For more reasons than we can count, Austin has captured our hearts, and we can’t wait to share the love. We’re so happy to introduce Kimpton’s just-opened Hotel Van Zandt and lay down roots in the “Live Music Capital of the World” … just one of Austin’s many claims to fame.
The rockin’ bar scene at Geraldine’s
City Full of Charms
At Kimpton, we identify with Austin’s independent and whimsical personality, and admire how this town has blazed its own path under the potent Texan sun. (Look no further than the residents displaying “Keep Austin Weird” stickers with tongue-in-cheek pride.) There are so many discoveries to be made, from awesome BBQ to sensational swimming holes to two-steppin’ treasures. With the opening of Hotel Van Zandt, travelers have the perfect space in which to unwind, with margarita in hand and soothing beats overhead.
The main dining room at Geraldine’s
Hotel Thrills (& Mucho Music!)
Our newest outpost, a refined riff on Austin’s renowned music heritage, is conveniently located near historic Rainey Street and the buzzing downtown scene. The hotel offers signature happenings and exclusive hideouts in its 319 contemporary rooms and 41 luxurious suites plus. That’s not to mention the can’t-miss outdoor terrace pool with bar that overlooks Lady Bird Lake.
The party continues at Geraldine’s, a 4th-floor dining and cocktail destination where Executive Chef Frank Mnuk sits at the helm. In true Austin spirit, the hangout also features a sound stage to showcase big-name stars as well as budding artists in genres from indie rock to comedy. Director of Music and Social Programming Lauren Bucherie helps curate an awesome music experience throughout guests’ entire stay. (If you love music, you’ll want to check back here soon — she’s cooking up an awesome holiday playlist just for Life is Suite readers!)
The hotel’s living room lobby
Design That Inspires
The hotel’s design showcases work by the talented Mark Zeff, who has dreamed up some of the world’s top boutique hotels and restaurants. Zeff explains that this particular interpretation, his first in the Lone Star State, extends beyond the theme of “urban cowboys,” instead encompassing a culture that boasts “a great history of elegance and Texas gentry.”
From the moment guests enter the property, they can settle into elegant yet edgy spaces that feature warm wooden flooring, sophisticated tones and tucked-away nooks plus lighting fixtures inspired by musical instruments, antiques inspired by nearby Hill Country and high-quality touches from bronze to local artwork. The venue features 12,000 square feet of stylish event and meeting space that can accommodate up to 500 people.
A Van Zandt guestroom
And, Oh, Those Amenities
Hotel Van Zandt welcomes one and all with open arms (from kids to four-legged friends), and offers the Kimpton perks you’ve come to know and love. We’re talking mini bars with healthful and organic options, complimentary Wi-Fi for Kimpton Karma* members, plus morning coffee and tea. Then there’s our bounty of wellness options (to off-set all that good eating and drinking)—access to a 24-hour fitness center, complimentary PUBLIC bikes for your use and yoga mats in every room, in addition to programming that allows guests to explore Lady Bird Lake on running, paddleboard and kayak tours.
In true Texas fashion, we pour complimentary margaritas every evening in the living room from 5 to 6 p.m. (Don’t worry, we have wine, too!) But the real pinch-me-I’m-dreaming perk is that we’ll ask for your music preferences, so we can create personalized set lists to be played via Jamboxes in your room once you’ve arrived.
What can we say? We’re just trying to make our new home city proud. Rock on, Austin! We’re so glad we’ve arrived.
Will you visit Hotel Van Zandt on your next trip to Austin?
*UPDATE: Kimpton Karma became a part of the award-winning IHG Rewards Club program in 2018. Learn more here.
