10 Best Landmark and Historical Buildings in Austin

Willie For President Mural is a colorful Austin wall mural on the side of a men's clothing store, depicting country singer Willie Nelson as a presidential candidate. It works as a brief photo stop for visitors exploring Austin's murals and landmarks, with nearby food trucks and Home Slice adding reasons to make the mural part of a broader neighborhood outing. The work is a tribute to an Austin music figure and local cultural identity.

Montopolis Bridge is a historic 1,221-foot steel truss crossing over the Colorado River near Austin’s Montopolis neighborhood. Now part of a hike-and-bike trail, it is open to pedestrians and cyclists rather than vehicles. The bridge connects users with multiple trails and parks while offering a distinctive setting for walking, cycling and river-and-city views.

French Legation State Historic Site is a local history museum in an 1841 home associated with a former French diplomat. Its focus is France’s role in Texas history, making it a fit for visitors interested in the Republic of Texas era, Austin history and historic architecture. The grounds include a porch and lawn, while visitor facilities include a cafe and visitor center.

Wells Branch Homestead preserves a small settler community of historic buildings, including an 1855 log cabin, with tours operating from the adjacent community center. Information plaques support self-guided visits, while the surrounding setting includes dirt trails connected to area parks, a playground and a ball field. It suits families and school groups looking for an approachable, educational history outing.

Prehistoric Rock Shelter is an Austin-area historical landmark with short access from the parking lot and visitor center. It suits families and visitors looking for a low-walking outing that combines a notable rock formation with nearby park scenery, trails and picnic areas. The surrounding setting includes water and natural features, while some visitors have found directions and signage limited.

Pease Mansion, also known as Woodlawn, is an Austin historical landmark associated with an old Austin property bearing the “WOODLAWN 1853” gate-post inscription. The available material also places it in a setting that has been used for a party movie screen, though current visitor or event arrangements are not established.