Event planning incompetence and repeated misinfo from concierge ruined our 2025 New Years experience, for which we paid over $2000. It was awful. We decided to book a room at Four Seasons Downtown Austin for a fun New Year's Eve. I clearly communicated that we also wished to book reservations for the event with the live band and midnight balloon drop. We initially booked the Live Oak event, which was the correct event.
When I called to confirm the Live Oak reservation, a female concierge told me that the Live Oak event only went until 11pm and that there would be no midnight celebration. She either has a habit of completely making ish up when she doesn't know the answer, or she was for some reason pushing the Hidden Flask "pop-up speakeasy" event. She told me we would have to switch our reservations to the Hidden Flask event if we wanted a midnight celebration, so we did.
We received an emailed confirmation for our Hidden Flask reservation stating the event began at 10pm. We were told there would be a four-course prix fixe meal. I asked what the four courses would be and was put on hold. After 5-10 minutes, I was told that someone would have to call me back about the menu. No one ever did.
I checked into the hotel the afternoon of 12/31. No problem at check-in, the only thing that went smoothly. We had requested a suite but got a small room. I didn't complain about this, bc at least there was a nice view. After getting settled, I went to the lobby to speak to a concierge about the Hidden Flask event. I waited for 20 mins. No concierge in sight. So I went to the check-in area, where a new employee tried to help but had been given no info about the event. It was like pulling teeth to get the menu. I was told the Hidden Flask event would be on the lakeside (bottom) floor.
At just past 10pm, we went down to the bottom floor to join the event. No Hidden Flask sign or event. And again, no one at concierge desk. After asking two employees where the event was and waiting 5 mins, we were told the event was on the 2nd floor. When we arrived, we learned the event had started at 9pm. I still have the confirmation email stating Hidden Flask 10pm.
As for the event itself, it was sad. It was billed as a 21-plus event but two children were present. It was a fake speakeasy vibe. We missed the dinner due to the time disinfo. The DJ was awful and b*tchy to guests. I was the only one who danced a bit the whole night.
Our host and server were good. None of this was their fault. Due to the terrible DJ, no one got into a groove, and no one seemed to be having a particularly good time. One other female attendee and I made dance song requests, and the DJ refused us both. She behaved like a mean girl. She said she had a vibe going and didn't want to disrupt her vibe. She refused to play a Talking Heads song. Again, I was the only person who danced for a bit. My guess is this DJ had never heard of Talking Heads. She was just playing from a list of songs on her laptop. She seemed like a fake DJ hired at the last minute.
The bartenders could not make an espresso martini OR chocolate martini (not their fault when they're not provided with supplies). The event was clearly put together at the very last minute.
I had looked online the day before and saw that someone was trying to sell tickets for $800. It almost seemed like someone tied to the event or hotel was trying to pull a scam or last min failed hype.
The midnight celebration was pathetic. No one cheered each other outside of their own groups. It was a cold, sad vibe. Then we went down to the lobby and found that there had been a fun celebration with great vibes, a beautiful balloon drop, and a fun live band. We at least caught the tail end of the band and some dancing after midnight. THIS WAS THE EVENT WE WANTED AND HAD BOOKED BUT HAD BEEN TOLD BY A FEMALE CONCIERGE WOULD END AT 11PM.
Just an absolute disaster, Four Seasons. Disastrous...
Read moreI recently stayed at the Four Seasons in Austin and it was one of the best hotel experiences I have ever had. From the moment I arrived, the staff set the tone with genuine hospitality and attention to detail. Check in was seamless and the lobby had a calm and elegant atmosphere that immediately made me feel like I was in good hands.
The location of the hotel is perfect. It sits right on Lady Bird Lake which gives you beautiful views and easy access to the walking and jogging trails. At the same time, it is just a short walk from downtown Austin with all of its restaurants, music venues, and nightlife. It truly feels like the best of both worlds, a peaceful lakeside setting while being right in the middle of everything.
The room was spacious, spotless, and beautifully appointed. The bed was one of the most comfortable I have ever slept in and the linens felt luxurious. The view from my room looked out over the lake and the city skyline, which made both mornings and evenings special. Everything from the furniture to the lighting to the layout of the bathroom was thoughtfully designed. Small touches like a well stocked minibar, high quality toiletries, and plenty of outlets for charging devices added convenience and comfort.
The property itself is stunning. The outdoor spaces are beautifully landscaped and the pool area feels like a retreat with comfortable loungers and excellent service. Sitting outside with a drink while overlooking the water was one of the highlights of my stay. The fitness center is large and very well equipped, making it easy to keep up with workouts even while traveling.
Dining at the Four Seasons Austin is exceptional. The on site restaurant serves creative and flavorful dishes that highlight local ingredients. Breakfast was a standout with fresh options that ranged from light and healthy to rich and indulgent. The bar and lounge area have a lively yet sophisticated feel, perfect for enjoying a cocktail in the evening. Service in every dining setting was attentive and professional without ever feeling rushed.
What impressed me most was the level of service throughout the hotel. Every staff member I encountered was friendly, knowledgeable, and seemed genuinely invested in making sure guests were having the best possible experience. Whether it was housekeeping, concierge, or restaurant staff, everyone went above and beyond. I had a few small requests during my stay and each one was met with prompt and gracious service.
The overall experience at the Four Seasons Austin is about more than just a place to stay. It feels like a sanctuary in the middle of the city, blending luxury with warmth and comfort. The combination of its unbeatable location, beautiful property, excellent dining, and extraordinary service make it a hotel that stands out even in a city as vibrant as Austin.
I would absolutely recommend the Four Seasons Austin to anyone visiting the city, whether for business, leisure, or a special occasion. It is the kind of place that makes your trip memorable and leaves you already planning your return before you...
Read moreI have stayed at Four Seasons Austin multiple times and Four Seasons is my “go-to” Hotel in general when I travel. Before this one, I have had a wonderful experience. I know how difficult it is to find quality staff in the service industry these days and that is why I am willing to pay a premium for it. This is the only difference in paying $500 a night and $2000 a night for the same purpose.
I was shocked at how many different services were such a disappointment throughout my entire stay. Valet, room service, wait staff, food, spa and check out.
One man at valet literally didn’t say a word with any interaction, I began to think he may be mute until I saw him speak to Marcus, the car service driver.
Room service, the first evening, was terrible. No rice w kids steak, steak was charred and chewy when ordered medium well, no condiments, tomato soup tasted like chemicals.
Lunch at Ciclo - Took 20 min to be greeted with only 3 other tables outside, Turkey sandwich ordered with no bacon - had bacon, ordered sweet potato fries - got reg fries. Jose was the nicest, best server we had the entire stay.
Live Oak - no napkins or plates with tuna nachos and queso order.
Massage- Janet had a very off-putting attitude. After being told to let her know about pressure, I told her she could use more pressure after 10 min and her response was “I just started” with a kurt and short tone. I was told she didn’t want to stretch my legs because it would be awkward. She was very adversarial and defensive to requests. I was extremely uncomfortable.
At check out, I asked to speak to someone about my concerns and no came after 20 min so I asked for a card. Once returning home, I called and asked to speak to someone and was told I would get a call back. Never did.
If I had been able to speak to someone constructively about these issues, I probably would’ve returned and would not have left this review. This is obviously a problem from the top and see a very slim chance, if any, of any change....
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