For some time now, Austin has had a reputation for being a fun-loving capital city, thanks in part to the large student population. At the center of Austin's nightlife, with swarms of bars and clubs, is 6th Street in the downtown area. There are numerous hotels nearby, from luxurious and minimal accommodations, where folks can rest their bones after a night on the town.
Located on the corner of 6th and Brazos Streets, the Driskill Hotel was built and founded back in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill. The Driskill is ideal for those who want a uniquely Austin lodging experience while making no sacrifices in luxury and extra amenities. The entire hotel retains the classic, aristocratic Texan motif, with rooms that are decorated with Driskill signature furniture and custom linens. Modern conveniences such as Wi-Fi and plasma televisions are provided as well, and the up-to-date fitness rooms contain dozens of treadmills and exercise bikes, as well as an array of massage options. The Driskill is particularly pet-friendly, offering animal gift packages that they refer to as the "Pampered Pet."
The Driskill Hotel
604 Brazos St.
Austin, TX 78701
800-252-9367
driskillhotel.com
For affordable lodging in the heart of downtown Austin, the Extended Stay America Hotel on the corner of 6th and Gaudalupe streets is an ideal option. Extended Stay America has more than 350 economy hotels throughout the country, offering rooms with such standard amenities as queen-sized beds, private bathrooms and Wi-Fi. The rooms at the Austin location also provide guests with a workspace and a kitchenette with microwave, stove and refrigerator. The hotel also offers free laundry for all guests.
Extended Stay America Hotel Austin
600 Gaudalupe St.
Austin, TX 78701
512-457-9994
extendedstayamerica.com
A block away from 6th Street, the extensive Intercontinental Hotel houses nearly 200 high-quality guest rooms. Like most of the hotel, the rooms at the Intercontinental are furnished in dark wood and marble and each features such amenities as cable television, minibar, in-room safe and complimentary toiletries. The hotel contains a cave-like heated indoor lap pool, along with a sauna and fitness center. On the terrace, guests can take advantage of the hotel restaurant and bar that look out onto 7th Street.
Intercontinental Hotel Austin
701 Congress Ave.
Austin, TX 78701
512-457-8800
intercontinental.com
The well-known and worldwide Hilton hotel chain has a location in downtown Austin, just two blocks from busy 6th Street and right next to the city's convention center. The towering structure contains more than 800 rooms, ranging from simple guest rooms with king- or queen-sized beds, private baths and television entertainment systems to the more luxurious executive suites. Located on the top floors and over 350 square feet in size, the executive suites provide guests with the same amenities plus a deluxe working space. Among the numerous hotel facilities are a fully-equipped fitness center, multiple eateries and a pool with an accompanying tiki bar.
Hilton Austin
500 E. 4th St.
Austin, TX 78701
512-482-8000
hilton.com