I WAS DETERMINED to find a great place to stay in Austin for under $80.00. Since it was a rather last minute trip, I didn’t have time to make a reservation ahead of time. After making a few call on the mobile and stopping at a few "out of the way places", we found the Wingate Inn just off of IH 35. It is a new facility; I noticed that there were only two cars in the parking lot, so I knew they were not crowded. The first rate I was quoted was $79, which was much better than the $99 to $129 rates I had found elsewhere. After "asking" if that was their lowest price, the rate dropped to $69. SOLD !!
We were given a beautiful room on the third floor at the end of the hallway. It was the size of a suite, with a large arm chair and ottoman, desk with high-speed internet connection (no extra charge), refrigerator, microwave, coffeemaker with large glass mugs, king size bed, and two telephones, one of which was a cordless. There was also an iron, ironing board, and hairdryer.
Downstairs was a fully equipped business center with computers, printers and a copier (no extra charge). There was a nice swimming pool and deck area along with an indoor hot tub and a small workout room, both available 24-hours a day.
In the lobby there was fresh coffee and fresh baked cookies all day long. Breakfast was available between 6:30 and 9am and consisted of cereals, yogurt, fresh donuts, muffins, bagels and cream cheese, fresh fruit, and breads for toasting. There were also "ready to make" waffles. You just pour the pre-measured batter into a machine, turn it over, wait a minute or two and viola, fresh waffles. There was also coffee, milk, and orange juice.
This hotel was very conveniently located-4 miles to the LJB Library and the University of Texas Campus; 5 miles to the Capitol, the Bob Bullock State History Museum, historic 6th Street, and The Arboretum Mall; 6 miles to Town Lake, 8 miles to Zilker Park and Barton Springs, 12 miles to Bergstrom International Airport and the Dell Diamond Baseball Field; and 16 miles to Lake Travis.
Within 2 miles are the following restaurants: Bennigans, Old San Francisco Steakhouse, Chili’s, Red Lobster, Denny’s, Pappasitos Mexican Cantina, Pappadeaux Seafood, Outback Steakhouse, the Taj Palace Indian Restaurant, as well as a half dozen fast food restaurants. What a smorgasbord to choose from.
This was a great place to stay: friendly and accommodating people, super comfortable room, delicious breakfast (included in the room rate), terrific amenities and great location.
www.the.wingateinns.com