Last updated: February 2026
Overview
Heywood Hotel is one of East Austin’s best-kept secrets — a seven-room boutique property on East Cesar Chavez that feels more like a stylish friend’s guest house than a traditional hotel. Each room has its own unique character, with curated furnishings, local art, and thoughtful details that reflect the creative energy of the surrounding neighborhood. It’s intimate, design-forward, and unapologetically Austin.
Rooms
With only seven rooms, each space at the Heywood is individually designed. Expect clean lines, quality linens, rain showers, and Aesop toiletries. Rooms range from cozy standard kings to more spacious suites with sitting areas. There are no TVs in the rooms by design — this is a place to disconnect — though fast Wi-Fi is available. The minimalist aesthetic feels intentional rather than sparse.
Location
East Cesar Chavez Street in East Austin puts you in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walk to dozens of restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and boutiques. Rainey Street is a 15-minute walk, South Congress is just across the bridge, and downtown is a quick rideshare away. The neighborhood has a creative, local feel that’s distinctly different from the tourist-heavy areas west of I-35.
Amenities
Key amenities at Heywood Hotel include:
- Complimentary coffee and pastries each morning
- Loaner bicycles for exploring the neighborhood
- Aesop bath products in every room
- Curated minibar with local selections
- Courtyard with seating area
- Free Wi-Fi throughout
Who It’s Best For
Design-conscious travelers and couples who want an authentic Austin experience over a cookie-cutter hotel stay. If you appreciate boutique properties with local character and don’t mind trading a gym and pool for loaner bikes and Aesop products, the Heywood delivers. It’s also perfect for anyone who wants to explore East Austin’s food and bar scene on foot.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Genuinely unique — each room is individually designed
- Prime East Austin location for dining and nightlife
- Intimate seven-room property feels like a secret
- Loaner bikes and premium Aesop amenities included
Cons
- Only 7 rooms — books up fast, especially on weekends
- No pool, gym, or traditional hotel amenities
- No TVs in rooms (by design, but not for everyone)
FAQ
Is Heywood Hotel within walking distance of downtown?
Heywood Hotel is in East Austin, about a 10-15 minute walk to Rainey Street and 20 minutes to 6th Street. The East Side neighborhood itself has so many great restaurants and bars that you may not need to go downtown at all.
Is parking available?
The Heywood Hotel has limited on-site parking. Given the East Austin location, street parking is also available in the neighborhood but can be competitive on weekend evenings.
