Location: Downtown
Top Things to do in Downtown
Things to do in Austin, Texas (TX): The Best Historic Sites
Every year thousands of hipsters, groupies, and die-hard fans flock to Austin for the annual South by Southwest festival, which has catapulted the Texas city up the must-visit charts for many travelers. The sandstone Capitol building is symbolic of the Lone Star State’s "bigger is better" mentality, featuring a gorgeous whispering gallery rotunda and 22 acres of grounds. Cool off with a dip in Barton Springs, a huge natural limestone pool that’s fed by underground sources.
Restaurants in Austin
1. Caswell House
2. Texas State Capitol
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 7,840 reviews
If it's in Texas, it must be bigger and better. That is the motto that architects followed with the Capitol Building in Austin. At one time, it was the tallest capitol building in the nation. Others might be taller now, but this is still a beautiful building that shows off many of the natural resources which are so prevalent in Texas, such as limestone and the landscapes.
Reviewed By Wanderer776418 - Dublin, United States
A must even if you have little time. Lots of history, recommend you take a tour it’s free if you stop in or with tour company ( shortened version) just to learn some of facts that make it special!
3. Old Bakery & Emporium
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 24 reviews
Emporium of arts and crafts created by local artists. It is has a History Center, Art Gallery, Visitor Center and is a Historical Bakery built in 1876, complete with an old-fashioned oven and wooden baker's spade.
Reviewed By AvaE27 - Bradenton, United States
This is a great stop to pick up some local flavor in the form of arts, crafts and photos. The downstairs is chock full of colorful gifts and jewelry in a wide range of prices. I picked up a beautiful glass suncatcher for $17, but saw some lovely handmade cards and jewelry too. Upstairs is a photo gallery and secondary room with interesting historical information.
4. The Driskill
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,813 reviews
Austin's original and iconic hotel features beautiful Romanesque architecture from the late 1800's. With a grand entrance into the opulent lobby, you will be transported to an historic era, with its marble floors, stained-glass dome, and corridors filled with museum-quality artwork. Head up the grand staircase to the most authentic Texas bar in downtown Austin, with daily live music and happy hour.
Reviewed By Traveler62_12 - Austin, United States
My friend had her wedding there and it was the most fabulous evening in this wonderful historic hotel on Sixth Street, Austin, Texas
5. O. Henry Home & Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 78 reviews
Sydney Porter, the writer known as O. Henry, lived in this Victorian cottage from 1893 to 1895.
Reviewed By 355donaldw - Frisco, United States
Whether you enjoy O. Henry’s written work or just love a great story, the O. Henry Museum will interest you. The man eventually come to be known as O. Henry was someone who took years to find himself and ventured...fell unwittingly?...into crime along the way. The life story of the author of The Gift of the Magi will fascinate you, and the museum provides friendly, knowledgeable staff that makes sure you get as many fascinating details as you’d like. The museum, located in downtown Austin right next to the Susanna Dickinson Museum, is another historical gem. It’s very well organized and free!
6. Treaty Oak
7. Bremond Block
8. Central Presbyterian Church
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 1 reviews
9. Jeremiah Hamilton House
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 1 reviews
10. The Smoot Family Home
Dr. R.K. Smoot one of the founders of the Austin Presbyterian Theological Seminary
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