Partner Spotlight on Austin, Texas

In the heart of Texas, a transformation is underway that’s redefining the landscape of the meetings and conventions industry. Austin, the Live Music Capital of the World®, has long been celebrated for its soulful rhythm, creative spirit, and offbeat charm. Today, Austin is matching its creative heritage with a massive surge in infrastructure, superior hospitality, and tech-forward innovation. Whether you’re planning a high-tech summit or an intimate corporate retreat, there has never been a better time to Meet More Austin.

To make your planning process even more rewarding, alongside your HelmsBriscoe Associate contact, Austin offers unparalleled support through the More Austin Incentive Program. Qualified groups can take advantage of financial incentives to offset meeting costs. Additionally, the Fly-In Incentive provides support for decision-makers to experience the city firsthand during the planning phase.

The centerpiece of Austin’s evolution is the bold Austin Convention Center Redevelopment and Expansion project. To meet the growth in demand, the city has embarked on a multi-year journey to replace the current structure with a new, state-of-the-art facility. This isn't just a renovation; it is a complete reimagining.

The new center will nearly double the amount of rentable space, integrating cutting-edge technology and sustainable design. By creating a more vertical, efficient footprint, the project will also open up the surrounding downtown blocks to the community, creating a seamless flow between educational sessions and the vibrant energy of the city’s neighborhoods. The project is on track to ensure that Austin remains a competitive titan for large-scale events well into the future.

As a premier destination, accessibility is paramount. The Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is currently undergoing a multi-year expansion program to keep pace with the destination’s rapid growth. Today, the airport offers 115+ non-stop flights to 95 destinations, including 14 international destinations, making connectivity easy. Recently completed enhancements include improvements to the international arrivals area, significant updates to the baggage handling system, and upgrades to TSA checkpoints, making the attendee journey more seamless than ever.

Austin has earned its nickname as the “Silicon Hills,” serving as a primary hub for the world’s leading tech giants and innovative startups. This culture of entrepreneurship permeates the meeting experience. When you host an event here, you aren't just booking a room; you are tapping into an ecosystem of brilliance. The city’s tech-forward identity makes it the ideal backdrop for industries ranging from software and bioscience to green energy, providing ample opportunities for local keynote speakers and site visits to world-class corporate campuses.

The Austin skyline is a testament to growth, with the hospitality sector seeing unprecedented investment. Several iconic properties have recently completed or are nearing completion of major renovations to better serve the meetings industry:

• The JW Marriott Austin and Hyatt Regency Austin have completed renovations to their meetings spaces, guest rooms, and public spaces.
  
  
• AT&T Hotel and Conference Center continues to set the standard for large-scale groups, adding a new junior ballroom and modernizing their meeting and guest experience.
  
  
• The Driskill Hotel is refreshing its iconic space, blending classic Texas elegance with modern amenities.
  
  
• The Westin Austin at The Domain offers a sophisticated north-city alternative, adding a new tower which will bring the property to a total of 450 rooms in 2026.

The future is even brighter with a wave of highly anticipated openings. Late 2025 welcomed the Inn at Green Pastures. 2026 will be a landmark year with the arrival of The Hotel at Sixth&Blanco; the ultra-luxury Bohème, Hotel Trinity Autograph Collection; and the stunning 1 Hotel - Waterline Tower. Furthermore, the exclusive Soho House Austin is now available for group bookings, offering a chic, private club atmosphere for executive gatherings.

Austin’s culinary scene has officially reached the global pinnacle with the latest slate of Michelin recognitions. From legendary barbecue to avant-garde fine dining, the city’s gastronomy provides an incredible off-site experience for attendees.

Post-meeting exploration is also being elevated through the Old 6th redevelopment. This project is returning the iconic neighborhood to its historic glory, creating a walkable, inviting streetscape with widened sidewalks, lush greenery, and a focus on premier storefronts and restaurants. The revitalized vision of Austin’s most famous thoroughfare will make for the perfect hub for evening networking.

Austin is more than a destination; it’s an experience that inspires creativity and fosters connection. Contact your HB Associate today to explore how you can Meet More Austin.