Neill-Cochran House Museum
Austin's last intact slave dwelling, a Greek Revival mansion showcasing over 100 years of city history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission & family fun
Neill-Cochran House Museum
Best Time
Free admission & family fun

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Austin's last intact slave dwelling, a Greek Revival mansion showcasing over 100 years of city history.
"A must-see for architecture and history buffs, telling Austin's story through a period of transition."
🎯 Free Admission Days
Look out for Austin Museum Day for free entry!
🚗 Convenient Parking
Free parking is available in the back, a rarity in downtown Austin.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Greek Revival Mansion
Main House
Admire Abner Cook's architectural style in this 1855 mansion, a testament to Austin's early development.

Last Intact Slave Dwelling
Slave Quarters
A powerful and essential reminder of Austin's history, offering a unique perspective on the past.

Special Events & Exhibits
Various Locations
From ice cream making to Juneteenth celebrations, these events bring history to life.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Deeper Dive
Understand the History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Days
Look out for Austin Museum Day for free entry!
🚗 Convenient Parking
Free parking is available in the back, a rarity in downtown Austin.
🗣️ Engage with Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer all your questions.
🏛️ History Buff's Dream
Architecture and history lovers will find this site fascinating.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Days
Look out for Austin Museum Day for free entry!
🚗 Convenient Parking
Free parking is available in the back, a rarity in downtown Austin.
🗣️ Engage with Staff
The staff are knowledgeable and happy to answer all your questions.
🏛️ History Buff's Dream
Architecture and history lovers will find this site fascinating.
☕ Tea Time Experience
Consider attending a tea service for a delightful afternoon.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Neill-Cochran House Museum for its rich history and architectural significance, particularly highlighting the poignant story of the last intact slave dwelling in Austin. Many appreciate the knowledgeable staff and the unique family-friendly activities offered during special events. While some found certain tea blends unusual, the overall experience is considered a valuable and affordable way to connect with the city's past.
"Wonderful experience. So much history. They have neat family fun activities, unique. Japanese Block printing."
Cleo Petricek
"My girlfriend and I recently attended the tea service at the Neill-Cochran House Museum, catered by the Austin English Tea Company. The teas were decent, though many were unusual floral blends that weren’t quite to my taste. From the conversation at our table, it seemed most people preferred the more traditional flavors.
The sandwiches were fine, and the desserts were quite nice. The real highlight, however, was exploring the museum itself and enjoying the wonderful company at our table. Overall, it was a lovely experience—and since it supports the museum, we’d happily do it again."
Kyla Myers
"Went during the Juneteenth celebration that was free to the public. Very thoughtful and honest tour of the refurbished enslaved houses on the property from the historical interpreter that helped do the research. Also viewed the Juneteenth Black Rodeo exhibit which was wonderful and enjoyed the gospel choir that was there. All of the staff were wonderful will definitely go back again."
Janayn Evans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Neill-Cochran House Museum is conveniently located in downtown Austin, near the University of Texas. It's easily accessible by car, with free parking available in the back.
Public transportation options are also available, making it a straightforward destination for visitors.Yes, there is free parking available in the back of the museum, which is a significant perk for visitors in downtown Austin.
While specific routes can vary, the museum's central location makes it accessible via various public transportation options in Austin. Check local transit schedules for the most up-to-date information.
The museum is just a few minutes' walk from the University of Texas campus, making it an easy destination for students and visitors in that area.
Absolutely! Its proximity to the University of Texas and central Austin location makes it a very walkable destination for many.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission fees are generally low and offer great value for the historical experience. Check their official website for the most current pricing.
Yes, the museum participates in Austin Museum Day, offering free admission on that special occasion.
The museum is typically open on Sundays and other select days. It's always best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours before your visit.
For general admission, booking in advance might not be necessary, but it's recommended, especially if you plan to attend a special event or tour. For special events like tea services, advance booking is usually required.
While guided tours are highly recommended for a deeper understanding of the history, you can often explore parts of the museum independently. Check with the museum staff upon arrival for the best way to experience the site.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the historic Greek Revival mansion, the last intact slave dwelling in Austin, and learn about the city's transformation from 1855 onwards.
Special exhibits and events, like Juneteenth celebrations, also offer unique insights.Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended. They provide in-depth historical context and stories about the house and its inhabitants, including the enslaved people who lived and worked there.
The museum focuses on the Antebellum period, showcasing the city's cultural, economic, and architectural evolution from 1855 to the present day.
Yes, the museum hosts unique family fun activities, such as Japanese block printing and ice cream making during special events like Austin Museum Day.
Absolutely! It's a must-see for architecture and history buffs, offering a tangible connection to Austin's past and a reminder of its complex history.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While the museum itself doesn't have a full restaurant, they occasionally host special events like tea services catered by companies like the Austin English Tea Company.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside historical house museums to preserve the exhibits. It's best to consume them before your visit or at designated areas outside.
The museum is located in a vibrant part of Austin, close to the University and downtown, offering a wide array of dining options from casual eateries to upscale restaurants. Explore the surrounding streets for diverse culinary choices.
For private events or weddings held at the Neill-Cochran House Museum, catering services can be arranged, often in partnership with local Austin caterers.
During Austin Museum Day, they've offered hand-churned ice cream and lemonade, providing a sweet taste of history.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography policies can vary in historical sites. It's generally permitted for personal use, but flash photography is often discouraged to protect the artifacts and interiors. Always check with the museum staff for specific guidelines.
The exterior of the Greek Revival mansion with its portico and balustrade offers beautiful architectural shots. The slave quarters also provide poignant and historically significant photo opportunities.
For professional photography or photoshoots, you will likely need to arrange for a permit and potentially pay a fee. Contact the museum directly to inquire about their policies and availability.
While personal social media sharing is usually encouraged, avoid intrusive photography that might disturb other visitors. Always be mindful of the historical context and respect the site.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for most visitors. If you're interested in architectural details, a wider-angle lens can be helpful. Be prepared for potentially lower light conditions inside the historic buildings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🏛️ History & Architecture Enthusiasts
👩🏫 Educators & Students
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Austin's Past
Visitors can explore the main house and the preserved slave quarters, gaining a deeper understanding of the social, economic, and architectural transformations Austin has undergone since the mid-19th century. The museum actively engages the community through various events and exhibits, such as Juneteenth celebrations and historical reenactments, making history accessible and relatable.
This site serves as a powerful reminder of the realities of slavery in Texas and the ongoing efforts to acknowledge and learn from this difficult history. The Neill-Cochran House Museum is not just a building; it's a vital educational resource that encourages reflection and dialogue about the foundations of Austin.
Experiencing History Through Events
Special occasions like Juneteenth are commemorated with thoughtful tours of the refurbished enslaved houses and exhibits that honor Black history and culture in Austin. These events often feature live music, such as gospel choirs, creating a vibrant and educational atmosphere. The museum also hosts storytelling events, like 'Stories on the Lawn,' providing unique evening entertainment.
Beyond these public events, the museum has also hosted tea services, offering a more refined experience with a selection of teas, sandwiches, and desserts, all while supporting the preservation of this historic site. Attending these events provides a dynamic way to connect with Austin's past and support the ongoing work of the Neill-Cochran House Museum.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit