A Guide to the Most Historic Buildings in Austin, TX

Austin, Texas, is known for its live music, food scene, and innovation, but the city also has a fascinating history reflected in its architecture. From grand government structures and preserved Victorian mansions to 19th-century schools and old-world churches, Austin’s historic buildings tell the story of transforming from a small frontier town to a modern metropolitan hub.

For locals and visitors alike, exploring these landmarks offers a chance to connect with the city's heritage, appreciate its architectural diversity, and understand the foundations that continue to shape its future. Whether you're a history buff, architecture enthusiast, or a prospective homebuyer with a love for character-rich neighborhoods, this guide to Austin’s most historic buildings is a perfect place to start.

1. Texas State Capitol

Location: 1100 Congress Ave

Completed: 1888

Arguably the most iconic building in Austin, the Texas State Capitol stands tall as a symbol of state pride and political power. Constructed with sunset red granite and designed in the Italian Renaissance Revival style, the Capitol is even taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

Visitors can explore the rotunda, legislative chambers, and sprawling grounds. Listed as a National Historic Landmark, it remains the centerpiece of downtown Austin and is a must-see for anyone interested in civic history or monumental architecture.

2. The Driskill Hotel

Location: 604 Brazos St

Completed: 1886

One of the most luxurious and legendary landmarks in Austin, The Driskill Hotel was built by cattle baron Jesse Driskill and designed in the Romanesque Revival style. It has hosted presidents, celebrities, and dignitaries over the decades and is known for its grand architecture, stained glass, and marble accents.

Aside from its visual splendor, The Driskill has played a central role in Austin’s political and social life. It remains a functioning hotel and is also popular for elegant events, making it both a historic and active part of the city.

3. French Legation State Historic Site

Location: 802 San Marcos St

Completed: 1841

The French Legation is one of Austin's oldest surviving buildings. Built to house the French chargé d’affaires to the Republic of Texas, it offers a glimpse into early diplomatic life and frontier architecture. The Greek Revival-style house sits on a hill east of downtown and is surrounded by peaceful gardens and walking paths.

It operates as a museum and educational site today, preserving and interpreting Texas’s brief era as an independent republic and the international relationships it fostered.

4. Neill-Cochran House Museum

Location: 2310 San Gabriel St

Completed: 1855

Designed by master builder Abner Cook—who also helped design the Texas State Capitol—the Neill-Cochran House is one of Austin’s best-preserved antebellum homes. Located in the West Campus area, it features Greek Revival architecture and provides a rich educational experience on 19th-century life, slavery, and post-Civil War reconstruction.

The museum hosts rotating exhibits, special events, and even ghost tours, offering both a historical and cultural experience in the heart of the city.

5. Elisabet Ney Museum

Location: 304 E 44th St

Completed: 1892

Tucked away in the Hyde Park neighborhood, the Elisabet Ney Museum celebrates the life and work of one of Texas’s most renowned sculptors. Ney, originally from Germany, designed the castle-like studio herself. It served as both her workspace and residence.

The building, made of limestone and resembling a European fortress, stands as a tribute to her creativity and independent spirit. Visitors can see many of her original sculptures and learn about her influence on Texas art and culture.

6. Austin History Center

Location: 810 Guadalupe St

Completed: 1933

Once Austin’s main public library, the Austin History Center now serves as the city’s historical archive. The building itself is a stunning example of Italian Renaissance Revival architecture, featuring rich wood paneling, decorative ironwork, and colorful murals that depict Texas history.

Inside, researchers and casual visitors alike can explore documents, photographs, and records that chronicle Austin’s growth and evolution over time.

7. O. Henry Museum

Location: 409 E 5th St

Completed: 1886

This small, cottage-style home was once the residence of famed American writer William Sydney Porter, better known as O. Henry. The museum offers insight into his early life and literary work and features period furnishings and personal artifacts.

Located in downtown Austin, the O. Henry Museum is part of a growing district of preserved historic homes and provides an intimate look at late 19th-century domestic life.

8. Bremond Block Historic District

Location: Bounded by West Seventh, West Eighth, Guadalupe, and San Antonio Streets

Era: 1850s–1910s

The Bremond Block Historic District consists of more than a dozen historic homes built primarily by members of the affluent Bremond family. These homes represent a variety of Victorian architectural styles, including Queen Anne and Classical Revival.

Walking through this district feels like stepping back in time. While most of the homes are now used as offices, the exteriors remain intact and beautifully preserved, showcasing the elegance and craftsmanship of Austin’s Gilded Age.

9. Littlefield House

Location: 24th and Whitis Ave, University of Texas Campus

Completed: 1894

Built by Civil War veteran and businessman George Littlefield, this stately home sits on the University of Texas campus and serves as a historic gathering place for university functions. Designed in the Victorian style with Romanesque detailing, the Littlefield House features original furnishings, stained glass, and intricate woodwork.

It’s one of the few historic buildings on campus that has remained largely unchanged, giving visitors a rare look at UT’s early history.

10. St. Mary’s Cathedral

Location: 203 E 10th St

Completed: 1884

St. Mary’s Cathedral is an architectural gem and a cornerstone of Austin’s religious history. Constructed in a Gothic Revival style, the cathedral features soaring spires, pointed arches, and intricate stained glass windows imported from Europe.

Still an active place of worship, St. Mary’s inspires awe and admiration for its beauty and enduring role in the community.

Why Historic Buildings Matter

Austin’s historic buildings are more than architectural treasures—they’re the physical legacy of the people, movements, and stories that shaped the city. Preserving these landmarks helps maintain Austin’s unique identity and provides a tangible connection to its past, even as the city evolves and expands.

Living in or near historic districts can also offer long-term value for prospective homebuyers. These areas often have unique charm, mature trees, walkable layouts, and a strong sense of community. While there may be restrictions on remodeling and maintenance, many find that the benefits of living in a preserved area far outweigh the limitations.

Work with Darsh Parikh for Insightful Austin Real Estate Guidance

If you're interested in homes near historic districts or want to learn more about Austin’s architectural heritage, Darsh Parikh is here to help. As an experienced Austin real estate agent, Darsh brings deep local knowledge and a passion for helping clients find properties that suit their lifestyle, values, and goals.

Whether you're looking for a historic bungalow in Hyde Park, a stately home near the university, or a modern residence with historic charm nearby, Darsh can guide you through every step of the journey.

Visit austinrealestatedarsh.com to schedule a consultation and begin your search with a real estate professional who truly understands what makes Austin—and its homes—so special.