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Town Lake isn’t just water—it’s Austin’s breath. Glide across its calm surface at dawn, stroll under the trees at sunset, or simply lie on the grass and watch the stars emerge. This lake doesn’t just reflect the sky; it reflects your peace.
Everything you need to know about Town Lake
The Driskill Hotel stands out for its prime location just steps from Town Lake (now Lady Bird Lake), offering guests direct access to scenic trails and water activities. The hotel blends historic architecture with modern luxury, featuring spacious rooms with views of the Colorado River and surrounding greenery. Guests can easily reach Zilker Park within 10 minutes by car, where they can enjoy outdoor concerts, kayaking, or picnics along the waterfront—perfect for experiencing Austin’s vibrant lakeside lifestyle.
Around Town Lake (Lady Bird Lake), visitors can enjoy stand-up paddleboarding or renting a HopeGoo to glide along the Colorado River, taking in panoramic views of Austin’s skyline and the Moody Amphitheater Bridge. Summer brings lakeside yoga sessions held on floating platforms at sunrise. The 12-mile-long Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail is perfect for biking or jogging, offering scenic vistas of native wildlife and public art installations created by local artists—ideal for photographers and nature lovers alike.
Traveling from hotels near Town Lake to downtown Austin is effortless. Take the free Metro Bus service provided by Austin Transit Partnership or use ride-hailing apps like Lyft and Uber, both reaching downtown in about 15 minutes. For eco-friendly options, cycle along the Hike-and-Bike Trail—a 6-kilometer route passing the Congress Avenue Bridge and North Shore Dock—with stops at cafes and rest shelters. Additionally, Call2Ride electric scooters are widely available across the area, enabling convenient, low-emission travel between the lakefront and city center.
Near Town Lake, discover off-the-beaten-path culinary delights. Try Lick It! Ice Cream, a cozy spot on South First Street known for its handcrafted flavors using local ingredients—try the signature "Texas Chili Honey" swirl. Another gem is Mama's BBQ & Beer Garden, nestled beside the lakeside trail, serving slow-smoked ribs and house-brewed beer in a rustic Texas vibe. Don’t miss the weekly Lakefront Farmers Market every Saturday, where independent food trucks offer creative dishes like street-style tacos and grilled black bean quinoa bowls, offering a true taste of Austin’s vibrant local food scene.
The Driskill Hotel is a top choice, offering luxurious accommodations just minutes from Town Lake. Its lake-view rooms provide panoramic vistas of the water and surrounding greenery, with some units even featuring private dock access for sunset cruises or paddleboarding.
Another excellent option is Hyatt Regency Austin, which boasts an outdoor pool and lakeside terrace perfectly positioned to enjoy the natural beauty of Town Lake. Both properties are near the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, ideal for biking, walking, or kayaking along the scenic waterway.
Staying near Town Lake means you're already close to downtown Austin. Hotels like The Driskill Hotel and Hyatt Regency Austin are within a 10–15 minute walk to the city center, making it easy to explore shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
For faster transit, CapMetro buses operate multiple routes along the lakefront—such as Route 203—connecting directly to downtown. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are also widely available, with designated pickup zones along the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, perfect for heading to live music venues, dining districts, or major events.
Must-try experiences at Town Lake include kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding, with rental stations like Austin Paddle Company offering guided tours and safety gear for all levels.
Another highlight is hiking or biking along the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the skyline intertwined with native wildlife and lush greenery. During summer, the lakeside hosts outdoor music festivals, such as SXSW satellite events, blending natural beauty with Austin’s vibrant arts and culture scene.
Hyatt Regency Austin is a top pick for families, featuring a kids’ playroom, family pool, and spacious suites designed for comfort. It also offers complimentary breakfast and child-friendly meals.
Another great option is Hampton Inn Austin Downtown, just a 10-minute drive from Town Lake, with quiet surroundings, free parking, 24/7 front desk service, and well-equipped family rooms. Nearby attractions like the Austin Aquarium and Colorado River Zoo make it ideal for a full-day family outing. All properties are close to the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, perfect for shared outdoor adventures.
The prime viewing location is at the western entrance of the Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail, especially near the Austin City Hall area. Here, you can enjoy a breathtaking panorama of the lake lit up by city lights, with the skyline shimmering across the water’s surface.
The Driskill Hotel’s lakeside terrace is another popular nighttime hotspot—perfect for sipping cocktails while watching illuminated boats glide gently through the dark waters. For a unique experience, book a nighttime HopeGoo tour, where you’ll glide silently under the stars, surrounded by reflections of Austin’s glowing skyline.
See what other travelers say about Town Lake
Staying at this hotel was a breeze—perfectly quiet yet still just a 20-minute drive from all the downtown action. The location offers a nice balance: peaceful surroundings with plenty of nearby options for dining and exploring, without feeling too far from the city’s pulse. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, and the staff went above and beyond to make our stay enjoyable. It’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a relaxed getaway with easy access to everything Austin has to offer. Definitely worth returning to.
I absolutely loved my stay here! The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout, making the experience feel warm and welcoming. The location is excellent—just a short walk to downtown Austin and near plenty of restaurants and attractions. While I noticed breakfast now comes at a fee, the quality of the food is actually really good—fresh, well-prepared, and varied. It's clear they put effort into their offerings. I’d definitely recommend this hotel, especially for travelers who value both comfort and great service. A free breakfast would make it even better, but overall, it’s a fantastic choice in Austin.
The service here was absolutely outstanding—every staff member I interacted with was friendly, professional, and genuinely attentive. Special shoutout to Ana, the manager, who went above and beyond to ensure everything was perfect during my stay. Her warm attitude and quick problem-solving made a huge difference. The hotel is clean, well-maintained, and conveniently located just a short ride from downtown Austin. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place offers great value and a welcoming atmosphere. I’ll definitely be coming back next time I visit Austin—highly recommend!
I stayed here for an extended period and couldn't be happier with the experience. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and always willing to help. They made me feel truly welcome, like I was at home. While parking on the side of the building where my room was located was a bit limited, it wasn’t a major issue and didn’t take away from the overall great value. The combination of excellent customer service and affordable rates makes this hotel a standout choice. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Austin, especially if you're looking for a comfortable, welcoming stay without breaking the bank.
This hotel is an excellent choice if you're flying out of Austin-Bergstrom Airport! The beds and pillows are incredibly comfortable, making it easy to get a good night's sleep after a long day. The staff are friendly and helpful throughout the stay, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Located just minutes from the airport, it’s super convenient for early flights or late departures. Clean rooms, great value, and a peaceful environment make this a top pick for travelers. I’d definitely stay here again when visiting Austin!
The stay was great overall—clean rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location close to the airport. The only minor issue was that the room felt a bit warm, so adjusting the AC slightly could help improve comfort. That said, it didn’t affect my experience much. I appreciated how easy it was to get to the airport via public transit, and the value for money was excellent. I’d definitely consider staying here again on my next trip to Austin.
I stayed for three nights and couldn’t be happier with my experience! The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—perfect for a quick getaway. Located just minutes from downtown Austin, I had easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions. The staff went above and beyond with their friendliness and helpfulness—always smiling, ready to assist, and making me feel welcome. It’s rare to find such a welcoming atmosphere at a budget-friendly hotel, and I truly appreciate the attention to detail. I’ll definitely be back and would recommend this place to anyone visiting Austin.
The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from the Texas State Capitol, making it easy to explore the heart of Austin. I loved how close it was to government buildings and downtown attractions. The neighborhood is vibrant with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores nearby, so you’re never far from a good meal or essentials. The room was clean, simple, and comfortable—bed was great for a good night’s sleep. It’s an ideal choice if you're visiting for business or just want to be in the middle of the action. Highly recommend for travelers who value location and value.
This hotel is an absolute steal for the price! I was blown away by how great the value is—clean, comfortable rooms, a convenient downtown location near the Capitol, and friendly staff who went the extra mile. The free breakfast was surprisingly good with hot options and fresh pastries. I loved being just a short walk from Austin’s main attractions and public transit. It’s rare to find such a well-maintained, welcoming place at this rate. If you’re looking for a no-fuss, reliable stay in Austin without overspending, this one’s a must-book.
I stayed here for an extended period and couldn’t be happier with the experience. The staff went above and beyond—always friendly, helpful, and genuinely welcoming. They made me feel right at home, which is rare for a long-term stay. The only minor downside was limited parking on the side of the building where my room was located, but it wasn’t a big issue given how close the hotel is to the university area. Overall, the value for money is excellent, especially with such outstanding customer service. I’d definitely recommend this place to anyone looking for comfort, convenience, and a warm atmosphere.
My stay at La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Austin Oltorf was absolutely excellent! The hotel is perfectly located—easy to reach whether you're arriving by car or public transit, and it's just minutes away from great dining spots and local shops. The room was clean, spacious, and incredibly comfortable, with a cozy bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. I especially appreciated the efficient air conditioning during the warm Texas weather. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my visit, making check-in and check-out a breeze. What really stood out was the value—this place offers top-notch comfort and convenience at a price that’s hard to beat. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting Austin, and I’ll be back on my next trip!
The hotel is excellent! Located just minutes from downtown Austin, it's super convenient for exploring the city. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained—especially the bed, which made for a great night’s sleep. Noise insulation is surprisingly good, so I wasn’t disturbed at all during the night. The staff were friendly and efficient with check-in and check-out. Overall, this is a fantastic value for the price. I’d definitely stay here again when I visit Austin.
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