Historic Hotels in Austin TX – Stay in Style
Austin, TX, is home to many historic hotels that mix the city’s rich history with luxury. You can choose from a grand Waller Creek estate, a Greek Revival-style boutique hotel, or a redesigned South Congress motor court. Each place has its own story, mixing old-world charm with contemporary comforts for a memorable stay. No matter what you are looking for, Austin has a historic hotel to meet your needs.
Key Takeaways
- The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel, built in 1924, was the first high-rise hotel in Austin.
- The Driskill is the oldest hotel in Austin, operating since 1886, with rates starting at around $179 per night.
- Hotel San Jose offers boutique accommodations with rates starting at around $225 per night.
- Each hotel blends historical significance with modern luxury, providing a unique and immersive stay.
- The historic hotels are conveniently located near dining, nightlife, and shopping options in downtown Austin.
The Driskill: A Texas Landmark
In 1886, Colonel Jesse Driskill, a cattle baron, opened The Driskill. It’s now one of the top luxury heritage hotels. Its Romanesque-style architecture stands out. Also, it’s listed on the National Register of Historic Places, highlighting its importance in Texas.
The Driskill offers 189 rooms, including 14 suites. This ensures a luxurious visit for every guest. The Driskill Bar, praised for its top-notch drinks, was named one of America’s 10 Best Hotel Bars by USA Today. Live music plays every night, adding to the charm.
Eating at The Driskil is unique. The 1886 Café & Bakery offers excellent brunch, available every day. Guests can also order food to their rooms, which is very convenient.
| Year | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1886 | Grand Opening | Opened with an estimated cost of $400,000, equivalent to $92 million today. |
| 1887 | First Inaugural Ball | Hosted for the newly elected Texas Governor, Sul Ross. |
| 1895 | Acquisition by George R. Littlefield | Acquired for $106,000 with renovations costing over $60,000. |
| 1970 | Community Effort | Raised over $700,000 to prevent demolition. |
| 2002 | Opening of 1886 Café & Bakery | Celebrated with the reopening of the 1886 Lunchroom. |
| 2013 | Acquisition by Hyatt Hotels & Resorts | Invested $8 million in property upgrades. |
The Driskill has exciting packages like the “Keeping Up With The Johnsons Package”. This allows guests to follow in the footsteps of President Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson. There’s also a Bed & Breakfast Package for extra comfort. The Driskill is famous for hosting beautiful weddings for over a hundred years. It’s located on 6th Street, close to the Texas State Capitol and Congress Avenue Bridge. With its deep history and luxury, The Driskill shines among luxury heritage hotels.
Experiencing the Charm of Hotel Ella
Hotel Ella in Austin, Texas, is a hidden gem. It combines old-time elegance with modern features beautifully. Set in the Goodall Wooten House’s history, this hotel gives guests a unique stay. It’s filled with history and art.
History of the Goodall Wooten House
The house dates back to 1900, owned by Goodall and Ella Wooten. Ella made it a grand Greek Revival home. It had amazing woodwork and housed Texas Modernist art. Now, after a 2013 renovation, Hotel Ella honors their memories.
Today, it offers luxury and keeps its historical charm. It feels like a step back in time but with modern comforts. Every corner has a story, blending history and art perfectly.
Amenities and Art at Hotel Ella
Hotel Ella has something for every guest. It features 47 rooms, an outdoor pool with cabanas, and a gym. Enjoy Southern food at Goodall’s, surrounded by art.
- Outdoor pool
- Fitness Center
- Restaurant and Bar/Lounge
- Room Service
- Free Wi-Fi
- Valet Parking
- Flat-screen TV
This hotel is also close to Austin’s famous spots. It’s near the Bullock Museum, Texas State Capitol, and the University of Texas. It offers comfort and culture.
| Hotel Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Check-in Time | After 3:00 PM |
| Check-out Time | Before 12:00 PM |
| Cheapest Rate per Night | $129 |
| Guest Rating | 8.1 (based on 200 reviews) |
| Location | 1900 Rio Grande Street, Austin, TX |
The staff at Hotel Ella make everyone feel welcome. Each piece of art tells a story. For those who love history, art, and luxury, Hotel Ella is perfect.
The Iconic Austin Motel on South Congress
The Austin Motel opened in 1938. It’s a cherished symbol of travel from the mid-20th century. The iconic neon sign is a famous sight on South Congress Avenue. Guests enjoy a vibrant retro vibe, fun room decor, and a unique kidney-shaped pool. It’s a mix of old-school charm and modern comfort.
Chill by the pool or discover South Congress Avenue. The motel suits those who love both old and new. With 41 rooms and suites, it offers something for everyone. You’ll also love Joann’s Fine Foods, a spot known for delicious meals. It’s a top historic inn in Austin.
| Hotel Name | Year Opened | Number of Rooms | Average Rates per Night |
|---|---|---|---|
| Austin Motel | 1938 | 41 | $125 – $245 |
| Commodore Perry Estate | 1924 | 400 | $529+ |
| The Driskill Hotel | 1886 | 189 | $179+ |
| Hotel Ella | 1900 | 47 | $85+ |
| Hotel Saint Cecilia | 1960s-1970s | 14 | $445+ |
| Hotel San José | N/A | 40 | $225+ |
| Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel | 1924 | 190 | $99+ |
Commodore Perry Estate: Luxury and Elegance
Commodore Perry Estate stands out as a top luxury heritage hotel in Austin. It’s loved for mixing historic charm with modern luxury. Managed by Auberge Resorts Collection, it showcases the Roaring Twenties through stunning architecture and captivating details.
The Roaring Twenties Legacy
The Commodore Perry Estate is a great example of Italian Renaissance Revival style. It offers a glimpse into Austin’s glamorous past. Built in 1928, the mansion has beautiful gardens and ornate fountains, reflecting the era’s luxury.
Spectacular Suites and Gardens
Guests enjoy luxurious stays, with five themed suites in the mansion and modern rooms in the Inn. The estate spans 10 acres, opposite the historic Hancock Golf Course. It has a 50-foot oval swimming pool and a lush, two-acre garden for growing fresh produce.
| Exclusive Offers | Details |
|---|---|
| Auberge Suite Retreat | Save 15% + $150 resort credit |
| Natural Wonders Escape | $150 resort credit |
| Rise + Dine | Breakfast in bed or the Mansion |
| Mercedes-Benz Benefits | $100 credit, room upgrade, welcome amenity |
| Advance Booking | Up to 20% savings |
| Texans-Only Local Offer | Up to 30% off, $100 dining credit |
Dining at Lutie’s Garden Restaurant
Lutie’s Garden Restaurant is a treasure on the estate. It offers a seasonal menu with organic ingredients from the garden. Guests enjoy a dining experience that combines the estate’s history with modern Texan and New American tastes.
Rated the #1 Hotel in Texas by U.S. News and World Report, Commodore Perry Estate is more than a place to stay. It’s a blend of history, luxury, and elegance in Austin’s heart.
Hotel Saint Cecilia: A Tribute to Music and Poetry
Hotel Saint Cecilia stands as a haven for music and poetry lovers. It’s in Travis Heights, near the Colorado River. Opening in 2008, it mixes late ’60s vibes with modern luxury. It offers a unique experience.
With Hotel Saint Cecilia, you get a mix of accommodations. Choose from 5 suites, 6 poolside bungalows, 6 garden suites, and 3 studios. Each space comes with Rega turntables and Geneva sound systems. There’s also a 50-foot heated pool open 24/7 for guests.
The rooms have organic, handmade Hästens beds. Guests enjoy custom kimono bathrobes and Santa Maria Novella spa products. The minibar is stocked with local and European items. The hotel’s 24-hour reception offers personalized service and advice.
| Accommodation Type | Number of Rooms |
|---|---|
| Suites | 5 |
| Poolside Bungalows | 6 |
| Garden Suites | 6 |
| Studios | 3 |
The hotel lounge is for guests and private club members. It has indoor and outdoor seating options. The terrace offers stunning views of Austin, perfect for any event. It seats up to 125 guests.
If you love music, the hotel rents out Gibson guitars. You can also buy vintage LPs thanks to Breakaway Records. Book lovers will enjoy the hotel’s library, filled with a wide selection of books.
Near South Congress Avenue, Hotel Saint Cecilia’s location is prime. It lets guests dive into Austin’s history and modern charm. This boutique hotel is where the past meets the present in harmony.
Historic hotels in Austin TX – A Blend of Past and Present
Austin’s historic hotels mix rich history with modern luxury, perfect for anyone who loves the past and comfort. Near big landmarks like the Texas State Capitol and Congress Avenue Bridge, they offer more than just nice rooms. They tell fascinating stories of famous guests, making history come alive in Texas.
Rich Histories with Modern Comforts
The Commodore Perry Estate, built in 1928, now has 42 rooms and seven suites on its 10-acre land by Waller Creek. Then there’s Hotel Ella, in the Goodall Wooten House, with top-notch rooms and close to University of Texas. Lastly, the Austin Motel shines with its original 1938 charm and bright neon signs, right off South Congress Avenue.
All these historic hotels in Austin, TX merge their deep histories with today’s luxuries for a unique stay.
Notable Guests and Stories
These hotels have hosted famous politicians and stars, adding colorful tales to their history. The Driskill, costing $400,000 back in 1886 (around $92 million today), was a favorite of President Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson during the 50s and 60s. Another gem, the Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel, has been a luxury icon since opening in 1924.
Visitors can dive into the stories of prominent people who’ve stayed in these hotels, all while enjoying today’s amenities.
Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel: A Beacon of History
Since 1924, the Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel has been a key part of Austin’s history. It was among the city’s first luxury skyscrapers, highlighting Austin’s growing economy. This hotel is a tribute to the “Father of Texas,” showcasing art deco design and a grand marble staircase.
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel has shaped Austin’s story, with its 190 beautiful rooms. It has hosted events for Presidents like Lyndon B. Johnson and both George H.W. and George W. Bush. With a story rich backdrop and beautiful design, it’s the go-to for luxury and history in Austin.
| Hotel | Location | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| The Driskil | Downtown Austin | Romanesque-style architecture, renowned steakhouse |
| Hotel San José | South Congress | Minimalist design, communal courtyard |
| Hotel Ella | Downtown Austin | Greek Revival style, Texas Modernist artworks |
| Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel | Downtown Austin | Art deco, marble double staircase |
Conclusion
Austin’s historic hotels are not just places to sleep. They’re doorways to the city’s heritage and charm. Landmarks like the Driskill Hotel and Hotel Ella mix yesterday and today, offering top-notch stays.
The Driskill, built in the 1880s, is famous for its history. It once had sixty rooms with steam heat and fancy suites. Today, it’s known for its antique mirrors and the old Maximilian Banquet Room. Saved by locals in 1970, it’s still a key part of Austin.
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel has stood for luxury since 1924. It hosted big political events and shows off art deco style. Its neon sign and places like Hotel Ella add to Austin’s mix of old and new.
These hotels offer more than just a place to stay. They blend historical charm with modern luxury. They capture Austin’s spirit, making each visit special. Celebrate their past and present when you stay.
