13 Spots You Must Visit In Austin If You Love History

Austin is known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," but it has a lot more to offer than just music and tacos. The city is full of fascinating historical sites that are worth exploring. From centuries-old churches to ancient burial grounds and Civil War-era sites, there are many places to explore in Austin if you’re looking to get a glimpse into the city’s past.

Here are 13 must-visit spots for anyone interested in learning more about the history of Austin.

The Texas Capitol Building 

The Texas Capitol Building is one of the most iconic landmarks in Austin and it is home to some of the state’s most important documents. It was built in 1888 and its design is reminiscent of the United States Capitol building in Washington D.C., although it is slightly smaller. A visit to the Capitol building will give you an opportunity to learn about Texas history and admire its beautiful interior design.  

The Driskill Hotel 

The Driskill Hotel has been open since 1886, making it one of Austin’s oldest hotels. Originally built by cattle baron Jesse Driskill, this hotel has seen its fair share of celebrities over the years including President Lyndon B. Johnson and Elvis Presley. The hotel also features a stunning Romanesque design with intricate marble floors and ceilings that will take your breath away.  

Texas Military Forces Museum 

If you’re interested in military history, then make sure you check out the Texas Military Forces Museum located on Camp Mabry near downtown Austin. This museum showcases artifacts from all branches of the military as well as weapons from several different wars throughout history. There are also interactive exhibits that will teach visitors about different aspects of military life such as what soldiers eat during wartime or how they communicate while on duty.  

Barton Springs Pool:

Barton Springs Pool is one of Austin’s most beloved attractions and it has a long history behind it. The pool was first discovered by the Tonkawa tribe of Native Americans, who called it “Parthenia” or “big swimming hole”. It was later purchased by local developer William Barton in 1837 and opened as a public pool in 1918. Nowadays, visitors can enjoy swimming and sunbathing at this popular attraction year-round.

Old Bakery & Emporium:

This historic building dates back to 1876 and served as an old bakery for many years before being converted into an emporium in 2002. Inside you can find unique gifts, vintage clothing and art from local artists—all within the walls of this beautiful building with its preserved 1870s aesthetic. Visiting the Old Bakery & Emporium is like taking a step back in time!

Congress Avenue Bridge

Constructed in 1910, this bridge spans Lady Bird Lake (formerly known as Town Lake) and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in all of Texas. It's also home to one of the largest urban bat colonies in North America; between April and November each year, up to 1 million bats emerge from underneath the bridge at sunset for their nightly insect hunt.  

The Blanton Museum

This museum houses one of the finest collections of art from around the world--including pieces from Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, as well as artwork from various Native American tribes who lived in what is now Texas before Europeans arrived. Don't miss out on their special exhibition spaces which feature rotating displays throughout the year! 

Governor's Mansion

Built in 1856 by former governor Elisha M Pease (who served from 1853-1857), this building stands today as both a reminder of Austin's history but also its bright future; it currently serves as residence for current governor Greg Abbott (and his family). Tours are available for visitors who would like to see what life is like inside one of Texas' most famous homes! 

Zilker Park

Originally established as part of John Henry Zilker’s estate back in 1917 (he donated it two years later), Zilker Park remains one of Austin's most beloved outdoor spaces—it features more than 350 acres filled with trails perfect for hiking or biking, sports fields perfect for some friendly competition among friends or family members, picnic areas where you can enjoy your lunch al fresco style—the list goes on! 

Texas State Cemetery:

Located just east of downtown Austin, this cemetery is home to some of Texas' most famous figures including Stephen F. Austin (founder of Texas) and Sam Houston (first president). It's also the final resting place for veterans from every major war in U.S. history since 1776 as well as several prominent politicians including former President Lyndon B Johnson and Governor Ann Richards among others. The cemetery is open daily for visitors to explore its grounds and learn about its storied past!

Travis County Confederate Monument:

This monument stands as a reminder of a dark chapter in American history—the Civil War era when hundreds died defending their beliefs on both sides of the conflict. Located at Camp Mabry near downtown Austin, this monument honors those who fought for the Confederacy during that tumultuous period with its inscription “In Memory Of Those Who Fell In The Service Of The Confederate States Of America 1861–1865".                                                           

Oakwood Cemetery:

Oakwood Cemetery was established in 1839 and is one of the oldest cemeteries in all of Texas. It holds over 2 million gravesites dating back to before Texas was even an official state! Visitors can explore this historic site at any time; however guided tours are available on weekends where you can learn even more about Oakwood's fascinating past while getting an up close look at its many monuments and mausoleums!    

Congress Avenue Bridge Bats  

Finally, no trip to Austin would be complete without seeing one of its best attractions—the Congress Avenue Bridge Bats! Every day at dusk between March and October, you can witness up to 1 million bats emerge from underneath this bridge for their nightly hunt for insects over Lady Bird Lake. It’s an incredible sight that shouldn’t be missed!                                                

Planning a vacation to Austin, Texas? Look no further than these excellent hotels! For those wanting to stay in the bustling downtown scene, Hotel Zaza Austin and Hyatt House Downtown offer luxurious amenities in prime locations. For longer stays, Extended Stay America Austin or Towneplace Suites provide spacious rooms and kitchens equipped with everything needed to make a home away from home. If you're looking for cozy yet classy accomodations Avid Hotel Austin has you covered.

Featuring complimentary breakfast, Intown Suites Austin is ideal for budget travelers who don't want to sacrifice quality. Doubletree Austin University offers easy access nearby attractions and Best Western Plus Executive Residency provides all the creature comforts of home.

Whether you’re interested in exploring ancient burial grounds or learning about some key figures from American history, there are plenty of places you can visit around Austin which will help you gain insight into our city's captivating past! From Barton Springs Pool to Travis County Confederate Monument – these thirteen historical sites offer something special for everyone looking to connect with Austin's heritage!