DOWNTOWN. Built around 1856, this Greek Revival mansion is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This grand structure has served as home to Texas governors since its construction. It boasts 29-foot fluted columns with Greek ionic capitals along its roof line, and its interior is filled with priceless antiques and works of art. Tours are extremely entertaining, and afford tourists a behind-the-scenes look at the history of Texas politics. Advance reservations and a photo ID are required.

DOWNTOWN. Housed in this museum is memorabilia relating to short-story writer William Sydney Porter, who lived in Austin and took the <i>nom de plume</i>, O. Henry. The cottage in which Porter lived appears much as it did during the time he spent here from 1893 to 1895. Writing workshops are offered regularly for folks who want to hone or develop their creative skills. N.B. Guests to the home are asked to wear flat, soft-soled shoes to protect the interior.

CONGRESS AVENUE. The historic State and Paramount Theaters merged in 2000, forming the Austin Theatre Alliance. The Paramount shows films in addition to staging plays and concerts, while the State features drama, dance, comedy, and music productions. Both venues have interesting histories and beautiful period details that can be best appreciated by attending a performance.

DOWNTOWN. A grand, red-granite edifice befitting the Lone Star state, this building was completed in 1888 in Renaissance Revival style. The nation's largest state capitol, Austin's landmark can be seen from throughout the city, and its visual prominence is protected by law. Named to the National Register of Historic Places, the structure also offers lovely grounds and, thanks to major expansions in 1993, still houses a host of government offices. The Texas Capitol Visitors Center is located on the grounds at 112 E 11th Street in a castle-like building dating to 1857.

UNIVERSITY AREA. This 307-foot Spanish Renaissance landmark at the heart of campus has four clock faces (each measuring 12 feet in diameter) and chimes on the quarter-hour and hour. After some three decades and following renovations, the Tower's observation deck has been reopened to visitors who want to catch a terrific glimpse of Austin. Previously, the Tower had been closed to thwart attempted suicides and out of respect for those people who were killed by a Tower-ensconced sniper in 1966. Barriers and metal detectors are now installed.