The W Hotel - Austin, TX

Just a few days before Christmas, I spent my birthday at the new W Hotel in Austin, Texas. Jenny McGlothern, The W’s business travel sales manager, gave me a tour the day prior. Jenny is absolutely wonderful and made the whole experience a blast! The W has been invited to become a Virtuoso property and they are working hard to meet all the requirements, as well as achieve their LEED certification.

Much time and care has been invested in the architecture and aesthetic of the hotel, balancing exposed concrete with red floral patterns. Very contemporary chic, but still with a nice Austin flair (including local Austin photography in every room) that, as a native Austinite, even I appreciate. The staff is attentive, friendly, and eager to satisfy all your unique needs and desires. Valet parking is most convenient; otherwise there is on-street and next-door parking garages for a fee.

Photo is of a typical Deluxe Room, which I viewed during the tour.

Stepping into your room is a breath of fresh air as the vibrant red décor gives way to softer blues. I was upgraded to a Corner Suite with a view of the river and received a complimentary birthday cake (candle and all!) and mineral water. The suite has a plush separate sitting area, closed off king bedroom, and large bathroom with standing shower and separate Jacuzzi tub complete with large, sweeping views of the Austin skyline.

The living room and bedroom were equipped with large LCD TV’s. Alarm clock doubled as a stereo with iPod/iPhone docking/playing capabilities. Very clean and modern amenities. The beds are extremely comfortable. When booking, guests have the option of a city or countryside view – a benefit of The W’s location just north of the river, but still downtown. Suites are available with one king or two queens, and connecting rooms are available.

All rooms at The W come with “The Sanctuary,” or a multi-purpose charging station. No more panicking about forgetting your phone charger!

Photo courtesy of Blue Lounge.

Another fun bonus is the “Munchie Box,” which includes a variety of yummy snacks and quirky toiletries featuring local brands. Austin has a large homegrown culture and it is obvious that The W – Austin has taken this to heart. If none of the in-room treats hit the mark, the “Whatever/Whenever” service offers 24/7 concierge service that accommodates even the pickiest eaters. I am a vegetarian and the room service menu is not very vegetarian-friendly, but The W talent easily delivered a custom order well after normal dining hours, and for a reasonable cost.

In my opinion, The W’s biggest highlight is their Living Room lounge area. Several connecting rooms make up separate but unique environments, which sit adjacent to their signature restauraunt. Whether you’re looking for a calm, relaxing drink (I recommend the Jalapeño Lemonade and Peppercorn Martini – yum!) or a charged, energetic vibe, The W provides.

Overall, The W – Austin is a great downtown experience. For those seeking a nightlife experience, or interested in a hotel with modern luxury, this is definitely the spot. W also hosts their signature Sweat fitness center, connected to the AWAY Spa and WET infinity pool (both opening in the spring).

The W is within walking distance to Austin’s major attractions like the Congress Avenue Bridge, 6^th Street, all major restaurants and dining, and just a short car ride to Zilker Park and Austin City Limits.

Speaking of ACL, The W is also an official venue for Austin City Limits and is located next door to the new ACL headquarters. A top-secret theatre is under construction on the 37^th floor and, when completed, will make The W the absolute numero uno destination for all music-goers.

Photo courtesy of KUT Austin.