Where to Stay in Downtown Austin: The Westin

As you may have heard from my Instagram, after 8 years in this gorgeous city, I’m leaving Austin and moving to Charleston, South Carolina! I have too many wonderful memories to count, but sometimes you just know it’s time for a change.

That being said, I have always had a favorite hotel in downtown Austin because of its fabulous view and restaurant, so I had to make sure I experienced everything it has to offer before I left! Read below and see the three reasons why the Westin is my top choice for a hotel in Downtown Austin!

#1 The Room

When I’m visiting an unfamiliar city, views are something I always look for. It’s not always a given that you’ll be back again to experience the sites, so it’s so fantastic to have a great view right from your hotel window, and the Westin definitely nails it with the view. Ask for a corner room where you can see the Frost Tower, and you’ll wake up every morning to the most fabulous view of Downtown Austin.

They also offer so many little perks that make you feel like home. You can brew Starbucks coffee right from your room (or go to the lobby bar downstairs and ask for your favorite speciality coffee drink) and they offer $5 New Balance athletic clothing rentals upon request so you don’t have to pack your workout gear. It’s such a nice little touch!

#2 The Rooftop

If you’ve been following me for a while, you might remember I had my birthday party on the Azul Rooftop deck at the Westin last year! As I said, I’m obsessed with views, and the rooftop has a 180 degree view of the city.

They also recently re-did it, so there’s all new seating areas and pool cabanas. When it’s hot, it’s a great place to chill by the pool, and when the temps drop, it’s perfect for grabbing a drink by a fire pit.

#3 The Food

Stella San Jac, their in-house restaurant, is my favorite restaurant in Austin (I said it, y’all! It’s out there!). I have always had a thing for their biscuits, and the rest of their menu stuns every time as well. I also love the atmosphere. They have some outdoor seating for nice days as well as moody, romantic seating indoors for the perfect date night.

I’ve now been for brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks, and every time I’m obsessed with what I order. I have to say though, the chicken and waffles have to be my favorite item on the brunch menu, with the fruit and yogurt parfait coming in a close second. Even if you don’t stay at the hotel, definitely come by and try Stella San Jac.

So, next time you’re planning on visiting Austin, make sure you consider the Westin Downtown as a hotel option. I loved my time there and I can’t wait to visit again soon!

Photos by: Brandon Hill Photography