Best Reason To Stay Off The Interstate Overnight

TIE: Hotel San José; Austin Motel

Got guests? In the early days of motor car traveling, major thoroughfares offered all kinds of roadside motels from which to choose. Nowadays, these options mostly exist on access roads of interstate highways in the form of chains. Sure, they're affordable options, but Austin is blessed to have two alternatives, both on South Congress and within spitting distance of the Capitol. With its kidney-shaped pool and Southwestern architecture, the Austin Motel is a nostalgic home away from home, and you know you're away from home in the lovely décor, with unique themes in each room. Plus, the Austin is attached to the scrumptious El Sol y La Luna restaurant. The Hotel San Jose is a zen oasis from the hustle and bustle of South Austin's busy boulevard. The radically modernized motor court exudes comfort, with its stucco and barrel-tiled roof having achieved the sought-after look of a perfectly broken-into favorite pair of jeans. With options like the Austin and the St. Jo, there is no reason to stay on the highway to hell.

Hotel San José
1316 S. Congress, 512/852-2350
www.sanjosehotel.com

Austin Motel
1220 S. Congress, 512/441-1157
www.austinmotel.com