The Driskill, an iconic hotel in the heart of downtown Austin, Texas, has enchanted guests since 1886. Boasting an impressive 9.4/10 rating for its prime location, this Romanesque Revival property offers 189 guestrooms, including 14 suites, and three dining options.
With an overall rating of 8.7/10, the hotel is praised for its historic ambiance, cleanliness, and attentive staff.
One potential drawback is that the hotel’s historic nature may mean some modern amenities are not as up-to-date as some travelers might expect. However, the hotel’s captivating history and elegance more than make up for this, as it has hosted notable figures like Lyndon B. Johnson and continues to attract visitors with its rich heritage.
The Driskill is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a truly authentic and memorable experience in Austin. Its cattle baron-founded hotel and commitment to sustainability will appeal to those who value a hotel’s historical significance and environmental efforts.
About Your Stay
- The Driskill is a historic, Romanesque Revival-style hotel established in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill in downtown Austin, Texas.
- The hotel is rated 8.7/10 overall, praised for its historic ambiance, cleanliness, and attentive staff, with a 9.4/10 rating for location.
- The Driskill offers various accommodation options, including rooms and suites, and features diverse dining experiences and amenities like a fitness center and pet-friendly policies.
- As an integral part of Austin’s history, the Driskill has hosted notable figures and continues to attract visitors with its rich heritage and elegant atmosphere.
- The hotel demonstrates a commitment to sustainability through eco-friendly practices and third-party certifications, showcasing its dedication to responsible tourism and environmental preservation.
Hotel Overview
The Driskill, located at 604 Brazos Street in downtown Austin, Texas, is an iconic hotel that has been a landmark of Texas luxury and hospitality for over a century.
Rated with an excellent location score of 9.4/10 based on 409 reviews, this historic hotel features 189 guestrooms, including 14 suites, and three restaurants/bars.
Known for its grandeur and popularity among couples, the hotel offers a range of amenities, such as free WiFi, a fitness center, and pet-friendly options.
With an overall rating of 8.7/10, the Driskill is celebrated for its historic ambiance, cleanliness, and friendly staff, though some guests have noted noise from the nearby 6th Street.
Historic Significance
Over a century old, The Driskill has long been regarded as a premier icon of Texas hospitality and luxury. Built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, the hotel is a magnificent example of Romanesque Revival architecture and has played a significant role in the history of Austin.
Throughout its storied past, The Driskill has hosted luminaries such as Lyndon B. Johnson, who celebrated his presidential election victory in the hotel’s legendary Driskill Bar.
Today, the hotel’s rich heritage and timeless elegance continue to captivate visitors, making it a beloved landmark and must-see destination for those exploring the heart of the Texas capital.
Guest Ratings
According to the guest reviews and ratings, The Driskill has achieved an overall hotel rating of 8.7 out of 10, categorizing it as "excellent."
Delving deeper into the specific scoring, guests have praised the hotel’s staff with a remarkable 9.2 rating, while the facilities, cleanliness, and comfort have also been highly regarded, earning scores of 8.8, 9.0, and 9.1, respectively.
Positive experiences frequently highlight:
- The historic ambiance and grandeur of the property
- The cleanliness and attention to detail
- The friendly and attentive staff
- The convenient downtown location
However, some guests have noted noise from the adjacent 6th Street as a potential drawback.
Accommodation Options
Various room types are available at The Driskill, catering to the diverse needs of guests. The hotel offers King Rooms, Queen Rooms, and Deluxe King Rooms, as well as suites.
All accommodations feature air conditioning, private bathrooms, tea/coffee makers, and flat-screen TVs.
For families, cribs are provided free of charge for children aged 0-2 years, and an extra bed is available for $30 per child, per night.
The Driskill’s room amenities and flexible policies cater to a range of travelers, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Dining Experiences
The Driskill boasts a diverse culinary offering, catering to guests’ dining preferences throughout the day.
The 1886 Cafe & Bakery serves American cuisine for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, while The Driskill Bar offers a dinner menu in the evenings.
Theres some good:
- Locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients
- Craft cocktails and an extensive wine selection
- Elegant, historic ambiance in the restaurants
- Exceptional service from the attentive staff
The hotel’s dining experiences provide an opportunity to savor the flavors of Texas while surrounded by the grandeur and charm of this iconic Austin landmark.
Amenities and Services
The Driskill offers an array of amenities and services to cater to the diverse needs of its guests.
The hotel provides complimentary WiFi, along with non-smoking rooms and a well-equipped fitness center. Families are accommodated with family rooms, and pet owners can bring their furry companions, though additional charges may apply.
Dining options include the 1886 Cafe & Bakery, serving American cuisine for breakfast, brunch, and lunch, as well as The Driskill Bar, which offers American fare for dinner.
Additional services, such as a 24-hour front desk, concierge, luggage storage, and a business center, are available to assist guests during their stay.
Spa services can also be arranged for an additional fee.
Policies and Accessibility
Guests at The Driskill must meet a minimum check-in age of 21 years old.
The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, concierge, and luggage storage services for added convenience.
Pets are allowed on request, though additional charges may apply.
The Driskill also holds third-party sustainability certifications, demonstrating its commitment to environmental responsibility.
- Flexible check-in/check-out times
- On-site business center
- Accessible facilities and accommodations
- Straightforward cancellation policies
Sustainability Commitment
Sustainability is a key priority at The Driskill, as evidenced by the hotel’s achievement of third-party sustainability certifications.
The property has implemented various eco-friendly practices to minimize its environmental impact. This includes energy-efficient lighting, water conservation measures, waste management programs, and the use of sustainable materials.
On top of that, The Driskill partners with local suppliers and supports the community’s sustainability initiatives. By embracing sustainable operations, the hotel demonstrates its commitment to responsible tourism and preserving the natural resources of the region.
These sustainability efforts contribute to The Driskill’s reputation as a leader in environmentally conscious hospitality.
Booking Your Stay
The Driskill is a landmark hotel in downtown Austin, offering a refined and historic experience. With high guest ratings, excellent accommodations, dining, and amenities, it caters to visitors seeking a luxury stay in the heart of the city. However, be aware of occasional noise from the nearby 6th Street area.
This was our review of the Driskill hotel. If you’re interested in booking, the button below will take you to Booking.com, which we use and recommend, as they often have competitive prices.