Austin, Texas, is a city in flux, home to gleaming, design-centric hotels and grand properties steeped in history and old-school nostalgia. During autumn in the Capitol City, the air rings with the live music of Austin City Limits and the sound of engines revving as the Circuit of the Americas welcomes the Formula One United States Grand Prix. Here’s our guide to Texas’ wildest city. PS: No need to pack cowboy boots—pop by Allen’s Boots or Texas Traditions when you arrive to discover the most beautiful, handmade boots in Texas. You’re very welcome.
WHERE TO STAY: ICONS OF AUSTIN
The Driskill
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For more than a century, the iconic Driskill Hotel has hosted restful nights, inspired gatherings, momentous occasions and more. The 1886 Café & Bakery and timeless Driskill Bar both offer handcrafted menus, storied spaces, and matchless service; always ready to welcome visitors who are eager to be a part of the Texas story.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
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Austin’s particular brand of cool is evident in every detail of the downtown Four Seasons Hotel. “Four Seasons Hotel Austin is the ideal location for all things Austin and the Formula 1 Grand Prix is no exception. Our hotel is positioned in the heart of the city with an expansive lakeside back lawn making the perfect headquarters for race fans whether they want to experience Austin’s nightlife or relax after a long day at the track. It’s a very exciting time of the year for us as we get to welcome guests from all over the world and we embrace the spirit of the races accordingly.” shares Beverly Magee, Regional Vice President and General Manager.
From local art to indulgent Texas-inspired Spa treatments, here’s a quick shout to the renowned margarita(s). Talking of a stiff drink, “the perfect cocktail for visiting race fans is “Smokey The Cannon” available at our bar, Live Oak. It’s an exciting yet refreshing introduction to Texas-inspired flavours— chili-infused mezcal and grapefruit— for those who want a taste of the city. Served in a glass cowboy boot, nothing says Austin quite like that.” Frank Tosti, Director of Food and Beverage, adds. The hotel is going all out for F1 guests, including custom arrival amenities created by the pastry team; race-inspired turndown amenities; and a Retail Pop-Up shop with official F1 merchandise from Red Bull, Mercedes, Ferrari, Kick Sauber, Aston Martin, Alfa Tauri, and McLaren. They understood the assignment.
The Commodore Perry Estate, Auberge Collection
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A treasured Austin landmark, Commodore Perry Estate is re-envisioned with modern glamour and housed on a ten-acre property in the heart of Austin. Amidst the luxurious ambiance of this private estate, every moment of F1 weekend is designed for ultimate relaxation and enjoyment, featuring an onsite DJ and sumptuous meals.
WHERE TO STAY: DESIGN-CENTRIC NEWCOMERS
Hotel Van Zandt
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An independent, design-forward boutique hotel situated in the heart of Austin’s historic Rainey Street District. Featuring Geraldine’s, a renowned restaurant, bar, and live music venue specializing in seasonal, globally inspired cuisine; and Brass Poppy, an intimate first-floor cocktail lounge known for its innovative twists on classic cocktails, Hotel Van Zandt is a haven for cultural tastemakers, offering a vibrant space to unwind, relax, and imbibe.
When winding down for the race weekend, we recommend trying the Grasshopper, an innovative take on a classic cocktail made with house-made crème de menthe, Tempus Fugit Crème de Cacao, Branca Menta, and macadamia whip, historically green turned fiery red, perfect to celebrate the weekend in style – with a side of Iberico bites to match the spirit.
Hotel Magdalena
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One of the latest projects from Austin’s acclaimed Bunkhouse Hotels, Hotel Magdalena is located on Music Lane and offers travellers a treehouse-like perch in the middle of the action, while still providing a peaceful reprieve.
WHERE TO EAT
Summer House on Music Lane
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Helmed by Executive Chef Jeffrey Hundelt, Summer House is inspired by the casual sophistication that defines a lake house weekend. Fun and cutesy, if you ask us.
Eberly
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Eberly is known for its menu of classic dishes with innovative twists, paired with expertly crafted cocktails. Try the Bonus Track with a side of the Texas Wagyu Strip.
The Royale Room
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Featuring a menu from Chef Marc Marrone that celebrates its raw bar program as a focal point, The Royale Room is the newest kid on the block. The cocktail program shines with a variety of nearly a dozen martini variations from Beverage Director, Miranda Breedlove. Don’t forget to snag a pail of Truffle fries.
SUNDOWNERS at TX
Equipment Room
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A high-fidelity vinyl bar that expertly blends Japanese Kissa culture with Austin music history, Equipment room is where to need to be this weekend. With every detail from the record collection, curated by Breakaway Records, to the vintage sound equipment, to the cocktails (try the 6’s to 9’s or Nice Dream) devoted to the art of appreciation, the new, modern sanctuary invites patrons to surrender themselves to the revelatory experience of hearing a record the way it was intended.
Swim Club
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A non-members-only social club, hotel guests, locals, and visitors alike can eat, drink, swim, and dance the night away in a playfully pink oasis at Swim Club. The historic pool transformed into a submarine-view dining room offers a food and cocktail menu inspired by the excess and escapist energy of the 1980s. Try Smoke on the Water or Performance Anxiety with a side of Tuna Crudo. Very demure.
Images: Brands respectively
