Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive, Austin Travel Guide

5 (1)

Discover the historical charm of the Moon Tower in Austin, an iconic 19th-century landmark that illuminates the city's unique heritage and vibrant culture.

Home
Travel Guides
Texas
Austin
Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive

Nestled in the vibrant South River City area of Austin, the Moon Tower stands as a captivating historical landmark. This unique structure, one of the only remaining moonlight towers in the U.S., offers visitors a glimpse into 19th-century innovation and local lore. It's not just a tower; it's a piece of Austin's heart, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick photo opportunity.

A brief summary to Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive

517 Leland St, Austin, South River City, Texas, 78704, US

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive.

Visit during sunset for a picturesque view of the tower against the evening sky.
Bring your camera; the area around the tower is great for photography.
Explore the nearby cafes and shops for a taste of local Austin culture.
Check out local events happening in the area, as they often enhance the visit.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Cathedral of Junk

Neill-Cochran House Museum

Texas Capitol

Mt Bonnell

Museum of the Weird

Explore Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive, mapped for you.

Getting There

Public Transportation

If you're near downtown Austin, head to the nearest Capital Metro bus stop. Take the MetroBus Route 3 (Burnet/Duval) towards the South Congress area. Get off at the stop at South Congress Avenue and Oltorf Street. From there, transfer to Route 20 (Cesar Chavez) towards the Eastside. Get off at the stop at Leland Street. Walk east on Leland Street for about 5 minutes, and you'll arrive at the Moon Tower located at 517 Leland St.
Bicycle

If you're comfortable biking, rent a bike from one of the many bike-sharing stations around downtown Austin. Head south on South 1st Street and continue straight until you reach Oltorf Street. Turn left on Oltorf Street, then a quick right onto Leland Street. Follow Leland Street until you reach the intersection with Eastside Drive, where the Moon Tower is located at 517 Leland St. It's about a 15-minute ride from downtown.
Walking

If you're staying nearby, you can walk to the Moon Tower. From downtown Austin, head south on South 1st Street, and continue straight until you reach Oltorf Street. Turn left on Oltorf Street, then walk until you see Leland Street. Turn right onto Leland Street and walk east for about 10 minutes. The Moon Tower will be on your left at 517 Leland St.
Rideshare

You can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply open the app and set your destination to 517 Leland St, Austin, TX 78704. The driver will take you directly to the Moon Tower. This is a convenient option if you're carrying heavy items or are coming from a location farther away.

Discover more about Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive

The Moon Tower, located in the lively South River City neighborhood of Austin, is a remarkable historical landmark that draws visitors with its distinctive charm and rich history. Built in the late 19th century, this iconic structure is one of the few remaining moonlight towers in the United States, originally designed to illuminate the streets of Austin during the night. Standing tall at 165 feet, the tower is a striking example of Victorian architecture and engineering, showcasing the ingenuity of its time. As you visit, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship that went into its construction, and imagine the nights when it brightly lit up the streets below. The tower not only serves as a fascinating relic of the past but also as a beloved fixture within the community. It has become a popular spot for both locals and tourists, with many visitors stopping by to snap photographs or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this historic site. The surrounding neighborhood offers a vibrant mix of culture, art, and cuisine, making it an ideal destination to explore before or after your visit. Whether you're interested in local shops, cafes, or parks, the area is teeming with options that reflect Austin's eclectic spirit. The Moon Tower is a must-see for anyone interested in history, architecture, or simply wishing to experience the unique character of Austin. As you stroll around, keep an eye out for various public art pieces and lively murals that adorn the streets. The charm of the Moon Tower, combined with the dynamic energy of South River City, creates a delightful experience that captures the essence of Austin's rich heritage.