You deserve to stay in style. Cloud-comfort beds, killer views, top-of-the-line products. Nothing is too good and these fabulous hotels in Austin will make you feel like royalty.
Archer Hotel's King Suite. Courtesy of Archer Hotel Austin.
Archer Hotel
The Domain is one of Austin’s most popular shopping destinations and so it makes perfect sense that the Archer Hotel would land here. Located in the middle of the action, their style is Texas chic– fun and funky with custom Austin wallpaper and cheeky touches. And the amenities are great too– Malin+Goetz bath products and Frette bathrobes. Stop by the AKB Bar for a cozy Sunday Brunch or a happy hour drink before hitting the surrounding upscale shops.
Goldie's Sunken Lounge at Austin Proper. Courtesy Austin Proper.
Austin Proper
Second street is another hugely popular destination for shopping and live music. The Austin Proper hotel harnesses all of that energy and brings it in-house with a wild variety of patterns, colors, art, and artisanal everything. You can choose your own adventure here -- make it a retreat by sleeping late in their comfortable beds, treating yourself with spa treatments, and joining a wellness class. Or go full bore, having drinks at their on-site bar, Goldie’s Sunken Lounge, dinner at La Piscina or The Peacock, and then head out for some live music at the Moody Theater.
Courtesy of Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection.
Commodore Perry Estate
The grounds at the Commodore Perry Estate are, in a word, divine. The boutique hotel occupies nearly 10 acres in the middle of the city. The serene and sprawling landscape feels a little like a movie set and is enclosed within a walled courtyard, ensuring peace from the outside world. The rooms are a blend of old-world antiques and contemporary grandeur. Newly renovated Lutie’s gets rave reviews for its lush decor and thoughtful dishes. But don’t just take our word for it, Commodore Perry was awarded Two Michelin Keys for their excellence.
Courtesy of The Driskill.
Driskill Hotel
There’s no place more classic, or more haunted, than the Driskill Hotel. A true landmark, this place is steeped in history. You can feel it immediately when you walk in, greeted by sweeping staircases, an incredible stained glass ceiling, and gleaming marble floors. Rooms are tastefully appointed, though you’ll probably want to take advantage of the prime location on Austin’s Sixth Street. Have brunch at the 1886 Cafe and Bakery. We personally recommend their famed cheese soup. Before hitting the town, definitely stop in at the ever-popular Driskill Bar for a beverage.
Courtesy of Fairmont Austin.
Fairmont Austin
The Fairmont Austin is 37 floors of glorious glamor. Nothing but the best for their guests, this hotel spared no expense when it was built. The location is ideal for conference goers and Austin tourists alike with easy access to downtown, East Austin and Rainey Street. It’s almost hard to commit to leaving the property given its five restaurants on-site, two bars, gorgeous rooftop pool, and a spa complete with saline soaking pool, a steam grotto and a European dry heat sauna. Oh, and did we mention the Le Labo bath products?
Four Seasons Hotel Austin.
Four Seasons
Four Seasons are luxurious hotels in any location, but Austin’s has that extra special something. Though right in the thick of downtown, the property opens up to the Hike & Bike Trail with a sweeping vista of Lady Bird Lake. Join people walking, running, and biking along Austin’s Hike & Bike Trail or observe them from the state-of-the-art fitness center. Swim some laps in the saltwater pool or just soak up some rays in a cabana. Both visitors and locals alike stop in for creatively crafted cocktails at the Live Oak bar or for decadent meals at Ciclo, the on-site restaurant with a Texas-inspired menu. If you’re into celeb spotting, this is the place to be during SXSW and Austin City Limits.
Hotel Ella. Credit Jake Holt Photography.
Hotel Ella
Boutique Hotel Ella is near the campus of the University of Texas but feels like a world away from rowdy students and football Saturdays. This early 1900s Greek revival-style mansion has been restored to glory and you’ll also feel refreshed after a stay at these historical grounds. Their guest rooms are stately but comfortable, with high-end products and modern conveniences. The onsite restaurant, Goodall’s is totally charming, serving an American menu for both brunch and dinner. For something extra remarkable, book an Afternoon Tea with all the trappings.
Hotel Saint Cecilia. Credit Nick Simonite.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
A member of the Bunkhouse Group, Hotel Saint Cecilia is the epitome of cool and for good reason: named after and designed with Cecilia, the patron saint of music and poetry, in mind. The whole feel is posh 60s and 70s, from each of the suites and bungalows to the neon-lit heated lap pool. Organic bedding, Grown Alchemist bath products, and a lending library of vinyl that you can listen to in your room on Rega turntables are just some of what sets this legendary property apart. The grounds are only open to hotel guests, so you’re afforded a good measure of privacy during your retreat from the world. Make sure you get an Instagram picture of yourself under the SOUL sign to prove it wasn’t all a dream.
Living Room Fireplace. Courtesy of Hotel Van Zandt.
Hotel Van Zandt
Rainey Street is where it's at most nights in Austin, and the Hotel Van Zandt gives you a front row seat. This stylish hotel blends Austin music cool with smart sophistication. The pool deck overlooks Austin’s skyline and hinges off their restaurant, Geraldine’s, an excellent restaurant and bar that hosts musicians on the regular. Make sure to check out their specialty events like the weekly Jazz Brunch.
Courtesy of Hotel ZaZa Austin.
Hotel Zaza
Building on their success in Dallas and Houston, Hotel Zaza in Austin is mid-century modern chic and plush approachability. All their rooms are wonderful but Zaza does something really unique by offering Magnificent 7 Suites and Concept Suites. These are individually designed around a unique aesthetic - from nautical to rocker-chic. Of course as you might imagine, the amenities are top-of-the-line -- Italian linens, C.O. Bigelow products, a full service concierge and car service. On-site they also boast their signature ZaSpa, a fitness center, Group Therapy (a restaurant, not an activity) and a poolside rooftop Cabana Bar.
Nido. Courtesy of The Loren.
The Loren
Located across from the Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge at the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, this hotel is in a prime location within walking distance of places to eat and things to do. Along with its accessibility to some of Austin's top attractions, The Loren boasts luxe amenities and modern, spacious rooms. For a special evening, reserve a spot on the rooftop terrace at Nido, the hotel's onsite restaurant. The modern American menu features seasonal dishes with refined flavors from the Texas Hill Country. Plan to go around sunset for one of the best views of golden hour in the city. In the morning, grab coffee and a pastry from the downstairs cafe before heading out on your walk. Lastly, hang by the pool or book a treatment at Milk + Honey spa for ultimate relaxation.
For more upscale and unique Austin stays, check out our list of the top boutique hotels in Austin.
Contributed by Kelly Stocker.
