By Judy Antell
The luxurious Hyatt Regency,
Austin, Texas, offers the super comfortable Grand Hyatt beds with down comforters on pillow-top mattresses. The rooms also have marble baths and upgraded electronics. Hotel amenities include a gym with state-of-the-art equipment, an outdoor pool and a beautifully-appointed Southwest bistro, a bar with outdoor tables, as well as a coffee shop.
Wows and Woes
The hotel's location, right on Lady Bird Lake, is stunning.
The Hyatt Regency has mountain bikes for rent, an unusual but welcome touch. Bike the 10 mile trail around the lake (or run, or hike).
Insider Tips
The hotel is near the Bat Bridge, which has nightly gatherings of hundreds of bats; if you or your kids are afraid of bats, call the bat hotline and avoid the area.
Author's Most Memorable Moment
Austin is a music center, but we were surprised to find great live music right at our hotel. The bar has bands Friday and Saturday evenings, and they end the music early so kids (and guests) can get to sleep.
Bottom Line
The Hyatt Regency is an elegant place to stay where guests are treated very well. For families, packages offering a second room at half-price are available.
About the Author:
Judy Antell was the editor of Big Apple Parent for 13 years and continues to write for the monthly publication. Antell has been published in "The New York Times," "Parents" magazine and on numerous websites. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in English literature and a Master of Arts degree in literature and drama from Washington University.
