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 Discover the best wildlife vacations Europe has to offerThough the size of wild Europe is in decline, contemporary attitudes towards animal welfare are helping to conserve and protect what is left, with beaver and boar once again thriving in the Danube Delta. Read story > Wildlife sanctuaries in Asia: Discover the best ethical wildlife attractions that you can visitForegoing unethical tourist traps in favour of more animal-friendly practices, we tour the very best wildlife sanctuaries in India, China, Malaysia and Asia at large to put our travel dollars towards conservation efforts and support the recovery of endemic species. Read story > 25 famous landmarks you must see (at least!) once in a lifetimeEvery place has something that makes us dream of being there to witness it. Take a look at 25 famous landmarks all over the world that will inspire your next travel adventure! 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. Sign up for exclusive insider promotions SIGN UP