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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Downtown Austin

Historical sites

A historical site that feels like a living part of the city instead of a static museum exhibit.

Based on 665 Opinions
+662
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Updated May 2026
01
Texas Capitol image 1
Texas Capitol image 2
Texas Capitol image 3
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State government office

Largest state capitol building anchors a tranquil space with stunning dome and memorial gardens. Quiet, welcoming atmosphere invites reflection and leisurely walks. Free guided tours and open reference library offer a rich educational experience.

The site features the largest state capitol building in the US, even bigger than the US Capitol in Washington, DC. It stands as an iconic historic landmark in the city center, showcasing rich Texas heritage and history.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are stunning, with gorgeous architecture and impressive views."

"The free guided tours really brought Texas history to life."

"I found the Texas Capitol to be beautiful, welcoming, and peaceful."

Good to know

1

Entry to the Texas Capitol is free, with no tickets required.

2

Free guided tours are available every 30 minutes at the Texas Capitol.

3

SXSW takes over the city every March, featuring music, film, and interactive events.

02
Texas Confederate Memorial Lawn image 1

Memorial park features majestic statues and historic buildings that tell Texas stories through guided tours. Large, beautiful trees create a serene atmosphere perfect for quiet reflection. Well-maintained lawns add to the park's peaceful charm.

Beautiful historic buildings and many statues commemorate key figures and events in Texas history. Guided tours share detailed stories, making the history vivid and educational.

People are saying

"It's a seriously impressive and beautiful historical place."

"I found the lawn to be a beautiful and peaceful place to relax."

"It's a great place to learn about Texas history."

Good to know

1

The memorial is free to enter.

2

Visitor parking nearby offers the first two hours for free.

3

The memorial provides free guided tours in both English and Spanish.

03
Chateau Bellevue | ATX image 1
Historical landmark

Historic stone mansion offers stunning architecture and intricate artistry inside. Spacious ballroom with unobstructed wooden floor invites dancing. Rooftop patio enhances the rich, preserved atmosphere of this beautiful historic building.

Stunning historical architecture and incredible interiors create a rich, preserved atmosphere. The rooftop patio adds a unique touch to this well-maintained, beautiful historic building.

People are saying

"This historic building's beautiful details are meticulously maintained."

"I found the parking available to be more than adequate."

"The food here was delicious and excellent."

Good to know

1

Parking is included with your booking at the venue.

2

There is free parking downtown at the venue.

3

The venue has its own parking lot with the main entrance on the Western side.

04
Saint Mary Catholic Cathedral image 1

High Victorian Gothic style and stained glass windows create a serene, historic feel. Superb choir music and excellent acoustics invite quiet reflection. As a historic landmark downtown, it offers peaceful prayer amid city rush.

A historic church with original stained glass windows cleaned recently stands as a landmark downtown. It began as St. Patrick Church in 1852 and became a cathedral in 1947, listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

People are saying

"I found the church to be beautiful and historic."

"It's so peaceful and quiet here."

"The historical architecture here is stunningly beautiful."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the Capital Parking Tower Garage after 5pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.

2

Street and metered parking are free before 11am on Saturday, and all day Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday evenings.

3

Mass hours include services in Spanish, English, and Latin, with daily offerings.

05
Austin Scottish Rite Theater image 1

Historic charm shines through beautiful architecture and an intimate setting that draws audiences close. Excellent acoustics make every note clear, creating a magical atmosphere. Comfortable seating blends old-world style with personal engagement.

Historic charm and beautiful architecture define the venue. The intimate setting enhances the experience of live performances.

People are saying

"This historic theater has such beautiful architecture for live performances."

"Parking is limited, so you should get there early."

"It's a charming historical site with a beautiful, intimate atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The theater allows ghost and paranormal investigations through The Original Austin Ghost Tours every month.

2

Parking is limited with around 50 spots, so arrive early or consider ridesharing.

3

The theater has good spacing between rows, making it accessible for all.

06
The Austin Club image 1

Elegant old-style club offers a historic charm with over 150 years of preserved heritage. Spacious setting features a massive ballroom and cozy dining room. Venue suits refined lunches and meetings in a timeless atmosphere.

Over 150 years of history fill the space, with renovations that preserve its historic charm. The building shows clear care in maintaining its rich heritage while updating the club.

People are saying

"The staff here make your nightlife experience feel so personal and welcoming."

"The food here was absolutely incredible."

"The renovations preserved the club's historic charm and atmosphere."

Good to know

1

The venue offers seamless A/V support for events.

2

Reservations are recommended for Sunday brunch due to high demand.

3

The club has a rich history of over 150 years.

07
The Driskill Bar image 1

Historic hotel bar offers a lively atmosphere with live music and comfortable seating. Unique decor blends western vibe and classic elegance, creating a tremendous atmosphere for drinks and socializing.

A beautiful historic hotel with a bar that carries a strong sense of history and ambience. The setting and decor add to the overall tremendous atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar's atmosphere is spectacular and very cool."

"This historic hotel has a beautiful interior and great atmosphere."

"The cocktails here are delicious and filled to the rim."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure seats for live music performances.

2

Live music occurs Thursday through Sunday, featuring different artists each night.

3

Happy hour is popular among hotel guests, making the bar crowded.

08
Antone's Nightclub image 1
Live music venue

Historic venue pulses with classic blues energy and a well-balanced sound system. Crowds create a vibrant atmosphere packed with warmth. Walls showcase vintage posters, preserving live music heritage and a nostalgic vibe.

A classic venue with a rich history at the heart of blues music, it stands as one of the last truly iconic landmarks preserving live music heritage.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great place for live music."

"It's a historic venue with a rich history that adds a special atmosphere."

"The restrooms were modern and impeccably clean."

Good to know

1

There is a cover fee at the door for entry.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The bar automatically adds a 20% gratuity to all tabs.

09
Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours image 1

Tour blends verified true stories with ghost tales in a calm, respectful way. Guides share deep insights on local history and hauntings at sites like the Driskill Hotel. Participants use EMF meters and dowsing rods for an interactive experience.

Tours share verified true stories and deep dives into local history. Guides offer knowledgeable insights on hauntings and historic sites like the Driskill Hotel.

People are saying

"The historical sites here are incredibly informative and engaging."

"The guides here are so knowledgeable and make the tours really fun."

"Our guide Monica made the Ghost Tours fun and intriguing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a spot on the tour.

2

The tour covers approximately 0.5 miles, making it easy to walk.

3

Guides are knowledgeable and provide engaging storytelling.

10
Old Bakery and Emporium image 1
Historical place

Old bakery blends original stone brick and a huge oven with art. Upstairs hosts a historical gallery and rotating exhibits that tell local stories. Visitors find artisan crafts and souvenirs in an accessible space with views of the Capital.

Upstairs features a historical gallery and museum pieces that tell the story of the Old Bakery. The space also includes an art gallery with rotating exhibits highlighting local history and artists.

People are saying

"I found unique handmade arts and crafts by local artists here."

"It's a museum shop with unique handmade arts and crafts from local artists."

"I found unique handmade arts and crafts from local artists here."

Good to know

1

The exhibition of Kurt Ritterpusch's works is free to visit until May 4th, 2024.

2

Cultural celebrations are held several times a year for all ages.

3

Public restrooms and a water fountain are available and kept clean.

11
Speakeasy image 1
Lounge

Lounge offers a historical atmosphere with stories of ghosts and rich past. Enjoy live music on a spacious stage while sipping drinks at a spacious bar. Rooftop bar provides city views but feels tight during events.

A history-rich building with a fascinating past creates a strong historical atmosphere. Stories about ghosts and detailed accounts of the building's background add to the vibe.

People are saying

"I found the shows and special events here to be really fun."

"The atmosphere here is pretty cool and sophisticated."

"This historic building has a fascinating history and ghost stories."

Good to know

1

The Spazmatics perform every Wednesday night with no cover charge.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during 90's night events on Fridays.

3

No food is available on-site, so plan to eat before visiting.

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