Start your day with a refreshing morning stroll through the heart of downtown Austin, where history, art, and architecture converge in a scenic loop of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
The journey, led by a member of the Historic Preservation Planning Department, begins at Brush Square, home to the O. Henry and Susanna Dickinson Museums, which capture stories from Texas’s rich past. From there, you’ll make your way up Congress Avenue to the Old Bakery and Emporium, a historic gem featuring the vibrant mural Generational Ties.
A short walk leads to the Texas Capitol Grounds, where the grandeur of the Capitol building and its landscaped monuments bring Texas history to life. The route continues through Wooldridge Square and Republic Square, two storied gathering places that trace back to Austin’s founding.
Next, follow the path along Shoal Creek to the award-winning Austin Central Library, celebrated for its striking design, rooftop garden, and interactive exhibits. Just steps away, discover the Seaholm Intake Building, a bold adaptive reuse project reimagining a historic industrial site.
Your tour concludes with a self-guided lunch at Fareground Austin Food Hall, a stylish hub of local eateries offering flavors for every palate. With the hotel just a block away, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to relax and reflect after a morning of exploration.
Wear comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and get ready to connect with Austin’s roots—and its modern energy—in an unforgettable way.
Note: The tour is wheelchair accessible but there are some hills. Participants should be comfortable walking 2.3 miles.