Our relationship with Bunkhouse is one of our longest, and goes back many years. Hotel San Jose is the first property we the Wallop team worked on. A lot has changed along South Congress, and with the brand, but Hotel San Jose and Bunkhouse occupy a special place in our hearts.
The hotel itself has a really interesting history, and the Liz, the founder of Bunkhouse was a trailblazer in opening this hotel on an otherwise crappy street in Austin. Today, South Congress is arguably the cultural heart of the city that’s home to a number of copycat hotels who share the now widely copied aesthetic which many brands use as their template. But with Liz leading the charge, the Bunkhouse brand opened a number of new hotels with a fresh take on a signature aesthetic that often imitated.
It’s hard to believe this hotel was a rundown, roadside motel when Liz saw the potential. The rooms, shaded walkways, manicured grounds, pool, restaurant, and lobby are all so well conceived. It’s truly a respite from the punishing heat of Austin, and it’s one of those hotels where you end up spending a lot of time on property.
There is so much to see and do on South Congress, and the hotel is an ideal basecamp for exploring the nearby restaurants, eclectic shops, outdoor bars, and open air markets. It has a genuine connection to the local art and music scene, directly and through the many local Bunkhouse initiatives. Austin itself is such a great city, and I find myself going back again and again just to explore the many pockets, culture, and incredible music scene. I’ve seen some amazing bands at the Continental, across the street from the hotel. It’s the ideal place to stay for exploring Austin, and I hope you make the trip.