Austin, Texas, the Lone Star state's capital city, offers a thriving arts and music scene. As a result, Downtown Austin features numerous concert halls, bars and nightclubs. The University of Texas resides in the downtown region as well and plays host to the LBJ Library and Museum and the famed Blanton Museum of Art. Travelers staying in downtown Austin hotels can easily reach these tourist attractions via the city's inexpensive Capital Metro bus system.
The InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel is in Downtown Austin, near a host of tourist attractions. The Paramount Theatre, home to various stage shows and concerts, the improv-based Hideout Theatre and the Austin Museum of Art all sit within one or two blocks of the hotel. Known by locals simply as the Stephen F, the hotel first opened its doors back in 1924, but offers scores of modern amenities including in-room CD players, Internet access and a heated lap pool in the spa. The hotel plays host to two on-site restaurants, Stephen F's Bar & Terrace and the Roaring Fork, the latter of which offers a saloon setting amidst such hearty fare as steak, seafood and massive burgers.
InterContinental Stephen F. Austin Hotel
701 Congress Ave.
Austin, TX 78701
512-457-8800
austin.intercontinental.com
The Four Seasons Hotel Austin sits sandwiched between downtown Austin's Convention Center and the shores of Lady Bird Lake and the adjacent waterfront trails. From the hotel lobby, guests may enjoy views of Congress Bridge's most famed residents, the more than one million bats which fly forth at dusk -- from around mid-March to mid-November -- to search for food. The hotel offers a variety of guest rooms, including those outfitted with views of the lake or city. The on-site spa offers different treatments, such as in-room massages and yoga on the lawn classes. The famed Lobby Lounge features an upscale interior, complete with lakeside views, fireplaces and an extensive cocktail menu.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
98 San Jacinto Blvd.
Austin, TX 78701
512-478-4500
fourseasons.com/austin
Dating back to 1886, the Driskill Hotel offers a luxurious interior complete with embossed ceilings and hardwood furnishings. Guest rooms and suites remain split between the Traditional and Historic Wing, the latter of which includes balcony-equipped accommodations with views of 6th Street. Children receive a host of perks upon check-in, including a sheriff's badge, coloring books and crayons. Guests with pets may secure such perks as doggie treats, bowls and toys. The hotel features the 1886 Cafe and Bakery and the Driskill Grill, home to live musical acts. Guests of the Driskill Hotel may also walk to one of the nearby downtown bars and nightclubs, such as Maggie Mae's and the Elephant Room.
The Driskill Hotel
604 Brazos St.
Austin, TX 78701
800-252-9367
driskillhotel.com
