Austin Vacations

Austin

Your Austin vacation

With “Keep Austin Weird” bumper stickers most everywhere, this city takes pride in its unique Texan character. Home to barbecue, beer and country tunes, Austin also stirs up a scene of tattoos, cutting-edge music and New-Age sensibility. Get in touch with your inner hipster on Guadalupe Street, or soak up history at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum. Natural beauty your thing? Take a dip in Barton Springs Pool and wander through the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.

Whatever your style, plan your Austin vacation with top 10 highlights from Orbitz insiders. You'll get the scoop on this lively city from honky-tonks to the Texas State Capitol.

Hotels

Austin Hotels

Nightly rates from $40

North Austin Plaza

3 stars
2.8 / 5 349 reviews
Rooms and suites with outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi Five miles from downtown Austin, the North Austin Plaza Hotel & Suites offers comfortable lodging and an outdoor pool with a fountain and sundeck. The hotel is located in North Austin, not far from a collection of restaurants, golf courses and shopping centers. Guests who want to dine near the hotel can visit neighboring Bikinis Bar & Grill for sports TV and over 25 beers on tap, plus a children's menu is available. Complimentary wireless Internet is available in the business center and guest rooms. HighlightsLarge outdoor pool with a fountain and sundeck Free Wi-FiClose to the airport and many Austin attractions Rooms The North Austin Plaza Hotel & Suites features traditionally decorated, comfortable rooms with pillow-top mattresses, a small dining table and chairs, a desk, LCD TV, hair dryer, coffee maker and iron. Guests choose from three room types. Capitol city suites, featuring Thomasville furniture, one king bed or two queen beds and a separate room with a couch and second TV. Statesman king rooms have one king bed, designer bedding and a vanity area and longhorn double rooms are perfect for families, offering two queen, full or single beds. Suites are poolside and have refrigerators and microwaves (regular rooms can request these amenities for an additional charge). Complimentary wireless Internet is available and cribs are available upon request. Features Guests love the large outdoor pool surrounded by a spacious deck, fountain and nearby picnic area. Keep up the exercise routine in the hotel's fitness center. The hotel has a 24-hour business center with fax and copy services. Bikinis Bar & Grill is next to the hotel and serves lunch and dinner. Other restaurants nearby include Outback Steakhouse, Kim Chi Restaurant & Sushi Bar and Carrabba's Italian Grill. Complimentary self-parking is available, as well as complimentary wireless Internet access. TransportationAustin-Bergstrom International Airport (9.4 mi/15.1 km) AttractionsLBJ Presidential Library (3.8 mi/6.2 km)University of Texas (4.1 mi/6.6 km)Texas Memorial Stadium (4.2 mi/6.9 km)Blanton Museum of Art (4.4 mi/7.2 km)Bob Bullock Texas History Museum (4.6 mi/7.4 km)Texas State Capitol (4.9 mi/7.9 km)6th Street entertainment (5.4 mi/8.7 km)2nd Street shopping (5.6 mi/9.1 km)Congress Avenue Bridge and bats (5.8 mi/9.4 km)   BusinessBusiness center 2,000 square feet of meeting spaceFree Wi-Fi
Nightly rates from $70

Ramada - Austin Central

3 stars
3.6 / 5 140 reviews
Budget hotel four miles outside Austin with free wireless Internet Just four miles from downtown Austin, the Ramada Austin Central hotel offers well-kept, quiet accommodations close to music venues, shopping and Austin attractions. The hotel serves a hot breakfast every morning that includes eggs, ham, biscuits and gravy, waffles and more. Guests leave energized and come back eager to lounge by the outdoor pool. Monday through Thursday evenings the hotel hosts a manager's cocktail reception, where visitors can mingle and sip complimentary drinks. Highlights Complimentary hot breakfastOutdoor swimming pool and deckComplimentary wireless Internet Location The Ramada Austin Central is located four miles north of Austin, just off I-35. Rooms After a day touring the live music capitol of the world, return to the Ramada Austin Central, where a quiet room awaits. Rooms have simple décor--plaid comforter covers, a wooden desk and armoire. Guests who need to work will appreciate the ergonomic chair and complimentary wireless Internet access available in all rooms. Features One of the major perks of the Ramada Austin Central is the free breakfast with eggs, potatoes, sausage, ham, biscuits and gravy and more. Guests start the day off right with a full stomach, ready to tackle downtown Austin with shopping on 6th Street or touring the Texas State Capitol building. Visitors who didn't get enough exercise running around town can work out in the hotel's fitness center with cardio machines, weights or swim laps in the outdoor pool.    Complimentary on-site parking is available, as well as complimentary wireless Internet access throughout the hotel. Transportation Austin Amtrak Station (4.5 mi/7.3 km)Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (8.1 mi/13.1 km) Attractions Highland Mall (.4 mi/.6 km)University of Texas (2.8 mi/4.6 km)Bob Bullock Texas History Museum (3.3 mi/5.3 km)Texas State Capitol (3.7 mi/6 km)6th Street entertainment (4.1 mi/6.6 km)Congress Avenue Bridge and bats (4.5 mi/7.3 km) Business Business center Meeting spaceComplimentary wireless Internet
Value Stay 3, Save 20%
Nightly rates from $34

Howard Johnson Austin North

3 stars
1.7 / 5 88 reviews
Relax you are in Austin......experience the Live Music Capital of the World. The Howard Johnson hotel in Austin-North at IH 35 and Hwy 183 is located minutes north of downtown, few minutes from the Austin Bergstrom International Airport and Highland Mall, and about five minutes from University of Texas. The Howard Johnson Austin-North hotel offers comfort and convenience in the heart of Texas Centrally located to many Austin hot spots, we feature complimentary high-speed internet in all rooms, a fitness center, and the large outdoor pool for sunbathing, pool parties and picnics. Our guests can enjoy complimentary continental breakfast every morning. Meeting/Ballroom space is undergoing renovations at this time and are not rentable.
Value Stay 3, Save 25%
Nightly rates from $89

Omni Austin Southpark

4 stars
3.9 / 5 117 reviews
Austin high-tech corridor hotel for business and leisure travelers The Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark is the ultimate oasis in South Austin's high-tech corridor. From an on-site spa offering facials, massages and steam therapy to the indoor/outdoor heated pool, this upscale hotel with a country feel tends to leisure needs along with a few extras. Guests who prefer to bypass the fitness center can request a get-fit kit from the front desk and work out in their room. For casual meals, diners flock to Onion Creek Grille for all-day favorites like the signature breakfast and make-your-own pasta buffets. HighlightsIndoor/outdoor heated poolFree Wi-FiOn-site spa Kids' sensory suite for young travelersNon-smoking hotel RoomsAn upscale country style with dark wood and warm tones brings intimacy to the Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark. Guests choose from premier rooms with balconies or one of many suites. Executive king suites boast a sofa and sitting area, parlor suites have a connecting parlor with Murphy bed and conference table. The governor's or presidential suites are available with one or two bedrooms and a separate living, dining and kitchen area. The kids' sensory suite--designed especially for young travelers--excites with colorful bedding, beanbag chairs, games, toys and snacks. FeaturesGuests in need of pampering can book a Swedish massage or the signature lava shell massage at Trinity Spa. The Omni Austin Hotel at Southpark beckons exercise buffs to the year-round indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center or the front desk for a get-fit kit--a free in-room exercise program. The casual yet elegant Onion Creek Grille serves a full breakfast buffet, a make-your-own pasta buffet and dinner menu. Morsel's hosts patrons for gourmet coffee, while the lobby lounge bustles with a cocktail crowd.  Transportation Austin Amtrak Station (3.8 mi/6.1 km)Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (3.9 mi/6.3 km) AttractionsJimmy Clay/Roy Kizer Golf Courses (2.4 mi/3.8 km)Congress Avenue Bridge and bats (3.2 mi/5.2 km)2nd Street shopping (3.4 mi/5.6 km)6th Street entertainment (3.7 mi/6 km)Downtown Austin (3.8 mi/6.2 km)Texas State Capitol (4.1 mi/6.6 km) BusinessBusiness center 13,677 square feet of meeting spaceFree Wi-Fi
Nightly rates from $109

La Quinta Inn Austin Capitol

3 stars
3.4 / 5 65 reviews
Budget-friendly stay in the heart of downtown Austin Travelers in search of a budget hotel in the heart of Austin's scene should check out La Quinta Inn Austin Capitol. Next door to the Texas State Capitol building, the hotel sits in a prime location within walking distance of 6th Street restaurants and music venues, Texas State University and the Congress Avenue Bridge and bats. The hotel features all the basic necessities a traveler needs plus free breakfast and nearby public transportation. Highlights Outdoor swimming pool Complimentary breakfast includes hot wafflesConveniently located in the heart of downtown Austin Location The La Quinta Inn Austin Capitol is located three blocks west of 1-35, in downtown Austin, next to the Texas State Capitol building. Rooms The rooms at La Quinta Inn Austin Capitol have modern furniture and earth toned details, evoking a clean, traditional look. Travelers can get work done at the desk and chair. Book a room with one king bed or two full beds, some with the added convenience of a microwave. Suites offer a separate living room. FeaturesGuests can enjoy a workout in La Quinta Austin Capitol's 24-hour fitness center or take a swim in the refreshing outdoor pool. The complimentary Bright Side Breakfast includes waffles, pastries, fresh fruit and more. Complimentary wireless Internet is available in the hotel lobby. Guests travel to nearby sites by walking or taking the Metro bus or trolley, both with stops across from the hotel. Only valet parking is available (fees apply). Transportation Austin Amtrak Station (1.1 mi/1.7 km)Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (6.7 mi/10.8 km) Attractions Texas State Capitol Building (1 block)6th Street entertainment (.4 mi/.6 km)Bob Bullock Texas History Museum (.5 mi/.9 km)Blanton Museum of Art (.5 mi/.9 km)Lady Bird Lake hike and bike trail (.7 mi/1.2 km)Congress Avenue Bridge and bats (.8 mi/1.3 km) Business1,364 square feet of meeting spaceComplimentary high-speed Internet access
Back to menu Return to top
Flights

Cheap flights to Austin

Flights to Austin Round-trip fares Travel dates
Flights from Seattle to Austin $281 Wed, Jun 13 - Mon, Jun 18
Flights from Los Angeles to Austin $301 Wed, Jul 11 - Wed, Jul 18
Flights from Denver to Austin $207 Wed, Jun 13 - Tue, Jun 19
Flights from Portland to Austin $266 Tue, Jun 12 - Mon, Jun 18
Flights from Chicago to Austin $383 Sat, Jun 23 - Tue, Jun 26
Flights from San Jose to Austin $241 Fri, Jul 6 - Wed, Jul 11
Flights from New York to Austin $321 Mon, Jun 18 - Wed, Jun 20
Flights from San Francisco to Austin $280 Tue, Jul 17 - Sat, Jul 21
Flights from Baltimore to Austin $311 Mon, Jun 4 - Thu, Jun 14
Flights from Boston to Austin $284 Tue, Jun 19 - Tue, Jul 3
Flights from Washington DC to Austin $323 Sat, Jul 28 - Fri, Aug 3
Flights from Newark to Austin $316 Thu, Jul 5 - Tue, Jul 31
Back to menu Return to top

Austin highlights

  • Austin

  • Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum

    Learn the “Story of Texas” at this Austin gem across three floors of exhibits, a special effects show and an IMAX theater. Named after a former Lieutenant Governor, the museum gives plenty of fodder for why everything is bigger in Texas.

  • Barton Springs Pool

    Part of the 358-acre Zilker Park, the Barton Springs Pool spans three acres and measures a cool 68 degrees year-round, thanks to the underground springs that feed it. Take a nap on the surrounding grassy slopes -- and don’t be alarmed by topless sunbathing, it’s legal in Austin.

  • Broken Spoke

    Austin’s dance hall (see also: honey-tonk) has been around since 1964 -- and it still relies on a winning formula of country music and Texas cooking (try the chicken fried steak). Don’t miss the room dedicated to country music memorabilia, and keep your eyes peeled: Willie Nelson is known to appear when he’s in town.

  • Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

    Yes, Texas may have a reputation of being a dry, tumbleweed state, but it’s actually awash in native wildflowers. The center, established by former first lady and actress Helen Hayes, has a nature trail, meadows and numerous gardens, including iconic bluebonnets each spring.

  • Long Center for the Performing Arts

    The Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Lyric Opera and Ballet Austin all have a home at the newly renovated Long Center for the Performing Arts. On the shores of Lady Bird Lake, the center has a variety of performance spaces, including several outdoor venues.

  • Mount Bonnell

    Sometimes the only way to see a city is to leave it. For great views of Austin, head to Mount Bonnell on the shores of Lake Austin where you'll climb 100 steps to the summit. Enjoy a picnic and watch the sun set.

  • Texas State Capitol

    Take a free guided tour of the1888 Italian Renaissance Revival structure where you'll see marble statues of local heroes Stephen F. Austin and Sam Houston, the flag from the Battle of San Jacinto in the House Chamber, and more.

More on Austin from the Orbitz Blog

Hoping for higher rates, chains open new hotels

By Joe Brancatelli Hotel companies have this fantastic vision of 2011, filled with sugar plums and rapid nightly rate increases. Hence a burst of new properties:
  • Hyatt has opened a 178-room Hyatt Place in Pittsburgh. It's across the Allegheny River from the downtown Golden Triangle, and between Heinz Field (home of the Steelers) and PNC Park (home of the Pirates).
  • Starwood has opened the 251-room W Austin in the Second Street downtown district. The hotel is connected to The Moody Theater, a new entertainment venue and the new home of the Austin City Limits television show.
  • Carlson has opened an 81-room Country Inns & Suites in the city of Texarkana, Texas.
  • There are also two notable conversions: Wyndham has slapped its name on Chicago's Hotel Blake, the 162-room property in the converted Morton Salt building. And Starwood has put the Sheraton name on the former Wyndham property located across NW 42nd Avenue from Miami International Airport. The 405-room hotel has recently undergone a $6 million upgrade.
  • There is also a notable closure to report: The only Embassy Suites in New York City is due to close early in January. The hotel in Battery Park City near the financial district will be renovated into a Conrad Hotel, one of the luxury brands operated by Hilton, which is also parent company of Embassy Suites.
Related resources Joe Brancatelli is editor and publisher of JoeSentMe.com, a non-commercial Web site for business travelers. Copyright 2010 by Joe Brancatelli. Licensed by contract for Orbitz use.

Orbitz picks top film cities beyond LA, NYC

This month's Orbitz Insider Index looks beyond New York City and Los Angeles to find some of the top film-friendly cities in the United States. Find out which cities made the list.
* Prices reflect the lowest "base rate" found over the next 30 days. Rates are subject to change and may not include taxes and fees, hotel service charges, extra person charges, or incidentals, such as room service. All rates are displayed in USD unless otherwise noted. Converted rates are provided for your convenience. They are based on today's exchange rate, but the hotel will charge you in the local currency.
See Austin travel-guide Site Map
Flight only Hotel only Car only Activities Cruises
Flight + Hotel Flight + Car Hotel + Car Flight + Hotel + Car
Search by city, point of interest, region, or airport Search by address
Please type the date in the following format: M/d/yy . For example: June 1, 2012 would be entered as 6/1/12 .
Room 1
Ages of children at time of trip (for pricing, discounts)
Additional options