Frommer's Review
Opened in 1886, the Driskill is Austin's original grand hotel. This national historic landmark has seen its share of history. Lyndon Johnson both managed the final days of his presidential campaign and received the election results here. The Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the saviors of the Alamo, met here to agree on their plan of action. It was here, too, that the Texas Rangers plotted their ambush on Bonnie and Clyde. Indeed, all kinds of plots have been hatched here.
Over time, the hotel has weathered ups and downs. Right now it's living a golden age. A hugely expensive renovation project put the "grand" back into the hotel. All the public areas have been refurbished to give them an impressive old-and-expensive look. Off the lobby, you'll find the 1886 Café; the Driskill Grill, for fine dining; and a cushy piano bar; plus a small but well-equipped spa.
The Driskill offers guests a choice between rooms in the original 1886 building (labeled "historic") or in the 1928 addition ("traditional"); the latter are the better deal, especially those on the 12th floor, which have higher ceilings. Rooms are well lit, distinctively decorated, and furnished with period pieces. Bathrooms in many rooms are on the small side but are sleek and attractive and come with several amenities, including plush bathrobes. This hotel is on Austin's lively Sixth Street, and some of the "historic" rooms with balconies can catch street noise. Also, some of the "traditional" king rooms are small. In 2008, the Driskill spent $4 million to refurnish the rooms, including replacing all mattresses and installing flatscreen televisions. In this same year, it was awarded the Five Dog Bone Award for pet-friendliness by the readers of Animal Fair magazine. The hotel has only a handful of smoking rooms.
Facilities:
2 restaurants; bar; health club; spa; concierge; business center; 24-hr. room service; laundry service; dry cleaning
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
