The Driskill Hotel, taken by Kenny Braun
Austin where to stay – Top 5 Hotels
Austin has a broad range of accommodation at pretty much every price point so you should be spoiled for choice.
However, at the risk of stating the blindingly obvious, this will not apply during times when the city is very busy. If you are visiting in March, for example, rooms will be very hard to come by as everyone piles into town for South by Southwest. In fact if you are going to South by Southwest, it is worth checking accommodation before you buy your tickets to make sure you can find somewhere you like at a price you are willing to pay.
Otherwise, to help you pick your way through the options on offer here is our pick of Austin’s accommodation.
Our Top 5 Austin hotels…
1) Hotel Ella
If you are looking for somewhere really nice to stay, you can’t go far wrong with Hotel Ella. It was completely refurbished in 2013 and has lovely rooms with very comfy beds. It’s in a great location, within very easy walking distance of the bars and restaurants of Guadalupe Street, but far enough away not to be disturbed by any noise. We love the outdoor pool and the outdoor pool bar, should you be in need of refreshment whilst you soak up some rays.
2) W Austin
Similarly swanky is the very nice W Austin . It is another modern hotel with great rooms, all of which are large enough to have a proper seating area. The outdoor pool area is fabulous and also comes complete with poolside bar. It is very well located, within a short walk of the East 6th bars and with plenty of nearby restaurants.
3) The Driskill
If all this new shiny stuff leaves you a bit cold, check out The Driskill. This is a historical Austin landmark, built in 1886 and right in the middle of the 6th Street entertainment district, perfectly located if you are concerned you may get carried away with your partying. They also have a babysitting service which may come in very handy if you are travelling with kids.
4) Hampton Inn & Suites Austin @ The University / Capitol
Somewhat less historic, but very family friendly, is the Hampton Inn & Suites Austin @ The University / Capitol. This is in a good location, between the University and the Capitol so you can walk to most of the attractions. The rooms are spacious with various options for additional beds, there is complimentary breakfast every morning, complimentary Wi-Fi and an outdoor pool.
5) Rodeway Inn & Suites Downtown North
If you are after a budget option, our pick of the crop is Rodeway Inn & Suites Downtown North. This hotel is out near the Airport, around 3 miles or so from downtown so you may end up spending time on a bus, but it has an outdoor pool, reasonable sized rooms and free Wi-Fi.