1 min read

Insider's Guide to Austin, Texas

Picture of Tyler Wilcox Tyler Wilcox : January 30, 2018

TURNER knows Austin, Texas. We represent three of the city's best hotels — Aloft Austin Downtown, Element Austin Downtown and JW Marriott Austin. We turned to our Austin-based insider, publicist Cara Caulkins, for insight into this vibrant city. You’ve traveled all over the world – what was it that drew you to Austin? My sister was living in Austin (UT grad!) and I found it had similarities to other cities that I loved — Chicago, San Diego, LA and New York — but yet had this refreshing new and creative energy. There were people from all over, but with a fun artistic, quirky and Texas spirit. We know about the live music, the BBQ, and the Congress Ave. bats. What’s one great thing about Austin that people don’t know? One of the things I love most about Austin is the creative community. There are so many talented artists in a variety of fields (visual arts, ceramics, graffiti, jewelry, fashion) and Austin still feels like a place where #shoplocal is king. People support local businesses and creative endeavors! Let’s say a friend is visiting Austin for the first time – what’s the first place you take him or her and why? Probably South Congress (SoCo): I love the mix of new and old Austin establishments, the shopping, food and of course people watching ... What’s your outdoor adventure of choice in Austin? I really enjoy running around Lady Bird Lake. It feels so removed from city life even though it is literally downtown! What are your Austin food & drink favorites? We have so many amazing restaurants, I can't choose one! I definitely always take guests to Torchy's Tacos and it is a personal weekend favorite. Garage Bar has really innovative cocktails. And you can't go wrong with a spicy margarita in this town — my recent favorites are from La Condessa, TNT and Native Hostel.

Introducing the Aloft and Element Austin Downtown Experience

Katie Bonneau : June 16, 2017

Say hello to Aloft and Element Austin Downtown, a dual-branded concept opening in late-July of 2017. Located in the heart of downtown Austin – on 7th...

hotels

2 min read

SXSW 2017 Survival Guide

Whitt Kelly : January 27, 2017

When planning for big festivals like Austin, TX’s SXSW, accommodations are often an afterthought. You find a place to stay that’s affordable, close...

1 min read

Westin Austin Downtown's Lean '17

Whitt Kelly : December 9, 2016

With 2016 quickly coming to a close, many are looking towards resetting and beginning 2017 with some refreshing healthy life choices. In January, ...