Last Updated on October 31, 2024 by Katrina
Austin is both the capital city and the hip epicenter of the Lone Star State. But within the Texas hub, the East Austin neighborhood has become its own cultural hotbed. This older residential neighborhood has seen an influx of art galleries, bars and restaurants in recent years. In keeping with its cutting-edge community, boutique hotels and even hostels reign here. Here are five hotels in East Austin that exucde personality and offer easy access to the rest of the city.
ARRIVE Austin (1813 E. 6th St.; 737-242-8080) East Austin
Located on the site of a former Goodwill warehouse, this 83-room branch of the boutique chain upends a few conventions. There’s no typical reception desk—you get a welcome drink at the bar instead—and you text requests to staff. But reviewers find the set-up very user-friendly. Condé Nast Traveler describes the hotel has having an “industrial-meets-boho aesthetic,” and “rooms are equipped for your standard millennial guest, with Apple TVs, a wealth of USB ports, Hiatus robes, and Brooklinen bedding.” One Tripadvisor user loved the balance of neighborhood vibes and easy access. “Great walkable location. Rooms were beautiful if you love mid-century modern. No coffee maker (there’s an adjacent coffee shop) and fridge in room was totally turquoise 1950’s. Staff was exceptional.” >> Book this hotel for less
East Austin Hotel (1108 E. 6th St.; 737-205-8888) East Austin
This 72-room boutique hotel has a Scandinavian design aesthetic and even a few European-style rooms—meaning you’d share a bathroom down the hall. But the breezy ambience and welcoming pool create a mellow atmosphere. “Great trendy hotel for a weekend with friends,” says a Tripadvisor user. “Budget-friendly but still satisfied all of our needs. Location has several walkable restaurants around and is a $10 Uber to the South Congress area.” One Yelp user admitted this is “not my typical type of hotel but staff was super nice and hospitable, and room was a good size with a fantastic bed. Also had some really good in-room coffee which was shocking, and its Six and Waller was really great for breakfast.” >> Book this hotel for less
Heywood Hotel (1609 E. Cesar Chavez St.; 512-271-5522) East Austin
This seven-room boutique hotel with a courtyard—fronted by a renovated cottage—fits right in with the homes and other mom-and-pop businesses of East Austin. “This 1920s craftsman bungalow looks more like someone’s house than a hotel—and that’s intentional,” says Condé Nast Traveler. “The husband-and-wife owners and couple other staff members are all passionate about the surrounding East Austin neighborhood, and will take time to help you craft a daily itinerary.” Travelers rave about the comfortable Stearns & Foster beds. “I never like other mattresses than my own but these are fantastic. I always sleep so well,” says one Google reviewer. “The bathrooms in the upgraded rooms are amazing (and worth the upgrade)! I always love a good bathtub and these do not disappoint.” >> Book this hotel for less
The Cat Noir Hotel (1123 E. 11th St.; 512-675-0011) East Austin
With just 14 rooms, this neighborhood inn is almost B&B sized—and it gets raves for feeling that friendly and intimate—including its resident feline Louis. But it also has a chic modern sensibility, with local artwork as well as flat-screen TVs, Bluetooth sound systems, and minifridges. Some rooms have Juliet balconies, too. “Fabulous fun modern decor, incredibly clean, such an attention to detail,” says one Google user. “A hand-written note awaited us when we got in our room with two stemless wine glasses and water bottles. High quality bedding, towels, and bathroom was very luxurious.” The location also wins fans, with easy access to Sixth Street and the Capitol across the highway, along with some destination-worthy local eateries. “I chose it because it looked to be a fun place,” says a Tripadvisor user, “and, I’ll be honest, because it is two blocks from Franklin Barbecue.” >> Book this hotel for less
Native Hostel (807 E. 4th St.; 512-551-9947) East Austin
“Upscale hostel” may seem like an oxymoron, but that is how this small, dorm-style hotel feels, with its coffee shop/bar, shared marble bathrooms, and mural-lined common spaces. Condé Nast Traveler says “the bunk-style accommodations are less low-brow hostel, more chic boutique hotel, thanks to high-design accents and a clever crowd. Expect antique Oriental rugs, intricate woodwork, velvet wingback chairs, and high ceilings.” It’s housed in an 1897 building that in previous lives was a boarding house, brewery, and factory. “Not your typical hostel, will definitely stay here again,” says a Tripadvisor user. “Great location, extremely close to convention center and nightlife. Friendly people and nice ‘yuppie’ breakfast.” >> Book this hotel for less
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