This walk starts at the Texas State Capitol and heads south down Congress Avenue past art, history, and one of the city's grandest hotels, then crosses to the lakefront for the Central Library and a relaxing finish in Zilker Park.

Texas State Capitol
1100 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Start your walk at the Texas State Capitol, built from rosy "sunset red" granite and surrounded by 22 acres of tree-shaded grounds and historical monuments. This 19th-century landmark is the heart of Texas politics and a great place to snap panoramic shots down Congress Avenue.

The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center
700 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
This sleek modern art space contrasts with the area's historic surroundings and showcases rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. Check what's on before you go, as galleries occasionally close between shows.

Angelina Eberly Statue
Congress Ave & E 7th St, Austin, TX 78701
This quirky bronze statue depicts the cannon-firing innkeeper who helped keep Austin the capital of Texas during the 1842 Archives War. A quick but memorable stop, it's a perfect spot for a fun photo and a dose of local legend.

The Driskill
604 Brazos St, Austin, TX 78701
A Romanesque landmark from 1886, the Driskill offers a glimpse into Texas's Gilded Age. With a stained-glass dome, marble columns, and a storied bar, it remains one of Austin's most elegant gathering spots.

Mexic-Arte Museum
419 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
A vibrant museum dedicated to Mexican, Latinx, and Latin American art and culture. The bold exterior murals invite you in, while the rotating exhibits feature everything from traditional folk pieces to contemporary installations.

Austin Central Library
710 W Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
This award-winning modern library features a rooftop butterfly garden, a light-filled interior, and views over Shoal Creek and Lady Bird Lake. Stop by for a quiet moment on the rooftop terrace or a coffee at the ground-floor café.

Zilker Metropolitan Park
2207 Lou Neff Rd, Austin, TX 78746
End your walk at Zilker Park, Austin's beloved green space. Spanning roughly 350 acres, it's home to Barton Springs Pool, open lawns, and trails along Lady Bird Lake. Whether you picnic on the grass or watch kayakers paddle by, Zilker offers a peaceful end to your downtown adventure.