Residence Inn by Marriott – Downtown Austin / Convention Center

Rating: Role Player

Part of our Austin, Texas series — a look at the journey, the food, and the finds along the way.

The Residence Inn Downtown Austin proved to be a solid home base for the trip. The rooms were clean and well-kept, with a king bed and sofa bed setup that made it easy to crash with the boys — felt a little like the college days all over again.

The location is hard to beat. Right in the middle of downtown, everything is within walking distance — food, music, and the convention center are just steps away. Add to that some genuinely friendly service, and you’ve got a place that keeps things simple but gets the job done.

Nothing overly flashy, but overall a good stay in the heart of Austin.

Brovider Travel Tip: If you’re staying here, you can sign up for a 7-day free trial pass at the YMCA in Townlake. It’s about a 30-minute walk along the river from the hotel — a perfect way to stretch your legs. Once there, I got in a swim at their pool, and we all hit the dry sauna afterward. Great for overall health, recovery, and honestly just a solid way for the guys to catch up.