Summary
- Downtown El Paso, with its Spanish mission architecture and art museums, is a must-visit for history buffs exploring Texas.
- Downtown Clifton embraces its Norwegian heritage, showcasing it through historic limestone buildings and an annual Norwegian Country Christmas Tour.
- Downtown McKinney is a charming mix of old and new, with preserved historic buildings hosting museums, unique shops, and quaint restaurants.
Texas remains a crowning jewel for travelers with its small towns and quaint cities that unfold the Lone Star State’s humble beginnings and its brawl to obtain independence from Mexico. Today, the Lone Star State gleams with legendary Texan culture, freedom, and a rich history.
Behind its tough past, this state is filled with tons of beautiful historic downtowns—from small towns to large cities, each of which can be considered one of the many unique places to visit in Texas for history buffs.
From downtown Houston to the oldest town of Nacogdoches, Texas has so much to offer that’s waiting to be explored to experience the authentic Texan culture and heritage. Here are a number of the must-visit historic downtowns in Texas!
10
Downtown El Paso
Founded in 1852, this downtown is rich in Hispanic heritage and glorious views of the Franklin Mountains
A view of El Paso, Texas, USA, at night
One of the best historic downtown areas in Texas is Downtown El Paso, known for its Spanish Mission architecture and art museums filled with the masterpieces of early European artists. Travelers can stroll the lively downtown and check out the El Paso Museum of Art to see these artworks (seeing this museum is actually one of the favorite things to do in El Paso).
Globetrotters can also immerse themselves in the lively streets of the Sun City, featuring casual restaurants, bars, chic shops, and historic hotels, including Hotel Paso del Norte, which graces El Paso with its European Beaux-Arts architecture. The Paseo de las Luces is one notable spot downtown, surrounded by open-air shops and restaurants in historic buildings with murals that light up the Sun City’s charm and vibrant culture. The 1914 Alhambra Theatre and the 1926 Cortez Building also added to the downtown area’s rich history.
- Date Founded: 1852
- Best Time to Visit: March to May, September to November
- Top Attractions: Hotel Paso del Norte, Cortez Building, Alhambra Theatre, One San Jacinto Plaza
The third-tallest skyscraper in El Paso, One San Jacinto Plaza, also known as La Plaza de Los Lagartos, is the Sun City’s heartbeat for its exciting and lively activities and is a favorite hangout spot among locals and tourists, especially at night.
9
Downtown Clifton
In the winter of 1852, Norwegian immigrants founded Clifton, which continues to thrive
Downtown Clifton, Texas, TX, USA
Tucked away in the rows of historic buildings that can be dated back to the 1880s and early 1900s, Downtown Clifton is a mosaic of glorious arts and culture that can be seen throughout the historic district. Larger-than-life murals, sculptures, and rotating artworks highlight the downtown area’s Art Alley and the L. A. Thompson Gallery of Fine Art.
Their Norwegian roots are still honored, which can be seen in its original limestone buildings, and the annual Norwegian Country Christmas Tour in December, showcasing Norwegian crafts and tours that tell Clifton’s storied past, is a testament to Clifton’s rich Norwegian history. The 1895 Old Mercantile Building and the 1916 Cliftex Theatre define the city’s unfailing history and culture.
Cliftex Theatre is the oldest movie theater in Texas that has been in operation since it opened in 1916.
8
Downtown McKinney
Lovingly preserved historic buildings make up its rich history from its humble beginnings in 1848
Historic Downtown Mckinney in Texas, USA
The historic Downtown McKinney is a beautiful mixture of old and new vibe without losing its rich history and cultural heritage. From its humble beginnings in 1848, Downtown McKinney is the heart of a thriving commercial district that houses museums, art galleries, unique shops, quaint restaurants, and hip bars.
History buffs can find interesting facts about the entire Collin County at the Collin County History Museum, which is housed in a beautifully preserved 1911 Federal-style building. Travelers can find themselves trying out some delicious locally-made goodies and fresh produce at McKinney Farmers Market in the Chestnut Square Heritage Village. Art enthusiasts will also love the McKinney Performing Arts Center in the historic 1875 Collin County Courthouse, which hosts Broadway musicals, live shows, and art festivals.
Throughout the centuries, McKinney never lost its charm and remains the home to one of the best downtowns in Texas.
7
Downtown Georgetown
Founded in 1848, Downtown Georgetown is buzzing with some of Texas’ Victorian-Era architecture
Downtown Georgetown Texas
The Red Poppy Capital of Texas, lovingly called G-Town, is notable for its Victorian-Era architecture, including the 1911 Williamson County Courthouse, which was added to the National Register of Historic Places, as well as the Old Williamson County Jail. Downtown Georgetown is famed for its Texas-Victorian streetscape, plastered with stucco exteriors and bricks, which were prevalent in the Victorian boom time.
The historic Palace Theater, the 1881 Grace Heritage Center, and the 1903 H.C. Craig Building are among the historic structures that travelers can see when strolling around Downtown Georgetown to experience its rich history. Visiting Georgetown in April also allows travelers to participate in the Red Poppy Festival, a three-day festival filled with live music, art, family-friendly activities, a grand parade, and all things cultural heritage. This is just one of the best things to do in Georgetown, the Texas heartland’s most underrated destination.
6
Downtown Waco
Founded in 1838, Downtown Waco was designated a State of Texas Cultural District in 2016
Aerial photo Downtown Waco Texas and Brazos River
Art galleries, museums, public art, festivals, live performances, quaint bars & restaurants, and a riverside farmer’s market make up Downtown Waco’s historic and cultural district. Located along the banks of the Brazos River, Downtown Waco beams with pride because of its eclectic and diverse district waiting to be explored.
One of the favorite things to do in Waco, particularly in the downtown area, is to take a trolley tour or visit the Magnolia Market at the Silos to check out some of the amazing chic and unique finds owned by HGTV show’s Fixer Upper stars Chip and Joanna Gaines. Travelers should also see Waco’s tallest skyscraper, the 1910 Beaux-Arts ALICO Building, which was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2012. Don’t forget to stop at the famous Dr Pepper Museum, either!
Everyone is also invited to buy some locally made products and fresh produce at the Waco Downtown Farmers Market.
5
Downtown Houston
Founded in 1836, vibrant public art and historic outdoor spots have defined the beauty of Downtown Houston
Downtown Houston city skyline over Root Square in Houston, Texas, USA
Downtown Houston is a hub for lively entertainment, diverse cuisines, public art, and historical spots that make up the city center’s storied past when the Allen Brothers explored the town in 1836. The historic district in the Space City attracts locals and many tourists from around the world, particularly the 1.76-acre Allen’s Landing on Buffalo Bayou where the Allen Brothers first stepped in.
The Old Square Market, where once the City Hall stood, is filled with eclectic bars and restaurants to get a taste of Houston. It’s also the spot for the Farmers Market, where local artisans gather together to sell their products. But among the most notable attractions in Downtown Houston are the larger-than-life murals that are scattered throughout the center and can be explored through a guided tour for a more detailed experience, which is one of the many excellent Houston activities for first-time visitors.
Discover more of Old Square Market’s beauty by exploring the beautiful garden, attending outdoor performances, or strolling the walkway arc to get to know more about Space City’s rich history and heritage.
4
Downtown Beaumont
A coastal destination gleaming with a vibrant lifestyle and a rich culture since its founding in 1835
Historic Crockett Street in Downtown Beaumont, Texas, USA
Located on the banks of the Neches River, Downtown Beaumont is the city’s historic business district and is home to museums and high-rise buildings that were added to the National Register of Historic District. Travelers can find themselves enjoying the vibrant lifestyle and culture on Crockett Street, which houses five restored historic buildings built in Neoclassical Revival and Italianate-style architecture. Surrounded by charming, casual restaurants and lively nightclubs, Crockett Street is Downtown Beaumont’s hub for entertainment.
The 1927 Jefferson Theatre is one of the oldest architecture in Downtown Beaumont, built in the Old Spanish style and was listed on the NHRP in 1968. It’s one of the important historical buildings in the area that remains in operation to this day. The Riverfront Park also receives great attention from locals and tourists for its relaxing atmosphere along the river with an amphitheater and hosts the annual celebration of the 4th of July.
3
Downtown Bastrop
Founded in 1804, this small-town charm offers over 130 buildings that were added to the National Register of Historic Places
Located along the banks of the Colorado River, the beautiful Downtown Bastrop is where history comes alive with its beaming and gorgeous brick-designed shops, restaurants, 19th-century architecture, locally made products, and beautiful art galleries. Its rich history and cultural heritage are still alive from its beginnings in 1804 when Spanish soldiers first founded the site. The Bastrop County Museum and Visitor Center holds all this historical information and is a recommended first-stop downtown.
The Bastrop 1832 Farmers Market is also a great spot downtown to discover artisanal products, fresh produce, and different kinds of locally made goodies to try and explore. More than 130 historic buildings in Bastrop were listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, hence the town’s pet name, “The Most Historic Small Town in Texas”. It’s one of the charming small towns in Texas that travelers should visit.
2
Downtown San Antonio
Founded in 1718 as a Spanish Mission and Outpost by the Spanish Franciscans
The River Walk in Downtown San Antonio, Texas, USA
Named after St. Anthony of Padua by the Spanish Franciscan priests who arrived in town to set up a settlement, San Antonio’s cultural heritage remains indelible throughout the centuries. In Downtown San Antonio, particularly The Alamo, is one of the Spanish Colonial styles in the city and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first in Texas.
History buffs will find many interesting facts about San Antonio’s storied past in the San Fernando Cathedral on Main Plaza, as well as the Spanish Governor’s Palace. The museums and theaters also make way for travelers to learn more about Alamo City’s rich history and culture.
Downtown San Antonio is filled with eclectic shops, public art, restaurants, and fun activities perfect for all types of travelers. But its most famous destination is the River Walk, a stunning walkway along the San Antonio River lined with vibrant shops, as well as the historic Spanish Colonial buildings. It’s one of the budget-friendly things to do in San Antonio and a fun way to experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.
1
Downtown Nacogdoches
Nacogdoches continues to thrive since its founding in 1716 with its rich history and beautifully preserved architecture
A view of downtown Nacogdoches, TX, Texas, USA
The charming red-brick streets, historic architecture, quaint local shops, and beautiful statues make up the oldest town in Texas a must-visit destination in the Lone Star State. Over the years, Downtown Nacogdoches has seen a renaissance and remains valuable for its rich history that the local government strives hard to maintain.
Travelers will love the touch-ups, including antique streetlights, hanging baskets, canopies, planters, finding signs, and many more that make Downtown Nacogdoches more tempting to visit and discover. The 1859 Old Nacogdoches University Building, a Greek Revival-style two-story brick building, is also a historical landmark worth visiting. It’s the only state-chartered structure in Texas that’s still standing and was admitted to the National Register of Historic Places in 1971.
