Whether you’re a local looking to experience a taste of luxury living downtown or an out-of-towner looking to let loose, Thompson Austin is at the center of it all; it gives locals and visitors a taste of the south, and a sneak peak of what Austin truly embodies.

Opened earlier this year, Austin introduced us to an exciting location for new culinary, entertainment, and culture experiences we come to love in the Live Music Capital of the World – the Thompson Austin. 

Located on San Jacinto Street and just a few steps from the infamous Sixth Street, the location of this sophisticated stay is key to experiencing Austin at its fullest potential. A unique feature about this location is that it not only houses one, but two of the newest hotels on the block. While at Thompson you’ll also get a glimpse of their sister property – tommie Austin. 

The lobby’s airy atmosphere is relaxed, yet showy and bold with luxe contemporary vibes. The fireplace in the center makes for a modern and urban feel. 

Luxury Living

Lay back and relax in one of Thompson Austin’s 212 luxurious guest rooms and suites that elegantly reflect the property’s style. Any of these rooms and suites will bring you dramatic views of the city through floor-to-ceiling windows. These residentially inspired rooms are meant to feel like a home away from home. The decor reflects mid-century modern with late-luxury. The King Corner View brings you a spacious corner room with plush green seating, impressive architecture angles, and soft gray rugs with black-and-white terrazzo floors. 

Make Memories over Meals

For some bites and drinks, head to the 4th floor to Wax Myrtle, an upscale bar, pool, and restaurant with an expansive indoor and outdoor space, designed to gather, relax and socialize. The space features covered cabanas available for rental, an oversized fireplace, and a private event space – the Bayberry Room. Hundreds of plants populate the living space, which includes a living green wall, paying tribute to Texas’ diverse plant life. 

Make memories over meals with Wax Myrtle’s menu led by Executive Chef Nick Erven (Aba, Perla’s). Working alongside Chef de Cuisine Kamat, the two come together to feature fresh and accessible dishes highlighting seasonal produce and high quality cuts of meat and local fish. They both bring their love and passion for food and community to make people feel a sense of home while at Wax Myrtle. 

Start with the boiled peanut hummus roasted spread with house bread. It’s a must to order the fries with white garlic sauce for the table. (The garlic sauce really accelerates the fries). Want something out of the box? Try the bacon wrapped dates with goat cheese and salsa ranchero. For dinner, chow down on the marinated skirt steak that was super tender and flavorful. A juicy steak cooked to perfection (just how you like it). Dip the tendered pieces in the hull pea salsa verde. If you don’t, you are completely missing out on what makes this dish golden. On the more casual side, go for the hide-a-away cheeseburger. (There’s also plant based options available). 

Of course we have to mention the sweet stuff – I had the PB’MJ chocolate mousse that was pleasantly pungent. The dessert consisted of smoky caramel, peanut butter crunch, and raspberry sorbet which all tied together so perfectly. The peanut butter brittle gives it a salty taste while the sweet sorbet makes it tastes like a chocolate cherry. 

Hang Loose

For those wanting to hang loose, the bar program at Wax Myrtle features a well-rounded cocktail menu filled with fortified wines, sherries, American and Mexican spirits, and savory ingredients. For something more boozy, go for the Texas Sun or the Count Me In cocktail with habanero – that’s sweet and spicy. (It goes down easier after a few sips.) For something more classic, the Triple Knot (old fashioned) is your friend. Be sure to stop by for Happy Hour, Monday through Thursday (3-5pm) for $6 tap beers, $8 wine, and $10 frozen cocktails (as well as food specials.)

Move the party to the pool deck and reserve a Cabana to fully immerse yourself in the Thompson Austin extravagance. Pool guests have full access to Wax Myrtle’s food and beverage menu, and a special poolside large format menu. Munch on light bites and sip on boozy drinks while taking in those fabulous city views. 

What to Do in the Bucket-list City

Austin has become one of those cities that continue to make travelers’ bucket lists across the nation. It’s a lively city where there’s always something to do, no matter the day or time. 

Walk down the street to take in the night life. Looking to party? Hit up the clubs on 6th street or Rainey for a night out and stroll from bar to food truck – to bar again. Catch some shows at award-winning and iconic venues like Antone’s Nightclub or ACL Live. Walk into one of the city’s local bars for live music. (They don’t call Austin the Live Music Capital of the World for nothing!) For day adventures, take a dip in Barton Springs Pool or have a picnic at Zilker Park. (This is also the perfect place to stay for those attending the ACL Music Festival this October.)

Here at Thompson, the activities and possibilities are endless – you are in charge of choosing your own immersive day in Texas’ capital city!

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Cover photo Al Argueta

Leean Vargas is the Highlight Reel newsletter editor at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and an honors graduate of Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. She is a concert enthusiast who loves traveling, photography, good food, and discovering new hangout spots in her beloved city, Austin, Texas.