonio to stay in if you want to be close to the River Walk, downtown attractions, and the Tobin Center.

From the moment you step foot into the lobby, you are greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere that instantly makes you feel at home. Let me tell you, it’s an experience you won’t forget. The vivid colors and rich textures that greet you immediately capture your attention.

Picture this: intricately patterned rugs sprawl across the floor, practically begging you to kick off your shoes and sink your toes into their plush depths. And the lounge space? It’s a feast for the eyes, with chic prints on the walls that whisper stories of days gone by.

Attention to detail in every element of this place is unparalleled. Take, for example, the sunken banquettes, which practically beg you to cozy up with a cocktail and lose track of time. And don’t even get me started on the old-fashioned wooden staircase—it’s like something out of a fairy tale with its rich, dark wood and intricate carvings. It practically begs you to climb to the upper levels and discover what other delights await.

During my stay, the rooms felt beautifully decorated with old-world elegance and thoughtful details throughout. The hotel had a vibrant personality that made it memorable, which is a big part of why I wanted to preserve this review even after the closure.

Related Posts: 19+ Best Things to Do on the San Antonio Riverwalk

One of the highlights of my stay was dining at Ocho, the hotel’s striking glass conservatory restaurant. I’m leaving these notes in place as part of the original experience, but they should be read as part of this archived review rather than current trip-planning advice.

At the time of my stay, Hotel Havana felt like far more than just a place to sleep. It was full of history, personality, and charm, and it easily became one of my most memorable San Antonio hotel experiences.

Sign Up. Be Inspired. Travel.

Experience travel like never before with our exclusive tips, tricks, and recommendations. Join our newsletter for the best advice on making the most of your Texas adventures!

The amenities? They had everything I could wish for, striking that perfect balance between homey comfort and the luxury of being away. The commitment to providing a truly exceptional stay is evident in every detail. From your arrival to your reluctant farewell, the experience is meticulously crafted.

Imagine staying at a place where you get private parking and a team of attentive staff to help you 24/7. You can enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, local and long-distance calls, and sip on delicious complimentary coffee in the lobby every morning from 6:30 AM to 11 AM.

Each of its unique rooms has a distinct vibe, but all come equipped with high ceilings, custom serape robes, light sleepers, and linen bed covers to make your stay extra cozy. You’ll love the original Bastrop pine floors, antique furniture, Turkish rugs, flatscreen TVs, pre-loaded iPod with docks, SMEG refrigerators stocked with mini-bars, and Red Flower toiletries.

Every balcony gives you an incredible view of downtown San Antonio and the River Walk. But the best of all? There’s a hidden speakeasy Havana Bar, located downstairs, where you can sip some of the best cocktails in town.

Related Posts: Fun Things to Do in San Antonio for Adults

And how can we forget the hotel guests visiting with their furry friends? The pet-friendly environment of Hotel Havana is more than just looking forward to welcoming pups of all shapes and sizes for just $25 a night and letting them have a vacation too! Each pup will have its own cozy bed, a bowl to dine in style, a tasty treat to munch on, and a toy to play with.

Discover a retail store at Hotel Havana that genuinely captures the vibrant essence of San Antonio. Step inside, and you’ll find a treasure trove of chic Apparel & Accessories, Apothecaries, and Home & Gifts. Each item embodies a distinct blend of Native American, Mexican, and Spanish influences and the rich folklore of Texas and the American West.

Last but not least, this historic boutique hotel provides a stunning backdrop to celebrate weddings, special events, intimate gatherings, or grand celebrations. With a range of upscale spaces that can accommodate groups of 5 to 150, you’ll find the perfect setting to suit your needs. And with top-notch catering and planning services, you can rest easy knowing every detail will be taken care of.

Before Hotel Havana closed, guests enjoyed a checkout time of noon, with the possibility of extending until 2 PM upon request. I’m leaving these details here for reference, but they’re no longer part of current booking guidance.

Like most hotel pricing, rates used to vary by room type and travel date. Since the property is closed, these prices should only be read as part of the original review.

If you want a current River Walk stay with easy access to major attractions, the Hyatt Regency is the alternative I’d book now.

Each dining and drinking nook at the hotel offers its own unique vibe. Whether you seek a quiet corner for reflection or a lively spot for socializing, you’ll find the perfect setting to complement your culinary adventure.

Culinary Delights at Ocho

Ocho at Hotel Havana was one of the most visually memorable parts of the property during my visit. Nestled in the hotel’s glass-walled conservatory overlooking the River Walk, it brought together a beautiful setting, hanging chandeliers, and blue accents that made it feel special right away.

The menu is inspired by Hotel Havana’s pan-Latin influence and features an array of delectable delights, including the house special – sweet plantain griddle cakes topped with succulent carnitas, cotija cheese, and a generous drizzle of rum piloncillo maple syrup that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more.

They also did a great job incorporating Cuban flavors into traditional dishes with a modern twist, including their Plantain Cakes Con Carnitas, Cuban Hash, and Chilaquiles Oaxaquenos for weekend brunch. The thick cakes, sweet piloncillo syrup, and savory carnitas are the perfect combination.Their Cuban Hummus, Pasta Havana, and Vegetales Del Dia are worth a shot for everyday dinner.

Since Hotel Havana later closed, treat the dining notes in this section as part of the original review rather than current restaurant hours or availability.

Sipping and Chilling at Havana Bar

Voted the Best Hotel Bar by the discerning readers of the San Antonio Current, Havana Bar is a hidden gem tucked in the candlelit basement of Hotel Havana. The bar offers an intimate setting perfect for romantic dates. Sipping on a rotating selection of beer, cocktails, and wine, the historical ambiance steeply envelops you, transporting you to a different era.

Whether you’re a fan of the classics or looking for something with a twist, they’ve got you covered. I found myself savoring a mojito so refreshing, it felt like a cool breeze on a cozy Texan night.

Because the hotel later closed, the bar details here are preserved only as part of the original experience and should not be treated as current operating information.

Related Posts: Restaurants on San Antonio Riverwalk You Need to Check Out

For those planning a trip to Texas during the summer season, it’s essential to have a proper sunhat to battle the scorching heat. If you’re an active person, remember to pack your running shoes, as the River Walk is a picturesque favorite destination for joggers.

With its lush vegetation and calming flowing water, this picturesque location offers the ideal track for a revitalizing morning jog. So, carry your running gear and enjoy a rejuvenating workout amidst nature’s tranquility.

If you’re planning a current River Walk trip, I’d stay at the Hyatt Regency San Antonio River Walk. It keeps you close to the Alamo, downtown restaurants, and the heart of the River Walk, and it’s an easy alternative now that Hotel Havana is no longer operating. You can book it book your stay.

Hotel Havana Review (San Antonio Hotel): Final Thoughts

Hotel Havana was one of those stays that really stuck with me. Even though the property has now closed, I still wanted to preserve what made it memorable: the design, the quieter River Walk setting, and the sense of character that made it feel so different from a standard hotel stay.

From the warm welcomes to the meals at Ocho, it gave me plenty to remember. I wouldn’t treat this page as a current hotel recommendation anymore, but I do think it’s a meaningful snapshot of a distinctive San Antonio property that left an impression.

If you’re planning a trip now and want that same convenient River Walk location, I’d look at the Hyatt Regency San Antonio River Walk as your current stay option, and you can book it book your stay.