Last updated: February 2026
Overview
Cambria Hotel Austin Downtown opened in October 2023 as part of Choice Hotels’ upscale brand, bringing a polished, modern option to East Avenue near the Rainey Street district. With a restaurant, rooftop lounge, fitness center, and EV charging stations, this hotel targets the modern business and leisure traveler who wants more than a standard chain experience. The Cambria brand positions itself between midrange and luxury — think boutique hotel amenities with chain hotel reliability.
The downtown location on East Avenue puts you within easy reach of Rainey Street’s bars and restaurants, the Convention Center, and Lady Bird Lake. The hotel’s contemporary design features clean lines, floor-to-ceiling windows, and locally inspired artwork. It’s a solid choice for travelers who want a newer property with upscale touches at a reasonable price point.
Rooms
Rooms feature modern furnishings with pillow-top mattresses, 55-inch smart TVs, spacious work desks, mini-fridges, single-serve coffee makers, and updated bathrooms with premium toiletries. The design is contemporary and clean with warm accent lighting. Suites offer separate living and sleeping areas for those who need extra space. USB and USB-C charging ports are built into the nightstands — a nice modern touch.
Location
The hotel at 68 East Avenue sits in a rapidly developing part of downtown Austin, near the Rainey Street Historic District. Lady Bird Lake and the hike-and-bike trail are about a 5-minute walk south. The Convention Center is close by, and 6th Street is walkable. Congress Avenue is a few blocks west. The location offers a slightly quieter alternative to hotels right on 6th Street while still being very central.
Amenities
Key amenities include:
- On-site restaurant and bar
- Rooftop lounge with city views
- Fitness center
- EV charging stations
- Meeting and event space
- Choice Privileges points eligible
- Free high-speed WiFi
- Business center
Who It’s Best For
Convention Center attendees wanting a newer hotel within walking distance. Business travelers who want upscale amenities with Choice Privileges benefits. Rainey Street bar-hoppers who want to stumble home easily. EV owners — the charging stations are a nice perk that many downtown hotels lack. Budget-conscious travelers who want something nicer than Holiday Inn Express but can’t justify W Austin prices.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Brand new property (opened 2023) — everything is fresh
- Rooftop lounge with good downtown views
- Walking distance to Rainey Street and Convention Center
- EV charging stations on-site
- Good value for a downtown upscale hotel
Cons
- The East Avenue area is still developing — some construction nearby
- Not as centrally located as Congress Avenue hotels
- Cambria brand is less well-known than Hyatt/Marriott/Hilton
- Limited dining options within the hotel compared to luxury properties
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Cambria walkable to Rainey Street?
Yes — Rainey Street is about a 5-minute walk from the hotel. It’s one of the closest hotels to the Rainey Street bar district.
Does the Cambria have a pool?
The hotel features a rooftop lounge rather than a pool. For swimming, Lady Bird Lake’s Barton Springs Pool is a short drive away.
How does Cambria compare to other downtown Austin hotels?
Cambria sits in the sweet spot between midrange chains and luxury boutiques. Expect rates around $180-300/night — cheaper than the W or Fairmont but nicer than a standard Marriott or Hilton. The brand new building and modern design are the main draws.
