Austin is a charming city packed with leafy parks and shimmering lakes that lure hikers, bikers, swimmers, and boating enthusiasts. The city’s unique character shines through with a diverse live music scene and flavorful barbecue. A highlight in this city that shouldn’t be missed is a tour of the Texas Capitol. On a hot day, take a dip in Barton Springs Municipal Pool, a sparkling 3-acre (1.2-hectare) spring-fed swimming pool in Zilker Park. If you want to add an extra layer of wonder to your Texas adventure, then opt for staying in an accommodation with a past. To find out the top spots, you must scroll down to see the best historic hotels in Austin, Texas.
We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) properties with historic significance, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 12, 2024.
1. The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt (from USD 205)
Opening its doors in 1886, The Driskill is the earliest operating hotel in this capital city. With an incomparable blend of vintage charm and contemporary elegance, this landmark hotel features a grand lobby with a dazzling stained-glass dome and polished marble floors, which are a must-see for any architectural buff. President Lyndon Johnson and his future wife, Lady Bird, enjoyed their first date at The Driskill, and this Romanesque-inspired venue has hosted election-night parties for plenty of Texas politicians throughout the years.
This fine hotel is within strolling distance of many attractions, such as the Texas State Capitol and Austin Music Hall.
The Driskill, in The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
Address: 604 Brazos Street
1.4 km (0.9 mi) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
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2. Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection (from USD 599)
Guests are treated like royalty at Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection. This is an expansive 10-acre (4-hectare) estate that was originally constructed in 1928. It has since then been renovated into what it is today. The fabulous hotel was inspired by the owner’s extensive treks through Europe; the splendid themed suites reflect these travels. The grounds boast a lavish Italian Renaissance Revival mansion and impeccably maintained gardens accentuated by sparkling fountains and lovely sculptures.
This lodging - listed on the National Register of Historic Places - is a dreamy place to stay. Unwind on the breezy terrace, take a romantic stroll through the awesome gardens, or savor tasty fare at the gorgeous Lutie’s Garden Restaurant.
Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Resorts Collection
Address: 4100 Red River Street
2.77 km (1.8 mi) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
3. Hotel Ella (from USD 298)
One of the city’s original landmark estates, Hotel Ella is a stately boutique hotel awash in simplistic sophistication. Located within strolling distance of the University of Texas at Austin campus, Hotel Ella was originally established as a residential home after one of the founders of the university, Thomas Dudley Wooten, bought the land in 1878. Known as the Goodall Wooten House, the manor house was constructed in 1900 and Wooten’s son and wife moved in.
This Greek Revival-style house features delicate woodwork carved by a Swiss artisan and an intriguing collection of Texas Modernist artworks. Wooten’s son was a diehard gun collector, and guests visiting the onsite Ella Parlor Bar can view a firearm from his selection.
Hotel Ella
Address: 1900 Rio Grande Street
693 meters (0.5 ft) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
4. The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel (from USD 199)
One of the first high-rise deluxe accommodations in the city, The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel is a true gem on Austin’s landscape. Erected in 1924, this hotel bears the name of the celebrated historical figure, Stephen F Austin, who successfully developed Texas by enticing over 300 families to the area in the early 1800s.
This hotel is the first structure in the city to display a lighted roofline and boasts a jaw-dropping marble double staircase in the lobby, as well as refined decorative gold details and sumptuous furnishings. Many presidential figures with ties to Texas, such as Lyndon B. Johnson and George W. Bush, used this landmark lodging as their campaign headquarters.
The Stephen F Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Address: 701 Congress Avenue
1.29 km (0.8 mi) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
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5. Hotel San Jose (from USD 399)
Originally a motor lodge when it was built in 1936, Hotel San Jose offers a curious past. After undergoing a complete remodeling, Hotel San Jose is now a glossy and contemporary retreat. Its locale is prime, as it is in the heart of South Congress Avenue’s trendiest shops and yummy eateries.
Guests can lounge in casual bungalow-inspired rooms with a crisp, minimalist flair that features custom-made saddle leather chairs. Select units provide a breezy terrace where you can relax and sip your favorite bottle of beer or wine.
Hotel San Jose
Address: 1316 South Congress Avenue
3.45 km (2.2 mi) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
6. Hotel Saint Cecilia (from USD 499)
A five-star hotel situated in Austin’s historic Travis Heights neighborhood, Hotel Saint Cecilia boasts an interesting history. This house - built in 1888 - was initially the home of a descendant of fabled frontiersman and American folk hero, Davy Crockett. Today, this accommodation offers a respite for weary travelers and showcases an easy-going late 60s ambiance. If you can, snag a charming poolside bungalow, studio, or suite.
Though an isolated property, this lodging is only one block from the hip and bustling South Congress Avenue. Complimentary bikes are available so you can easily explore the city’s surroundings.
Hotel Saint Cecilia
Address: 112 Academy Drive
3.23 km (2.1 mi) from Bullock Texas State History Museum
Austin's awesome historic hotels
Austin entices visitors for many reasons. One of its underrated charms is its age-old accommodations that exude a compelling vibe. Get a peek into Austin’s history by staying at one of these incredible historic hotels mentioned above, and your Texas escape is sure to be unforgettable.
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