Curator’s statement
Right in the capital of Texas is home to the Austin Film Festival where creators alike come together to celebrate the creative contributions to the film industry. As a former model and commercial actress that has booked several modeling and acting jobs in Austin, Austin is the city in Texas that has an expanding entertainment industry and has been an on-set location for movies and shows to be filmed like: Dazed & Confused, Miss Congeniality, Texas Chainsaw Massacre, Alita: Battle Angel and Season 7 of The Walking Dead.
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Where to stay in Austin
The Driskill
A traditional stay in the heart of downtown and home to some of Austin Film Festival events. A historic setting with timeless charm within walking distance of the foodie scene, nightlife and historic attractions like the Austin Capitol.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Four Seasons Hotel Austin
Lakeside Austin retreat with a saltwater pool, lawn games, miles of lakeside trails and spacious rooms.
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When you book Four Seasons through Fora, you will enjoy exclusive Four Seasons Preferred Partner benefits. Your advisor will be pleased to give you more details.
The LINE Austin
Once home to a jazz club in the late 1960s, The LINE is part of Downtown Austin history and holds a cultural legacy within its chic accommodations and welcoming lounge areas.
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$50 food / beverage credit.
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Extended check-in/out whenever possible.
Austin Proper Hotel
Close to Ladybird Lake, this style standout has spectacular views across the city and a locals vibe in its four bars and restaurants, including the hotspot rooftop pool.
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$100 hotel / resort credit.
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Breakfast daily.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.
W Austin
Uber-modern luxury hotel within walking distance of all major Austin attractions.
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$100 food / beverage credit.
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$64 daily breakfast credit.
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Upgrade & extended check-in/out, whenever possible.
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Things to do in Austin
Go for a trail walk or run at Lady Bird Lake. Beautiful views of Lady Bird, trail paths that are bike and stroller friendly. Paddle board and kayak rentals available to enjoy the scenery and views of the Austin skyline at Lady Bird Lake.
Attend the conference panels at the Driskill Hotel for the Austin Film Festival. It's one of the locations that it will take place and also a great hotel to stay. Pass is required to attend conference panels. A very interactive event that is hosted by actors, filmmakers and screenwriters.
Have drinks at the Azul Rooftop. It's the highest rooftop lounge in Austin at the Westin Hotel downtown. You can lounge in a private cabana and since the Austin Film Festival takes place in the fall, Azul has small firepits that will keep you warm.
The Domain for luxury shopping. It's an outdoor shopping center filled with luxury stores like Gucci, Saint Laurent and Neiman Marcus to name a few. They also have various bars, and restaurants that are all in walking distance.
Taking a break from the Film Festival but still want to explore the artsy side of Austin, visit the Blanton Museum of Art. This museum has the largest permanent collections in Texas with more than 17,000 works of art and 124,000 sq ft to explore. They have something to showcase for every art genre like interactive installations, American/Contemporary, European and so much more. They have free admission on Tuesday, 10am - 5pm.
For films that will be hosted by the Austin Film Festival, Paramount Movie Theater is one of the theaters that will be providing film screenings. It's a historical building that was opened back in 1915. A pass will need to be purchased to attend movie film screenings.
Places to eat & drink in Austin
BRUNCH
Launderette: IG worthy picture food that is vibrant and full of flavor. Featuring seasonal rotating pastries, mimosas and the Crab Louie is to die for.
For Vegan/Vegetarian option head over to Boudin Creek and try their grilled blueberry cornbread that is served with real maple syrup. I was vegan for three years and Boudin Creek was always my favorite for breakfast and their laid back vibe that is very family oriented.
LUNCH
Franklin BBQ: You can't visit Texas without trying our BBQ. I highly recommend getting their mouthwatering brisket. It's also a celebrity favorite.
Citizen Eatery: For vegan/vegetarian option, try the Paleo Bowl and add the tofu. Light but very fulfilling to give you a nice healthy boost for the rest of the day
DINNER
Luminaire: Upscale restaurant and led by six-time James Beard nominated chef, Steve McHugh. They have indoor and outdoor sitting. Reservations are highly recommended. Grilled tenderloin with their black truffle mac 'n' cheese is the perfect comfort meal.
The Beer Plant: Intimate atmosphere. Nashville Hot & Crispy which is fried Oyster Mushrooms to crisp to perfection and not overly breaded, paired with their remoulade is a great combination.
Travel Advisor
Michele Pruitt
Get in touch with Michele
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Looking for more Austin travel advice? Check out Fora Travel Advisor Parker White's guide, Foodie's Guide to Tacos, Coffee & More in Austin, TX.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Austin.