Top 22 Cool and Unusual Hotels in Austin

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Austin is a city in Texas that differs from other cities like Dallas and Houston being that it is an imaginative place, heaven for free-thinkers and musicians.

So, Austin is considered the Live Music Capital of the World, and some of the most famous festivals there are South by Southwest and Austin City Limits during which you can listen to perfect country, blues, and bluegrass music.

You can enjoy Urban Music Festival, a Reggae Festival, the Louisiana Swamp Thing, and the Crawfish Festival which offers Cajun, Zydeco, Brass, Funk, and Blues.

Of course, it is not only music that attracts tourists to this city, as there are more interesting events throughout the year.

The moment you get to this surprising city,  you will be enjoying your stay until the moment you leave, and that joy should be complemented by suitable accommodation.

This means that you will have to stay in a hotel that will impersonate the city’s soul, so we have created a list of Austin’s most awesome and unique hotels you can choose from.

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Heywood Hotel – a stylish boutique hotel

Heywood Hotel a stylish hotel situated in a fashionable urban location in the heart of the city of Austin.

It has attracted positive attention from the moment it was opened, and nowadays it boasts a glowing review in The New York Times.

The Heywood Hotel offers seven adequate rooms in two bungalows.

Both rooms and communal spaces reflect the modern vibe of Austin itself.

A careful eye can notice plenty of local art and furniture as well as a lot of light, bright, and colorful staff.

Some of the amenities that the price includes are free bicycles and Internet Jukeboxes, eco-friendly cleaning, and toiletries.

A traveler can always ask the friendly hotel staff if they have doubts related to their perfect stay.

When it comes to the price, the cost of these seven rooms offered ranges from budget to luxury, but this is a very cool Austin hotel worth visiting.

This is definitely the place you should start your Texan Adventure from.

The Carpenter Hotel – the newest boutique hotel that boasts cool retro/chic decor

The Carpenter Hotel is set in the Barton Springs zip code, near Downtown Austin, and next to Zilker Metropolitan Park.

Its location is ideal, making it the most-visited accommodation.

The Carpenter Hotel is designed within an old union hall and it represents a mixture of a cool retro design, and modern touches, so as to keep the vibe hip and to match the surrounding neighborhood’s image.

Another positive side of this hotel is that restaurants, bars, eateries, and stores are a few minutes away on foot, so people can experience the vibe of the city once they get out f the hotel.

Plus, for those who would rather enjoy in the hotel itself, there is a swimming pool and lounging area for relaxing as well as event space for outdoor parties.

Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt – a stylish boutique hotel

Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt is the 4-star exceptionally rated one.

This is not a small hotel as those we have mentioned so far, as it boasts 316 rooms that come in the various price range.

The hotel’s purpose is to feel utterly authentic and boutique, so it is designed with special attention to detail.

First, the communal spaces are industrial retro with exposed brickwork and the furniture in the style of the ’60s.

It is strewn with ingenious local artworks and music references.

There is even a music corner for those who would like to chill out with vinyl.

Food lovers will get a chance to try some amazing dishes in the in-house bar/restaurant Geraldines.

In the restaurant, tourists can feel the cool laid back vibe of Austin through live music most nights, the innovative twists on Texan cuisine, and various locally named cocktails, craft ales, and whiskeys.

When the rooms are in question, they are so delicately designed with luxurious bedding, free-standing tubs, while some of them offer the view over Ladybird Lake, and the price you will have to pay starts from $140 a night.

Hotel Cecilia – a cool and creative hotel

Hotel Cecilia is considered an awesome boutique hotel.

It is located in the urban area of the city and it stands out among other hotels due to the fact that it is designed with such attention to detail.

The hotel name comes from the patron saint of Music and Poetry, so the designers made each of the rooms pays tribute to a creative icon from the 20th Century.

It is a very highly rated 4-star hotel equipped with bright prints cool design retro furniture, bamboo showers, marble bathrooms, a 50 foot heated outdoor pool, and a bright wicker-wearing patio.

At Saint Cecilia, you can choose to stay in a room, suite, or poolside bungalow.

It is worth mentioning that lovers of America’s Literary and Musical legacy will not be disappointed.

Austin Motel – a historic hotel that boasts bright and funky decor

The reason why people consider Austin Motel historic is that it has been existing for 65 years and has passed through several owners that have left marks on this fantastic and fun place.

At Austin Motel, tourists can live the American dream of the open road.

Some of its features are the neon sign and the bold retro décor, representing America itself.

You can choose from 21 rooms that are decorated with colorful vintage style while in front of them there is a swimming pool.

When it comes to the location of the hotel, it is ideal, being that it is on the edge of the Colorado River close to Ladybird Lake.

Plus, everything downtown has to offer is near.

All in all, we can say that this is completely unique motel in Texas.

Kimber Modern – a gorgeous design hotel

Another perfectly designed hotel in Austin that is worth or attention is definitely Kimber Modern.

It is an exceptionally rated 4-star hotel that represents an excellent combination of the old Austin heart and the new Austin soul.

The rooms have a bright design and cool clean lines which blend with natural light that comes through the branches of the courtyard oak trees making an ideal atmosphere.

Besides the contemporary rooms that offer views over the gorgeous interior courtyard additional features that make your stay even more comfortable are a 25-foot water feature and lazy hammocks.

So, you could notice that this is a heaven for relaxing from all the tensions.

Furthermore, its location is great, being that it is close to fashionable SoCo.

The Guild East 6th – a cool boutique hotel

The Guild East 6th is a 4-star exceptionally rated hotel that offers its guests a luxury-filled experience.

The hotel boasts 28 apartments that are equipped with everything you have at home and that you might need during your stay in Austin.

It offers its guests a possibility for a short-term visit, as well as a long-term rental.

If its luxury suites are your choice, you will have a concierge, swimming pool, wifi, and personalized itineraries available.

Each of the rooms is designed in its own way, and local Austin designers and artists did their best to give the rooms a sort of contemporary retro-cool.

Being that Austin is the city of rich musical heritage, this also plays a big part in the décor.

In  The Guild East 6th hotel rooms you will find collections of vinyl and a record player which enables you to enjoy the music.

The Austin Proper Hotel – a unique high design hideaway

The Austin Proper Hotel is situated in Downtown Austin.

This location makes it ideal for visitors who like the fact that they are within easy traveling distance of all areas of the city.

The Austin Proper Hotel is set in a modern skyscraper which gives it a luxurious vibe.

Plus, the hotel is designed with fine attention to each and every detail, and its interiors are equipped with carefully selected furnishings.

Once you enter the bedrooms, you first notice trendy textures, patterns, and natural light.

This gives an inviting feel while earthy tones provide a traditional elegance.

When outdoor is in question, the hotel boasts an impressive swimming pool area.

There you can both cool down or sunbathe in the hot Texas sun.

Visitors are impressed with the beautifully decorated dining room, as well.

South Congress Hotel – a hip and unique boutique hotel

South Congress Hotel is another exceptionally rated 4-star hotel in Austin.

Even though it is one among many excellent hotels there,  South Congress Hotel is a trendy Austin boutique hotel frequently chosen by travelers being that it is located in the heart of the iconic South Congress district.

This makes it perfect for boutique shopping and fine dining which is what many guests look for.

The hotel is light bright and brilliantly designed.

You will find everything you need there, starting from juice and light snacks at Manana, to brunch, lunch, and dinner in Cafe No Se, as well as a fine Texan grill.

Its rooms are equipped with massive beds and balconies.

Those who stay in this hotel will have access to a sauna, fitness suite rooftop pool, and some cool retail units.

ARRIVE Hotel – a cool and contemporary hotel

ARRIVE Hotel boasts a 4-star rating and its location in East Austin between Downtown, Holly, and Blackshear-Prospect Hill makes it even more attractive to travelers.

The hotel has vivid architecture and modern interior design as it is new-built.

Being that it is a contemporary hotel, it offers its guests a fresh vibe, cozy bedrooms, and easy-going communal areas.

When accommodation is in question, we need to mention that rooms at the ARRIVE Hotel are bright and airy, and what you first notice are wooden furniture, printed designs, and artwork on the walls.

Other hotel amenities available to visitors are a coffee shop, a gin bar, and a cajun rotisserie serving cocktails, frosted drinks, and a selection of beers.

Once you get out of the hotel, you are surrounded by a trendy and lively neighborhood full of eateries, bars, and restaurants.

East Austin Hotel – a retro-chic boutique hotel

Another hotel that really deserves our attention is East Austin Hotel.

It is a stylish boutique hotel located in Austin’s Sixth Street.

this trendy area well known for its independent coffee shops, bars, stores, and eateries is a perfect location for people who want to experience the way of life in Austin.

The hotel is attractive to visitors who want to stay in a contemporary accommodation, being that the hotel is a new-build and equipped with a modern exterior while its interiors are more traditional.

You can notice that the bedrooms are inspired by the Danish mid-century.

Unlike some other hotels in Austin, East Austin Hotel does not have a huge pool area, but the one that it has is inviting, with an outdoor bar, sunbathing loungers, and plenty of seating.

Once you get in front of the hotel, you will be surrounded by many bars, pubs, and restaurants.

Furthermore, after taking a few minute’s walks from the hotel, you can reach Downtown where all cultural hotspots are located.

Hotel ZaZa Austin – an elegant boutique hotel

Hotel ZaZa Austin is an amazing place for travelers who would like to stay in the heart of Austin’s Downtown.

Hotel ZaZa boasts 159 rooms that offer high-end luxury,

They are arranged in Texas-style, and its unique mix of modern and traditional décor is what makes its guests amazed.

Additionally, its communal areas have characteristic brickwork, ornate chandeliers, and unbelievable patterns on furnishings.

When it comes to the bedrooms, there are various suite types, each of them designed to offer a visitor a different vibe.

Of course, there are those more expensive Magnificent Seven suites for an Orient Express-inspired theme if that is what you wish.

For those looking for less luxury, there are standard guest rooms that offer them comfort with amazing views of the city.

Aloft Austin Northwest – a colorful retro-chic hotel

The Aloft Austin is a place where you can stay in loft-style rooms that are equipped with contemporary design features and throwback retro prints.

This hotel has huge, bright rooms that feature whatever a 21st-century traveler needs.

Furthermore, there are a few extra things too, such as a chance to enjoy your favorite videos and programs on your phone or tablet using the hotel’s Roomcast feature.

When relaxation is in question, you can take a break at the heated indoor pool, or on the cool patio.

Food lovers can try tasty snacks, light meals, and local booze in the 24/7 WXYZ bar.

Aloft Austin Northwest is an exceptionally rated fun hotel that is even more attractive to travelers due to its location which offers access to all Austin’s most important sites.

Fairmont Hotel – a trendy upscale hotel

Fairmont Hotel is the 4-star exceptionally rated accommodation located close to everything that the city has to offer.

At Fairmont Hotel you will be staying in stylish rooms, ranging from standard to superior.

The facilities that each room has to offer are bedside charging hubs and luxurious bedding and toiletries.

Everything is designed to attract tourists and leave them breathless so that they wish to come back again.

The Fairmont Hotel is surrounded by the greenery of Palm Park and Waller Creek.

Guests can enjoy a spectacular view of the city and Lady Bird Lake.

We find it worth mentioning that this is a brand new contemporary Austin hotel that did its best to create luxurious and splendid accommodation for all kinds of travelers.

It is ideal both for those coming for pleasure or business, as it has communal spaces designed for meetings.

The hotel also boasts five onsite dining options, 4 of which are on the ground floor, while the last one is on the 7th floor in a stunning indoor/outdoor atrium.

Additional amenity is the elegant heated pool and the impressive Fairmont Spa.

Park Lane Guest House – an eco-friendly, organic bed and breakfast

Park Lane Guest House is an accommodation that is suitable for vegetarians and vegans.

If you consider yourself an eco-warrior, the Park Lane Guest House will be your perfect place to stay.

We have to mention that in this dream hotel, everything is green and even the beds are organic.

It boasts a perfect rating on Google and its location close to the SoCo district of central Austin makes it even more attractive.

The guest house consists of four colonial-style cottages each equipped with antique, and organic furniture.

So, it is an outstanding blend of old southern charm and new world amenities.

In its restaurant, guests can try an organic veggie or vegan breakfast.

If they wish a meal outside, they can eat it on their private porch near the shared organic garden and natural swimming pool.

Plus, all the products that the staff uses for keeping the cottages clean are non-chemical and organic.

If you believe that your heavenly vacation includes sitting out on your porch under the shade of the live oak tree, surrounded by silence, then there is no doubt that this little eco-oasis in the heart of Auston is what you should choose.

The Highlander Hotel – a colorful budget boutique hotel

For people coming to Austin, but not looking for high-end luxury, the Highlander budget boutique hotel is definitely worth considering.

In this highly rated hotel, guests stay in rooms that are light, bright, and comfortable.

They are equipped with 40 inch TVs, one cup coffee maker, and top-quality bedding.

Rooms have contemporary design and guests find it interesting to face a life-size replica of a pink sheep.

This accommodation is set in the middle of Austin’s Boulevard District.

Around the hotel, guests can try world cuisine, visit vintage shops, or find easy access to downtown.

Ella Hotel – a historic boutique hotel

Ella Hotel deserved a 4-star  rating, being that it is built in the Greek revival style Goodall Wooten House from the 1900s.

So, it has a long history and even though it was renovated in 2013, its style remained true to the building’s original spirit.

At Ella Hotel, you can find the elegant cabana-lined pool and you will be offered the delicious in-room dining service.

In its furnished rooms and communal spaces, you will feel at home, which will make you think about coming back again.

If you wish to experience the atmosphere, you can easily book an iconic afternoon tea or a handcrafted cocktail at Ellas Parlour Bar.

Ella Hotel is certainly a beautiful, elegant, and unique Austin accommodation.

Lone Star Hotel – hip and fun hotel

Lone Star Hotel is definitely a unique hotel in Austin.

This is due to the fact that it offers an authentic Texan adventure.

Visitors are able to enjoy the outdoor swimming hole, the food trucks in the hotel’s own food truck court, and awesome live music at the hotel from Wednesday to Sunday throughout the whole year.

The hotel has retro-inspired rooms that have a smeg refrigerator and a balcony.

You can hang out with people in the Water Trough bar where you can also try tasty Tex-Mex tacos and a delicious cocktail while listening to live music.

This is accommodation in Austin that will not disappoint you at all.

Hotel San Jose – a hip bungalow-style hotel

Even though it is not on the top of our list, Hotel San Jose is a very highly rated hip Austin boutique hotel.

It is a place that offers minimalist retro calm in the center of the city.

The main aim of this place is to replace everyday life with carefully handmade design pieces.

What is even more important is that the budget traveler can afford to stay in this hotel.

You can choose the shared bathroom at the 4-star Hotel San Jose or decide to link three rooms.

After having a party, you can eat tasty food which is served in the hotel bar while listening to tunes played by DJs

La Villa Vista Resort – a romantic place to stay

La Villa Vista Resort is a highly rated accommodation that offers classic Mediterranean living.

It is located on the shores of Lake Travis, 40 minutes away from the airport.

You can notice antique furniture, pillars, and Frescoes throughout the resort, offering visitors a bit of Italian charm in the middle of America.

Guests find its infinity pool amazing being that it is set on the terrace with stunning views of the lake.

Additional amenities that can be found here are beamed ceilings, open fires and private balconies, walk-in showers, mosaic jacuzzi tubs, Persian rugs, and picture windows.

Casulo Hotel – a mixture of urban chic and a zen ambiance

The main goal of Casulo Hotel owners and designers was to make a perfect mixture of luxurious urban chic with Zen simplicity.

And they managed it through Muted colors, Japanese prints, and furnishings combined with contemporary shapes and communal spaces.

If you wish to experience luxury in Casulo Hotel, you can choose the jacuzzi suites.

There is a rain shower available as well as a splendid bathtub.

For people who are eager to stay in superior suites, peaceful balconies with amazing views of the city are available.

flattering breakfast can be eaten in the lovely light conservatory space.

You can try a morning dip in the pool or relax next to the pool with a cocktail.

Travaasa Austin – a ake resort and spa

It is true that it took the last place on our list but Travaasa Austin is the 4-star exceptionally rated resort that is definitely worth mentioning as the best place to stay in Austin.

Travaasa Resort is located between Austin city and the Balcones Canyonlands Wildlife Park.

It has 70 rooms in 7 buildings set in the calm woodland.

The main goal of its designers was to offer travelers old country charm with dark woods, natural fibers, and warm tones.

This is heaven for people looking for log fires, an outdoor barbeque, sauna, hot tub, infinity pool.

The place is for those who like active holidays, as the staff offers some organized activities such as horseback riding and yoga.

After an active day, you can try excellent food in the onsite restaurant.

The private balconies with forest views are the perfect place for a traveler who wishes to relax from the bustle of the city.

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