Leisure travelers will love Austin’s down-home appeal. Even in a city that’s recognized for its sophistication, both technically and socially, there’s still a small-town mentality. You’ll see Austin folks tipping their hats at one another in front of local barbeque shacks or a friendly crowd might lure you into one of the many jam-packed nightclubs along Sixth Street, including Shakespeare’s Pub and Maggie Mae’s. Whatever the case, Austinites are sure to make you feel right at home.
There are a number of places to hang your hat downtown, including the Sheraton Austin Hotel and the Omni Austin Downtown. For leisure travelers sticking to a budget, the Clarion Inn & Suites is an ideal lodging choice.
If you want to avoid the loud late-night crowds, you may want to venture out to Lake Travis, where you’ll find many places to stay. Lake Travis is reminiscent of California in its appeal. The lake, surrounded by high cliffs, makes a beautiful escape for leisure travelers.
If you’re looking for the funkier side of Austin, but don’t want to pay the higher prices of downtown lodging, select lodging near the University of Texas. The area around Guadalupe is a thriving student community with cool shops, coffee bars and restaurants. There are a number of bed and breakfast accommodations tucked in the surrounding area, including the Brook House and the Governor’s Inn-both reasonably priced.
