Austin has NY non-stops so that makes it acceptable. I am leaning towards that. Arrive Saturday, eat out, listen to some live music, see the city on Sunday, leave.
When are hotels expensive? When there is a large convention?
So tentative choices are Austin versus New Orleans versus Houston. I like Houston but I think it others might not like it. I have never been to Austin. I have been to New Orleans but can't think of things to do outside the French Quarter.
Ideas?