Austin’s boutique hotel scene—much like its food, music, and art scene—is constantly reinventing itself. New family-owned properties are quietly popping up, embracing a more effortless check-in process and the city’s tech-forward nature; instead of traditional front desks, they’re adopting the Airbnb-style arrival experience of keyless entry with white-glove tech assistance. Boutique hotels are ideal for travelers seeking personalized stays tailored to the particular nature of their visit—from foodies to music lovers to art aficionados. Some major hospitality brands are also eager to tap into this phenomenon (as exemplified by the recent Hyatt acquisition of the boutique Bunkhouse Hotels in Austin). These hotels have managed to maintain their signature local charm and design.
We define an Austin hotel as boutique if it has 200 rooms or fewer and delivers a one-of-a-kind style and experience. Picture soaking in the Texas sun at a full-service rooftop pool, spinning vinyl in your room while enjoying a well-stocked minibar, or finding peace in a private cottage—perhaps one that once inspired music legends like Willie Nelson and Janis Joplin—at a secluded Hill Country escape minutes from downtown. Whether you’re after quirky or opulent, you’ll find a well-curated dream stay at one of the 16 best boutique hotels in Austin.
How we choose the best boutique hotels in Austin
Every hotel review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that property. When choosing hotels, our editors consider properties across price points that offer an authentic and insider experience of a destination, keeping design, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind.
