When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Shangri-La
Why Shangri-La is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Shangri-La stands as a distinguished name in the luxury hospitality industry, known worldwide for offering exceptional experiences that blend comfort, sophistication, and heartfelt Asian hospitality. Established in 1971 with its inaugural hotel in Singapore, Shangri-La has grown into a global brand managing over 100 luxury hotels and resorts across Asia, Africa, Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Oceania. This expansive presence includes more than 40,000 rooms, demonstrating vast accommodation options for travelers seeking both tranquility and elegance. Shangri-La’s properties are designed to inspire relaxation amidst architectural beauty and serene surroundings, often reflecting uniquely Asian aesthetics reminiscent of majestic mountains and tranquil lakes. Unique among luxury hotel groups, Shangri-La emphasizes “hospitality from the heart,” a service philosophy that ensures guests feel treated like family, with attentive care and personalized attention. The brand encompasses four sub-brands catering to diverse market segments, each maintaining the signature luxury and service Shangri-La is known for. Guests can indulge in world-class dining, rejuvenate at spa facilities such as CHI, and enjoy amenities tailored to both leisure and business travelers. With continuous growth and new developments planned across Asia and beyond, Shangri-La remains a premier and beloved destination for discerning travelers and a perfect place for friends to gather, relax, and create memorable experiences together.
Here's what people think of Shangri-La
As of recent, Shangri-La holds a 4.3-star rating based on 809 reviews.
User reviews of Shangri-La hotels, particularly the flagship in Singapore, reflect a generally positive consensus with a strong overall rating of 4.3 from over 800 reviews. Many guests praise Shangri-La for its elegant ambiance, attentive and heartfelt service, and exceptional dining options like the Shang Palace and The Line restaurants, creating a memorable stay filled with luxury and comfort. Positive feedback often highlights the beautifully designed rooms, tranquil gardens, well-maintained pools, and the hotel’s iconic stature in the hospitality industry. Guests also appreciate the warm hospitality, consistent quality across various hotel locations, and the serene environments which make Shangri-La a top choice for both special occasions and business travel. However, some negative reviews point to occasional lapses in service attitude and customer experience inconsistencies, which have caused disappointment for a few guests, especially during peak times or special events. Some critiques mention areas for improvement such as responsiveness or value perception. Despite these drawbacks, the overall consensus remains favorable, with the vast majority of visitors recommending Shangri-La for its combination of luxury, cultural charm, and genuine care. This balance of positive guest experiences and constructive feedback demonstrates Shangri-La’s commitment to continually refining its service offerings while maintaining its revered reputation in the global hospitality landscape.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Michael Tarabay (FotoSemplici)
Fun bar to hang out in with a nice outside area out back with a food truck. Two pool tables a Photo Booth with friendly professional staff. Spend some time here on the east side of Austin.
Joe Cruz
As a local, this is my favorite chill bar in austin. Easily the best music playlist on the east side. They have tons of outlets to charge up your phones and devices for work if needed. Seriously come here if you are in need of a safe space with strong drinks, great-priced food, and want the feel of being around locals. A mix of people here but everyone is always friendly and happy to see you. Huge indoor bar with pool tables, outdoor patio with food trucks (incredible mozzarella sticks) and a whole hidden speakeasy behind the garden. Usually all the real Texans will end up here. Jake at the speakeasy attachment, The Treasury is an austin gem. I love this place and im so happy my friend Joaquin, a bartender at the main bar told me about it. Tons of parking and great location close to hotels, corner stores, other bars/food spots.
Adam Wozney
Holland loves this bar. He told me a story about one time going here with a friend. That friend turned out to be Brat Pitt. He told me him and Bradley ate ham sandwiches at this very bar. Crazy right? Holland is a vergetarian too. I guess this the only bar that allows vergetarians to eat ham in the state of Texas. The ham was from Bradley's pig farm in Odessa. I went to the pig farm once and saw Bradley and George Clooney with Holland of course feeding the livestock ice cubes. I guess little piggies like ice cubes. Long story short, Holland loves this bar.
Taylor Snipes
One of my favorite bars in Austin. This place serves up hipster vibes with a great patio out in the backyard. Come here on a Thursday if you like to shoot some pool. Free pool Thursdays? Can’t beat it. They also have a golden tee like game along with a Photo Booth if you’re looking to get silly. Prices are fairly decent as well.
Viridiana Zequeida Suastegui
Great atmosphere both inside and out. Pool table inside and very paid back atmosphere. Patio is very spacious and tables can fit 4-6 in the backyard. Drink selection is fantastic including frozen drinks, beer, spirits.
How to reach Shangri-La
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Why Shangri-La may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Shangri-La with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a special meetup calls for a venue that can perfectly blend comfort, luxury, and fun. Shangri-La is an exceptional destination for such occasions, offering an exquisite environment that makes every gathering feel exclusive yet welcoming. Rated 4.3 from over 800 reviews, this high-quality establishment is praised for its spacious accommodations and attentive service, ensuring that guests feel pampered and attended to throughout their stay. The ambiance at Shangri-La is both serene and luxurious, set amidst beautiful surroundings that provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle of everyday life. Whether you are looking for a relaxed space to catch up or a stylish place to celebrate, Shangri-La’s blend of elegance and convenience creates the ideal setting. The staff is known for their friendliness and helpful demeanor, making group coordination and special requests pleasantly hassle-free. When you rally your friends here, you’re not just booking a place to stay—you’re choosing a memorable experience filled with quality moments and shared enjoyment.
What activities can you enjoy at Shangri-La during a group meetup?
Shangri-La offers an impressive array of activities that cater to different interests, making it perfect for diverse groups of friends or family. For relaxation aficionados, the hotel’s luxurious spa services provide restorative treatments in a tranquil environment, excellent for unwinding after a busy day. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of the well-equipped gym or engage in outdoor yoga sessions within the tropical gardens, providing both mental and physical rejuvenation. For those seeking entertainment, Shangri-La boasts an impressive range of dining options—each offering unique culinary experiences from authentic local cuisine to international dishes, perfect for sharing flavorful meals and lively conversations. The vast outdoor spaces are ideal for casual strolls or organized group games, while the swimming pools offer a refreshing spot to relax and socialize. Additionally, the hotel’s event and meeting spaces can be reserved for private celebrations, allowing friends to host themed parties or special occasions with personalized service. These diverse activities create multiple opportunities for bonding and fun, making sure every member of your group finds something enjoyable.
Why is Shangri-La the perfect place for a group meetup?
Beyond activities, Shangri-La’s design and services enhance the group experience in many ways. The accommodations are notably spacious, with rooms designed to comfortably host families or groups, allowing everyone to have private space while enjoying the company of friends nearby. Its location, often nestled in idyllic settings, offers a peaceful backdrop that encourages meaningful and relaxed interactions away from urban distractions. The hotel also excels in hospitality, with a staff that facilitates group needs smoothly—whether coordinating transportation, arranging group meals, or providing tailored recommendations. Privacy is respected and valued, with plenty of nooks and private lounges where groups can gather without interruption. Furthermore, the ambiance of understated luxury combined with friendly warmth makes it easy for groups to feel both special and at home. These factors together ensure that hosting a meetup at Shangri-La leads to a seamless, enjoyable, and memorable gathering that everyone will cherish.
How does the dining experience enhance group meetups at Shangri-La?
One of the highlights at Shangri-La for any group gathering is the exceptional dining experience. The hotel features multiple restaurants and bars, each with a distinctive atmosphere and cuisine. Whether your group craves adventurous tastes or comforting classics, Shangri-La’s menus span continents and culinary traditions, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Sharing a meal at these venues becomes more than just eating—it transforms into a social event, where the quality of food combines with excellent service to elevate the enjoyment. For special occasions, the hotel can accommodate private dining or buffet arrangements, making it easy to celebrate milestones or just enjoy each other's company in a refined setting. The variety in food choices also caters to dietary preferences and restrictions within the group, ensuring everyone feels considered and included. This careful attention to food and hospitality adds an extra layer of delight to your meetup, encouraging relaxed conversations and creating rich memories around the table.
What makes the location and atmosphere of Shangri-La special for groups?
Shangri-La benefits greatly from its setting, often placed in lush gardens or quiet urban enclaves that offer a respite from the noise and pace of the city. This peaceful environment is conducive to genuine connection, allowing groups to focus on each other without distractions. Walkable grounds and scenic spots encourage leisurely exploration, from morning strolls among tropical foliage to evening gatherings overlooking shimmering pools or elegant courtyards. The architectural design marries modern luxury with natural elements, providing both visual appeal and a sense of calm. This atmosphere promotes a laid-back yet sophisticated vibe where friends feel comfortable being themselves while indulging in the beauty around them. Moreover, the convenient access to nearby attractions and amenities means groups can customize their outings from cultural visits to shopping or nightlife, all while having a serene home base to return to each day. The combination of natural beauty, thoughtful design, and ideal location makes Shangri-La a truly special venue for group meetups.
Why does service quality matter for group gatherings at Shangri-La?
Exceptional service is crucial when hosting groups because coordinating multiple people’s needs can be complex. Shangri-La’s staff is renowned for their professionalism and friendliness, making the entire experience more enjoyable and stress-free. Their attentiveness ensures that booking accommodations, organizing activities, or dining arrangements happen seamlessly, with personalized touches that turn a simple stay into an event to remember. Groups often appreciate the hotel’s willingness to accommodate special requests, from room configurations to event planning details, which greatly enhances the comfort and convenience of the visit. This high standard of service builds confidence among guests that their meetup will proceed without logistical hiccups, letting friends focus entirely on enjoying each other’s company. Furthermore, the staff’s knowledge of the local area and hotel offerings allows them to suggest activities and experiences that perfectly fit your group’s interests, elevating the overall quality of the gathering.
How accessible is Shangri-La for group travel and logistics?
Accessibility is a major factor when planning group meetups, and Shangri-La performs well in this area. The hotel is typically located within easy reach of major transport hubs, making it convenient for friends arriving from different places. Spacious parking and shuttle services can be available to ease travel snarls, while concierge support assists with travel arrangements, including airport transfers and local transit options. The hotel’s room inventory often includes suites and interconnected rooms designed to accommodate groups comfortably, which simplifies booking and keeps everyone close by. For groups requiring meeting or event spaces, Shangri-La offers well-equipped venues that support various setups, from casual get-togethers to formal presentations. These logistics-friendly features reduce the stress of travel and organize, allowing groups to focus on their social agenda. Overall, the hotel’s accessibility and support infrastructure are key reasons it stands out as a prime meetup destination.
What makes the accommodations at Shangri-La ideal for groups?
The guest rooms and suites at Shangri-La stand out for their size and comfort, offering ample space for groups to feel at home. These accommodations are designed to balance privacy with proximity, providing friends with the option of private retreats as well as inviting common areas within the suite. Modern amenities such as high-speed internet, entertainment systems, and luxurious furnishings ensure that the stay is both comfortable and engaging. The decor often reflects a refined style that combines contemporary elegance with local cultural touches, enriching the ambiance. Additionally, housekeeping and room service operate with high efficiency, allowing guests to enjoy uninterrupted gatherings without worrying about daily chores. For larger groups, the availability of adjoining rooms and flexible bedding arrangements makes it easy to customize the sleeping setup. This level of accommodation quality not only caters to comfort but also enhances the social atmosphere, making group stays smooth and pleasurable.
How does Shangri-La cater to special occasions within group meetups?
For groups celebrating birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, or other milestones, Shangri-La provides excellent options to make the event extraordinary. Private event spaces that can be decorated according to the occasion allow for intimate or grand celebrations. The hotel’s catering team is equipped to curate personalized menus tailored to the group’s food preferences and the event theme, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Specialized services like customized cakes, audiovisual equipment, and dedicated event coordinators contribute to flawless execution. The hotel environment itself—with elegant interiors, lush gardens, and beautiful lighting—serves as a stunning backdrop for photographs and shared memories. Additionally, guests can augment their celebration with spa packages or recreational activities arranged specifically for the group. This comprehensive support for special events makes Shangri-La not just a place to gather but a venue where your group’s meaningful moments are thoughtfully honored and elevated.
What additional amenities enhance the group experience at Shangri-La?
Besides core services, Shangri-La provides amenities that enhance comfort and convenience for groups. These include multiple swimming pools that offer both lively and relaxed atmospheres, perfect for group swims or poolside lounging. On-site retail shops allow guests to browse local crafts and essentials without leaving the premises. Technology-enhanced meeting rooms support groups needing work or presentations interspersed with their leisure time. Recreational facilities such as tennis courts, golf driving ranges, or game rooms may be available depending on the location, giving more options for shared enjoyment. Childcare services and kid-friendly activities make the hotel inclusive for families traveling with children. All these features combine to create a versatile environment where every group member, regardless of age or interest, can find value and entertainment during the stay. This broad range of amenities reinforces why Shangri-La is highly regarded as a premier spot for group gatherings.