Austin in Bloom

Tucked within Zilker Park, this 3-acre (1.2 hectare) spring-fed swimming hole maintains an average water temperature of 68–70 degrees F (20–21 C), making it the ideal spot to cool off on a warm afternoon.

Austin’s beloved Mexican free-tailed bats return to Austin each spring, allowing visitors to watch as the creatures sweep across the sky in search of their evening meal. The ribbon-like silhouette of these harmless high-flyers at sunset is a uniquely Austin spectacle.

Austin’s renowned eccentricity is abundant along South Congress Avenue, or SoCo as locals call it. This colourful neighborhood is lined with shops, trendy dining spots and art galleries, all within walking distance of our Hotel.

In a town known for creativity, it’s no surprise many of Austin’s buildings and walls double as art canvases. From iconic sayings to cultural cartoons, you’ll find something to see – and photograph – on nearly every corner.

A visit to Austin isn’t complete without a stop at one of the city’s renowned barbecue spots. Better yet, treat your taste buds to a few and join Austinites everywhere in the age-old debate about which spot truly has the best barbecue.

Great for a leisurely stroll, scenic jog or easy bike ride, the 10-mile (16-kilometre) Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail bisects downtown as it winds alongside Austin’s beloved Lady Bird Lake.

Soak up Austin’s 300-plus days of sunshine on Lady Bird Lake, home to some of the best kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding in town. Calm waters and picturesque inlets provide hours of lake-filled fun near the heart of downtown Austin.