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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Austin

Unique spots with scenic views

Made for those who seek out unconventional spaces that offer a perspective you cannot find anywhere else.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bat Bridge image 1
Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bat Bridge image 2
Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bat Bridge image 3
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Bridge hosts largest urban bat colony, with up to 1.5 million bats emerging at sunset. Evening atmosphere blends sunset views, city skyline, and lively crowds focused on bat flight. Scene shifts from calm and peaceful to energetic and festive as people gather with music and refreshments nearby.

The bridge offers stunning views of the city skyline and Lady Bird Lake, especially at sunset. Observation decks provide a great spot to watch the bats emerge, and launching a kayak from the shore gives a unique perspective of the water and buildings.

Watching the huge bat colony take flight creates a truly wild and unique experience.

People are saying

"Watching the bats emerge at sunset is a magical spectacle."

"I loved the beautiful city and river views from the bridge."

"You can see the bats emerge at sundown; it's a beautiful swarm."

Good to know

1

The bat emergence is a seasonal event, most likely occurring from spring to summer.

2

At sunset, over a million bats fly out from underneath the bridge, creating an amazing spectacle.

3

Be prepared for crowds and arrive early to snag a good spot.

02
Downright Austin, a Renaissance Hotel image 1

Renovated hotel blends retro theme with Austin vibes in a stylish, cozy pink setting. Pool area offers a unique swim club atmosphere with attentive service. Gym and views complement a lively, sometimes noisy environment near the freeway.

Rooms offer amazing city views, especially with the lights at night. The hotel features beautiful architecture and overlooks the Red River, providing stunning scenery.

Fun and unique design shapes the whole vibe here. A former indoor swimming pool turned into a dinner restaurant and a pool bar add to the distinct atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Hotel valet team, especially Mikey, was so friendly and helpful."

"The staff here is so welcoming and helpful, it's a unique experience."

"The city views from the room were beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $50 per day, which is quite high.

2

The hotel is adult-only and does not accommodate children.

3

Breakfast options are limited for the price.

03
Hotel ZaZa Austin Downtown image 1

Hotel offers luxurious decor and unique, detailed rooms with stunning city views. Atmosphere ranges from quiet and relaxing to lively with techno music at times. Rooftop pool and spa provide premium amenities alongside shuttle and town car services.

Balconies and suites offer great views of the pool and downtown. The 7th floor rooftop pool provides perfect views alongside cocktails and a lively scene.

Rooms and decor show a quirky, unique style with fun, attractive designs. The hotel offers a unique turndown service and keeps everything spotless and well cared for.

People are saying

"The hotel staff is so friendly and helpful."

"The rooms here are large and comfortable."

"The staff's friendly welcome made my early check-in a breeze."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a free shuttle service to nearby attractions and events.

2

Valet parking costs $55 per night, which is mandatory.

3

The hotel is centrally located, within walking distance of many restaurants and attractions.

04
Texas Capitol image 1
State government office

Impressive historic architecture with a stunning dome anchors a tranquil space filled with memorials and gardens. The atmosphere is quiet and welcoming, inviting leisurely walks and reflection. Free guided tours and open access to a reference library enhance the educational experience.

A 308-foot dome offers a breathtaking view of the city and ranks as the second-largest in the United States. The grounds provide great views of downtown Austin, especially impressive at night.

Distinctive pink granite exterior and a soaring dome give the building a unique look. Inside, the breathtaking rotunda and balanced symmetry highlight its historic and civic importance.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are stunning, with gorgeous architecture and impressive views."

"The pink granite exterior gives it a unique character."

"The architecture here is stunning and grand."

Good to know

1

Entry to the Texas Capitol is free, with no tickets required.

2

Free guided tours are available every 30 minutes at the Texas Capitol.

3

SXSW takes over the city every March, featuring music, film, and interactive events.

05
citizenM Austin Downtown image 1

Hotel offers modern design with small, well-equipped rooms featuring colorful lighting and blackout curtains. Rooftop includes a pool and bar with downtown views, creating an energetic yet intimate atmosphere. Outside noise and lively guests contribute to a vibrant, urban vibe.

Rooftop spots offer beautiful city views with a pool and terrace for snacks and drinks. The 17th floor gym also provides great downtown views.

Rooms feature a unique concept and stay very clean. The hotel showcases lots of art and reflects the city's ambiance, creating a personal and distinct experience.

People are saying

"This hotel's rooms are small, modern, and clean."

"The city views from the rooftop pool are amazing."

"The decor here is so colorful and unique."

Good to know

1

Breakfast is served from 6am to 11am, perfect for jetlagged guests.

2

The hotel does not offer on-site parking; public parking costs $33 for 24 hours.

3

Karaoke events are organized by hotel staff for guests to enjoy.

06
Austin Proper Hotel image 1

Hotel combines elegant design with a vibrant bar scene and luxury amenities like a rooftop pool and smart room controls. Atmosphere blends modern-meets-vintage dรฉcor with a laid-back vibe and stylish details throughout. Spaces attract guests seeking both relaxation and lively social settings.

Rooftop bar offers stunning city skyline views. The 9th floor balcony overlooks the pool and captures direct sunsets. Suites provide beautiful downtown vistas.

Gorgeous design and unique restaurants stand out here. Renting a Tesla and using e-bikes add to the distinct experience.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff's service was top-notch and genuinely friendly."

"The staff here go above and beyond to make you feel welcome."

"The staff here are so nice and helpful with everything."

Good to know

1

Happy hour drinks are available at the hotel bar during weekdays.

2

The Quail Room features live music performances on weekends.

3

Cabanas for rent require a full four-hour payment with strict policies.

07
tommie Austin - JDV by Hyatt image 1

Modern boutique hotel offers rooftop pool and bar with magnificent decor and a highly rated gym. Rooms are small and stylish, creating a trendy but somewhat cramped atmosphere. Noise from nearby bars and thin walls affects quietness at night.

Rooms offer great city views with cozy, functional design. The rooftop bar provides stunning views and a vibrant ambiance.

Rooms and the hotel feature intriguing decor with a unique style. The gym stands out with its rustic design.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff made me feel right at home."

"The hotel has great city views from the rooms."

"I loved the hotel's unique style and decor."

Good to know

1

Valet parking is the only option, costing over $50 per night plus a hidden $35 destination fee.

2

The hotel is centrally located, just half a block off 6th Street.

3

Everything downtown is walkable from the hotel, making it convenient for exploring.

08
Hotel Van Zandt image 1

Hotel offers beautiful decor and a quiet, comfortable atmosphere inside rooms despite loud nightlife nearby. Amenities include a rooftop pool, fitness center with Peloton bikes, and daily margaritas. Lobby bar and live music create a lively yet controlled vibe.

Rooms offer breathtaking views of the city and water. Guests can enjoy beautiful vistas from both the hotel and their rooms.

Rooms stay spotless and comfortable with a fun, unique vibe that stands out. The bar offers unique craft cocktails and the dining features delicious, shareable plates.

People are saying

"The hotel staff is so friendly and helpful."

"The rooftop pool offers amazing city views."

"Jordyne's personalized recommendations and thoughtful touches made my stay feel unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour in the lobby runs from 5 to 6 PM with complimentary drinks.

2

Geraldine's offers a jazz brunch on weekends, a popular dining option.

3

Expect a $30 daily guest amenity fee that may not be disclosed upfront.

09
The Driskill - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt image 1

Historic hotel showcases Victorian decor and ornate architecture with a timeless atmosphere. Ambiance includes live music at a volume that allows conversation, creating a welcoming and elegant environment. Valet parking is convenient and quick, complementing the overall experience.

Rooms offer beautiful city views from balconies and windows. Upper floors provide gorgeous vistas with clean, well-kept surroundings.

Historic Gilded Age architecture shapes a unique atmosphere throughout the hotel. The rooms and overall setting reflect this historic character, creating a distinct experience not common in Texas.

People are saying

"It's a historic icon with stunning architectural details and timeless elegance."

"The rooms here are very nice, with great city views."

"This hotel's unique historic architecture feels like stepping back in time."

Good to know

1

The hotel offers a free historical tour at 4 pm every day.

2

Expect high demand for events; reservations are recommended.

3

The hotel is less than a 10-minute walk from historic attractions.

10
The LINE Austin image 1

Upscale boutique hotel with retro design and low lighting creates a unique, quiet atmosphere. Spacious rooms offer river views and modern aesthetics, while amenities include a heated pool and vibrant bars with live music. The setting provides a peaceful retreat distinct from typical downtown energy.

Terrace offers a magnificent view of the river. Views throughout are consistently beautiful and awesome.

Rooms feature unique decor with textured wood headboards and chrome pendant lights. The overall design stands out as both unique and beautiful.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the river from the hotel."

"I loved the beautiful river views from my room."

"The hotel's design is unique and beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking at The LINE Austin costs $54 per day.

2

The hotel charges a daily amenity fee of $28, added to your bill.

3

Valet parking is available for $49 a day.

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