Located in the heart of downtown with stunning views of Lady Bird Lake, Four Seasons Austin has it all – from proximity to nature to plenty of nearby destinations to explore. Who better to draw up a local guide than the Hotel’s in-the-know staff? Tailor your itinerary with their picks – then explore, retreat and repeat.
A SWEET SPOT FROM OUR EXECUTIVE PASTRY CHEF
– Amanda Pallagi-Naim, Executive Pastry Chef
“Even though I make baked treats at work all day, I still have a weakness for dessert. My go-to choice is Amy’s Ice Creams, an Austin institution and the best frozen dairy shop around, in my opinion. My favourite is the cinnamon ice cream with graham crackers crushed in. The home-made Mexican vanilla is amazing too. Check out the seasonal flavours if you visit the South Congress location. They always try new combinations, so I would recommend asking the attendant for a few samples before you make your pick.”
OUR CONCIERGE’S BEST BET FOR BARBECUE
– Tony Ingargiola, Les Clefs d'Or Concierge
“The Salt Lick, located in Driftwood, is one of my favourite barbecue spots. Make sure to arrive hungry so you can order the Cadillac Plate – their all-you-can-eat special. They’ll keep bringing refills of meats and sides until they have to roll you out. If you can’t make the drive to Driftwood, try the airport location at Austin-Bergstrom. You’ll miss out on the down-home ambiance, but the food is just as good. The Driftwood location is BYOB, so bring along some local brews or bottles of wine.”
PARK IDEA FROM OUR CANINE-LOVING PR DIRECTOR
– Kerri Sholly, Director of Public Relations & Communications
“If you’re making the most of our hospitable pet policy and travelling with dogs, I recommend taking them to Red Bud Isle off of Lake Austin Boulevard. The peninsula park is flanked on three sides by Lady Bird Lake. The half-mile loop is a mostly shaded, picturesque stroll. The best part, though, is that the entire park is off-leash, so your dogs can romp, swim, sniff and play with other socialized pooches to their hearts’ content.”
BEFITTING BAUBLES FROM OUR MARKETING COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER
– Alyssa Patterson, Marketing Communications Manager
“If you’re a jewellery lover like I am, you must visit the flagship Kendra Scott® store, established in Austin and located just a few minutes from the Hotel. Inside, you’ll find a sweets shop, a wine bar and an entire home collection. If you want to bring home a memorable piece, I would recommend their goldstone line. It features the burnt-orange colour that represents The University of Texas at Austin.”
TACOS EVERYONE IS TALKING ABOUT, INCLUDING OUR CONCIERGE
– Steven Beasley, Les Clefs d'Or Concierge
“Located just a short distance from the Hotel, the Torchy’s Tacos® flagship location on South Congress Avenue is a must-visit. Their queso is so legendary that it was in a clue on the game show “Jeopardy”! While the regular menu is incredible, and they serve breakfast tacos all day, be sure to always check out the T.O.M. (Taco of the Month). If you’re looking for a fun brunch experience, try the other Torchy’s Tacos® within walking distance that features a full bar.”
ACTIVITY INSIGHTS FROM OUR SPA MANAGER
– Stephanie Branch, Spa Manager
“Even if you’re not a big fan of water, rowing can provide a great workout. Located conveniently behind the Hotel in the Waller Creek Boathouse, Rō Fitness offers low-impact workouts that work all major muscle groups in one session. You can easily burn over 1,000 calories a class! On nice days, they even bring the equipment outside, adding a gorgeous view of the lake to an already fun workout. Tip: Your first class is free, with additional drop-in classes for only USD 20.”