Many of Austin’s hotels host the city’s favorite concerts, restaurants, and bars—and you’d be remiss not to pop in on them whenever you’re in the neighborhood. At the hotels below, that’s impossible. These properties are accessible to members only (or guests of members). They range from the most quiet, humble havens to the most swanky, brag-worthy hideouts.
They’re also simply cool—unique hotels with a mission to provide guests an unforgettable experience. Some are celebrity favorites, others hold coveted MICHELIN Keys. All of them put a premium on privacy.
The Commodore Perry Estate
Hyde ParkIn Austin’s leafy Hyde Park neighborhood, the Commodore Perry Estate is our Inspectors’ highest-rated hotel in Austin. A century-old estate with its own lush, fountain-strewn gardens and Italian Renaissance-style mansion, the hotel is a member’s club first—and a stay here feels like an entry into high-class Southern society. Be sure to book a table for a lavish dinner at Lutie’s.
Saint Cecilia
South CongressOne of Austin’s most essential hotels is tucked just off South Congress Avenue, on a spacious, green estate home to a Victorian mansion dating back to 1888. Lodgings dot the estate, while club members and hotel guests gather in the indoor/outdoor lodge for meals and cocktails. Don’t expect to invite your friends—for privacy’s sake, the hotel stays strict about the guest list.
Soho House Austin
South CongressThis is where the cool kids stay. The Austin location of this world-renowned members’ club has everything you’d expect from a Soho House. The interior features the brand’s signature sleek, boho design, and the club level has a fabulous terrace pool. The labyrinthine building is full of event and leisure spaces (including a cinema for screening films before their official releases) tied to Austin’s robust event schedule.
Frame Hotel - Treehouse
South CongressStaying at the Treehouse is like staying at the apartment of your devastatingly cool architect friend. The seven rooms on a second-floor deck enjoy the shade of an ancient oak tree bursting through the floorboards. The clientele skews toward well-heeled travelers and young tech startup professionals.. The Treehouse is one of the best spots in the city for a low-key family reunion.
Heywood Hotel
East AustinCruising through East Austin, it’s easy to miss this tiny, intimate space. Keep an eye out for the charcoal sign outside this pistachio-hued boutique hotel. There’s no food and beverage onsite, just a friendly concierge on the first-floor lobby, seven sunny rooms full of handcrafted furniture and local art, and a charming outdoor terrace. Most rooms feature baths illuminated by gorgeous skylights.
Fairmont Austin Gold Experience
DowntownA single floor of the Fairmont Austin (the city’s biggest hotel), the Gold Experience is all cool luxury and exclusivity. You won’t have to wait in the downstairs check-in line, but zip up to the 35th floor for a bespoke entry that matches the convenience of the rest of the experience. Hang out in the lounge exclusive to guests, take in the view, and, when you’re ready, venture out to the many bars, restaurants, and lavish spa of a much larger hotel.
Book Fairmont Austin Gold Experience with The MICHELIN Guide →
Hero image: The private theater inside the Soho House Austin
