We just got back from an amazing time in Austin. It was our first time flying since the pandemic began and it felt so good to finally be traveling again. Andrew used to live in Houston and always talks about his love of Texas. It was my first time in the state and now I understand what all the hype is about. Not only is Austin beautiful and super fun, but the people are some of the nicest I’ve ever met.
When we were looking for a place to stay, my two requirements were that it had to be in a convenient location and it had to have a hip vibe. I’m so thankful we found Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt. It’s by far the best place to stay in Austin.
As soon as we arrived at the hotel, I knew we had made the right choice. The decor is rustic chic (my favorite) and the staff was warm and welcoming. The boutique hotel features 319 guestrooms, an onsite restaurant, cafe, rooftop pool & bar (please note: pool deck will be closed 10/15/20-3/1/21), fitness center, and free bike rentals. Just steps away from historic Rainey Street and overlooking Lady Bird Lake, the location couldn’t have been better. We were able to get everywhere via walking, motorized scooter and bicycle.
We stayed in a King Spa Suite and as soon as we walked through the door, I was in love. The view of Lady Bird Lake was breathtaking, not to mention the amazing bathtub. And the bed…SO COMFORTABLE!
The onsite restaurant, Geraldine’s, offers an authentic Texas style, chef-driven menu, and was the best meal we had in all of Austin. EVERYTHING we tried was amazing. Our favorites were the Striped Bass Crudo, Smoked Short Rib, Smoked Carrots, and Buttermilk Biscuits. And the yummy craft cocktails were icing on the cake. Geraldine’s is also one of the few places in Austin still featuring live music. They have shows Thursday – Sunday and we were fortunate to catch Paul Val, an amazing Blues Rock Band, during our visit.
Cafe 605 is open daily from 6am-2pm and offers everything you need for a picnic or a quick bite on the go. Free coffee is available for guests each morning.
Each evening from 5-6pm, the hotel offers free happy hour in their lobby living room. It was the perfect start to each night.
One of our favorite things we did on our trip was to take the free hotel bikes and cruise along Lady Bird Lake Boardwalk. The scenic trail has some of the best views of the city.
There are always fun events happening at Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt. Check out their upcoming fall and winter events…
Halloween Weekend
10/29- Blues Never Dies feat. Jo James & Zach Person
10/30- RIP (Rock In Peace) feat. Elijah Zane
10/31- Hall-o-funky feat. Donovan Keith
Friends-Giving
The whole month of November, Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt will feature a special FRIENDSGIVING cocktail menu benefitting No Kid Hungry. The six cocktails will pay homage to the cast of FRIENDS:
– How You Doin’
– I’m Breezy
– PIV-OT!
– You’re So Pretty
– Can I Interest You In A Sarcastic Comment
– Regina Phalange
5 Years Anniversay Party
On November 19th, Geraldine’s will celebrate 5 years with their special Bird-day party. Live music @ 8pm feat. Jo James & Ruby Dice
South Pole Pop Up (Weekends in December)
Your holiday party is back on! Geraldine’s presents: The South Pole, a southern holiday cocktail experience. Socially distant seating, a roving s’mores station, all your favorite tunes, and a continuous craft cocktail parade! Email music@geraldinesaustin.com for more information
We can’t rave enough about our stay. If you’re looking for the best place to stay in Austin for the perfect fall or winter getaway, be sure to check out Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt.
This post in collaboration with Hotel Van Zandt. All opinions are my own.