Where to Stay in Austin, Texas
Eat, Stay, Play
by Elizabeth Kurzweg
Austin is a vibrant young city with countless fun outdoor activities and Tex-Mex restaurants to enjoy. It’s also where Katie Kime was founded. And with the Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival fast approaching, we thought we’d recommend the best places to stay when visiting our hometown.
Downtown is the heart of Austin. Between the Texas State Capitol, Sixth Street, and some of the best bars and restaurants in the city, it’s the place to be. Notable downtown hotels include The Line, Hotel Van Zandt, Austin Proper Hotel, and so many more. But the most iconic is undoubtedly The Driskill. Its Victorian architecture and rich history are unmatched. Built in 1886, The Driskill has garnered a reputation as one of the most haunted hotels in Texas, with various ghost stories and legends associated with it.
For a uniquely Austin experience, South Congress (SoCo) is one of the city’s most eclectic neighborhoods. It’s home to vintage shops, food trucks galore, and the iconic “I Love You So Much” mural. Austin Motel is the street’s most famous hotel with its always-changing red neon sign out front. For a more luxurious stay, Colton House Hotel and South Congress Hotel are both beautiful options.
If you’re looking for ACL convenience though, you’ll want to stay within walking distance of Zilker Park where the festival is hosted, as parking and ride shares can be quite hectic. The Carpenter Hotel and The Loren Hotel are great choices, not only for their convenient location on South Lamar, but for their stylish and charming atmospheres.
No matter where you stay, you’re sure to have a memorable time in our eclectic little city. And make sure to check out our guide on Where To Eat In Austin, Texas.