Lone Star Court Transports Funky Austin Vibes to The Domain

It’s often said there are two types of Austinites: those who live and play south of the river and those who do so on the north side. Though there may be a clear distinction between The Domain’s high-end sparkle and downtown Austin’s industrial/retro feel, Lone Star Court marries the two quite nicely.

The boutique hotel features 123 rooms, including three suites, and has been open since Christmas Eve 2013. Here you’ll find retro touches paired with modern amenities and convenience, in the heart of The Domain’s residential and commercial district. Recently, Lone Star Court invited me to spend a night experiencing its posh digs, for a staycation and taste of the north Austin life.

Where Am I?

Upon entering the grounds of Lone Star Court, it’s hard to remember where exactly you are. Lush local landscaping blankets the grounds; several fire pits with accompanying chairs can be found between grassy areas; and a large pavilion with picnic tables looms in the distance. The overall vibe is quaint and tranquil, and it’s hard to tell whether you’re in the heart of downtown Austin, or tucked away in the woods at a Texas Hill Country resort.

Lone Star Court boasts that its rooms are “reminiscent of a time when your journey was as fun as your destination.” Spot on. My room combined metal headboards, a beautiful teal SMEG fridge, and a sliding barn door of sorts to create a “retro-ranch” aesthetic. The funky touches were balanced pleasantly with luxe bedding and granite countertops for an overall relaxed feel that had me ready to slip out of my street clothes and into a fluffy robe.

No Reason to Leave Lone Star Court

All the shopping options and eateries one could hope for are a stone’s throw from the hotel. In fact, 100 popular stores and restaurants nearly encircle Lone Star Court. This makes exploring the area a breeze. After all, there’s nothing more annoying than getting to your hotel after a day of traveling, and having to get back in the car to find food or sightsee.

Austin-inspired food and cocktails can be found at The Water Trough, the hotel’s rustic bar and restaurant. Just outside the eatery, guests will find tables and chairs between the pool and fire pits. It’s the perfect area to enjoy a cocktail and bask in the warm ambiance of the property. In fact, upon returning from a jaunt to a nearby restaurant, I ordered up a Topo Chico, sat in a giant rocking chair, listened to live music (which plays Wednesday through Saturday), and contemplated why I left the property grounds in the first place.

I was happy to learn that The Water Trough offers a complimentary continental breakfast each day from 6:30-10 a.m. I pried myself from my Egyptian cotton sheets the next morning, eager to check it out. The causal, homey feel of my surroundings told me it was safe to attend breakfast in my pjs, and I was pleasantly surprised that a number of fellow guests had done the same.

Mouthwatering platters of eggs, bacon, and biscuits with gravy lined the bar area. Yogurt, granola, fresh fruit, coffee, tea, and juice were calling from side tables. It was the perfect hearty breakfast after a great night’s sleep.

While many hotels offer plush linens, complimentary breakfasts, and modern amenities, few offer free bike rentals. This cool perk is one of the many reasons Lone Star Court shines amongst other boutique hotels. I stopped by the office after breakfast to check out a cute bike and go for a Sunday morning cruise.

Poptails Poolside

Although the hotel’s pool isn’t huge, it’s charming and inviting. Oldies tunes gently played as my plus one and I swam and splashed about. In the distance, a group of girls decked out in bachelorette garb chatted in a picturesque circle. A couple to the left gazed into their paperback books. Near them, a mom and her young son enjoyed the last few rays of summer.

As lovely as the scene was, a trip to this pool isn’t complete without one of the hotel’s signature Poptails. These unique drinks combines the classic cocktails with a frozen popsicle, creating a one-of-a-kind poolside sipper. Try the Cherry Freeze made with vodka, grenadine, lime, and Sprite, or the Pop of Sunshine that features tequila, grenadine, and orange and pineapple juice.

Plan Your Stay

Whether you’re looking for a staycation pad, a bachelor or bachelorette party destination, or a weekend getaway, look to Lone Star Court. This boutique hotel is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the bustling and high-end Domain district.

 

@dollarsaenz wants to know:

What’s your favorite place at The Domain?

 

Disclosure: Lone Star Court covered the cost of my stay for the purposes of this review. All opinions are my own.

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