10 Iconic Places Every True Austinite Will Instantly Recognize

Austin shimmers with gorgeous buildings and peaceful nature. If you've lived in this city for a while, then you'll be able to pick out these places instantly. These are 10 iconic places every true Austinite will instantly recognize.

1. The Texas State Capitol

Nothing looks as stunning as The Texas State Capitol's glistening rotunda dome and regal red granite. As the largest state capitol in the U.S, this majestic building conjures up an overwhelming amount of Texas pride.

2. The Bat Bridge

Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America, and 1.5 million of these little mammals flock under this bridge every year. The bats have become a kind of mascot for the city, and visitors love to watch them fly out from under the South Congress bridge at sunset.

3. The HOPE Outdoor Gallery

Not many cities can boast about a canvas this big. At the HOPE Outdoor Gallery on Baylor Street, art knows no bounds. Stroll by this massive graffiti park and watch it change by the hour.

4. Lady Bird Lake

Long-time Austinites still call this body of water "Town Lake," but no one can deny its supreme beauty. Whether you're enjoying its splendor while on a kayak or along the shore, these shimmering waters will relax your soul.

5. The Frost Bank Tower

Often referred to as the "Owl Building," The Frost Bank Tower is one of the city's most recognizable structures.

6. Barton Springs Pool

This refreshing spring-fed pool always feels great in the summertime. Jump off the diving board and make a splash into the 68 degree water. When it's 105 degrees outside, it's exactly what you need.

7. SoCo

South Congress Avenue, often called SoCo for short, has a plethora of restaurants, music venues, and quirky shops. Any Austinite could recognize the exterior of Lucy in Disguise with Diamonds from a mile away.

8. McKinney Falls

Austinites could spot McKinney Fall's gorgeous landscape in a heartbeat. This magnificent state park is perfect for hiking, camping, and relaxing.

9. The Cathedral of Junk

This home, made entirely out of found pieces, is like none other. There's no denying that this junkyard cathedral is doing its part to keep Austin weird.

10. Auditorium Shores

Standing as proud as ever, Stevie Ray Vaughan's statue sits along the shores of Lady Bird Lake and overlooks the glistening skyline. Auditorium Shores, full of hiking trails and picnic spots, is one of the city's most iconic places.

What's your favorite iconic Austin place?