New Customer FREE First Night of Boarding!
Rebate applied when you select activities. Discount applies to first time clients, is subject to availability and can't be combined with other offers. Discounts not available during the holidays.
Planning a trip to San Antonio with your dog? You’re in good company. With its warm climate, walkable historic districts, and dog-friendly River Walk, San Antonio is one of the most pet-welcoming cities in Texas, and there are plenty of hotels happy to accommodate your four-legged companion.
But not every trip is a good fit for a pet-friendly hotel in San Antonio. Between weight limits, unattended-pet rules, and attractions that don’t allow dogs, traveling pet parents often find themselves wishing they had a better option for at least part of the trip. That’s where our professional dog boarding comes in.
This guide covers the top pet-friendly hotels in San Antonio, what to expect from pet policies and fees, dog-friendly things to do around the city, and when dog boarding at Four Paws Inn is the smarter choice for you and your pup.
Top Pet-Friendly Hotels in San Antonio, TX
San Antonio has more than 350 pet-friendly hotels across a wide range of price points, but they aren’t all created equal. Pet fees range from free to over $125 per stay, weight limits vary, and some properties won’t let you leave your dog alone in the room at all. Here’s an honest look at the best options near the River Walk and downtown.
| Hotel | Pet Fee | Weight/Pet Limit | Unattended Pets? | Best For |
| Kimpton Santo San Antonio Riverwalk | No fee | Any size, dogs + cats | Check at booking | Luxury with zero pet fees |
| Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk | No additional charge | Max 2 pets per room | Check at booking | Modern luxury, rooftop bar |
| Hotel Valencia Riverwalk | Pet fee applies | Dogs welcome | Check at booking | Upscale stay directly on the River Walk |
| Hotel Indigo San Antonio Riverwalk | $50 per stay | 2 pets, any size | Yes, if crated | Boutique style, Museum Reach |
| Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk | $75 per stay | 2 pets up to 80 lbs | Yes | Historic boutique near the Alamo |
| Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk | $50 + tax per night | 2 pets, 80 lbs combined | No | Free breakfast, central location |
| The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk | $60 per stay | 2 dogs, 40 lbs each | Check at booking | Historic property, complimentary pet treats |
| The Menger Hotel | $125 per stay | All pets welcome | No | History buffs — right next to the Alamo |
| La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown | Nightly fee | 2 pets per room | Check at booking | Budget-friendly, multiple SA locations |
| Red Roof PLUS+ Downtown Riverwalk | 1st pet free, 2nd $15/night | 2 pets up to 80 lbs | Check at booking | Best budget option downtown |
Fees and policies as of 2026 — confirm directly with the hotel before booking.
Kimpton Santo San Antonio Riverwalk
Pet Fee: No fee
Weight/Pet Limit: Max 2 pets per room
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Luxury with zero pet fees
Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk
Pet Fee: No additional charge
Weight/Pet Limit: Max 2 pets per room
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Modern luxury
- Rooftop bar
Hotel Valencia Riverwalk
Pet Fee: Pet fee applies
Weight/Pet Limit: Dogs welcome
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Upscale stay directly on the River Walk
Hotel Indigo San Antonio Riverwalk
Pet Fee: $50 per stay
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 pets, Any size
Unattended Pets?: Yes, if crated
- Boutique style
- Museum Reach
Hotel Gibbs Downtown Riverwalk
Pet Fee: $75 per stay
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 pets up to 80 lbs
Unattended Pets?: Yes
- Historic boutique near the Alamo
Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk
Pet Fee: $50 + tax per night
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 pets, 80 lbs combined
Unattended Pets?: No
- Free breakfast
- central location
The Gunter Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
Pet Fee: $60 per stay
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 dogs, 40 lbs each
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Historic property
- Complimentary pet treats
The Menger Hotel
Pet Fee: $125 per stay
Weight/Pet Limit: All pets welcome
Unattended Pets?: No
- History buffs — right next to the Alamo
La Quinta Inn & Suites Downtown
Pet Fee: Nightly fee
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 pets per room
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Budget-friendly
- Multiple SA locations
Red Roof PLUS+ Downtown Riverwalk
Pet Fee: 1st pet free, 2nd $15/night
Weight/Pet Limit: 2 pets up to 80 lbs
Unattended Pets?: Check at booking
- Best budget option downtown
Fees and policies as of 2026 — confirm directly with the hotel before booking.
Pet-Friendly Hotel Highlights
Best for luxury without pet fees: Kimpton Santo San Antonio Riverwalk. Part of the IHG family and famously pet-forward — dogs of any size are allowed for no additional fee, with food and water bowls provided. Cats are welcome too.
Best for modern style: Thompson San Antonio – Riverwalk. A newer luxury property at the north end of the River Walk with a trendy rooftop bar, in-house spa, and signature restaurant. Pets are allowed at no additional charge, with a request of no more than two pets per room.
Best for the classic River Walk experience: Hotel Valencia Riverwalk. Sits directly on the river with upscale amenities, a full-service spa, and 24-hour room service. Hotel Valencia is well-known among traveling pet parents for going the extra mile.
Best historic stay: The Menger Hotel. Established in 1859 right next to the famous Alamo, the Menger welcomes all pets with a non-refundable pet fee of $125 per pet, per stay — but pets may not be left unattended. Plan your day around your dog if you book here.
Best for budgets: Red Roof PLUS+ Downtown Riverwalk. One well-behaved domestic pet stays free, with a second pet at $15 per night (capped at $105 per stay), and pets up to 80 pounds are welcome.
What to Watch Out For
Before you book any pet-friendly hotel in San Antonio, ask these questions:
- Can my dog be left alone in the room? Many hotels require pets to be with you or crated at all times. This rules out long days at SeaWorld, Six Flags, or even a long dinner downtown.
- What’s the actual total fee? Some properties charge per stay ($50-$125), others per night, and a few add a cleaning fee on top.
- Is there a weight limit? Several downtown hotels cap pets at 40 lbs (Gunter) or 80 lbs (Hotel Gibbs, Drury, Red Roof).
- Are there grassy potty areas on-site? Downtown properties often don’t have one, so you’ll be walking your dog to the nearest median or small park.
- Is housekeeping flexible? Most hotels require pets crated during housekeeping, even if your dog has never been crated at home.
Dog-Friendly Things to Do in San Antonio with Your Pup
One of the best things about San Antonio is how easy it is to bring your dog along for the day. With a warm climate, walkable historic districts, and a culture built around outdoor dining, the city makes it simple to plan an itinerary your pup can join. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy San Antonio together:
Stroll the San Antonio River Walk
The River Walk is San Antonio’s signature attraction and one of the most dog-friendly urban paths in Texas. Leashed dogs are welcome along nearly 15 miles of paved walkways.
- Downtown stretch: The most iconic section, lined with restaurants and shops. Best in the early morning or evening when crowds are lighter and the pavement is cooler.
- Museum Reach: A quieter stretch heading north toward the Pearl District, with public art installations, shaded paths, and fewer tourists.
- Mission Reach: Eight miles of restored riverbank trails connecting the historic Spanish missions. The least crowded option and a favorite for longer walks.
Explore the Pearl District
Just north of downtown, the Pearl is one of San Antonio’s most pet-welcoming neighborhoods. The open plazas, weekend farmers market, and patio-heavy restaurant scene make it an easy half-day with your dog.
- The Pearl Farmers Market (Saturdays and Sundays) is dog-friendly and one of the best in Texas
- Bakery Lorraine has a generous outdoor patio where well-behaved pups are welcome
- Southerleigh and several other Pearl restaurants offer patio seating that accommodates dogs
- The open lawns and plazas are perfect for a break between stops
Wander Historic Districts
Some of the most charming parts of San Antonio are best experienced on foot, which means your dog gets to come along.
- King William Historic District: Tree-lined streets, 19th-century mansions, and a relaxed pace
- La Villita: A historic arts village near the River Walk with cobblestone paths and outdoor courtyards
- Alamo Plaza: While the Alamo’s interior doesn’t allow pets, the outdoor grounds and surrounding plaza are dog-friendly
Shop and Dine Outdoors
San Antonio’s warm-weather culture means most outdoor shopping centers and restaurant patios welcome four-legged guests:
- The Shops at La Cantera — open-air shopping with several pet-friendly stores and patios
- Hemisfair — a downtown urban space with outdoor seating and patio dining at The Yard
- Southtown — the artsy neighborhood south of downtown with eclectic shops and dog-welcoming cafes
Planning a Holiday Visit?
If you’re traveling to San Antonio during the holiday season, the city becomes especially festive and there’s plenty to enjoy with your pup. Check out our guide to dog-friendly things to do in San Antonio for the holidays for festive walks, seasonal events, and the best spots to soak up the holiday spirit with your dog.
Top San Antonio Attractions That Don’t Allow Pets
While San Antonio is wonderfully dog-friendly, some of its most popular attractions aren’t. If your itinerary includes any of these, you’ll need a safe place for your dog during the day:
- The Alamo interior (outdoor grounds are dog-friendly, but the historic building isn’t)
- SeaWorld San Antonio
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas
- Natural Bridge Caverns
- Most museum interiors, including the Briscoe Western Art Museum, the McNay Art Museum, and the San Antonio Museum of Art
- The San Antonio Zoo (service animals only)
- Most theaters and live performance venues, including the Majestic Theatre and Tobin Center
When a Pet-Friendly Hotel Works and When Boarding Is Better
Pet-friendly hotels are great for some trips and stressful for others. Here’s a quick way to figure out which option fits your visit:
Choose a Pet-Friendly Hotel If:
- It’s a short trip (1-2 nights) with a dog-friendly itinerary
- Your dog is calm, older, and comfortable in new environments
- You’ll be with your dog most of the day
- You don’t mind navigating pet fees, weight limits, and unattended-pet rules
- Your sightseeing plans focus on the River Walk, patios, and outdoor areas
Choose Boarding If:
- Your itinerary includes attractions that don’t allow pets (Alamo interior, SeaWorld, Six Flags, museums, theaters)
- You’ll be out of the room for long stretches
- Your dog is high-energy and needs exercise and stimulation
- Your dog gets anxious in unfamiliar environments
- You’d rather enjoy your trip than plan around your dog’s needs
Why Boarding Often Beats a Hotel Stay
Pet-friendly hotels are designed to allow pets, not to care for them. Here’s what that looks like in practice:
- Limited space and no room to exercise. Most hotel rooms aren’t built with pets in mind. With little room to move and no dedicated play areas, active dogs can spend long stretches of the day restless and bored.
- Hidden fees and unexpected costs. That “pet-friendly” label often comes with a price. Nightly pet fees, refundable deposits, and cleaning charges can add up quickly and aren’t always clearly disclosed at booking.
- Strict policies against leaving pets alone. Many hotels prohibit guests from leaving their dogs unattended in rooms, which can make it nearly impossible to enjoy San Antonio’s restaurants, attractions, and entertainment.
- No hands-on care or attention. Hotel staff are there to serve human guests, not to walk, play with, or monitor your dog. That means no structured activity, no wellness checks, and none of the personalized interaction your dog is used to.
- A stressful environment for your pet. Unfamiliar surroundings, loud hallways, and a disrupted routine can leave dogs anxious and unsettled.
Boarding at a facility like Four Paws Inn eliminates all of these concerns, giving your dog a safe, structured, and enjoyable experience while you make the most of your trip.
Why Choose Four Paws Inn for Dog Boarding in San Antonio?
Located just minutes from San Antonio in Converse, TX, Four Paws Inn has been family owned and operated for nearly two decades and it shows in every detail of the care we provide. Here’s why pet parents choose Four Paws Inn over a pet-friendly hotel:
- Spacious, comfortable accommodations. Dogs enjoy climate-controlled suites with soft bedding, classical music, and all the comforts of home — a far cry from a standard hotel room.
- Customized activity packages. From group play in three acres of secure, grassy yards to one-on-one individual play and special senior pet packages, every dog gets enrichment that matches their personality and energy level.
- Expert, certified staff. Team members are trained in pet first aid and CPR, conduct daily five-point wellness checks, and provide attentive room-service-style care throughout each dog’s stay.
- State-of-the-art facility. Advanced security, cleaning, and air filtration systems keep the environment safe, fresh, and healthy for every guest.
- All dogs welcome. Four Paws Inn accommodates dogs of all breeds, ages, and medical conditions, including seniors, special needs pets, and dogs that are not spayed or neutered.
- Veterinarian recommended. The quality of care at Four Paws Inn has earned the trust of local vets and hundreds of happy pet parents across the San Antonio area.
New Customer FREE First Night of Boarding!
Rebate applied when you select activities. Discount applies to first time clients, is subject to availability and can't be combined with other offers. Discounts not available during the holidays.
Other Services We Offer:
Cat Boarding
Near San Antonio, TX
Cats have their own set of needs, habits, and personalities and at Four Paws Inn, we’ve built our cattery with all of that in mind. Our dedicated cat boarding area is fully climate-controlled for year-round comfort and completely separate from the dog areas of the facility, so your feline friend can relax in a calm, quiet environment all their own.
Here’s what your cat can expect during their stay:
- Choose between cozy condos with glass fronts or open designs to best suit your cat’s comfort level and personality
- Spacious condos that can be connected to keep multi-cat households together during their stay
- Soft bedding and toys provided so your cat feels settled and right at home from day one
- Feeding and litter areas are kept completely separate to maintain a clean and hygienic space
- Litter boxes are cleaned and refreshed four times daily to ensure a consistently fresh environment
- An external ventilation system helps eliminate odors and keep the air clean throughout the cattery
- Meals are served twice daily, with free-feeding available if that’s what your cat prefers. We recommend bringing your cat’s regular food to keep their diet consistent, though we’re happy to provide high-quality nutrition at no extra cost if needed
Dog Daycare
Near San Antonio, TX
Dog daycare at Four Paws Inn is anything but ordinary. With hours of outdoor play, socialization, and stimulating activities, your pup will head home at the end of the day happily exhausted and ready to curl up right beside you.
- Three acres of fully fenced, natural grass give your dog plenty of room to run, explore, and burn off energy to their heart’s content
- Covered and well-lit pavilions mean the fun keeps going no matter what the weather brings
- A wide selection of toys and play equipment keeps dogs engaged, entertained, and active throughout the day
- All playgroups are thoughtfully matched and closely supervised by our trained staff to ensure every dog has a safe and enjoyable experience
- Each new dog goes through a thorough behavioral assessment before joining the group, so every pup — and every pet parent — can feel confident from day one
- Prefer a more personal touch? Our one-on-one daycare option gives dogs who love human attention the dedicated, individualized interaction they enjoy most
Dog Grooming
Near San Antonio, TX
Your dog deserves a little luxury and at Four Paws Inn’s Paw Spa, that’s exactly what they’ll get. Our skilled groomers combine modern techniques with a gentle, stress-free approach to leave your pup looking and feeling their absolute best. From fully customizable bath packages to an array of individual salon services, we tailor every appointment to your dog’s specific needs.
Here’s what our grooming menu includes:
- Full-service grooming, “The Works” packages, and both deluxe and basic bath options to suit every dog and every budget
- Specialty add-ons including nail trimming, ear cleaning, and de-matting services
- Health-focused grooming designed to support the long-term condition of your dog’s skin, coat, and paws
- Special discounts available for first-time clients and military families
- Fully customizable grooming options so every visit is built around what your individual pet needs most
About San Antonio, TX
San Antonio is one of Texas’s most beloved travel destinations, and it’s easy to see why pet parents keep adding it to their must-visit list. The iconic River Walk stretches nearly 15 miles through the heart of the city, offering plenty of pet-friendly paths, outdoor dining patios, and open-air spaces perfect for exploring with your four-legged companion. The Pearl District — one of San Antonio’s trendiest neighborhoods — is packed with outdoor restaurants, weekend farmers markets, and open plazas where well-behaved dogs are a welcome sight.
For pet parents who want to explore everything San Antonio has to offer, the city’s warm climate and outdoor-centric culture make it an ideal destination year-round. From waterfront strolls to pet-friendly patios serving up world-class Texas cuisine, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the city alongside your pup. And when your itinerary calls for attractions that aren’t quite pet-friendly — like the Alamo, SeaWorld, or Six Flags Fiesta Texas — Four Paws Inn is just minutes away in Converse, ready to give your dog their own unforgettable San Antonio experience while you enjoy yours.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much do pet-friendly hotels in San Antonio cost?
Pet fees at San Antonio hotels typically range from $0 to $125 per stay, or $15-$50 per night. Some hotels (like Kimpton Santo and Thompson) charge no pet fee at all, while historic properties like The Menger charge up to $125. Always confirm fees and total costs at booking.
Can I leave my dog alone in a San Antonio hotel room?
It depends on the hotel. Some properties allow well-behaved pets to be left unattended (often requiring them to be crated), while many — including The Menger and Drury Inn & Suites Riverwalk — prohibit unattended pets entirely. If you plan to visit attractions that don’t allow pets, boarding is often the more practical choice.
Is the San Antonio River Walk dog-friendly?
Yes. Leashed dogs are welcome along all 15 miles of the River Walk, including the downtown stretch, the Museum Reach, and the Mission Reach. Many River Walk restaurants also have dog-friendly outdoor patios.
What vaccines does my dog need to board at Four Paws Inn?
At Four Paws Inn, the health and safety of your pets is most important to us. We require proof of vaccination for rabies (1 or 3 year), Distemper/Parvo, and Bordetella (6 month or 1 year). The Canine Influenza vaccination is not required but strongly recommended.
When can I drop off and pick up my pet?
Please contact us at (210) 566-7297 for current drop-off and pick-up hours, or fill out our contact form to schedule a time that works for you.
How do I make my pet's reservation?
You can call us at (210) 566-7297 or fill out the form on this page. Reservations are recommended, especially during holidays and peak travel seasons.
Can I tour the facility?
Yes! We welcome and encourage facility tours. Contact us to schedule a visit so you can see firsthand where your pet will be staying.
I'm nervous about boarding my pet. How do I know my pet will be taken care of?
We understand — leaving your pet is a big deal. Our certified staff conduct daily five-point wellness checks, are trained in pet first aid and CPR, and provide attentive, room-service-style care throughout every stay. We also offer trial stays so you and your pet can get comfortable with us before a longer trip.
Do you offer trial stays?
Yes. Trial stays are a great way to introduce your pet to Four Paws Inn before a longer boarding stay. Contact us to schedule one.
I have multiple dogs — can they lodge together?
Yes, in most cases. Dogs from the same household can share a suite, and we’ll work with you to find the right accommodations for your pets.
Can you accommodate special needs pets?
Absolutely. Four Paws Inn welcomes dogs of all breeds, ages, and medical conditions, including seniors and special needs pets.
My pet takes special medication — can you administer medication to boarders?
Yes. Our trained staff can administer medications as part of our standard care. Please bring detailed instructions and the medication in its original packaging.
My pet isn't spayed or neutered. Can they still play or stay at Four Paws Inn?
Yes. Unlike many boarding facilities, Four Paws Inn accommodates dogs that are not spayed or neutered.
Can I bring my pet's own food?
Yes. We recommend bringing your pet’s regular food to keep their diet consistent. If you’d prefer not to, we provide high-quality nutrition at no extra cost.
Can my pet bring their favorite toy?
Yes. Familiar items from home help your pet feel comfortable during their stay.
New Customer FREE First Night of Boarding!
Rebate applied when you select activities. Discount applies to first time clients, is subject to availability and can't be combined with other offers. Discounts not available during the holidays.