I stopped by the Texas State Cemetery on a Thursday afternoon in mid May. The weather was just starting to warm up, but hadn't quite crossed into "Texas hot" yet. Fred greeted me at the gate along with another staff member and immediately made me feel welcome. He asked if I was meeting anyone, looking for someone specific, or if there was anything in particular I wanted to see. What followed was one of the most unexpectedly meaningful experiences I've had in Austin. Calling what Fred did a "tour" honestly feels too shallow. He walked me through the grounds like a historian and storyteller preserving something important. He shared stories about the people buried there, explained the architecture and monuments, and had an unbelievable depth of knowledge about Texas history. But more than that, he knew how to read the moment. He knew when to pause and let you take it all in. He knew when to speak, when to move on, and somehow seemed to anticipate my questions before I even asked them. Fred was not only incredibly knowledgeable, but genuinely funny, engaging, and an amazing ambassador for the cemetery and for Texas history itself. You could tell he truly cared about preserving the stories behind the names. A cemetery may seem like an unusual destination to some people, but I see it as a place of remembrance, sacrifice, service, and history. Visiting here, especially after also seeing the Alamo, helps you understand the absolute, unmistakable pride Texans have in their state. There's just no question about it. One detail I especially appreciated was learning that the visitor center was intentionally designed to resemble the Long Barracks at the Alamo. It was a subtle but powerful connection between two places dedicated to preserving Texas history and identity. If you appreciate history, storytelling, or quiet places that make you reflect a little deeper, this is absolutely worth visiting. read more

Nice cemetery, no geese poop. Paved trails for a nice short walk. But would not want to be buried here unless I can get a stone that says fajita king read more

Texas State Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Such a beautiful place! It's so calm and peaceful! The gentleman that helped me find Chris Kyle's gravesite was very nice and patient. He didn't just tell me where to go, we walked me to the grave itself. Love seeing such a beautiful cemetery honor the men and women who gave their lives for our country read more

Texas State Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Austin, Texas

This cemetery is about a 1,000 foot walk from my apartment and it makes for an amazing place to explore. It's got more of a park feel to it and is very relaxing and calming. Lots of well-known folks at rest here from sports figures to politicians and more. Barbara Jordan, Stephen Austin, The Fajita King, John Connally, Ann Richard's, and Sarah Weddington are just a few people that led ground-breaking lives and contributed to the rich history of Texas and our country. read more

Beautiful grounds, that are impeccably kept. Unfortunately, we arrived and were told we needed to leave within 15 minutes because there was a service coming in. We recommend checking their website before visiting! https://cemetery.texas.gov/plan-your-visit/rules-and-regulations read more

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This was my first visit to a cemetery as a vacation attraction. The groundskeeper kindly gave me directions on my tour map near the Visitor Center. As I began walking into the cemetery, the Cemetery Director offered to accompany me and wove a beautiful story of TX history. "Lieutenant Governor Bob Bullock led a renovation and restoration project of the Texas State Cemetery in Austin, Texas in the 1990s." The grounds are well maintained. The shortest TX state highway runs the full length of the cemetery. Over 2000 Confederate soldiers are laid to rest here. "A cenotaph is a tomb or monument erected in honor of a person or group of persons whose remains are elsewhere." The tour map denotes it. Tom Landry, Dallas Cowboys Coach, WW II Veteran, William "Bill" Picket-Pro Rodeo Hall of Fame & Bulldogger, "Old Yeller" Author- Fred Gipson, Stephen F. Austin, Joanna Troutman-Betsy Ross of TX,--created a unique statue of a general housed inside a steel structure. Dr James "Red"Duke-Surgeon and Medical Educator to name a few. I'm glad I made the decision to visit. There is free limited parking along the entrance and free admission. Please see website for detailed information. read more

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Texas State Cemetery has so many famous people buried that had a huge impact on the great State of Texas. The ones that stood out were Chris Kyle, a war hero and known for being the American Sniper. Others were Stephen F. Austin, a Confederate General, State Governors, Musicians, Lawyers and Educators. read more

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What started off as a means to pass the time turned into a beautiful walk and some education about Texas history. The entrance to the cemetery is on Navasota St where there is also ample parking. If you want you can also drive through the cemetery via one of the entrances on E 11th St or Comal St. My first thoughts of the cemetery were that it was huge, clean, and quiet. There is also a visitors center. You can call to schedule a free group tour if you'd like but if not you can also just grab a map (or go on the map on your phone) and walk around. This cemetery houses the tombstones of many prominent Texans including but definitely not limited to Stephen F. Austin (the "Father of Texas"), Miriam Ferguson (the first female governor of Texas), Sarah Weddington (attorney for the landmark Roe v. Wade case), and many many more. They are all located at Republic Hill which is the most historic part of the cemetery. There is also a directory online where you can search for names and it'll tell you exactly where the person's tombstone is. The tombstones are huge because of course everything is bigger in Texas. Don't make this just a place to pass the time. Make this place a stop on your itinerary away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Take a beautiful peaceful stroll and learn more about the history of Texas and the people who make it what it is today. read more

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I love cemeteries.....history, architecture, nature, etc. Watched the video and then Nancy was so very kind to offer us on the spot a tour. So much great information. Please give her a huge thank you....she made my day! read more

This special Cemetery is beautifully maintained and is definitely worth a visit. There's much history here and tours are offered. Call or check the website. We lucked out and were treated to a tour based on Victorian burial practices (flowers were first used to disguise any smell as bodies were displayed in the home and they were not embalmed) ( just fyi). You do not have to be part of a tour to enjoy Texas State Cemetery. i realize "enjoy" sounds inappropriate when talking about cemeteries, but if you're a Texan or a fan of Texas history, you'll discover many familiar, famous names on the elaborate headstones. Ann Richards, Stephen F. Austin, Jerry Jeff Walker, to name a few. read more

Texas State Cemetery - View from the visitors center - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Austin, Texas

Beautiful place to take my children to visit their grandfather. The grounds are maintained 100%, the landscaping is perfect and I'm truly happy that they take care of this special cemetery. During the funeral they closed down the cemetery and the staff was absolutely delightful to our family. Thank you. read more

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Final resting place of many key people in Texas history from Civil War to present. Grounds are well maintained. Easy to walk through. The area designed as a garden. Peaceful place to clear the mind. Well worth the visit. read more

Well kept cemetery. Can be inconvenient if big bull dozer trucks are on the driving path blocking main entrance way to get to actual cemetery plots being visited. I spent more time moving my vehicle than spending time visiting a family grave site. read more

Texas State Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The Texas State Cemetery was a much more impressive attraction than I originally anticipated. The grounds are a nice place to walk and reflect, and the small exhibition hall is the perfect refresher on Texas History before exploring the grounds. The highlight of my visit was the free tour (no reservations needed). My guide Trisha, a former teacher who's family has lived in Austin for at least 4 generations, was very friendly and knowledgeable. The guides stick to their fact-checked information, so the famous Texas tall tales are separated from biographical information. The state decided to rebury many famous people here, so there will definitely be recognizable names for everyone. The Texans buried here ranged from soldiers to writers to musicians. Some of the headstones are ornately designed, but the simplest, small white ones, I learned, indicate former Confederate soldiers, many of who's funerals the state arranged because nobody else would, and somebody had to. Its weird to have them in a place of honor, but I guess death is the great equalizer. I most enjoyed reflecting while sitting on the highest hill, near where the last man to walk on the moon chose to be buried. Lots of full lives have been lived in Texas, and hopefully mine will be one worth remembering. read more

I see dead people... Yes, this really is a cemetery but it has a lot more to offer you than a final resting place. Here you will find amazing stories about early Texans along with manicured grounds, gorgeous flowers, a lovely meandering stream and a visitor's center. Each year, thousands of visitors come through the gates seeking information about Texas history or a confederate soldier ancestor. If you visit, here are a few examples of whom and what you will find: -2200 confederate soldiers and their spouses -Bob Bullock -Barbara Jordan -Ann Richards -Stephen F. Austin -General Albert Sidney Johnston - buried under an ornate Gothic chapel designed by Elisabet Ney -James Frank Dobie - famed Texas author and scholar -Highway 165 - shortest highway in Texas runs through the cemetery -Monument dedicated to Gold Star Mothers who have lost sons or daughters in combat -9/11 Monument Ask the staff for a tour (free to the public) and learn about the historic Texan who was completely scalped and lived only to die years later when he bumped his head on a doorway. See the huge monument dedicated to hundreds of 14 - 18 year old Tennessee native sons who came to fight and die for Texas independence. Soon, the visitor's center will be completely redesigned with interactive displays and flat screen televisions depicting Texas history. Hours are strictly enforced from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. Disclaimer: Friends work here. They are among the living. read more

Visiting cemeteries that is not the resting place of your loved one/s may sound macabre. However, I think it is a god place to learn more about history. The individuals who call cemeteries home have their own interesting stories, but in a state cemetery, the stories are even more interesting since their stories influenced the course of history in the state of Texas. When we went to Austin, we made sure to add the Texas State Cemetery to our itinerary. Even though we had to be very smart with our time, we did not regret allocating an hour here. Prominent Texans call the Texas State Cemetery, and the head phones provided by the office for a guided tour of the grounds. We learnt about Joanna Troutman (the Betsy Ross of Texas), Albert Sidney Johnston, Three Legged Willie, and other notable Texans. The grounds are well-maintained and peaceful, although the cemetery is by no means in an isolated area. The shortest highway in Texas is also in the grounds. It really was a beautiful place to take an hour of your day to pay respects to the inhabitants of this cemetery. When in Austin, I think that Texas State Cemetery is a worthwhile visit. Spend an hour or two and get to know Texas history. read more

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Stop at the Visitor's Center and pick up an Audio Tour wand to rent for free. Take a pamphlet and lead yourself on a little tour and learn about the cemetery and who is buried there. Interesting fact: There is a state highway that runs through the middle of the cemetery! At first I had a difficult time navigating the map and finding the tombstones. Eventually I realized that the rows were labeled throughout and corresponded with numbers on the pamphlet. The place was large, pretty and well maintained. The staff was friendly. Be sure to learn about Josiah Wilbarger. He has quite the interesting story!! read more

It's been several years since we visited this beautiful awe inspiring, historical memorial. If you love Texas history, this has to be on your bucket list. Remember the movie Charlie Wilson's War? Yep, he's here. Tom Landry? He's not buried here but there is a memorial for him, deservedly so. Great place to pay your respects to a lot of people who made this such a great state, fallen warriors from as far back as the war for Texas's independence...up until the present. Look for three legged Willie's grave marker, I got interested in him when we ate at a burger joint named after him by the Georgetown square...it's not there any more. read more

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Beautiful, well-kept grounds. Tucked away in East Austin. The place is quiet and the crowd was pretty dead.. . But really, it's beautiful and all the headstones are gorgeous. read more

This was an odd pick in my Austin "must see" list, but we figured we should check it out after a delicious lunch at Franklin BBQ nearby. Parking was easy too (plenty of street parking). Coming here was definitely a pleasant surprise! This was a beautiful cemetery to visit. It is large, well maintained, and full of history. Those who are laid to rest here are mostly government officials and those who have contributed to the history of Texas. It was amazing to see the many graves of the Confederate veterans and their widows, as well as the grave of Chris Kyle (American Sniper). There is a visitors center, which includes a screening with general information about the cemetery. It goes over a map of the cemetery, some of the people laid to rest here, their eligibility requirements, and more. It is definitely an eye opening experience to visit here, not only to see how beautiful the cemetery is, but to also know the people laid to rest here, learn how they contributed to the history of Texas, and to pay respects. read more

The Texas State Cemetery provides a tranquil tree shaded respite from the bustle of the city. Walking through the grounds provides you with an outdoor state history lesson. To be eligible for burial here you must meet a certain criteria (such as state official, member of the legislature, or a person of importance to Texas approved by committee). At the top of monument hill is a beautiful cityscape view of Austin. There are several beautiful monuments on the grounds, one of which is in memory of 9-11 and includes two unaltered steel columns from ground zero. I also believe I found two sculptures of Texas artist Damian Priour. The grounds are well kept, and the sound of flowing water from the pond adds to the peacefulness of the site. I found the over 2,000 white stones marking the Confederate fields moving. Beginning in the 1880's over 2,000 Confederate veterans and their wives were buried here, and most had lived in the Austin state Confederate homes at the time. There is a visitor center on the grounds open M-F from 8am-5pm. read more

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Wait? Why did I save my 100th review for a cemetery? I am a total taphophile, that's why. I love cemeteries. There is a certain amount of solitude that you find in cemeteries that you don't find anywhere else. This cemetery is a fun and fabulous cemetery which is very much a museum dedicated to the history of this great state. I remember coming here as a kid and learning about the various people interred in the grounds. Speaking of kids, I know it sounds morbid, but taking kids here is a fun way for them to learn history- or if they're currently taking Texas history in school, take them here and they'll probably find quite a few of the individuals talked about. I think this helps children allieviate fears of cemeteries early on- so they don't get flipped out about them later in life (cemeteries are nothing to worry about!). The headstones feature a wide variety of architecture, reliefs, and epitaphs. So it is like an art museum and history museum all rolled into one bundle... and admission is free. While this isn't my favorite cemetery in the state, it is my favorite in Austin- and definitely worth the visit if you've even ever thought about giving it a go. Bring your camera (rubbings are a no-no at this cemetery due to extensive restoration) and snap away at the beautiful gravesites. If you have no idea who any of the people burried in the cemetery are, you can always take a look at the website beforehand. There's a self-guided audio tour you can download from to your iPod to assist you in learning something new (or you can just have it in your ears while you impress your friends/children). So get out there and learn something new today. read more

I was quite pleased with myself when I realized the best category for this review is "active life, parks". I was getting at a parks/things to do when you want to walk around outside category, but I thought it was funny that active life fit the cemetery review... Anyway! This is a smallish, very well run park. I call it a park because it has all the elements: nice grass, little hills, meandering pathways leading to small gardens. Park. Not the most beautiful cemetery I've been to by far, but it is cool to see which famous (at least famous to Austinites) people buried are here. The big one I remember is Steven Austin. There is also a famous civil rights leader, football coach and various military "founders" of Austin buried here. It's just a nice way to spend a beautiful day walking along, pointing out interesting gravestones, enjoying the quiet surroundings and big trees. I like to come here when I want to relax and be outside in East Austin, but I only have a short time. You can walk the cemetery in 15 minutes, but could also wander around for an hour. I've been there 3 times, and I've only seen one other visitor there during those times. It does close at 5 pm. People think cemeteries are depressing, or a way of fetishizing the dead. Not to get philosophical but I think that enjoying a beautiful park and remembering all the lives that are connected there is a nice way to be outside and enjoy "active life". It doesn't have to be about dead people, it can just be about remembering that your town is much more than you and the person standing next to you. This cemetery in particular is also a perfect compromise if you have a walking partner/boyfriend who doesn't really want to go on a walk with you, but knows that this place is pretty cool and it will only take 20 minutes. read more

Beautiful grounds to walk off your food and appreciate those who've passed. read more

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Sounds really morbid, but it's actually quite historical. Take a stroll (or a 10mph drive) through the beautifully manicured grounds. Check out Stephen F. Austin's monument, along with many other prestigious figures. If you're a Dallas Cowboy's fan, don't miss Tom Landry's head stone... it's got a big star on it too!! There is a monument that remembers the 9/11 casualties, with two large metal pillars that were taken from the rubble at ground zero. It's powerful stuff and a great lesson to teach our children. On the grounds, you can enjoy a few small bridges that help you over a small babbling brook that runs through the middle of the cemetery. This is definitely a must see if you're an Austinite and have never been. It's also great to bring the grandparents to for some cultural history. read more

This was a beautiful place to visit and see the art of some of the headstones as well as the memorial to 911. One interesting observation was the lack of non white graves. read more

Gorgeous cemetery. Beautiful outlay and organization. I loved the 9-11 memorial. So beautiful. I really enjoyed walking around in peace while remembering those that have passed. read more

Texas State Cemetery - Funeral Services & Cemeteries Near Me - Austin, Texas

Even if you only have 10 minutes, stop in and visit the 9-11 memorial. But do try to spend some quality time here, it is a beautiful monument to Texas pride and independence. I just wish I could visit at dawn, but the don't open till 8:00 am. read more

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A great place to mingle with the dead. First established in 1851, this is by far one of the more beautiful cemeteries I've seen. It's really cool to be among all the dead people who have helped to make Texas famous. That list of people includes Governor's, Lt Governor's, Confederates, Revolutionists, Rangers, First Ladies, and, more. A lot of the monuments are quite impressive, such as Stephen F. Austin's, and, the War Memorials, along with the 911 memorial that is made of metal taken from ground zero. But don't stop there, venture on and take the time to read. You will learn some interesting history about Texas. This is more like a museum and cemetery combined. The grounds are well manicured, and, there is a beautiful man made stream coursing through it that accents the scenery and trees. I love to come here and bask in all the beauty and serenity that this cemetery has to offer. You can do a self paced tour or join one of their tours. Please remember to be quiet and respect the dead, otherwise, they'll get you!! read more

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I was here to see the funeral of Navy Seal Sniper Chris Kyle. Very beautiful ceremony and the presence of the military there gave the event a powerful feeling that is almost overwhelming! The landscaping and overall design of the green is amazing! read more

Really a beautiful and lovely place. We were surprised at how affecting it was. The Sept. 11 memorial is really moving and the grounds are well kept. The thoughtfulness of the cemetery is evident in the famous quotes engraved in rocks, the lists of Native American chiefs who lead in Texas territories, the Confederate fields and landscaping. To be surrounded by so many influential Texans is like walking through history. I highly recommend downloading the podcast tour to listen to as you walk through the cemetery. The stories are very interesting and include information not in the printable guide. read more

Definately a must see, must do place, especially to teach kids a history lesson. Every person,and memorial is done proudly and very fitting. everything is free : The Chis Kyle monument is not erected yet, but is still haalowed grounds. The onument to Austin, and Barbara Jordan a removing. Memorials to 9/11and Texas Medal of Honor recipients are we'll done. A free audio tour is available, as well as a nicely done museum. ô read more

Beautiful in a somber way, but there is a certain level of peace when one wanders through here. The Monument Hill offers a good view of the cemetery and a bit of downtown. read more

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Amazing history here of some of the greatest Texans. Came here for the Texas Independence Day memorial. After a great little service honoring those who fought and died for Texas Independence. After, they gave a tour of some of the more recognized names. read more

Cool place. I didn't know that Tom Landry cenotaph was placed there. Pretty cool to see. There is also a nice 9-11 memorial. Nice day trip to learn about Austin history. read more

I'm a big fan of cemeteries, and this place ranks high on my list. If you have time while you are in Austin for SXSW, the Rodeo, ACL or the Republic of Texas bike rally, spend a couple of hours here. I won't re list all the highlights, you can see them in the other reviews, but here you will find the shortest state highway and the beautiful sarcophagus of Albert Sydney Johnston. Worth a trip, believe me. You can even go to lunch at the nearby Colombia restaurant. read more

What a beautiful space. It was great to see the historic and ornately decorated tombstones of some of the state's most historic figures. The grounds are very well taken care of and the more influential figures are on a slop so as to look over the dozens of smaller tombstones of soldiers who died in the Civil War. I took a lot of photos, but probably my favorite subject was a fountain that was at the entrance of the space for the larger tombs. Compared to the rest of the grounds, this fountain seemed to have not been cleaned in years. There as bright green moss growing on it to where it hung over the top part and seemed to part of the water falling. The moss on the bottom part of the fountain was growing in a rippled pattern. Super cool. read more

Beautiful cemetery. Texas pride is a real thing here and there is no better way to illustrate it than through the people that made/make it great. The plot for Antonio Briones was especially interesting (Google it before you go, otherwise, you will probably miss it). read more

Beautifully laid out cemetery with many historical Texans. I like that the headstones tell the history of many of these people who have gone before us. read more

Amazing cemetery. We had a nice peaceful walk through it. I got to see and photograph a lot of nice looking graves. We saw tons of well known politicians' graves. Highly recommend! read more