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Fodor's Expert Review Star of Texas Inn

Name: Star of Texas Inn
Address: 611 W. 22nd St., Austin, Texas, 78705, United States
Telephone: 512-472–6700
Price range: $$$

611 W. 22nd St., Austin, Texas, 78705, United States See on Map

Lauren Modery

A charming bastion of historic hospitality sits just off UT campus, amid the otherwise lackluster surroundings of student apartments and frat houses. The B&B operates two guesthouses on neighboring lots, but we recommend the original two-story Victorian house with wraparound porches. All rooms, furnished with antiques and vintage elements, have the same amenities and private bathrooms; most with tubs. Breakfasts, served either buffet-style or made-to-order, are delicious and the staff doubles as a knowledge resource for restaurant recommendations or directions to nearby attractions, like Pease Park or the Capitol. Downtown is a short drive away.

room

There are nearly 20 rooms to choose from across three properties, each with very regal, very Victorian accommodations. The rooms feature tall ceiling, large wrought iron or wooden bed frames, and a deep red color palette. Many of the rooms have views of the UT Tower.

YOU SHOULD KNOW Rates are cheaper in the summer.

bathroom

All rooms have private bathrooms, some with clawfoot tubs, some with more modern shower and tub combinations, and others with detached sinks.

lobby

The b&b is comprised of three properties next to one another, all vintage homesteads. Each of the homes have large porches and communal areas with bright windows for travelers to relax in and meet new friends.

dining

A stay at the Star of Texas comes with an impressive breakfast either made-to-order or served as a buffet and including such treats as gingerbread pancakes and blueberry crepes. Breakfast is available Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. and Saturday, Sunday and holidays 8:30 a.m. to 10 a.m. The dining room can seat up to 16 people and offers a common fridge stocked with beverages.

If you have a special diet, let the hotel know and they will try to accommodate.

LOCATION

Getting Around

Because the properties are located next to a college campus, it’s easy to get around on foot or grab one of the constant buses. Otherwise hailing an Uber or Lyft is simple, and renting a car is smart for those who need to travel further away.

Restaurants

If you ask people what the best diner in Austin is chances are they’ll say Kerbey Lane (12-minute walk). This long-standing 24/7 spot with multiple locations has an outpost on The Drag—the main commercial street near campus—that’s always bumping. Make sure to try their legendary pumpkin pancakes or migas made with locally sourced and healthy ingredients. Detroit-style pizzeria Via 313 (6-minute drive) offers pan crisp rectangle slices that are constantly the rave in Austin. Enjoy The Cadillac—gorgonzola, figs, prosciutto and balsamic glaze—with one of their fresh salads.

Bars

A classy spot in a sea of college bars, Freedmen’s (8-minute walk), with its string lights, historic surroundings and mammoth vintage bar, is a welcoming spot. For a little bit of Austin music history, the Hole in the Wall (11-minute walk) is the spot. Known for hosting the likes of Spoon, Black Joe Lewis and Gary Clark Jr., this dive with multiple bars is where you’ll catch local talent old and new.

WHY WE LIKE IT

A true bed and breakfast near The University of Texas campus means a nice homey option for those needing to stay in the area. Though the décor may look like your great aunt’s house, the accommodations are friendly, comfortable and unpretentious. This is a great spot to kick back, sit on the front porch and enjoy the beautiful surroundings of Austin.