This small hotel has a big reputation, usually selling out for SXSW season months in advance; it's probably because there's no better place to be deep in the heart of Austin but still feel like you're tucked away in a private retreat. Document your trip with one of the hotel's typewriters or polaroid cameras, available for guest use. Indulge in an in-room mani/pedi, and if you're staying in, they've also got a music and movie library (the San Jose is owned by Liz Lambert, also of Hotel Saint Cecilia fame, so expect lots of vintage treasures).

Designed to feel more like an upscale version of your own home than a hotel, Kimber Modern bypasses traditional check-in by giving you a key code. They stock suites with Malin+Goetz goodies and host a daily happy hour complete with cocktails and locally-made snacks, for those who need a break from lounging on the private, hammock-filled deck.

Named for the patron saint of music and poetry, this just-off-SoCo hotel has one of the coolest private pools in town, and also one of the most coveted media collections: the Saint Cecilia Library is stocked with handpicked, sometimes rare, books, movies and vinyl. They also have in-room soundsystems, a fleet of bikes you can borrow and tasty local goodie baskets.

Inspired by Zen philosophy, the Casulo Hotel's airy design and extensive amenities build on their philosophy that vacations should be stress-free. All rooms come with an oversized tub, or you can soak in the outdoor pool. While it's not centrally located (as in, you'll need to ride downtown), the hotel is the perfect home base for Austin-area sightseeing.

Whether you're looking for a place to host your wedding, or simply trying to escape for a weekend, the Mansion at Judges' Hill will pamper you with luxe bedding, lush decor and a host of generous amenities. Enjoy cocktails on the veranda, explore the grounds or indulge at the spa; at night, you're just steps away from Congress Avenue's nightlife.

The Four Seasons in Austin provides guests with the synthesis of high-class luxury and upscale interior designs. If the rooms and suites aren't impressive enough already, the views of downtown and Lady Bird Lake will certainly make them want to keep coming back. For further relaxation, settle down at the gorgeous pool or take advantage of the world-class spa.

The Driskill Hotel has been a reigning symbol of Austin class for generations of visiting travelers and dignitaries. The opulence of the exterior facade and lavish lobby often get the most attention, the assorted guest rooms and suites hold their own with designs and comfort that combine historic and contemporary designs. The Driskill also offers the best opportunities to socialize in a comfortable lounge area and one of the best bars in town.

Visitors to the Live Music Capital of the World can get everything that they would want when visiting and staying at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel. Well designed rooms along with many helpful amenities such as an expansive fitness club make guests feel at home while being within walking distance to the center of Austin's cultural scene. Having the popular Roaring Fork located in the same building makes dining choices much simpler, too.

Travaasa Austin, just a 30-minute drive from downtown and nestled on 210 acres of a nature preserve, is an ideal Hill Country getaway. But it’s more than just a luxurious resort. It’s also a place to learn and experience new things. Take a guided meditation and breathing class in the Zen-inspired gardens, go on a geocaching scavenger hunt or ride a mechanical bull for a fun core workout. After a long day, relax in the zero-edge swimming pool and indulge in one of Travaasa’s signature spa treatments.