Inspector Picks: 6 of Our Favorite Austin Hotels
Updated: October 02, 2023
There are plenty of things to do in the music capital of Texas, so whether you are planning a road trip, a long weekend or a full vacation, take a look at this list of our favorite Austin hotels that will keep you comfortable and near the action.
AAA/Inspector 591
Embassy Suites by Hilton Austin Arboretum
9505 Stonelake Blvd.
AAA Inspector 556: It was such a thrill to meet Butch and Sundance. They are the resident swans that live in the lobby wading pool.
Homelike rooms keep you from feeling cramped by offering lots of space and seating. A door between the living room and bedroom allows you and any traveling companions a bit of privacy. The wet bar area gives you a good spot to prepare a light snack.
Hampton Inn & Suites Austin at The University/Capitol
1701 Lavaca St.
AAA Inspector 556: A fun way to celebrate the local artistic Austin culture. There is a graffiti designed wall and musical instruments spin in the lobby.
The hotel is nicely located near the University of Texas and the state capitol building. All rooms have vaulted ceilings, ceiling fans and some have a balcony.
Hotel Ella
1900 Rio Grand St.
AAA Inspector 556: Staying in the main building will immerse you in Texas history. Or stay in a modern room at the annex building. Either choice is perfect.
The classic architectural style of the exterior, with large, stately Greek Revival columns, gives way to a more modern and boutique interior accented with contemporary artwork and furnishings. Unlike many boutique hotels, this property provides first-rate amenities for the business traveler as well as those in town for fun. A house car offers complimentary service to guests venturing out to nearby destinations, but the hotel's central location already puts you in walking distance of many attractions.
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
701 Congress Ave.
AAA Inspector 556: This hotel opened in 1924. It is delightful to see how this modern day hotel has still preserved some of the original Texas-style architecture.
Feel pampered in the inviting rooms with upscale furnishings. Each features a stocked minibar, convenient advanced controls for lights and AC, and extra power outlets, which are discreetly located.
Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt
605 Davis St.
AAA Inspector 556: I love Austin's exciting art and music scene, and this place carries on the theme with fun custom artwork, nightly live music and trendsetting design.
The unique energy and excitement of Austin flows through the lobby and the well-appointed rooms, which have minibars stocked with local flavors, huge TVs, signature robes and truly plush bedding. The pool deck offers luxe cabanas, an outdoor fireplace and sweeping city views, and there is live music in Geraldine’s, the on-trend restaurant. The location puts you right in the hip Rainey Street district, and the sharp young staff can point you in the right direction to find other city hot spots.
South Congress Hotel
1603 S. Congress Ave.
AAA Inspector 556: The lobby area is in vogue with the vibrant South Congress street neighborhood. It's an ideal place to meet friends.
Slick style and plush materials come together on popular South Congress Avenue. Local flavor carries through to the TV in your room, with live streaming movies from Austin's own Drafthouse Films. Plenty of great suites are available, including some with fun, queen-size bunk beds and others with an airy private balcony overlooking the popular pool and bar. Enjoy on-site, top-notch food and beverage options or take a few steps outside to see what the city has to offer.