The Guild has three locations in Austin, and I chose to stay at the one on Red River and 9th Street – right across from the iconic Stubb’s BBQ. It proved itself to offer something quite different to the usual hotel experience.
Upon booking, I received a text asking me to send photos of my ID and all of my information, in lieu of seeing someone in person when I arrived and checked in. Everything was done via text message: the confirmation of my stay the day before I arrived, requesting early check ins and late check outs, and the codes I would need to get into the building and my room. It was a very efficient process, but the old school part of me missed having someone around to ask questions about the area and the best places to see in Austin.
The Guild also offered a grocery service, where you could ask them to buy things for you before you arrived, so they would be there waiting for you when you checked in. I didn’t take advantage of this, but in hindsight, should have asked for a hangover cure of sorts for the morning after a big night.
The Guild Red River had very modern decor, and my room featured a turntable with a selection of records to listen to. It was self-contained with a huge bathroom, a washing machine and dryer, and a complete kitchen. The bed was a true king, not two single beds pushed together, and was incredibly comfortable. The only disappointing feature of the room was the “balcony”, which is really just a door that opens out onto a fence. There was no place to stand or sit, the best I could do was lean over the fence as I looked out at the city.
Austin is a very walkable city, so the location is suitable for anyone wanting to stay in the downtown area and close to sixth street without actually staying on sixth street. Uber is also very efficient, and it was quick and cheap to get everywhere I needed to go. There were a number of restaurants and cafes surrounding the hotel, including the mentioned Stubb’s BBQ and Cheer Up Charlie’s. The hotel also offers every guest a free coffee at Easy Tiger.
I was allowed to have a late checkout, and The Guild offer a bag storage service at their office a few blocks away. The people I met in their office were very friendly and helpful, and gave me recommendations for how to spend my last day in Austin. My stay at The Guild Red River Hotel was enjoyable, comfortable and convenient, and I would definitely stay here again.
For more details about the hotel, and to book yourself a night, head to their official website.
Photos taken from The Guild website. The author stayed at the hotel at their own expense.
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