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Lone Star Riverboat Sightseeing Tours

4.7 928 votes

208 Barton Springs Road

(512) 327-1388

About Lone Star Riverboat

• 1 hour tour
• Reservations recommended
• Departure time is approximately 30 minutes prior to sunset.
• Departure times may vary, please call for the departure schedule.
• 32' and 35' Electric cruisers
• ADA compliant
• Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $13, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
• Saturday and Sunday - 12:30PM & 3:00PM
• 1 hour narrated tour
• ADA compliant 
• Boarding begins 45 minutes before tour time. 
• Prices: Adults - $13, Seniors (60 and over) - $11, Children (12 and under) - $8, Children (2 and under) - Free
• Friday - 10:30PM
• 1 hour scenic tour
• Boarding begins at 9:45PM
• All Tickets: $13 per ticket
• Friday, Saturday and Sunday - 5:30PM
• Non-alcoholic CASH only beverage service (on the Lone Star) or bring your own beverage of choices
• Boarding begins at 4:45PM until 5:15PM
• Minimum number of people: 30
• Maximum number of people: 130
• $18.00 per person (30 - 80 people)
• $16.00 per person (81 - 130 people)
• Children 2 and under are no charge
• Two hour charter time (plus 30 minutes prior to departure for boarding)
• $200 for each additional hour (may be broken into 1/2 hour increments)
• Catering and beverage service may be arranged at an additional cost (see below)
• Charges are for the number of people guaranteed or on a per person basis, whichever is greater

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Lone Star River Boat

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Lone Star River Boat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor

Lone Star River Boat

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Lone Star River Boat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises

(512) 327-1388

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises & Austin are two shining stars of Texas! Join us aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly vessels. Experience the exhilaration of the outdoors, the abundant waterfowl, our ever changing city skyline and the natural beauty that is Austin. We’re located on Lake Lady Bird in Austin, TX and feature boat charters, daily bat watching tours, weekend afternoon sightseeing tours, and a moonlight cruises on Friday nights. Free parking is available at Vic Mathias Shores subject to special event availability and on a first come first serve basis.

About Charters Imagine your social occasion on a delightful cruise right through the heart of downtown Austin, Texas aboard The Lone Star. Private charters are available year-round for groups of 30 to 100 people. Visit our charters page on our full website for more details.

Daily Bat Watching Sunset Cruises Climb aboard the Little Star, Northern Star and Southern Star Daily (March – October) for a spectacular sight to see the bats emerge from the bridge at sunset! An estimated 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats live under the Congress Avenue Bridge. Tours last 1 hour and start 30 minutes before sunset! Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Weekend Afternoon Sightseeing Cruises Enjoy a quiet, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard one of our all environmentally-friendly electric cruisers-normally on the Lone Star – our big double-decker boat. Come join us and take in the picturesque sights of Lady Bird Lake. Tour times are Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 and 3pm, boarding begins 45 minutes prior to departure. Prices are $13 for adults, $11 for seniors, $8 for children aged 2-12, and free for children under 2.

Friday Night Moonlight Cruise Enjoy a romantic, scenic and relaxing cruise on Lady Bird Lake, aboard The Lone Star. Come join us and take in the beautiful Austin skyline under the stars with your special someone. Tours are Friday night at 10:30 and boarding begins at 9:45. All tickets are $13.

Lone Star Riverboat Cruises Reviews

We took a bat cruise and absolutely loved it. Boarding was prompt and efficient. The employees were all lovely. Our capital DJ kept us safe and our other captain (I think Tony) was informative and gave great information. Get there early if you want the upper deck of the larger boat as they begin boarding at 6.15pm. Concessions are CASH only so be prepared if you want a drink.

Carrie Ciaverelli, PT, MPT, CYT

Our family and friend visiting had a wonderful cruise with Captain Mike. The bats were amazing and we had a great view from the boat when they decided to come out for their evening flights. We also enjoyed learning about the Austin skyline and some of the history. If you have out-of-town guests visiting Austin, we highly recommend this as a truly Austin experience.

Monica Sleboda

This is a great thing to do while visiting Austin. Or guide was very knowledgeable of the area and came up with fun stories. Watching the bats come out at dusk was really cool too. Only thing I wish I had known before we arrived was that it’s BYOB and you can bring food. Definitely get there early so you can get on the big boat with tables on the upper deck.

Rebecca Caday

So glad we did this! My husband and I were visiting from DFW and I wanted to find an activity that was unique and came across Lone Star Riverboat tours. Very affordable, even better. Bring your own snacks and drinks, although they did have some canned drinks for sale. Captains DJ and Robert were friendly and humorous. We sat on the top deck but there's an enclosed 1st deck as well, which I imagine is great for colder days. The tour was an hour, left promptly, and returned promptly; great for a tight schedule. Definitely recommend for a different type of excursion in Austin.

James Bastin

1 hour cruise down the river. Interesting to hear about buildings new and old and the bats! If you want to see the bats fly at night then go for an evening cruise. They aren’t visible during the day. Apparently 750k-1.5m at any time. We came November and they are apparently going back to Mexico in the next few days until next year. Not sure which month they come back..

David Johnson

It's definitely worth the price to take one of these boat tours to see the bats (and the skyline, architecture, landmarks, etc.) while in Bat City, instead of trying to see from on top of the bridge. Our captain/tour guide was excellent, but I don't recall her name (the cute blonde comedian girl). Apparently they also have a larger boat that can be chartered for private events.

A truly amazing experience. Our guide was really funny and personable. We experienced everything we were promised: a boat tour, view of the city from the water, 1.5 million bats flying out into the country to feast on mosquitoes and various other creatures they prefer to eat. This is a 100% must for both locals and visitors.

Amanda Wood

My family and I had a great time on the bat cruise! Our guide was funny and informative with information about Austin and the different buildings along the skyline, which we all enjoyed. We've lived in Austin for less than a year and learned so many new things. And, the bats were awesome! Such a fun experience!

John VonReeden

As a visitor from Phoenix this was a very fun experience. It’s scheduled for 1-hour but to ensure we got a full experience we got to stay out for an additional 30 minutes. Our Captain ‘Crunch’ was excellent, she was knowledgeable of her job and the sites she told us about along the way. Highly recommended. We also participated in the BYOB, we stopping at the closest corner store and poured our beverages in a styrofoam cup.

Nicolas Stephens

Captain Rob was charming and knowledgeable. He kept things going, while we waited for the bats to fly. He piloted the boat very calmly and kept everybody entertained. I would highly recommend using him if you want to see the bats and learn all about how awesome nature is.

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Total Score: 3060

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Lone Star River Boat - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Lone Star Riverboat Cruise: Best Way to See the Bats in Austin

Please note that this article was written before the pandemic. For full details about limited capacity boat tours and safety precautions due to COVID-19, please visit lonestarriverboat.com .

We all know that Austin is batty for bats. Austin is home to the largest Mexican free-tail bat colony in North America, and we love to celebrate these winged creatures that dwell underneath the Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge. Seeing the bats swoop out from under the bridge is quite an amazing site!

But what’s the best way to see the bats? And when?

“Bat Season” takes place every year from March to November, and bats emerge around sunset to feed on a variety of flying insects such as mosquitoes and moths. Typically, late July and early August is considered “peak season” to see a spectacular show.

You can certainly join the crowds and stand along the sidewalk of the bridge to wait for them to take flight, we we think the BEST way to see them is from the water. So we decided to hop aboard the Lone Star Riverboat Sunset Bat Watching Cruise for a special “true Austin” experience.

The boats available for this Bat Watching Cruise include a large pontoon boat, the Southern Star, that seats up to 60 people and the smaller boat, Little Star, which carries 30. Both are open-air, so you’re sure to get a great view no matter where you’re seated.

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Greg Abbott Defiant After Texas Border Law Blow

Texas Governor Greg Abbott has reacted with defiance after a federal appeals court ruling put Senate Bill 4, Texas state legislation designed to tackle illegal immigration, on hold in a ruling on March 19 .

Posting on X, formerly Twitter , Abbott vowed to "continue fighting Pres. Biden's deadly border crisis" and said Texan authorities would continue constructing a border wall and using razor wire and river buoys to discourage irregular migration.

Abbott signed Senate Bill 4 into law in December, with the legislation allowing Texan law enforcement to arrest and deport migrants suspected of being in the country illegally—a controversial move, as this has traditionally been seen as a federal responsibility. The legislation also extended Operation Lone Star , a multiagency border-security program that Abbott introduced in March 2021, and which has seen the deployment of thousands of Texas National Guard soldiers.

In February, Senate Bill 4 was blocked by a federal judge following legal action from the Biden administration. Tuesday, the Supreme Court ruled in a 6-3 judgment that the bill could take effect. However, later that same day, the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals put the legislation back on hold in a 2-1 ruling, pending an appeal to the federal judge's initial ruling.

• Sorry, Texas: You Can't Jail and Deport People. Biden Is Right to Fight You
• Supreme Court Texas Ruling Should Be Wake-Up Call for Biden on Immigration
• Greg Abbott releases plan for border after sudden court loss

As the legal battle continues, Abbott vowed in a succession of X posts Wednesday to continue his current policies designed to reduce irregular migration.

In one post, the governor wrote : "While the fight continues in court to uphold SB4, Texas continues to arrest illegal immigrants for criminal trespass.

"More than 41,000 criminal arrests have been made. We continue to build border wall, use NG [National Guard] to erect razor wire to repel migrants & keep buoy barriers in river."

While the fight continues in court to uphold SB4, Texas continues to arrest illegal immigrants for criminal trespass. More than 41,000 criminal arrests have been made. We continue to build border wall, use NG to erect razor wire to repel migrants & keep buoy barriers in river. — Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 20, 2024

Texan authorities have installed large orange buoys in the Rio Grande in a bid to obstruct migrants crossing the river from Mexico into the United States. In August, close-up shots of some of the buoys showed they were separated with large chunks of sharp metal, which were compared to saws , sparking controversy.

On March 21, Abbott posted photos of a petition being presented to him in support of Operation Lone Star by "over 100 sheriffs" from across the state. The governor added: "Your partnership is critical as we continue fighting Pres. Biden's deadly border crisis to protect Texas—and America."

Newsweek contacted the White House press office for comment by email outside normal working hours.

In a third post, Abbott shared a photograph of two men in camouflage, who appear to be National Guard soldiers, inspecting a razor-wire fence.

He wrote : "No one is allowed to pass. Thanks to the Texas Military Department and Texas Department of Public Safety for securing the border 24/7."

No one is allowed to pass. Thanks to the Texas Military Department and Texas Department of Public Safety for securing the border 24/7. ⁦ @TexasGuard ⁩ ⁦ @TxDPS ⁩ ⁦ @TXMilitary ⁩ pic.twitter.com/qmnoms2czU — Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) March 21, 2024

During a March 18 appearance on the Fox News show Fox & Friends , Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick said "criminals" and "terrorists" were entering the state along its southern border ahead of the Supreme Court decision.

He said, "To the Supreme Court justices who are watching Fox I'm sure this morning as they get up early, we are being attacked ... by land, by sea, by air, literally millions coming across the border, many armed, many criminals, terrorists."

Immigration — The U.S. by numbers:

The U.S. has more immigrants than any other country in the world. In 2021, around 45 million people living in the U.S. were born in another country, accounting for 13.5 percent of the overall population (332 million) that year, according to data from Congress. Around three quarters were in the U.S. legally, while one quarter were there illegally.

Immigration — Where people are going:

In 2021, more than half of the 740,002 people who obtained lawful permanent resident status settled in just four states, already the most populous in the United States: 135,181 (18.3 percent) settled in California, 83,227 (11.2 percent) in Florida, 78,873 (10.7 percent) in Texas, and 10.3 percent (76,127) in New York, according to the Department of Homeland Security.

Immigration — Where people aren't going:

The states in the mainland U.S. with the fewest immigrants in 2021 were Wyoming (280 people), Montana (404), Vermont (423) and West Virginia (494).

On March 9, migrant-rights activists protested outside the Texas Capitol in Austin against Senate Bill 4, which some suggested would target Latino migrants whether they were in the U.S. legally or illegally.

Speaking to KFOX, Alan Lizarraga, the communications coordinator for Border Network for Human Rights, said , "I think people overall in the border region—possibly throughout the whole Texas border region—need to be aware of what this law really is, what the power that is going to give officers, and most importantly to know that they have rights."

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About the writer

James Bickerton is a Newsweek U.S. News reporter based in London, U.K. His focus is covering U.S. politics and world politics. He has covered the intersection between politics and emerging technology, such as artificial intelligence. James joined Newsweek in July 2022 from LBC, and previously worked for the Daily Express. He is a graduate of Oxford University. Languages: English. Twitter: @JBickertonUK.

You can get in touch with James by emailing [email protected]

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Boats Our Boats

Lone Star Riverboat has three different boats for you to choose from, to host your next Austin adventure. Chose bethween luxurious double-decked, paddle-wheel riverboat, or two smaller boats ideal for sunset/bat watching.

The Lone Star

Our largest boat, the Lone Star, is Austin's newest and most luxurious double-decked, paddle-wheel riverboat

The Little Star

The Little Star was built in 2000 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises and sightseeing cruises March through October.

The Southern Star

The Southern Star was built in 2006 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises March through October.

The Northern Star

The Northern Star was built in 2017 and offers sunset/bat watching cruises March through October.

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Lone Star Riverboat © 2017. All rights reserved. Managed by the Best Ways to View the Austin Bats -->

20 Best Hotels In Austin, Texas, For Your Next Lone Star Trip

F rom retro motor courts and relaxing spa resorts to walkable downtown hotels and hip new boutique stays, here's where to stay in Austin.

Austin, Texas, is a city that isn't short on things to do , places to see, tacos to eat , live music to be heard, and outdoor activities to be enjoyed. You can take a dip in the natural swimming hole Barton Springs Pool, kayak on Lady Bird Lake, catch an up-and-coming musician at Continental Club or Antone's, pick up a pair of boots on South Congress Avenue, tour the state capitol building, attend a football game at the University of Texas, and so much more. Basically, you might as well stay a few days.

Luckily, Austin is a growing city with historic, highly rated, and new hotels alike. You can choose from many unique options befitting your travel goals, including walkable high-rise hotels downtown, relaxing spa resorts outside the city, retro motor courts with modern flair, and trendy boutique hotels with major personalities. Here are the best hotels in Austin to book for your next trip.

The LINE Austin

With downtown Austin on one side and Lady Bird Lake on the other, The LINE Austin is a great option for those who want maximum walkability to everything downtown has to offer. Since it also sits at the end of the South Congress Bridge, you can easily go for a stroll on the waterside Ann & Roy Butler Hike & Bike Trail, as well as over the bridge to the artsy retail-and-restaurant district, South Congress. 

The LINE Austin also has a rooftop bar, P6, for epic sunset views, and some of the city’s best breakfast tacos can be found downstairs at Veracruz All Natural. 

thelinehotel.com , 512-478-9611, 111 East Cesar Chavez, Austin, TX 78701

Hotel San José

This circa-1930s motor court was given a hip new makeover by designer Liz Lambert, which helped kickstart the revitalization of the entire South Congress strip, which is now bustling with shops, restaurants, and music venues—all within just steps of your room. The 40-room bungalow-style hotel is centered around a retro-inspired courtyard, accompanied by a popular hidden-away bar, where you can sip on Texas Ranch Waters .

Typewriters and Polaroid cameras can be borrowed from the front desk, and the hotel is also pet-friendly with dog bowls and beds available to be borrowed from the front desk as well.

bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-san-jose , 512-852-2350, 1316 South Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704

Commodore Perry Estate

Although it’s only 10 minutes from downtown Austin, this restored mansion-turned-hotel feels more like a secluded retreat far from any city. Formerly the country home of Commodore Edgar Perry, the 1928 original home and three-story newly-built Inn sits on 10 acres, and the in-house restaurant Lutie’s, named after the Commodore’s wife, is one of the hardest reservations to get in town. 

The Commodore  Perry Estate hosts many events monthly, such as cooking classes, movie nights, palm readings, and more.

aubergeresorts.com/commodoreperry , 866-976-4312, 4100 Red River St., Austin, TX 78751

The Loren opened in late 2022 and has maintained an air of novelty that makes it an exciting stay. Featuring 108 guest rooms and suites, all with lake and city views, it is convenient to both downtown and South Congress areas, and the in-house restaurant Nido offers breathtaking skyline views at sunset. There’s even a 5,000-square-foot spa for pampering.

Guests can easily explore the city via the pedestrian bridge across the street from the hotel. Ask about the complimentary e-bikes available upon request.

thelorenhotels.com , 512-580-1182, 1211 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704

Hotel Magdalena

This tucked-away 89-room hotel is located on the appropriately named Music Lane, just off South Congress Avenue, which means you are able to walk to any of the shops, restaurants, and music venues. However, you can stay on the property for tunes at the newly opened Equipment Room, which is an audiophile’s dream. The small, moody bar features a high-fidelity sound system and a ceiling lined with two-inch-thick acoustic foam panels and specialty tiles, making it an ideal space to listen to vinyl records.

The Equipment Room boasts a collection of more than 1,200 vinyl albums that includes reggae, rock, soul, and more, as well as a snack and cocktail menu.

bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-magdalena , 512-442-1000, 1101 Music Ln., Austin, TX 78704

Austin Proper Hotel

Everything about this stylish urban hotel in downtown Austin just oozes cool. Acclaimed designer Kelly Wearstler is to thank for that, including the Texas-sourced materials, furnishings, and palette. Despite being within walking distance of some of the best restaurants, many guests would rather stick around at the rooftop restaurant, La Piscina, which offers wood-fired Oaxacan plates and a raw bar. 

The lobby bar is where you’ll see some of the hippest locals. Order a Mexican martini as you wait for a table at the main hotel restaurant, Peacock Mediterranean Grill, which offers a mix of Greek, Israeli, and North African cuisines.

properhotel.com , 512-628-1500, 600 West 2nd St., Austin, TX 78701

Carpenter Hotel

You’d almost miss this hotel—a one-story brick building in South Austin—if you didn’t know it was there. The hotel was retro-fitted from a space built in 1948 to house Austin's carpenters union. The original meeting hall has been reimagined as the front desk, cafe, and restaurant; and much of the original interior and exterior materials have been restored. The rooms are purposefully minimalist, and each has a balcony. You’re just a short walk or bike ride away from Zilker Park, the city’s 351-acre outdoor oasis.

Next door, stop into one of the city’s most popular local wine bars, House Wine, for a French courtyard feeling with funky Austin flair.

bunkhousehotels.com/carpenter-hotel , 512-682-5300, 400 Josephine St., Austin, TX 78704

Hotel Saint Cecilia

Lushly landscaped enough to hide away, despite being only a block off bustling South Congress Avenue, this boutique hideout is home to only five suites in a white-clapboard Victorian house, three studios, six poolside bungalows, and six garden bungalows. The moody on-site lounge is only open for guests and private club members, and bathrooms are outfitted with custom kimono bathrobes and Grown Alchemist bath products.

Named for the patron saint of music, Hotel Saint Cecilia includes a record player in each room, along with a small collection of records, with additional choices in the lobby. There’s even a curated monthly playlist available for listening.

bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-saint-cecilia , 512-852-2400, 112 Academy Dr., Austin, TX 78704

Lake Austin Spa Resort

This all-inclusive destination spa offers a dose of wellness by the water. Hugging the shoreline of the Colorado River, the resort’s 19 waterfront acres will have you feeling immersed in Hill Country serenity, despite being just miles outside of downtown Austin. Amongst many spa offerings, you can relax away from hustle and bustle, and healthy meals are included in the pricing.

After relaxing with a “Tour of Texas” treatment, take a yoga class on the dock or end the day with an astrologer-led stargazing experience.

lakeaustin.com , 512-372-7300, 1705 S Quinlan Park Rd., Austin, TX 78732

Miraval Austin Resort & Spa

If you’re looking for a quieter retreat, this 220-acre resort and spa overlooks a lake and two nature reserves. From the grounds, you’re easily able to explore Cypress Creek Farm, kayak on Lake Travis, or hike in the Balcones Canyonland Preserve, where you may see diverse wildlife such as roadrunners, turkeys, deer, and many different bird species. Stick closer to the hotel to relax at one of two stunning infinity pools.

As a digital device-free resort, Miraval gives guests permission to unplug. Using technology is only permitted in designated areas.

miravalresorts.com , 855-234-1672, 13500 FM2769, Austin, TX 78726

South Congress Hotel

Taking up an entire block on South Congress Avenue, it’s hard to find a better location for those wanting quick walkable access to shops, restaurants, and some of Austin’s most popular landmarks, such as the photo-worthy mural on the side of the Jo’s Coffee building. The lobby feels like a cozy mid-century lounge, branching off into various nooks and attractions, including six restaurant bars.

Every first Thursday of the month, the South Congress Hotel hosts a signature monthly event with a live performance by an up-and-coming local act, DJs throughout the spaces, drink specials, pop-up activations and more.

southcongresshotel.com , 512-920-6405, 1603 South Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704

The Driskill

This hotel stands out from the rest of downtown's stays at first glance, thanks to its historic 1880s-era grand dame facade. You’ll see nods to Texas everywhere, from cowhide bar stools to well-worn leather couches. Since it’s located close to the Texas State Capitol building, it historically has been a meeting place for many politicians. Nowadays, tourists stop by to listen to live jazz musicians at The Driskill Bar and take photos in front of the massive Christmas tree in the lobby each holiday season.

The Driskill is also known as a “haunted” landmark in Austin. Learn more about the hotel’s storied history at one of the daily history tours that are free for guests.

driskillhotel.com , 512-439-1234, 604 Brazos St., Austin, TX 78701

Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Around 20 minutes away from downtown Austin, this Hill Country resort offers a dose of the outdoors while still being accessible to city comforts. In addition to the extensive program of outdoor activities and spa services, it is also a prime golf destination, thanks to its access to four different courses. Make sure to enjoy s’mores by the fire pit on the resort’s Lady Bird Lawn.

Take a drive through Texas Hill Country to see wildflowers or wander through the many wineries and distilleries nearby.

omnihotels.com , 512-329-4000, 8212 Barton Club Dr,, Austin, TX 78735

Fairmont Austin

This 37-story hotel balances over downtown Austin and the lush Waller Creek Greenbelt Trail. With over 1,000 rooms, it is a popular choice for conferences and events, especially due to its proximity to the Austin Convention Center. Choose from six different dining concepts, including farm-to-table Garrison and Rules & Regs, a rooftop cocktail bar with Latin-inspired bites.

There is a reservations-only, semi-private champagne and caviar bar, Room 725, tucked away on the 7th floor.

fairmont-austin.com , 512-600-2000, 101 Red River St., Austin, TX 78701

Lone Star Court

If you want a unique place to stay while visiting Austin, the Lone Star Court is a modern take on a retro-ranch-style motor court. It’s conveniently located up north of downtown in The Domain, a shopping district known for its high-end retail and upscale dining. Revel in the vintage-modern feel while hanging at the pool or getting a table at the Hill Country-inspired restaurant, Water Trough.

You’re just steps away from The Domain, a shopping district with over 100 retail stores, dozens of dining concepts, movie theater, bowling alley, and more.

lonestarcourt.com , 855-596-3398, 10901 Domain Dr., Austin, TX 78758

Austin Motel

The impossibly retro-cool Austin Motel sits just south of the Colorado River and downtown, within walking distance to the famous bat bridge and within view of the State Capitol. Located in the South Congress neighborhood, the motel was renovated by designer Liz Lambert in 2017, maintaining its original motor court layout, but freshened up with a funky vintage aesthetic.

The motor court-style pool is a popular hangout for locals, who take advantage of pool passes during the summer. There are events thrown in the pool area year-round, so make sure to check the calendar.

bunkhousehotels.com/austin-motel , 512-441-1157, 1220 South Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704

Thompson Austin

Newly opened in 2022, this upscale downtown hotel welcomes guests with a design-centric lobby and rooms that are modern and sleek, except with Texan elements. The in-house restaurants are spearheaded by James Beard-nominated chef Mashama Bailey. Get a taste of her specialty cuisine at The Grey Market, The Diner Bar, and in-room dining.

On the fourth floor, Wax Myrtle’s is an indoor-outdoor concept where you can lounge by the pool, grab cocktails, or eat dinner. It also offers pool day passes for non-guests.

hyatt.com/thompson-hotels , 737-787-1234, 506 San Jacinto Blvd., Austin, TX 78701

Take a step back in time by staying at this hotel housed in a Greek Revival-style mansion near the University of Texas in Austin campus. In 1878, one of the founders of the University of Texas purchased the land on which the hotel now sits. The mansion underwent an extensive renovation in 2013 and is now available for overnight guests in 47 guest rooms, some of which offer dreamy columned balconies to match the exterior.

Popular for game weekends and parents' weekends at the University of Texas, this historic hotel offers afternoon tea, pool passes, and happy hour specials.

hotelella.com , 844-720-1497, 1900 Rio Grande St., Austin, TX 78705

Hotel Van Zandt

Located in the heart of the city near Rainey Street—a lively district with venues, restaurants, and bars—this musically-inspired hotel feels fitting for Texas’ coolest city. Named for singer-songwriter Townes Van Zandt, a country music legend, it pays homage to the Live Music Capital of the World with musical design touches throughout the lobby, common areas, and rooms.

You might catch a complimentary happy hour in the lobby daily, and in-house restaurant Geraldine’s is especially known for brunch.

hotelvanzandt.com, 512-542-5300, 605 Davis St., Austin, TX 78701

JW Marriott Austin

Known for its prime location in downtown Austin just minutes from hotspots like the Blanton Museum of Art, Lady Bird Lake, the Texas State Capitol, and countless music venues, the JW Marriott Austin is reliably comfortable for guests and elegantly appointed with Texas-inspired wood furniture. With just over 1,000 rooms, it is one of the larger upscale hotel options in the city.

The hotel’s open-air Edge Rooftop Bar offers Instagram-worthy views, craft cocktails, firepits, and light bites.

marriott.com/jw-marriott-austin , 512-474-4777, 110 East 2nd St., Austin, TX 78701

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Holey Moley Golf Club Grand Opening

• Dates: March 22, 2024
• Location: Holey Moley Golf Club Austin
• Time: 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM

Holey Moley Austin officially opens to Austinites on Friday, March 22, 2024 and is set to make waves as the ultimate fun-filled entertainment venue offering the craziest, most Insta-worthy putt-putt rounds and epic food and beverage offerings in the Lone Star State! To celebrate making a mark in the 512, Holey Moley will team up with resident tattoo artist, Raul Arevalo of Eastend Tattoo, to offer free tattoos on opening day with custom designs inspired by the mini-golf venue. For those truly dedicated putters, the first two people who get a tattoo of the official Holey Moley Golf Club logo on opening day will earn a permanent spot on the Holey Moley Austin tee sheet with free golf for a year! Come kick some putt at this crazy labyrinth of golfing mayhem featuring three courses, 27 fun-filled holes, inspired by iconic films and pop-culture. After the scorecard has been marked, check out the Caddyshack menu for unbelievable, photo-worthy food and beverage offerings. Visit HoleyMoley.com to book your tee time today!