Austin has its fair share of history, but some of the most intriguing stories can be found between the walls of the city’s most haunted spaces. From benevolent spirits that watch over the residents at The University of Texas to mischievous souls that enjoy playing pranks at the bar, there are plenty of ghoulish dwellings around Austin that make it the perfect place to get into the holiday spirit.
Littlefield House
302 W 24th St | Website
This iconic Victorian home on The University of Texas’ campus looks just as haunted as it actually is. Home to Alice Littlefield, who lived there with her husband but no children, LFH and nearby Littlefield dorms are said to be haunted by Alice’s spirit. Some say she is imprisoned and wanders in agony, while others believe her to be a benevolent spirit that watches over the dorm’s residents.
Texas State Capitol
112 E 11th St | Website
Ghosts, orbs, and generally odd vibes seem to occupy the Texas Capitol building, including the spirit of Comptroller Robert Marshall Love who was shot at his desk by a former employee, William Hill, who he had recently fired. The infamous “Lady in Red” also haunts a secret stairwell in the building where she met her lover, who mysteriously has remained unnamed.
The Driskill
604 Brazos St | Website
Austin’s most well-known haunted building is The Driskill, home to so many spirits that the staff can provide a handout on them for guests to peruse. Civil War Colonel Jesse Driskill (the hotel’s namesake) and Peter J. Lawless (who can be seen checking his pocket watch when the elevator doors on the 5th floor open) are just a few.
Buffalo Billiards
201 E 6th St | Website
This famous Sixth Street bar dates back to 1861, when the building was a boarding house and brothel. Supernatural activity includes moving pool cues and glasses staff swears they’ve cleared from the bar. A ghost named Fred is said to haunt the billiard bar, while others have reported seeing a woman in white looking through the windows when the bar isn’t open.
The Texas Governor’s Mansion
1010 Colorado St
Though remodeled after a fairly recent fire, this building is one of the oldest executive residences in the United States and has been home to Sam Houston who was Governor of Texas prior to joining the Confederacy. It’s said that the ghost of a 19-year-old-man who shot himself after being rejected by the niece of Governor Pendleton Murrah haunts the halls of this home. He can be heard rattling windows, moaning, groaning, and turning doorknobs in the small guest room.
Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill
303 Red River St | Website
One of Austin’s oldest buildings, the space which now is home to Moonshine has become widely-regarded as one of the city’s haunted sites. Guests have reported being tapped on the shoulder by someone who’s not there, while an occasional flying wine bottle can be seen.
The Omni Austin Downtown
700 San Jacinto Blvd | Website
Rumor has it that the ghost of the Omni is a man named Jack who committed suicide by jumping from a balcony when he was unable to pay his tab. His name remains in the computer log of the hotel, and night staff have commented that they can hear him in his room once the sun goes down.
Austin’s Inn at Pearl Street
809 W MLK Blvd
Home to Judge Charles A. Wilcox and family in 1896, the Inn at Pearl Street was renovated in 1990 and became an inn near The University of Texas’ campus. The apparition of a woman carrying a child is commonly seen walking through the home and sitting in a rocking chair, while noises and music have also been heard even when the inn is empty.
Oakwood Cemetery Annex
1601 Comal St
Full of Austin and Texas history, the city’s oldest cemetery has been deemed one of the most haunted places in the area. Looming trees, dilapidated headstones, an imprecise layout and lack of lighting come sundown give it an air of scare while surrounding streets are named after some of the cemetery’s residents.
St. Edward’s University
3001 S Congress Ave | Website
This South Austin university is full of ghosts, spirits, and supernatural forces that are frequently active. A young man who once fell out of a window in the Maloney Room of the college’s main building and a student who hanged himself from the Mary Moody Northen Theater are just two of the many spirits you may encounter on campus.
When it comes to learning more about Austin’s haunting history, nothing can compare to Austin Ghost Tours. Have you ever witnessed one of these spirits around the city? Comment below and tell us all about it!
