Stephen F. Austin Hotel

This marker is on the front of the Stephen F. Austin Hotel, which is still in operation today. The hotel has gone through a number of owners over the years. Today it is owned by the InterContinentalGroup of Hotels. According to their website they are the choice for luxury in downtown Austin, the InterContinental Stephen F. Austin provides lodging just four blocks from the Austin State Capitol and puts you within walking distance of the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, the University of Texas and the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail. The hotel itself is decked out in granite floors and marble staircases,with oriental rugs and Italian chairs.

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

Inscription:
To meet the needs of the growing Austin community, T.B. Baker, President of Baker Hotels, opened a hotel in 1924 at this site, previously occupied by the Keystona Hotel. Baker’s new facility, initially to be called “The Texas,” was named for Stephen F. Austin in response to local interest. Acclaimed Fort Worth firm Sanguinet, Staats and Hedrick designed the Beaux Arts hotel; local architect Roy L. Thomas represented them in its construction. In 1938, five stories were added. After a restoration in 2000, the hotel retains much of its original, classically influenced detailing on the interior and exterior.

Erected:
2002

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

photo by Kevin Surbaugh

Location:
701 Congress Ave Austin, Texas 78701