Checking In

Bold new Austin-inspired boutique hotel checks into downtown district

A new hotel with Texas-sized flair and originality to boot makes its mark in buzzy downtown Austin. Downright Austin is set to open this spring and boasts 367 guest rooms, 31,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event spaces, new culinary concepts, and a tourist-approved location just blocks from some of the city’s most popular entertainment landmarks and attractions.

Photo courtesy of Downright Austin

Downright Austin opens in spring 2024.

“We are thrilled to introduce Downright in the city of Austin and look forward to serving both those traveling and the local community,” said Erica Graham, a senior vice president at Brookfield Asset Management, in a press release. “Our decision to open in Austin was inspired by the city’s distinct independent spirit and originality."

Guests can expect an atmosphere inspired by Texan pride, punctuated by unique interiors, a postmodern lobby, and quirky accents that speak to the essence of Austin's past and present. Rooms, hallways, and other spaces throughout the property are designed with terra-cotta hues, natural light, and timeless decor meant to evoke the stay-and-play spirit.

Downright Austin’s two dining and cocktail concepts are also slated to open this spring. Most notably, one the restaurants will serve hotel guests summertime-inspired fare in a sunken dining room along with submarine views of the outdoor pool. Both restaurant concepts are being led by Lost Boy & Co., in collaboration with experienced local industry group FBR Management, for an experience that is certain to meet local foodie standards.

Lush greenery, open spaces, and funky elements like checkerboard throughout the property are an orchestrated nod to the vibrancy of Austin culture. A walk-up counter concept in the lobby offers the perfect respite to guests and visitors alike who don’t have the time to indulge in the suite life. The counter menu will range from craft-brewed coffees to fresh, on-the-go breakfast items.

The hotel also promises an event calendar filled with elevated social experiences year-round, with spaces suited for live music, private reservations, parties, and more.

Downright Austin is hosting a grand opening this spring to give locals a first look at the new downtown digs. Exclusive tours of the newly designed rooms as well as pre-opening rates are available for those looking to check in early. Stay connected with Downright Austin for more opening information.

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A New Frontier

Ultra-low cost airline adds 4 new nonstop flights from Austin in 2025

Photo courtesy of Frontier Airlines

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New low-cost, nonstop flights are on the horizon for Austin travelers. Budget-friendly carrier Frontier Airlines will double its nonstop routes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) in 2025 by adding four new destinations to its docket.

According to a release, Frontier will launch nonstop service from Austin to Orlando (MCO), Chicago (ORD), Cincinnati (CVG), and Phoenix (PHX) in March 2025. The four new routes join its existing nonstop service from Austin to Atlanta (ATL), Cleveland (CLE), Denver (DEN), and Las Vegas (LAS).

Service to Orlando and Chicago begins March 6, 2025, and will operate three times a week. Service to Cincinnati and Phoenix follows on March 7, 2025, and will be available twice a week.

In conjunction with the announcement, the discount airline is promoting fares as low as $49 each way for the new routes on select travel dates. The special rates are available for Frontier's Discount Den members through November 25 only.

A review of standard fares for March travel on the new routes shows prices ranging from $253-$289 round trip per person.

“It’s fantastic to see our partners at Frontier expand their offerings to AUS customers,” said AUS CEO Ghizlane Badawi in the release. “Providing ultra-low cost nonstop flights to our community plays an important role in giving options to travelers and making air travel accessible for Central Texans.”

A reminder for future Frontier travelers: The low-cost airline currently operates out of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport's South Terminal, along with Allegiant Airlines. In 2026, both airlines will relocate to the main Barbara Jordan Terminal, as the South Terminal is slated to close amid airport expansion plans.

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