Live Luxe Travel Co

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Thompson Austin Review

Thompson Austin is a contemporary luxury hotel that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the vibrant charm of Austin, offering stylish accommodations, exceptional dining, and unique local experiences.

This stay is part of the Thompson Millionaire Challenge and Live Luxe Travel Co.'s Thompson Tour. We're on the road to stay at all 19 Thompson Hotels by August 31st. Join us on this journey.

Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Thompson Austin offers luxurious accommodations with stunning skyline views, an on-site rooftop pool, a state-of-the-art fitness center, and exceptional dining at The Grey Market and The Diner Bar. Guests can enjoy easy access to iconic landmarks and vibrant nightlife, making it the perfect base for exploring the city's rich culture and entertainment. The hotel's unique local experiences, such as curated music tours, provide an authentic taste of Austin's dynamic scene.

Thompson Austin's rooftop pool is a chic oasis offering panoramic views of the city skyline, complete with stylish cabanas and a lively bar area, perfect for relaxation and socializing. The state-of-the-art fitness center is equipped with the latest exercise machines and free weights, ensuring guests can maintain their fitness routines in style. Additionally, the hotel boasts versatile meeting spaces that cater to both business and social gatherings, featuring modern technology and elegant design to make any event a success.

This review is based on our personal stay in June of 2024. And don’t forget, if you are planning to stay at Thompson Austin or any other Thompson Property, when you book through Live Luxe Travel Co. you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits such as a complimentary room upgrade, if available (confirmed within 24 hours of booking), a $25 - $100 USD or USD equivalent property credit per stay (conversion rate is determined by the hotel - credit amount varies by property), daily complimentary breakfast for 2 guests per day, a welcome amenity & letter, priority for early check-in and late check-out, (subject to availability and forecasted occupancy) and priority for connecting rooms, if available (subject to forecasted occupancy)

Rooms

Step into luxury when you stay in one of the boutique-style guest rooms or upscale suites at Thompson Austin. Tailored for the unassuming guest looking to blend into the local culture and city vibe, our downtown Austin hotel offers 229 spacious guestrooms, including 14 suites and 17 Upper Stories suites. Each room features panoramic views of downtown Austin from dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows, designed with warm hues, residential touches, decadent bedding, and expansive bathrooms, providing a serene sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of the city.

We spent some of our time at Thompson Austin relaxing in their luxurious Thompson Suite. This exquisite suite features two bedrooms and three walls of floor-to-ceiling windows that offer breathtaking panoramic views of downtown Austin. The separate living room is designed for both relaxation and productivity, with a dining table, a seating area, and a spacious work desk. Unwind in the spa-like bathroom, complete with a rainfall shower, oversized robes, and luxurious D.S. & Durga bath amenities. Sleep soundly on plush beds with crisp linens. The residential feel of this bespoke suite provides the comfort and ambiance of local living, all while situated high above Austin's vibrant arts and entertainment district.

The Thompson Suite features a secondary bedroom and bathroom upon entering the suite on both sides of the hallway that leads into the living area. Past the living room is the primary bedroom and primary bathroom.

The living room of this suite was designed with entertaining in mind. The large leather sectional was the perfect place to lounge with friends, and the dining table was perfect for enjoying in-room dining.

In partnership with Sferra Linens, Thompson Hotels offers an unparalleled sleep experience for its guests. Known for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, Sferra Linens elevate the comfort and luxury of Thompson Hotel rooms, ensuring guests enjoy a restful night's sleep wrapped in luxurious softness.

The primary bathroom in the Thompson Suite is a haven of luxury, featuring a spacious walk-in shower equipped with two shower heads for a spa-like experience. Complementing this is a large free-standing stone tub, perfect for a relaxing soak, all set within a beautifully designed space that exudes elegance and comfort.

Thompson Hotels provide D.S. & Durga toiletries, ensuring guests enjoy a premium aromatic experience. Crafted with high-quality ingredients and distinctive fragrances, these products transform your daily routine into a luxurious treat, adding a refined touch to your stay.

Food & Beverage

The culinary experiences at Thompson Austin are truly extraordinary. We began our mornings at The Grey Market (now closed), where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and an array of delectable pastries set the perfect tone for the day. For dinner, we enjoyed a memorable meal at The Diner Bar (now closed - new concept coming soon), featuring a menu crafted with local ingredients that celebrated Austin's rich culinary heritage. We also had the pleasure of dining at Arriba Abajo, where innovative dishes combined bold flavors and creative presentations, making each meal a unique delight.

Nestled on the 4th floor of Thompson Austin, Arriba Abajo is a rooftop oasis where vibrant flavors come to life against stunning panoramic views of downtown Austin. The relaxed ambiance invites you to indulge in dishes like sizzling fajitas and handcrafted tacos, each one telling a story of tradition, innovation, and exceptional quality. Our talented bartenders mix cocktails with the finesse of a rattlesnake's shake, perfectly complementing the laid-back vibe of this little slice of paradise. Whether you’re seeking warmth or coolness, unwind poolside in one of our cozy daybeds or cabanas, margarita in hand, and immerse yourself in the joy of the Mexican lifestyle.

Dining at Arriba Abajo for brunch is a delightful experience that captures the essence of leisurely weekends. We indulged in a perfect mid-morning feast, savoring delicious chilaquiles topped with fresh ingredients and bursting with flavor. The menu also featured enticing options like French toast dripping with horchata glaze, ensuring a culinary journey that blends classic favorites with innovative twists. Paired with refreshing margaritas, each sip added a festive touch to our meal. The rooftop setting, with its stunning views and charming ambiance, created the ideal backdrop for enjoying this flavorful brunch, making it a memorable highlight of our stay.

The other two food and beverage outlets are the signature lobby restaurant and all-day market/cafe with grab and go options. Both of these closed shortly after our stay as they were third-party operated and the hotel is in process of taking the daily operations in-house with two brand new concepts coming soon.

Amenities

The fitness center at Thompson Austin is a spacious and well-equipped facility designed to meet all your workout needs while traveling. With ample room to move, it features a variety of state-of-the-art equipment, including cardio machines, free weights, and resistance training gear. In addition, the center includes private studios for yoga and stretching, offering a serene space to focus on your wellness routine. Whether you're maintaining your fitness goals or looking to try something new, the Thompson Austin fitness center has everything you need for a great workout.

The outdoor rooftop pool at Thompson Austin is a stunning oasis in the heart of the city, providing a perfect escape for relaxation and enjoyment. Surrounded by stylish loungers and chic cabanas, it's an ideal spot to soak up the sun or unwind after a busy day. The pool area offers breathtaking views of the Austin skyline, creating a picturesque backdrop for socializing or enjoying a refreshing dip. With a lively atmosphere and poolside service, it’s the perfect place to recharge while taking in the vibrant energy of downtown Austin.

While Thompson Austin doesn't have a traditional spa, they provide delightful in-room amenities to help you pamper yourself during your stay. The thoughtfully curated mini-bar includes a selection of luxurious bath products and treats, perfect for indulging after a long day. Additionally, the turn-down service enhances your experience with special touches, creating a soothing atmosphere for relaxation. These thoughtful amenities ensure you can unwind and enjoy a little extra luxury right in the comfort of your room.

Interview with Hotel Management

During our stay, we had the pleasure of meeting with Nate Hardesty, Managing Director at Thompson Austin. In our discussion, we explored everything about Thompson Hotels, delved into the hotel's culture, local partnerships, what makes Thompson Austin unique, and its connection to the surrounding neighborhood.

Q: How does culture live here at Thompson Austin?

A: Thompson Austin, culture is infused into every aspect of the guest experience. From the design elements inspired by local art and music to curated events that showcase Austin's vibrant culture, guests can immerse themselves in the essence of the city during their stay.

Q: What makes your hotel different than other hotels in Austin?

A: Thompson Austin stands out from other hotels in the city through its unique blend of luxury and local authenticity. Our commitment to providing personalized experiences tailored to each guest's preferences sets us apart, along with our attention to detail and exceptional service.

Q: What sets the Thompson Hotel brand apart from other luxury hotel brands?

A: Our commitment to providing personalized experiences tailored to each guest's preferences sets us apart, along with our attention to detail and exceptional service.

Q: What makes the location of your hotel unique and what do you love about the location and neighborhood? 

A: The location of Thompson Austin in the heart of downtown Austin offers guests unparalleled access to the city's vibrant cultural scene, renowned dining options, and eclectic neighborhoods. The surrounding area buzzes with energy, and I love how our hotel reflects the dynamic spirit of Austin.

Q: Can you share any upcoming collaborations or partnerships that will enhance the guest experience at your hotel?

A: We're always exploring collaborations and partnerships to enhance the guest experience at Thompson Austin. While I can't share specific details about upcoming collaborations at the moment, we're continuously working to bring exciting opportunities and unique experiences to our guests. Keep an eye out for announcements in the near future!

Overall Impression

Thompson Austin is a contemporary luxury hotel that combines urban sophistication with a vibrant local vibe, offering stylish accommodations, exceptional dining, and unique experiences in the heart of downtown Austin. With stunning views, a rooftop pool, and a focus on personalized service, it’s the ideal destination for both leisure and business travelers.

Extra Benefits

And don’t forget, when you book Thompson Austin with Live Luxe Travel Co., you’ll receive complimentary Hyatt Privé benefits like a room upgrade, food & beverage credit, and more.