Gay Austin Austin City Guide City Guides > United States > Gay Austin Austin Casey SiemaskoWith an internationally acclaimed live music scene, passionate culinary culture and sunny, outdoor allure, it’s hard to resist Austin’s overwhelmingly charming, small-town appeal. Our advice? Let Austin lure you in. Despite the city’s undeniably rapid growth and newfound popularity, Austinites remain a down-to-earth, sometimes quirky yet always hospitable bunch, proud of their roots and eager to share their city’s highlights. Austin might be the capital of conservative Texas, but this liberal haven is one of America’s most gay-friendly cities, with gorgeous gay bars, world-renowned gay festivals, and inclusive, open-minded, fun-loving vibes for all. And while the entirety of Austin is gay-friendly, a notable cluster of gay-popular establishments dot East Austin and 4th Street. Feel like getting away? Take a trip planned just for you, and let us do all the work. Discover Trip Design Hotels Things to do Things to see Food & Drink Shopping Nightlife Trip Design The best hotels in AustinExperience Texas hospitality at its finest at Heywood Hotel, an original 1925 Craftsman bungalow turned luxurious East Austin Inn. Old meets new in each of the seven rooms, where historic and uber-local elements seamlessly combine; original longleaf pine hardwood floors and one-of-a-kind handicrafts from nearby studios are but a few of the creative, bespoke details. Complimentary bicycles make it a cinch to explore the eclectic, independent shops and eateries in the surrounding Eastside. Over in the heart of SoCo (ultra-trendy South Congress Avenue) is the aptly named South Congress Hotel. Minimalist design takes centre stage here, with exposed brick, hardwood floors, and large floor-to-ceiling windows keeping things airy and bright. A bevvy of funky boutiques, vintage shops, and food trucks punctuate SoCo’s trendy streets that surround the hotel. The minibar holds a lovely collection of unique, local offerings, but it’s the idyllic rooftop pool where you’ll find us enjoying a stiff cocktail. Photo: Ilya Ilford At boutique Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt, chic sophistication meets a playful musical edge to create a stay that is entirely befitting of Austin’s effortlessly cool vibesThank you for reading Mr Hudson.Subscribe to City Guides or log in to continue reading. Subscribe now Log inSpecial SelectionExclusive Mr Hudson offersOut now from gestaltenMr Hudson Explores Browse the BookExplore more Unbelievable eco-resorts in Central and South AmericaEcotourism inevitably is our future if we want to play a part in conserving this wondrous world around us for future generations. Luxurious eco resorts immersed in beautiful natural surroundings focus on sustainable practices while offering the highest quality hospitality to their guests. Read story > Palm Springs City GuideWorld-class resorts, fine dining, art-filled galleries and shopping galore, Palm Springs has it all. It’s a place to soak up some sun while spoiling oneself with the luxuries of this desert oasis. To access this content, you must purchase City Guides subscription. Explore > Meet our partners: Rocco Forte HotelsEnjoy the height of elegant luxury while discovering the most spectacular destinations in Europe by staying with Rocco Forte Hotels, a collection of thoughtfully designed retreats that occupy reimagined historic buildings with luxury facilities. Read story > Subscribe to our newsletterYou can unsubscribe at any time by clicking the link in the footer of our emails. We use Mailchimp as our marketing platform. By clicking below to subscribe, you acknowledge that your information will be transferred to Mailchimp for processing. Discover the World's Most Exquisite Escapes Your email address JOIN THE CLUBJoin Mr Hudson's inner circle for curated stays, exclusive rates and quiet insider access — the best of the world's most beautiful hotels, straight to your inbox.