Austin's Bed & Breakfasts

Austin's Inn at Pearl Street

On the West End is Austin's Inn at Pearl Street (809 W. MLK Blvd. at Pearl St., 800/494-2261, www.innpearl.com, weekday rates from $100, weekend rates from $125). With wicker chairs, kitsch in every nook and cranny, floral patterns on the walls, and a calm spiritual feel, this establishment personifies the bed-and-breakfast. Does Shirley MacLaine live here? No--but it sure does seem like she's the decorator. There's a two-night minimum on weekends.

Brava House

The bed-and-breakfast closest to the action downtown is the Brava House (1108 Blanco St., 512/478-5034, www.bravahouse.com, $119-195). This old Victorian decked with art deco flair is classy, clean, and understated. Brava House offers appealing prearranged packages for an additional fee. For example there's the "Enchanted Evening" where champagne, chocolate-covered strawberries, and candles are waiting for you in your room; "Romance in the Air," where an entire romantic evening is arranged that includes dinner for two at a local restaurant followed by a carriage ride through downtown; or "Spa Getaway."

Adam's House

Situated in one of Austin's older neighborhoods north of downtown is Adam's House (4300 Avenue G, 512/453-7696, www.theadamshouse.com, $90-139). This beautiful, historic home was tastefully converted into a bed-and-breakfast that offers five charming rooms decorated with antiques. Located in the historic area of Hyde Park, just north of downtown, not too far from the Elisabet Nay Museum and the excellent restaurants of Duval Street, Adam's House is an excellent place to stay for romance. During the weekdays a light breakfast of granola, cereals, homemade muffins, and juices is offered and on the weekends a full breakfast is served in the dining room. Pets and children under 12 are not welcome. Texas travelers get the "state traveler discount."

Austin Folk House B&B

Also north of downtown is Austin Folk House B&B (506 W. 22nd St., 512/472-6700, www.austinfolkhouse.com). This cheerful bed-and-breakfast offers clean rooms and great hospitality. Breakfasts are a few notches above most bed-and-breakfasts, as they offer migas (Mexican-style scrambled eggs), ginger pancakes, crepes, and a few fruit-based dishes such as banana enchiladas. The weekday rate for one person is $85 and $109 on the weekend, and rates for two range $109-155.

Star of Texas Inn

The Star of Texas Inn (611 W. 22nd St., 512/472-6700, www.staroftexasinn.com, $85-225) is run by the same people that operate the Austin Folk House B&B, and here you will have the same great hospitality, clean bedrooms, and of course the breakfast, all with a down-home touch.