The 6 best family-friendly hotels in Austin, Texas

How to guarantee a stand-out vacation? Stay in a hotel that stands out from the crowd. All it takes is one look at the bird's-eye view of the rooftop pool area to know that Fairmont Hotel is where you want to be. For families who aim to combine kid-friendly with luxury, this is the spot; all of the social spaces manage to pull off a high-end yet easy-going vibe, so kids running around won't look out of place. There are 6 restaurants to cater to everyone's taste – including Garrison, which has had a mention in the Michelin Guide – and an award-winning spa for parents who need a well-deserved pamper session. The facilities and staff are there to make you feel spoiled. 

The Mood? Upmarket retreat. 
Location perks? The downtown setting means you'll be treated to unique lake and city views, and put you in close proximity to iconic Austin landmarks from Barton Springs Pool to Texas Memorial Stadium. 
Budget range? Reasonable for a luxury stay. 

The retro-style Lone Star Court just might be Austin's most fun hotel; the kids will be thrilled to find lawn games, fire pits and a swimming pool on site, as well as rentable bikes and live music. Throughout the wider complex you'll also find a whole host of child-friendly dining options from burgers to milkshakes, alongside several playgrounds and even a theater. Despite its vintage charm, you can expect only the most up-to-date amenities. The Water Trough bar and restaurant offers casual all-day Texan dining with a side of signature cocktails – so there's something for everyone in the family to get excited about. The communal atmosphere and pet-friendly policy will have you feeling right at home. 

The Mood? Retro-modern country charm. 
Location perks? A 20-minute drive from Austin city centre and the 6th Street entertainment district.  
Budget range? A great budget option. 

All the excitment of a glamping holiday with none of the compromise on comfort? That's what Renaissance Hotel can provide. While the inside is glossy and timelessly luxurious, with plush furnishings and a classic colour scheme, the outside has a rural vibe with its renovated deck and above-ground fire pits surrounded by greenery and comfy seating. Reconnect with nature (a whole 95 acres of it) on your own terms, with the option of retreating straight back to the comfort of your room or grabbing some food that you didn't have to cook over the fire. One of the restaurants serves Texas-inspired dishes and craft cocktails, while the other has fresh breakfast tacos and coffee to help you start the morning off right. 

The Mood? New-era Austin.
Location perks? Next to Arboretum Mall and a 15-minute drive from Austin city centre. 
Budget range? Middle of the road. 

Booking a Hilton hotel is always a good call, especially if you're looking for family-friendly hotels in Austin. Convenience is always key when you're juggling parenthood and relaxation, making DoubleTree a great choice; rooms are sizeable enough for everyone in the family to have their own space, there's a buffet breakfast to keep everyone full until lunch and the laid-back pool area is ideal for cool-down sessions in a casual setting. You'll also be in a great location, making family days out a breeze. The on-site restaurant is also open 7 nights a week if you can't manage to venture beyond the hotel for dinner, and serves an array of Austin favorites with a twist. 

The Mood? Accessible and welcoming.  
Location perks? A very short drive, 5 miles to be exact, from the city centre. And the hotel's free shuffle service makes exploring Austin even easier.  
Budget range? Low-cost for Austin. 

This downtown Austin hotel has recently undergone a multi-million dollar renovation – and it shows. Flaunting a playful mid-century style, expect to have your mood lifted by vibrant colors and fun details throughout the lobby and guest rooms. There's a coffee and pastry house on the premises to keep the parents going, and laid-back fare at Capital A for families in a rush. The rooftop pool makes the whole experience feel that little more deluxe, and the views over 6th Street are a bonus. And if you're desperate for a gym session but can't leave the kids, you can order a variety of equipment to your room. But if you do have time to sneak away, we'd recommend checking out Cloud Bar for sky-high cocktails and seasonal dishes. 

The Mood? Shiny and new. 
Location perks? Barton Springs Pool is less than 5km away, and you're just about a kilometre away from the University of Texas. 
Budget range? More than worth it. 

An emporium for adults and kids alike, Omni Barton Creek Resort offers endless opportunities for family fun. With 4 pools, 8 restaurants, bingo, mini golf and plenty more, guests of all ages can tailor their vacation to suit their interests. Their welcoming ethos extends to furry friends – with two pets allowed per room. Those who take sports seriously can take to the tennis courts and fully-fledged 18-hole golf course, and those who prioritize relaxation can spend their time at Mokara Spa for treatments and salon services. The overall aesthetic is classic and clean, elevated with modern amenities and views over the resort's 4,000 acres. 

The Mood? Characterful country club. 
Location perks? A 20-minute drive from downtown Austin.  
Budget range? Less than you might expect.