University of Texas, Austin

Shaped like a large carbine shell, The University of Texas Tower is an Austin landmark. It is in the center of campus and was pretty much the first tall bilding in the city. It is still one of the tallest. There is an elevator that you take up to the top. It used to be closed to the public (Except for UT football players) because of the Charles Whitman shootings and students who would jump off. Recently they welded security bars all around the top to prevent jumping and shooting and have tours that you can go on. The view is fantastic. Inside it is mostly administrative offices, office of the university president, etc. When UT wins a big sporting event the tower is lit up top to bottom in orange floodlights. When they win a not so big sporting event only the top is lit up.

The Tower of the University of Texas was the scenery of one of the most infamous shooting sprees: In August 1966, Charles Whitman climbed the tower and randomly shot and killed 15 people, injuring another 31, before being killed himself. As a result of this and to prevent copycats, the tower was closed for the following three decades and has only recently been re-opened. The tower is located on UT campus and can easily be spotted from most areas around the city. The easiest way to enter is via Guadalupe Street. Don’t be put off by the intensive security at its entrance: Once on top of it you can enjoy a great view over the Austin skyline.

Littlefield Fountain - University of Texas campus. This was a gift of Major George W. Littlefield in 1933 and dedicated to the 97 sons and daughters of the University who gave their lives in WWI.