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Press

We’re lucky to welcome great guests to the motel every day, and even luckier when they share the good things about their experiences with us. Take a look below at some of our press mentions, and see how we’re making headlines.

For any press-related inquiries, including photo shoots, image requests, or media rates, please contact bunkhouse@m18pr.com.

The New York Times
|
February 29, 2024

36 Hours In Austin

Austin Motel on South Congress Avenue is easy to spot thanks to its iconic, phallic neon sign that reads, “So close yet so far out” — an accurate description of the proximity to downtown and the hip vibe of this redesigned motor lodge.”

Inside a room at Austin Motel on South Congress
The Points Guy
|
January 21, 2022

The Motor Lodge Is Cool Again: How Old Motels Are Getting Chic New Lives

“In Austin, Texas, you can step back in time on South Congress at the whimsical and retro Austin Motel”

A Chicago style hot dog next to a person's arm that has a tattoo of a Chicago style hot dog. A swimming pool is the background.
Austin Eater
|
October 20, 2023

A South Congress Hot Dog Cart Open in Austin

“The Wiener Cart serves, well, hot dogs, including a traditional one; a veggie one; the Texas dog with a beef sausage, chili sauce, beer cheese, and pickled jalapenos; and the Chicago dog with a beef sausage, chopped onions/peppers, relish, pickled hot peppers, mustard, and pickle chips.”

Austin Motel
Architectural Digest
|
November 6, 2023

9 Undeniably Cool Retro Hotels

“Located in the South Congress neighborhood, a spirited lido deck featuring reproduced midcentury seating and a kidney-shaped pool make it an enticing place to spend a summer afternoon.”

Framed picture of a vintage car hung over a couch with colorful pillows
Condé Nast Traveler
|
May 23, 2023

The Coolest Boutique Hotels in Austin, From Retro-Chic Properties to Glamorous Estates

“If you want to be in the center of the action, stay on South Congress Avenue. Specifically, in Hotel San José. Originally built in 1939 as a motor lodge, the forty-room property was renovated by hotelier Liz Lambert about twenty years ago and has since developed a big fan base.”

Thrillist
|
June 23, 2022

Austin’s 10 Best Swimming Pools

“The true gem at this quirky South Congress hotel is located beyond the sidewalk strip, their famous kidney-shaped pool, which is just as worthy of a space on your grid.”

Lonely Planet
|
Jun 21, 2022

The LGBTIQ+ travel guide to Austin, Texas: the best gay bars, drag events and community info

“Decked out with neon lighting, retro-style furniture, and a giant Pride flag in the lobby window, the Austin Motel is a quirky and exciting lodging option.”

Inside a room at Austin Motel
Architectural Digest
|
June 3, 2022

15 Stunning Hotels Around the World by LGBTQ+ Designers

“It’s iconic kitsch meets minimalist ‘50s furniture, with 300-thread-count Sferra linens on Casper mattresses.”