Austin

You might have heard it said that “everything’s bigger in Texas” – find out why for yourself. Whether your interest leans toward the larger-than-life history of the Texan capital or Austin’s modern-day reputation as a diverse, laid-back city, our Concierge can help you put together a customised itinerary for your visit. Please call or visit the Concierge for more information or assistance with reservations.

Arrival

Families are welcomed at check-in with a seasonal glass of warm apple cider or fresh, cold lemonade. In their room, kids receive a personalised welcome amenity tailored to their age.

Delve into the history of Austin while discovering the charms of the vibrant downtown area.

Morning

• Enjoy your first taste of Austin with breakfast at TRIO, sporting two children’s menus and special utensils fit for smaller hands.
• After breakfast, get the lay of the land with a quirky downtown tour by Segway Nation.
• At just over two hours, this two-wheeled tour will give you a great overview of the city. Anyone can drive a Segway, so it’s fun for the entire family.

Afternoon

• Walk down West 6th Street for lunch at Hut’s Hamburgers. An Austin institution since 1939, Hut’s serves over 20 tasty burger combinations in a retro diner setting kids love.
• Once your stomach is full, fill your mind with fascinating stories and fun tidbits at the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, located in downtown Austin.

Evening

• Home to North America’s largest urban bat colony, Congress Avenue Bridge is where bat lovers gather to watch these harmless high-fliers emerge nightly.
• The Hotel’s Lobby Lounge is a great vantage point for kids to enjoy the show while mom and dad sip Batini Black cocktails, a playful homage to Austin’s unofficial mascot.

With an average of 300 days of sunshine each year, countless lakes and more than 220 parks, Austin is ideal for those who love the outdoors.

Morning

• Start your day with breakfast on TRIO’s outdoor terrace, making sure to keep a few crusts of bread for a short stroll along Lady Bird Lake.
• Located directly behind the Hotel, the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail offers picturesque views and several spots where you can feed ducks and turtles.
  
  

Afternoon

• Soak up the sun while surrounded by Four Seasons comfort at the Hotel’s outdoor pool, heated to a pleasant 82 degrees year-round.
• Balls, diving rings and noodles are available through The Spa.
• Complimentary treats, such as frozen fruit skewers and mini-slushies, help keep kids cool.
• For a more rollicking swimming hole, visit Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. The park also features the Zilker Zephyr miniature train and a large multi-age playscape.
  
  

Evening

• Enjoy dinner at County Line on the Lake. A contender for Austin’s best barbecue, this lakeside restaurant has a large redwood deck overlooking the water.

Austin is home to some ingenious and innovative ideas. See the results for yourself while fostering your kids’ creativity.

Morning

• Open 24 hours and famous for their humongous pancakes that come in a variety of flavours, Magnolia Café is the perfect place to fuel up for the day.
• Next, head to the Austin Children’s Museum on 2nd Street. Exhibits provide hands-on interaction for curious minds.

Afternoon

• Opened in Austin in 2005, the flagship Whole Foods Market has food to fit every taste. Browse the store for daily samples – perfectly sized for kids.
• With food in hand, head to the upstairs deck for lunch with a panoramic view of the downtown area. During the winter, the rooftop turns into an outdoor skating rink.
• Cap off lunch with one of the 17 unique flavours at the Whole Foods gelato counter or cross the street for handmade scoops at Amy’s Ice Cream.
• A local favourite, Book People is also nearby and features one of the largest selections of children’s literature in Texas.

Evening

• For dinner, head "south of the river" to Freddie’s Place for some down-home American food on the large backyard patio.
• Stick around for nightly live music.