Celebrating 100 Years: The Legacy of The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Welcome to the historical journey of The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel. As we celebrate our centennial anniversary, we invite you to delve into the rich tapestry of our hotel’s remarkable history.
Centennial Celebrations
“The Austin” Pop Up Events
Experience the nostalgia of the 1920s at Stephen F’s Bar and Terrace, transformed into a century-old happy hour scene. Indulge in themed food stations, specialty cocktails and live music.
Get TicketsHistorical Display Case
Immerse yourself in decades of history through framed photos, accompanied by intriguing facts. Located in the lobby, this exhibit offers a unique opportunity to take a tour through our rich heritage.
The Hotel ExperienceCentennial Celebration Package
Step into a century of elegance with our exclusive Centennial Celebration Package. Enjoy a historic downtown Austin walking tour, cocktails, specialty merchandise, late checkout, and more.
Book NowThe Legacy of The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Origins and Foundation The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel opened on May 19, 1924, as Austin’s first high-rise on Congress Avenue, funded by $600,000 from locals. Originally “The Texas,” it was renamed after Stephen F. Austin, gaining local favor.
Architectural Metamorphosis Restored in 2000, the hotel kept its historic charm, including the iconic staircase. Renamed in December 2020 as The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel, it emphasizes hospitality excellence.
Political Legacy Hosting notable governors and figures like Lyndon B. Johnson, the hotel witnessed key political events. Johnson launched his career from here, winning the 1937 House of Representatives election.
Iconic Features Initially with 250 rooms and Longhorn Garden Ballroom, it expanded in 1938 to 375 rooms, becoming Austin’s tallest building. Stephen F’s Bar is the only bar that overlooks Congress Ave.
Historic Timeline
1924: The Stephen F. Austin opens as the tallest building in downtown Austin
1937: Headquarters for Lyndon B. Johnson’s successful run for the House of Representatives
1959: Senator Lyndon B. Johnson introduces FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover in the SFA Ballroom
1987-1998: Hotel sits vacant due to the 1987 oil bust
2000: Doors reopen; headquarters for George Bush Sr.’s Presidential campaign
2000-2010: Featured in movies such as Miss Congeniality, Grindhouse, and Machete
2024: Celebrating 100 Years of The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel
Join us as we celebrate a century of hospitality, heritage, and excellence at The Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel.