The hype
Travelers love the futuristic vibe and rooftop pool, but the 'pod' room size shocks Americans used to sprawling spaces.
citizenM Austin Downtown
$150-250/ night
Book this if You're a solo traveler or comfortable couple who wants a high-tech, low-friction crash pad in the absolute center of the action.
Why People Love It
- The rooftop pool offers a surprisingly chill escape from the downtown chaos
- Everything in the room (lights, blinds, TV) is controlled by a slick iPad interface
- Location is walkable to literally everything: Lady Bird Lake, 6th Street, and the Capitol
Quick Take: It’s a glorified, high-tech dorm room for adults—fun, functional, and tiny, but don't bring a friend unless you've seen them naked.
Reviewed by @blumolly: I've stayed in many Austin hotels, but this one hits different. The high-tech room controls were so fun to use, and I spent hours just taking photos in the lobby art spaces. The rooftop pool view at night is a total game-changer for downtown vibes.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'noise-free room cannot be guaranteed' disclaimer is real; thin walls and downtown construction mean earplugs are mandatory for light sleepers.
- You travel with just a carry-on and spend 90% of your time exploring
- You love gadgets and want to change the room color to 'party mode' from an iPad
- You need a 24/7 co-working space with reliable Wi-Fi and good coffee
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.8
- Housekeeping: Generally reliable, but 'opt-in' policy means you might return to an unmade bed if you forget to tap the button.
- Bathroom hygiene: Glass pods are usually spotless, but check the silicone seals at the bottom of the shower door for mildew.
- Maintenance: New property (opened ~2021), so wear and tear is minimal. Everything feels crisp and modern.
- Linens & towels: Towels are fluffy and plentiful; sheets are crisp, high-thread-count white cotton.
- Odors & scents: Lobby smells like their signature 'citizenAM' scent (fresh, woody); rooms are generally neutral but can smell like cleaning products.
Sleepability™
6.5MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Hallway noise due to thin doors
- Construction from nearby high-rises and Convention Center redevelopment
- Thumping bass from 6th Street bars on lower floors
Before you book
Good to know
- Check-in is entirely self-service via kiosks; staff are 'Ambassadors' who help but don't stand behind a desk.
- The ironing board is communal—you have to go to the 'ironing room' down the hall to press your shirt.
- Breakfast is not included in the base rate and costs ~$21; it's healthy/European style, not a greasy spoon buffet.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for downtown noise)
- A long charging cable (outlets are plentiful but sometimes oddly placed)
- Slip-on shoes for runs to the communal ironing room or ice machine
Room Genie
Best picks
- High floor (10+) facing the courtyard for the quietest experience
- City view rooms on upper floors for the skyline aesthetic (but more noise)
Rooms to avoid
- Low floors (under 5) facing Colorado Street (street noise is intense)
- Rooms near the elevator bank (hallway noise travels)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am a light sleeper requesting a 'Courtyard View' room on the highest possible floor, away from the elevators. Please avoid street-facing rooms if possible.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there parking?
No. You must park at the Indeed Tower Garage next door (entrance on Colorado St). Expect to pay ~$33 daily max, and overnight rates can vary. No in-and-out privileges.
Can I bring my dog?
No, citizenM Austin Downtown is strictly pet-free. Service animals only.
Is the pool open year-round?
Yes, the rooftop pool is heated and open year-round, usually from 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
How private is the bathroom?
Not private. The toilet and shower are in translucent glass cylinders directly in the bedroom. There is a curtain you can pull around the sleeping area, but sound and silhouettes are visible.
Is there a fridge in the room?
Yes, a small mini-fridge is provided for water and snacks, but it's not big enough for a full grocery haul.
Can I check in early?
Maybe. Early check-in is subject to availability and usually incurs a fee (around $50). The self-check-in kiosks will let you know.
Insider Tips
- ✨
The 'MoodPad' (iPad) has a 'Party' mode that syncs the lights and blinds—fun for about 5 minutes.
- ✨
Skip the hotel breakfast and walk 2 minutes to Royal Blue Grocery for a quick, cheaper taco or coffee.
- ✨
The rooftop bar (cloudM) is open to the public, but guests get priority access—go at sunset for the best view of the Capitol.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Ironing Room' is a social hub: there are no irons in the rooms, so you'll be steaming your shirt next to a stranger in a communal closet.
💡The sink is in the main room, not the bathroom, so you're brushing your teeth while your roommate watches TV.
💡The 'XL King' bed is wall-to-wall: you have to crawl over your partner to get out if you're on the window side.
💡Housekeeping is 'opt-in' for shorter stays: you have to request daily cleaning via the app or iPad, otherwise they skip you.
💡The elevators are smart but slow: you scan your card to select your floor, but during peak times, the wait can be annoying.
Local Playbook
Map
See where citizenM Austin Downtown is located and what's nearby.