Posted: Sun, 12 Jul 2009 01:19 PM - 7,779 Readers

By: Nancy Mikula

Many families like to stay downtown near Lady Bird Lake to be located close to the most popular attractions and to take advantage of the green spaces, outdoor trails, and parks beside the lake with easy access to canoe and kayak rentals. Another choice is to head to the lake region to the west of Austin where large family resorts offer a broad selection of water sports, boat rentals, fishing, spas and golf courses. Many of the chain hotels are found near the airport and along I-35 leading into Austin.

Holiday Inn Austin Town Lake is located on the south shore of Lady Bird Lake near I-35 and close to the kayak rental shop. This newly renovated hotel has a restaurant, fitness center and outdoor pool with a public playground nearby. Ask for a room away from the freeway and expect to pay about $150.

Hyatt Regency Austin on Town Lake This 447-room luxury waterfront hotel is very popular for its expansive atrium lobby with a stream running through it. Rooms on the north side offer views of the evening bat flight. Rental bicycles are available for use on the trails along the lakeshore. If you get a room for under $175 you should be pleased.

Habitat Suites This all-suites hotel is a relaxing, comfortable place to stay as well as being ecologically conscious and a member of the green hotels association. Complimentary hot breakfast buffet and the courtyard swimming pool are just two of the many extras here. Downtown is a ten-minute drive, and a one-bedroom suite is just under $125.

Lakeway Resort & Spa Located outside of Austin on lovely Lake Travis, this family resort offers many activities and comfortable guestrooms. Rent a boat at the marina for sightseeing, water-skiing or fishing, or head to the spa for pampering. Expect to pay about $200 for a room, plus activities.

Barton Creek Resort & Spa Situated on 4,000 acres outside of Austin, this luxurious resort offers nature trails, golf, tennis, swimming pools, teen center and a children's activity area with family-friendly programs. Rooms start at about $225 and activities are extra.

*  Story Contributed by: Nancy Mikula