In today’s fast-paced world, a “soft trip” offers travelers the chance to unwind and recharge. It’s all about embracing ease and comfort and planning experiences that prioritize relaxation. Austin, known for its natural beauty and unique cultural offerings, is the perfect place to slow down and treat yourself to a soft trip.

Two people in robes cheersing mugs of coffee in a hotel bed.Courtesy The Loren Hotel. Credit Caresse Sessman.

Where to Stay for a Relaxing Austin Getaway

The key to planning the perfect soft trip is finding a hotel that fits your needs. The Loren at Lady Bird Lake provides stunning lakeside views, an in-house pool, and easy access to the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Its on-site Milk + Honey Spa has plenty of options like manicures, massages, body scrubs, and more. Plus, their restaurant, Nido, focuses on fresh and locally sourced ingredients.

Hotel Magdalena has a retro character but doesn’t skimp on modern (and cozy) amenities. Located in a sprawling green space in the middle of the city, peaceful moments abound. The hotel’s restaurant, Summer House, embraces a slow food philosophy, and its highly praised room service lets you savor the experience at your own pace. And if you feel like vibing with some tunes and cocktails, their on-site Equipment Room is a hi-fi lounge specializing in vinyl records and vintage-style drinks.

Chef in Dai Due kitchen topping a giant beef rib with crispy fried onion strings.Dai Due. Credit to Arts & Labor.

Cozy Austin Restaurants

Comfort food and ambient spaces set the tone for unwinding over a meal. Dai Due celebrates farm-to-table dining with fresh ingredients and a rustic-chic setting. Justine’s Brasserie in East Austin offers French cuisine inside a vintage-inspired Austin bungalow. For a taste of New York in the heart of Texas, La Volta Pizza has delicious New York-style pies in an intimate atmosphere. Yamas Greek Kitchen & Bar serves generous portions of authentic Greek dishes and family-style portions. For a laid-back coffee spot, try one of several Epoch Coffee locations throughout the city.

Shaded concrete pathway in the Taniguchi Japanese Garden at Zilker Botanical Garden.Taniguchi Japanese Garden. Courtesy of Zillker Botanical Garden Conservancy.

Relaxing Things to Do in Austin

Austin is rich in opportunities to slow down and appreciate the moment. Stroll through the Zilker Botanical Garden, where themed gardens like the Mabel Davis Rose Garden and the Isamu Taniguchi Japanese Garden are designed to delight the senses and inspire contemplation. Just a short drive away, Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is a sanctuary of koi ponds, colorful peacocks, and scenic hiking trails.

Extend your soft trip with a leisurely drive through the Texas Hill Country, where scenic roads lead to charming towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley—known for their wineries, artistic communities, and hidden nature spots. If you’re out in Hill Country, don’t miss the indulgent services at Spa Viata. Though, for a spa within city limits, Viva Day Spa is a local favorite for personalized massages, facials, and holistic treatments designed to refresh your body and mind. 

Ready to take your soft trip? Austin invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and leave with a deep sense of renewal! Start planning your Austin vacation today!