Austin Motel
Retro Cool on South Congress
A 1930s Icon Reborn
Few hotels embody Austin’s playful spirit quite like the Austin Motel. Originally built in the 1930s, this South Congress landmark has been lovingly restored into an über-hip boutique stay that celebrates its vintage bones while embracing modern cool. Its iconic neon sign still blazes bright, a beacon of Austin quirk, while inside, a bold redesign reimagines the motel as a stylish throwback destination.
Design That Pops
The interiors lean hard into retro fun: brightly colored furniture, bold patterned wallpapers, and playful vintage touches that echo the motel’s mid-century heyday. Reds, oranges, and yellows dominate the palette, channeling the Texas sun and the glow of the neon out front. Guestrooms are minimal but punchy—think clean lines, color-blocked walls, and nostalgic details—creating a vibe that’s equal parts kitsch and contemporary cool.
Poolside Vibes
At the heart of the property is the kidney-shaped pool, a beloved original feature that has become the motel’s social hub. Lined with red-and-white parasols and loungers, the pool area radiates retro glamour while doubling as a prime spot for sun-soaked lounging or cooling dips under the Texas heat. Whether by day or night, it’s where the Austin Motel magic comes alive.
A Lobby With Personality
The lobby is anything but ordinary—it channels the casual charm of a neighborhood convenience store. Coolers are stocked with grab-and-go drinks and snacks, while a curated retail corner offers travel essentials, quirky souvenirs, and stylish poolside accessories. It’s practical, playful, and unmistakably Austin.
A True South Congress Original
Set along the city’s most stylish strip, the Austin Motel embodies the eclectic personality of South Congress itself—artsy, retro, and alive with creative energy. Steps from the city’s best dining, shopping, and nightlife, the motel is both a neighborhood anchor and a portal to Austin’s ever-evolving cool.
DNA Hotels Verdict
Austin Motel is not just a place to crash—it’s a cultural icon, equal parts vintage throwback and modern boutique playground. For travelers seeking a stay that’s fun, stylish, and uniquely Austin, this 1930s landmark delivers with neon glow, poolside charm, and a whole lot of personality.
