Embassy Suites San Antonio Riverwalk

If you're looking for a hotel on the San Antonio Riverwalk, especially if you're traveling with children, I highly recommend the Embassy Suites. This hotel is located on the banks of the Riverwalk in the heart of downtown San Antonio. And since it's only been open since 2010, it still feels brand new.

It is not, however, located on the main riverwalk, but on the newer section.  So while it may not be in the middle of all the riverwalk action, it is still a great hotel for price and the space.  And when you throw in the complimentary hot breakfast and evening reception ... it really is a bargain!

We are partial to Embassy Suites whenever we travel with the kids because of the extra space in their all-suite rooms.  It's nice to be able to spread out in the separate rooms and relax without tripping over luggage and people.  So when we found out there was a new one on the Riverwalk, we had to try it out.  HINT -- when reserving a room at any Embassy Suites, always request a corner room.  While all the suites are nice and roomy, the corner suites are extra large.  Your request may not be granted if you're visiting during a busy weekend or holiday, but it's worth asking! 

Fortunately, our request was honored on a recent weekend trip to the Riverwalk.  Our corner suite could have easily accommodated more than the four of us.  It had a huge living room with a sleeper sofa, as well as a dining table and wet bar.

And the separate bedroom had two queen beds, a dresser with large drawers for storage and a walk in closet with floor to ceiling mirrors.

The extra large bathroom was very nice with a tile floor, granite counter tops, and a tub and shower.

In addition to the large rooms, we also love the complimentary breakfast and evening reception that the Embassy Suites are known for.  In addition to traditional breakfast buffet items, you also get made-to-order omelets. 

Being a new hotel, this particular Embassy Suites had a very nice, large dining area where the evening receptions and breakfast buffets are held.

Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center

Port Aransas, TX

Everyone knows about the beach and the great fishing in Port Aransas. But have you visited the Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center?  This little nature center is a great place to visit early in the day before you head to the beach.

Walking along the raised boardwalk through the marshy wetlands
will give you an upclose view of birds, turtles, and fish.

And if you're really lucky -- you might see an alligator!

About halfway down the boardwalk you'll find an observation tower. 

The kids love climbing to the top for a panoramic view of the wetlands. 

There's even a free viewing scope at the top of the tower
that lets you zoom in on the surrounding wildlife.

As mentioned earlier, there are two resident alligators in the pond that are named Boots and Bags. But catching a glimpse of them is a rare treat. We lucked out on our second visit to the Birding Center and finally saw one come up for air!  That was definitely the highlight of the trip for us.

So the next time you're in Port Aransas go check out the Birding Center, preferably early in the morning before it gets too hot. We like to rent an electric buggy to drive over there.

And on the way back, stop by the Robert Points Park near the ferry landing and watch the ships come through the channel.  You'll probably even see dolphins swimming in their wakes.

This park also has a great playground for the kids.