Best Value Hotels in Austin

The Omni is an upscale chain geared toward business travelers and well-heeled couples, with a prime downtown location within walking distance of the Sixth Street entertainment district. The soaring atrium lobby is bright and gleaming, the warm rooms have Texas-inspired decor and flat-screen TVs, and the chic rooftop pool with excellent city views is a notable draw. The price, when comparing this property to other hotels that offer the same amenities in similar location, is hard to beat.

The Casulo offers chic boutique style at an affordable price, with contemporary, zen-like decor, and rooms all featuring big soaking tubs (most next to peek-a-boo glass windows). But it's a 10-minute drive south of downtown Austin, so no popular tourist sites are within walking distance, and there's no full restaurant on-site -- just a bar and lobby cafe.

Although located in a slightly sketchy neighborhood, opposite a shopping mall whose glory days are long-gone, this property's spacious, bright rooms are far more sophisticated than you might expect from a Holiday Inn. But it's a little far from the action and attractions downtown.

The mid-range Holiday Inn is a safe, if unexciting, bet for travelers on a budget. Rooms are chain-like but spacious, with microwaves and mini-fridges, the fitness room is bright and modern, and the outdoor pool is decent, with lake -- and freeway -- views. The location is pretty good for a hotel in this price category -- next to Town Lake, and a short drive from the action in downtown Austin. Plus, there's free shuttle service to the airport, and Segway and kayak rentals on-site.