About Hotel Magdalena

The grounds of Hotel Magdalena and Hotel Saint Cecilia are steeped in history form a not-so-distant past—originally home to the 1950s and 1960s hotspot, the Terrace Motor Hotel, a premier mid-century motor lodge boasting over 300 rooms and the ritzy Summer House, a poolside restaurant and lounge hosting musical acts.

Today we honor our heritage with a host of events and programming that reflect our musical lineage and the easy days of lake life. From clandestine concerts to visiting chefs, our lawn aims to serve as South Congress’ backyard.

Hotel Magdalena’s 89 rooms are highlighted by the Texas sun at sunrise and sunset thanks to thoughtfully placed windows. For both comfort and visual pleasure, guests can enjoy a custom walnut built-in bed and desk, Sferra bed linens, Santa & Cole lamps, and Spanish tile in four bold colorways. The SANTAL 33 scented bath amenities from Le Labo Fragrances are crafted with notes of cardamom, iris, violet, and smoking wood.

History

A Chapter for an Austin Institution

In the mid-1950s and 1960s, the Terrace Motor Hotel sat on the same location as the Hotel Magdalena and the Hotel Saint Cecilia. This 14-acre stretch off South Congress spanning five city blocks and including the Terrace Motor Hotel, eventually came to be owned by legendary musician Willie Nelson. In the 70s, he started Austin Opry House, a famous 1,700 seat music venue, and also built apartments for musicians and traveling road crew. We aim to honor our hertiage and provide the same effervescent home to all who pass through.

History

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Around the Property

Amenities

Neighborhood

Event and Wedding Spaces

Eat + Drink

From sunup to sun down, revive your spirits with the many refreshments available to you as a guest or neighbor of Hotel Magdalena. Summer House on Music Lane, Magdalena Bar, Equipment Room, and in-room dining are all at just steps, or a call, away.

Summer House on Music Lane

Summer House on Music Lane is inspired by the casual sophistication that defines a lake house weekend. With a menu that features honest cooking, we cues from old school hospitality but with a decidedly unpretentious, Austin sensibility.

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Equipment Room

Austin’s Hi-Fi Vinyl Sanctuary. Here you will find an intimate space that houses one of Austin’s most special record collections played on custom vintage hi-fi equipment. Whether you come to listen to our collection, or for the cocktails, food and conversation – all are welcome at Equipment Room.

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Magdalena Bar

Texas is hot, but the Magdalena Bar is as cool as it gets. Stop in and cool down with the frozen Poolside Margarita. We particularly enjoy one with our Crispy Chicken Wrap, featuring arugula, tomato, point reyes blue cheese, and house hot sauce served with house-made chips. Can you imagine a better post-work relief? We certainly can’t.

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Hello, we're Bunkhouse

Stay With Us, We'll Stay in Your Heart

Hotel Magdalena is part of Bunkhouse. We have a reputation for building memorable experiences that offer more than just a good night’s sleep and a great cup of coffee. Passion for design, tireless attention to detail, and a commitment to creating authentic culture have earned our properties a special place in the hearts and minds of those who visit.

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