South Congress Hotel is one of the coolest stays in Austin, Texas.
T+L senior visuals editor and Texas local Taylor McIntyre checks inread the full review.
The property radiates coolnessfrom its decor to its patrons.
Lobby bar at South Congress Hotel.Credit:Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Pool parties are held on the rooftop, while a quiet speakeasy is hidden in the back.
South Congress Hotel really doubles down on being a place for travelers and locals.
The guestrooms feature hardwood floors and custom decor alongside large walk-in showers with Ursa Major toiletries.
Guest room in at South Congress Hotel.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
The mini bars are stocked with products from local companies.
Views vary from the pool and courtyard area, South Congress Avenue, or the tranquil Travis Heights neighborhood.
Thesuitesoffer a bit more flexibility.
Dish from Maie Day at South Congress Hotel.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
Poolside and Congress suites are studio-like accommodations that include large floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies.
I stayed in the Monroe suite, which was also studio-style with a living room area.
At 940 square feet, the Milton suite is the largest guestroom in the hotel, overlooking Congress Avenue.
Rooftop pool at South Congress Hotel.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
It features a private balcony with a separate living room and a work station.
The bar offers creative cocktails split into four categories: citrus, strong, spicy, and fruit.
I tried the maple cornbread latte and the spiced pear latte and loved both.
Guest suite at South Congress Hotel.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
There are also delicious year-round flavored options like almond brown sugar and lavender.
Cafe No Se is an all-day cafe with a dog-friendly patio.
It has an excellent brunch menu and a great happy hour as well.
South Congress neighborhood in Austin, Texas.Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure
The malt fries were also a highlight.
One of my favorite places in Austin is South Congress Hotels omakase-speakeasy combo: Otoko and Watertrade.
The attached speakeasy Watertrade specializes in Japanese whisky and features an extensive cocktail menu divided into seasons.
The bartenders shake up unconventional cocktails that use ingredients like tofu, mushroom, and peppercorn.
Watertrade also provides beverage service to Otoko, including the optional sake pairing.
Lastly, Maie Day, a chop house, was featured on the Michelin-recommended restaurant list for 2024.
Every dish here is not only delicious but also served in sizeable portions.
Start with the crab claws, and move on to your favorite cut of meat.
However, don’t shy away from the fishI loved the mahi mahi.
Maie Day keeps up with South Congress Hotels strong cocktail game.
I loved the Rosemary Jack of Hearts as well as the pecan Old-Fashioned.
The cocktails are offered alongside a list of local brews and wines from around the world.
During my stay, it wasVada Eyewear, an independent Austin-based eyewear and jewelry brand.
The hotel also has a gym with Peleton equipment and Forme fitness mirrors.
Family-friendly Offerings
South Congress Hotel offers complimentary pack-and-plays for guests with children.
Elevators are available on all floors.
The hotel exclusively uses paper and cardboard products in the rooms and restaurants.
Recycling bins are available throughout the property.
This year, it plans to introduce reusable water bottles in all accommodations.
Guests have access to electric vehicle chargers.
Location
South Congress Hotel is just nine miles from the airport.
Rideshare services and taxis are available in both directions.
The hotel offers valet parking for guests who are driving.
However, the hotel has special offers and discounts when you book directly from itswebsite.
