Best Austin Hotels

Located just down the street from the State Capitol, Austin’s legendary hotel dates to 1886 and is considered a top Austin hotel among both visitors and locals because of its history, romantic atmosphere, stellar service and its liberal pet-friendly policy that includes custom dog and cat beds, gourmet treats, toys and leashes on loan. All rooms have the kind of luxury bedding that you want to stash in your suitcase to take home, and the 14 luxury suites are themed: Cattle Baron is 1800s Victorian luxury, while the Lyndon and Lady Bird Johnson suite features a 10-foot stained-glass window with bluebonnets. Enjoy thoughtful service, the 5-Star Driskill Grill, the delectable sweets at the 1886 Café & Bakery, and a bit of mystery—ghosts, including Col. Driskill himself, are rumored to roam the halls after dark, and the staff has reported unexplained events and hearing the sound of children laughing.

Named after the patron saint of music and poetry, the St. Cecilia—as it’s known to locals—pays tribute to those who make Austin’s lifeblood flow: artists, musicians and those willing to experiment and make no apologies for it. The vibe is hip, elegant, rock-and-roll and casual—this is Austin, after all. With its apt location off South Congress Avenue, this tiny boutique (and dog-friendly) hotel includes six poolside bungalows; five suites in the house on the grounds (three grand suites; two smaller suites); and three studios in the main building (with handcrafted Hästens beds)—all in a private wooded setting. And, in a nod to the present and the past, there’s a turntable and iPod connections in every room—and huge library of vinyl for the borrowing.

This 72-year-old, 41-room South Austin stalwart is a favorite hangout during March’s South by Southwest, and it’s easy to see why. With its stucco and red-tiled exterior, 1950s-style vibe with 1950s kidney-shaped pool to match, basic rooms decorated in retro chic, and the famed Continental Club a mere stumble across the street, it’s affordable and cool at the same time. “So close, yet so far out” is this hotel’s motto—and it fits beautifully. Word to the wise if you’re not a night owl: the property's location in the thick of things on South Congress means it can get a little loud on the weekends when a hot band is playing across the street. Bring earplugs.

A favorite of business travelers, tourists and locals who enjoy the hot bar scene (and its equally hot patrons), the “Stephen F’s” wraparound upper bar and outside deck is reason enough to stay here. The view of the State Capitol at night is another, since it’s right down the street. Built in 1924, a huge renovation modernized guest rooms and restored the hotel in 1998, and it reopened in 2000. Ambience is elegance meets Texas casual, and its location within walking distance of great restaurants and bars is ideal. Rooms are smaller than most hotels because of its original historical footprint. Parking is valet only, and it’s pricey, so leave the car at home, if possible. The best deal going here is the happy hour at the Roaring Fork restaurant, located in the same building—don’t miss the $8 “Big Ass Burger.”

The city’s newest boutique hotel, this 48-room respite from the city is located just north of downtown—away from the hustle and bustle. For that reason, it has big appeal for business travelers here for serious deal-making or lovers here for serious getaways. Owned by real estate developer and former adman Bill Gurasich (the “G” in ad agency powerhouse GSD&M), this turn-of-the-century mansion has been both a family home and a drug and alcohol treatment center in past lives. Its exterior looks a lot like the White House, with majestic columns, porticos, dormer windows and delicate architectural detailing. Rooms range from a stunning Signature suite that features a king-size canopy bed and antique furniture, to smaller, cozy Deluxe Lofts tucked under corner windows. With a romantic breakfast, 310-thread count Egyptian cotton bedding and in-room spa treatments, this is affordable luxury in the heart of Austin.

Who needs fancy when you’re going to be out partying the whole weekend anyway? With rooms starting at around $95 per night on the weekends and a location just south of downtown, this is a great choice for enjoying all that the Capitol City has to offer. All rooms are suites (and are pet-friendly), and all have full kitchens with microwave, stove and refrigerator. It’s the perfect setup for stocking up on breakfast items, beer and snacks to save money on the basics—and justify that decadent dinner at Aquarelle. Better yet, Internet access is only $4.99 for your entire stay—no daily rates—so you can surf away without getting hosed.

Coming to Austin with kids? Here’s an inexpensive option just north of downtown, yet still close to the University of Texas and LBJ Library. The kids will love the pool, and parents will appreciate the breakfast, newspapers and fitness center, all of which are included in the room rate.

For comfortable, budget accommodations, you just can’t beat La Quinta. With a fitness center, outdoor pool and complimentary continental breakfast, it’s a bargain. And its location just south of downtown is ideal for day trips to neighboring Hill Country hamlets, such as Fredericksburg, and to southwest Austin attractions, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.