Famous Austin Architecture The Capitol & Driskill Hotel
by
Dave Jenkins
Despite its fast-paced growth, Austin, TX has managed to gracefully combine the old with the new in terms of city planning and architecture. People migrating to Austin from all over the country have created the need for modern living options such as downtown lofts and condos. However, Austin continues to value and preserve the classic architecture that gives it such great character. Two examples of this are the Texas State Capitol and Driskill Hotel, two historic landmarks that receive visitors year round.
The Texas State Capitol in downtown Austin is among the nation’s most recognizable structures and is 308 feet tall, making it one of the highest points in the city. It has the greatest square footage of any state capitol and is second in size only to the National Capitol in Washington, D.C. Voted the number-one state capitol by the American Institute of Architects in 2008, it is a prime example of late 19th century public architecture design. The building‘s cornerstone was laid on March 2, 1885, Texas Independence Day, and the building was opened to the public on April 21, 1888, San Jacinto Day.
The Texas State Capitol is the site of annual events such as the Capitol Christmas tree lighting and holiday sing-a-long, and the Texas Book Festival. It is open to the public on weekdays from 7am to 10pm and on weekends from 9am to 8pm. 45-minute Capitol tours are conducted daily, except on major national holidays
Another historic building, The Driskill Hotel, is located in the heart of downtown Austin. It is the oldest operating hotel in Austin. The Driskill was opened in 1886, making it the oldest operating hotel in Austin. The Romanesque-style building is located on 6th street in downtown Austin. It features 189 guest rooms including several deluxe suites featuring classic decor.
The hotel is known for its classic elegance, featuring a balcony overlooking downtown and a large, open rotunda that sits under a domed skylight. The Driskill also features two restaurants, bridal suites, and a grand ballroom where elegant gatherings often take place.
President Lyndon B. Johnson made the hotel his campaign headquarters during his congressional career and is said to have watched the 1964 presidential election results from what is now the Presidential Suite. Several actors and politicians have also stayed at the Driskill during their stay in Austin.
Downtown Austin is quickly becoming one of the most unique places to live in the US, seamlessly combining modern & traditional architecture, with a laid-back feel that is distinctively Austin. New homes are sprouting up nearby the Austin Capitol each day, in the form of high-rise condos and houses.
Dave is a writer/blogger from Austin, TX, a great place to experience arts and culture. To learn more living in Austin take a look at take a look at
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