What is The University of Texas Tower and what is it used for?

The University of Texas Tower, also known as the Main Building, is a 307-foot-tall landmark located at the center of the UT Austin campus. It houses the university's administration and library, featuring grand reading rooms that surround the library stacks.

Who designed the UT Tower and when was it built?

The Tower was designed by architect Paul Philippe Cret in a "New Classicism" style. Construction on the landmark began in 1934 and was completed in 1937.

Why does the Tower light up?

The Tower is used to convey sports wins and other special occasions. For example, it was lit with a "75" window display in 2012 to celebrate its 75th anniversary.

Can you visit the observation deck?

Yes, but access is limited. After closing in 1975 due to a mass shooting and subsequent suicides, the observation deck reopened to the public in 1999 exclusively via appointment-guided tours.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

The University of Texas Tower in Austin

The University of Texas Tower

Rising 307 feet at the heart of the University of Texas campus, the iconic UT Tower is a New Classicist masterpiece designed by Paul Philippe Cret, serving as a historic symbol of academic ambition and triumph.

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What to know

The University of Texas Tower, officially known as the Main Building, stands at the center of the campus on the very grassy hill where the university's opening ceremony originally took place. Designed by renowned architect Paul Philippe Cret in a style he termed "New Classicism," the tower was built between 1934 and 1937. Funding for the project was aided by a $1.6 million New Deal grant. Standing 307 feet tall with 27 floors, the Tower was designed to surpass the Texas Capitol, which was Austin's tallest building at the time at 302.6 feet. Originally designed to serve as the university's main library and administrative hub, the Tower houses grand reading rooms surrounding the library stacks. On the south façade of the Main Building, visitors can read an inspiring inscription from the Gospel of John (8:32): "Ye shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." Inside, the building also houses complex clock machinery and a carillon, which is a set of bells played via a specialized keyboard. The Tower's history is also marked by a dark chapter. On August 1, 1966, Charles Whitman opened fire from the tower's observation deck, killing 15 people and injuring 31 before being stopped by police officers and a university co-op manager. Following this tragedy and subsequent suicides, the observation deck was permanently closed in 1975, though it eventually reopened in 1999 for appointment-guided tours. In more recent history, the Tower and its lawn served as the focal point for a peaceful demonstration over the Gaza war on April 24, 2024. Today, the Tower remains the university's most iconic landmark and a unifying symbol for both UT and the city of Austin. It is famously lit up to celebrate sports wins, milestones like its 75th anniversary in 2012, and other special occasions. To preserve its legacy, the UT System Board of Regents approved a $70 million multiyear exterior restoration project, which is expected to be completed in 2027.

Visitor tips

To see the observation deck, look for appointment-guided tours, as general public access has been restricted since 1975.
Expect to see scaffolding or construction work through 2027 due to an ongoing $70 million exterior restoration project.
Walk to the south façade of the Main Building to read the famous John 8:32 inscription about truth and freedom.

Nearby context

Located at the heart of the "Forty Acres" campus in Downtown Austin, the UT Tower is surrounded by historic university landmarks. Just steps away, walkers can explore the historic Victorian-style Littlefield House and the classic academic buildings of The Six Pack. This central campus area blends vibrant student life with deep Texas history, making it a perfect neighborhood to explore on foot.

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