Anchoring the upscale Arboretum mall, the Renaissance has been catering to travelers doing business in northwest Austin since the mid-1980s, making it a pioneer in the tech corridor. Regular upgrades and new development in the area—including the Domain and Domain NORTHSIDE malls, just a 10-minute drive away—have kept the hotel thriving. On Friday and Saturday, rates are often discounted, drawing shoppers. The huge atrium lobby is dramatic (though rooms facing it can be noisy), while exterior rooms have attractive views of the thickly wooded rolling hills surrounding the mall. Chic, larger-than-normal guest rooms feature pillow-top bedding, local art, and plushly upholstered furniture in soothing earth tones. All have mini-fridges and state-of-the-art business perks. The Knotty Deck & Bar has an appealing outdoor patio and creative cocktails, while you can get made-to-order pizza and local brews at @austinbytes.