Austin, Texas / History
Texas State Cemetery
Often called the 'Arlington of Texas,' the historic Texas State Cemetery spans 22 acres just east of downtown Austin, serving as the final resting place for legendary Texas figures, governors, and cultural icons.
What is the Texas State Cemetery and what is it known for?
The Texas State Cemetery is a historic cemetery and popular tourist attraction colloquially referred to as the "Arlington of Texas." It serves as the final resting place for prominent Texans and their spouses, having originally begun as the burial place of Texas Revolutionary general Edward Burleson.
Where is the Texas State Cemetery located?
The cemetery is located on about 22 acres just east of downtown Austin. Its physical address is 909 Navasota St., Austin, TX 78702.
What are the visiting hours for the cemetery?
The cemetery is open to visitors Monday through Sunday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
What should I check before going?
Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.
What to know
Located at 909 Navasota St., just east of downtown Austin, the Texas State Cemetery is a historic 22-acre property dedicated to honoring the state's most notable figures. The cemetery's history began as the final resting place of Edward Burleson, a celebrated Texas Revolutionary general and vice-president of the Republic of Texas. During the American Civil War, the grounds were expanded to serve as a Confederate cemetery. Over the decades, the site expanded its scope significantly. Today, it serves as the final resting place and memorial site for prominent Texans and their spouses, featuring both graves and cenotaphs. Because of the high renown of those interred here and its close proximity to the state's seat of government, the cemetery is colloquially referred to as the 'Arlington of Texas.' Managed with resources from the Texas State Preservation Board, the cemetery has evolved into a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the beautifully landscaped, rolling grounds, which offer a quiet, contemplative escape from the bustling city center. The property is open to the public daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, allowing walkers to wander among the monuments and reflect on the diverse stories of the people who shaped Texas history. As you walk the pathways, you will encounter monuments dedicated to political leaders, cultural pioneers, and historical figures. The cemetery acts as an outdoor museum of Texas history, where the state's complex past is etched into stone. It provides a peaceful sanctuary that contrasts with the surrounding urban landscape, making it a unique stop for anyone interested in the heritage of the Lone Star State.
Visitor tips
- Plan your visit between the official hours of 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, Monday through Sunday.
- Enter the cemetery grounds at 909 Navasota St. to begin your self-guided walking tour.
- Check the Texas State Preservation Board's official website or video resources for visitor information before arriving.
Nearby context
Located just east of downtown Austin, the Texas State Cemetery sits in a vibrant historic neighborhood. After a quiet walk through the cemetery's 22 acres, you can head nearby to grab some legendary Texas barbecue at Micklethwait Craft Meats, a popular local restaurant just a short distance away. This mix of rich state history and iconic culinary spots makes the East Austin area a fantastic neighborhood to explore on foot.
Sources
Evidence and links
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Texas State Cemetery - Austin, TX
909 Navasota St. Austin, TX 78702
austintexas.org -
Texas State Cemetery Video - SPB
Visitors Hours and Contact
tspb.texas.gov -
Texas State Cemetery - Wikipedia
The Texas State Cemetery (TSC) is a cemetery located on about 22 acres (8.9 ha) just east of downtown Austin, the capital of the U.S. state…
en.wikipedia.org