HOTELS
ARCHER HOTEL
The new eight-story Archer Hotel Austin offers 171 luxury rooms in the heart of the new Domain Northside. For a true local touch, esteemed Austin chef David Bull and La Corsha Hospitality Group chose the Archer for the second location of popular downtown restaurant Second Bar + Kitchen. Thoughtful touches include locally made surprise treats at turndown service such as Crave Artisan Chocolate and Fat Belly manchego-chili pretzels, and an inroom Nespresso machine for espresso anytime you wish. 3121 Palm Way, 855-437-9100; archerhotel/austin.com
AT&T CONFERENCE CENTER
Enjoy a chic stay at the AT&T Executive Education and Conference Center, nestled between the University of Texas Tower and the State Capitol. Don’t miss the elegant Carillon Restaurant. 1900 University Ave., 512-404-3600; meetattexas.com
THE DRISKILL
Experience a blend of timeless charm and modern sophistication in this 131-year-old property on Sixth Street. The rooms and much of the hotel were recently updated with modern touches while still maintaining a rich sense of history. Chef Troy Knapp creates an elegant experience every night in the Driskill Grill. 604 Brazos St., 512-439-1234; driskillhotel.com
FOUR SEASONS HOTEL
On the shores of Lady Bird Lake, the Four Seasons is the classic, grand Austin hotel. With recently renovated ballrooms and other updates, the hotel is the premier spot for weddings, galas, and more. Its restaurant, Trio, is a pure delight. INSIDER TIP: Every Wednesday, Trio offers its “Boug.e Burgers & Bottles” event, where you choose from three burgers, each paired with a selection of pours of Burgundy, Bordeaux, and other big wines. 98 San Jacinto Blvd., 512-4784500; fourseasons.com/austin
HOTEL ELLA
With history dating back to the late 1800s, this historic renovated hotel, complete with a sweeping veranda and lawn by the University of Texas, offers 47 guest rooms, 10 of which are suites. INSIDER TIP: The hotel’s Goodall’s Kitchen & Bar is an under-the-radar spot for intimate happy hours; the Old Fashioned is one of the best in town. 1900 Rio Grande St., 800-311-1619; hotelella.com
HOTEL GRANDUCA
This beautiful hotel in the West Austin hills recalls the Italian countryside. Like its sister hotel in Houston, every detail has been considered and easily transports you to another world. Visconti Ristorante, which features Northern Italian cuisine, drives the feeling home. INSIDER TIP: On Thursdays, enjoy happy hour Italian style, with themed live music, cocktails, and regional bites. 320 S. Capital of Texas Hwy., Bldg. B, 512-306-6400; granducaaustin.com
HOTEL SAINT CECILIA
Named after the patron saint of music and the arts, this boutique hotel combines elegance with rock ’n’ roll. Choose one of the indulgent suites, studios, or poolside bungalows. The well-appointed bar and patio are for guests only, making for a truly private escape. 112 Academy Dr., 512-8522400; hotelsaintcecilia.com
HOTEL SAN JOSÉ
Nestled among the shops and restaurants on South Congress, this cool boutique hotel (the older sister to the Saint Cecilia) features a patio perfect for happy hour or a nightcap. 1316 S. Congress Ave., 512-8522350; sanjosehotel.com