The storied El Tropicano Hotel is expected to reopen this fall.

Opened in 1962, El Tropicano holds the title of the oldest hotel located directly on the San Antonio River Walk. Known as a mid-century modern icon, it famously hosted celebrities and dignitaries. Following a 2020 closure, Trestle Studio is overseeing the renovations. Renovations began after the team landed a $79 million construction loan at the start of 2025.

The owners of the iconic hotel say it will reopen with 315 rooms, 15,834 square fet of food and beverage, 16,309 square feet of meeting space and a spa.

The property got unanimous approval for a historic tax certification from the Historic and Design Review Commission at a recent meeting. State and federal tax credits will also apply to the project. The hotel will not be assessed for ad valorem taxes for five years post-renovations.

Local firm Studio8 Architects is leading the project’s design team.