INTRO:
Austin is known for its vibrant music scene, delicious food, and unique culture—making it a top city pick for many clients. Known for its high academic standards, UT Austin offers a lot for kids who want a college campus, division one sports and a fun city to explore. Whether you end up a Longhorn or not---this is definitely a fun college to visit. Hook 'em as they say.... Below are Curated Escapes Top Picks for where to say, eat and play!
Stay: Fairmont Austin
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Austin, the Fairmont exudes a contemporary vibe, making it a chic resort-style retreat for guests. With 6 different restaurants and bars, culinary activities await at every turn. The large hotel rooftop and Fairmont Spa provide stunning city views and serve as an ideal spot for relaxation. Conveniently located, it’s just a ten minute drive from UT-Austin campus, an 11 minute drive from South Congress Street, and a 20 minute drive from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. To book, reach out to jodi@ellitravel.com to receive Virtuoso amenities including complimentary daily breakfast for two, resort credit, priority room upgrades, and other perks.
Stay: Austin Proper Hotel & Residences, a Member of Design Hotels
Located in the heart of the Second Street District, the Austin Proper Hotel offers a sophisticated blend of luxury and modern design. This retreat offers unique wellness experiences, including sports massages and sound bath rituals, ensuring a relaxing stay for its guests. The rooftop pool and restaurant provide a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views of Downtown Austin. This hotel is an ideal base for exploring Austin’s top attractions, as it is only an 11 minute drive from UT-Austin, 30 minutes from the airport, and 15 minutes from the trendy South Congress Street. To book, reach out to jodi@ellitravel.com to receive Virtuoso amenities including complimentary daily breakfast for two, resort credit, priority room upgrades, and other perks.
Stay: Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Placed in Downtown Austin, the Four Seasons offers a luxurious retreat just steps away from Lady Bird Lake and the popular Hike-and-Bike Trail. Guests can unwind in the hotel’s saltwater pool or indulge in rejuvenated treatments at the spa, enjoying the high-quality experience that the Four Seasons is known for. With its prime location and exceptional amenities, the Four Seasons Austin provides a perfect blend of comfort and convenience. Elli Travel is a Four Seasons Preferred Partner so reach out to jodi@ellitravel.com to book the Four Seasons with Preferred Partner amenities including complimentary daily breakfast for two, resort credit, priority room upgrades, and other perks. (11 minute drive to UT-Austin campus).
To-Do:
- Visit Lady Bird Lake, a river-like reservoir on the Colorado River. It is very popular to see people doing water sports and lounging around this area. To book a water excursion here, speak to the concierge at your hotel.
- Walk around and shop on South Congress Street, a walkable avenue filled with boutiques, restaurants, shops, and cafes. Pretty scenery and very popular among tourists
- At night, take a trip to 6th Street where you will see bustling bars and college students galore!
- Visit the UT-Austin campus!
Where to Shop:
- South Congress Street: You’ll find Allen’s boot shop, cute boutiques, designer stores, and chains such as Alo and Madewell.
- The Domain: Upscale outdoor mall featuring a variety of high-end shops and department stores. Also offers dining and cinemas. Very picturesque and chic.
- 2nd Street District: Vibrant area with many stores, restaurants, and live music venues. Very walkable and definitely a welcoming area.
Restaurants:
- Two Hands: Cafe and bar, perfect for breakfast and lunch. Casual but elevated atmosphere and located right on South Congress strip.
- Aba Austin: Very popular Mediterranean spot with amazing, classic dishes. Very hip vibe and fun for both lunch and dinner.
- Neighborhood Sushi: Japanese eatery with spectacular rolls and hot dishes. Modern ambiance and great service.
Austin, Texas has so much to offer and is truly an amazing place to go to college. Reach out to jodi@ellitravel.com to find out which property is best for you and to custom curate an amazing itinerary.
