Buford Tower, Bell tower in downtown Austin, United States
Buford Tower is a six-story brick and limestone structure that rises near Lady Bird Lake and stands 67 feet tall. The building features round-arched windows and cast iron light fixtures that define its classic appearance.
The tower was built in 1930 as a fire drill facility and renamed in 1978 to honor Captain James L. Buford, the first Austin firefighter to die in the line of duty. This renaming recognized his sacrifice and placed the structure as a permanent memorial to his service.
The tower holds the Kitchens Memorial Chimes system, which marks the hours and plays musical selections during the holiday season. These bells have become a familiar sound to people living and working in the downtown area.
The tower sits near the State Capitol, the University of Texas, and the entertainment district of 6th Street, making it easy to visit alongside other downtown landmarks. Visitors should note that its downtown location means the area can get quite busy, especially during peak hours.
The structure preserves its original style with exposed brick walls that have become a local landmark over time. A steel staircase connects each level and demonstrates the craftsmanship of the original construction.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
