From the music scene to the food to the politics, Austin is uniquely positioned in the cultural heart of Texas. When you’re in town, you want your accommodations to be as memorable as your visit. Why not enjoy some of the local flavor in one of these downtown Austin hotels?
The Driskill
Located on the entertainment strip, the Driskill is one of the city’s oldest landmarks. You’re located in walking distance of 6th Street, the Alamo Drafthouse Ritz, Stubb’s, and the Austin City Limits Music Hall. Inside are cavernous rooms filled with marble, leather, and sconces. Locals come here for the bar and for the bakery/café. You can come for the hot tubs and 16-foot ceilings.
Austin Motel
At the other end of the spectrum, we have the Austin Motel. Austin Motel’s boutique nature lies not in its trappings, but in its independent spirit. The sign out front rotates partly tongue in cheek slogans like “So authentically Austin,” but there is a measure of truth in them. Austin Motel carries the torch of the Austin that natives remember—small, quirky, and friendly. The motel is located on South Congress, right next to the area's array of vintage shops and local restaurants, namely Homeslice Pizza, Lucky Robot, and Amy’s Ice Creams. You won’t find a more affordable stay anywhere else near the SoCo area.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
Named for the patron saint of music, Hotel Saint Cecilia pays tribute to American music and pop culture—especially the 60s. Its rooms are bedecked mostly in blacks and whites (often with one strong accent color), and its “Soul” pool is both an oasis and a reminder of Austin’s “why not?” attitude. It’s located just blocks away from South Congress, with a fleet of free bike rentals to get you there. If you feel like staying in, the hotel has a carefully-curated collection of rock biographies, poetry, films, and vintage LPs to peruse.
Kimber Modern
Kimber Modern lives up to its name. The hotel is filled with Eames furniture and floor-to-ceiling windows. They take their decor so seriously that their website includes profiles of the local artists whose work fills the rooms. Located near SoCo, the Kimber Modern combines modern comfort with retro minimalism and sleek, warm design.
Heywood Hotel
Located just north of the river on E. Cesar Chavez Street, the Heywood Hotel offers free bicycle rentals, a locally-roasted “Heywood blend” coffee, and a strong commitment to the environment. The hotel is located less than a mile from the convention center and is also close to 6th Street, Lady Bird Lake, and Juan in a Million, whose breakfast tacos are a small miracle and Food Network favorite. Heywood’s decor is a clean, slightly mod look, accentuated by art from local artists.
