We all know Austin is a hotbed for tourism, and Austinites take pride in living in a city where many people come to vacation. But there are so many Austin hotels that it’s hard to say which offers the best experience. So, we compiled this list of boutique hotels, in hopes of shortening your search.
Whether you’re coming to Austin for a visit or doing a trendy “staycation” in town, these are the boutique hotels where you *really* want to crash in ATX.
10.) The Driskill
Photo: Courtesy, The Driskill.
If your staycation involves partying on Sixth Street and you want a luxurious hotel room to stumble into at 2 a.m., the Driskill Hotel is where you want to make your reservation. This historic hotel was built in 1886 and has been restored to its original opulence. If you don’t want to face the raucous crowds to find your nightcap, head down to the lobby’s Driskill Bar for a crafted cocktail. And in the morning, have breakfast at 1886 Cafe & Bakery.
9.) The Wayback
Nestled just outside of Austin is the most quaint collection of cottages collectively called The Wayback. Though the property is located just off Bee Cave Road in Westlake Hills, there’s a peace and serenity you probably wouldn’t expect so close to the city. Read more about a stay at The Wayback here.
8.) Casulo Hotel
Photo: Courtesy, Casulo Hotel.
Casulo Hotel sits on the I-35 frontage road south of downtown. The location doesn’t seem to be conducive to relaxing, but once you’re inside, your stress will melt away. Their wide hallways, tall ceilings and spacious rooms allow you to stretch out, and then their guest room bathrooms bring it home with rain showers and extra long tubs. And if you want to hit the town after you’ve rested up, downtown is only 10 minutes away.
7.) Lone Star Court
Lone Star Court blends traditional comfort and modern convenience. This hotel offers contemporary lodging in a traditionally Texan environment with retro furnishings, live music, fire pits, and a dipping pool evoking thoughts of country swimming holes. As part of The Domain development, your guest room puts you a short walk from a variety of restaurants, stores, and entertainment options.
6.) East Austin Hotel
Locally owned and operated, the East Austin Hotel is located in the heart of the bustling East Austin neighborhood. With 75 mid-century Danish inspired rooms, there’s something for everyone at this hotel near downtown Austin and 6th Street. Plus, if you’re looking for a day getaway without an overnight stay, this is one of the few boutique hotels offering pool passes for locals!
5.) Hotel Ella
Photo: Courtesy, Hotel Ella.
You wouldn’t expect a hotel in a Greek revival-style mansion built in 1900 to have 47 guest rooms, but it does. They’re not all in the old mansion, but still, that’s a lot of rooms! Hotel Ella, formerly called The Mansion on Judges Hill, was renovated in 2013 and now offers a perfect balance of historic charm and modern comfort.
4.) Hotel San Jose
Photo: Courtesy, Hotel San Jose.
Hotel San Jose was built in 1936 as a motor court and was as modern as buildings were at the time. Now, the place is a 40-room urban bungalow-style hotel. In the heart of South Congress, you can sleep just a few minutes walk from so many dining and shopping options!
3.) Kimber Modern
Photo: Courtesy, Kimber Modern.
Kimber Modern is a unique creation all its own. And that’s just how owner Kimber Cavendish planned it. Kimber Modern combines the comforts of fine boutique hotels with an intimate bed and breakfast experience. Her goal was goal was to create an exceptional architectural work of art geared toward independent urban travelers and once you visit, you’ll see she’s succeeded.
2.) Heywood Hotel
Photo: Courtesy, Heywood Hotel.
If you want to stay in a fine hotel right in the middle of East Austin, the Heywood Hotel is the place for you. It’s location at Cesar Chavez Street between Comal Street and Chalmers Avenue makes it the perfect jumping off point to experience the eclectic and ever-changing mix of restaurants, bars, and music venues that make East Austin the cool place it is today.
1.) Hotel Saint Cecilia
Photo: Courtesy, Hotel Saint Cecilia.
Tucked away just off South Congress Avenue, Hotel Saint Cecilia offers a secluded retreat that is just a short walk away from the heart of South Austin. The hotel was originally built in 1888 as the Miller-Crockett house and was renovated in 2008 to become Hotel Saint Cecilia. The lush grounds welcome you, and the comfortable guest rooms and outdoor lounge spaces will make you never want to leave.
