Austin Motel
Hotel · Travis Heights ·
Retro motel with iconic sign, kidney-shaped pool, and bar
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Retro motel with iconic sign, kidney-shaped pool, and bar
"Lounge in the vintage kidney-shaped pool in the heart of the hustle and bustle of South Congress. Cool off with beverages from the Pool Bar like a Mermaid Mojito, a Moontowner Spritz (gin, St. Germaine, and grapefruit), or the short list of wines, beers, and seltzers. Make a big splash with a Swim Club membership offering perks and discounts until September, or go for a day pass." - Darcie Duttweiler
"A vintage roadside motel that’s expanded its pool offerings: day and night pool passes are available daily (reservations required), with cabana rentals added this year. Pool entry is $25 Monday–Thursday and $50 Friday–Sunday, and frequent visitors can opt into a Swim Club membership (price available on request and pro-rated) that grants daily pool access, free weekday parking, member happy hours, discounts at the on-site bar and bodega, reduced room rates, a free guest allowance, and a welcome swag bag." - Courtney E. Smith
"An affordable, personality-drenched location that offers drag shows, live music, shuffleboard, and a renowned hotel pool." - The MICHELIN Guide
"A fun, affordable retro-style motel that offers budget-friendly lodging with character, often chosen by visitors who want a quirky, central stay during festival season." - Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty Patricia Doherty is a writer who specializes in covering destinations, resorts, and cruises for Travel + Leisure and other publications. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines
"Hip hotelier Liz Lambert redesigned this Austin icon into exactly the kind of stripped down spot all the cool kids love. Rooms have been updated but are original to the hotel (apparently they didn't need closets in the '30s), and the decor is funky and playful: red, tufted-vinyl platforms, custom Voutsa wallpaper in a pattern of lips, old-school push-button phones. On warm days, the massive kidney-shaped pool is filled with guests, almost all with a cocktail or Austin Motel koozie in-hand. Its proximity to bustling South Congress is ideal for some travelers, but know that this is a true motel (not hotel) experience." - Mandy Ellis, Allison Bagley
