3 Best Sights in Downtown with Sixth Street and Rainey Street, Austin

Originally known as the Austin Museum of Art, the Contemporary Austin's Jones Center is a striking downtown presence featuring a diverse roster of contemporary artists and exhibits. It also hosts various special events open to the public, including "rooftop sessions" with outdoor film screenings and live musical and artistic performances. While advanced reservations are recommended, walk-ups are welcome, and admission is always free on Thursdays. Your ticket also includes free admission to the Contemporary's must-see sister site, Laguna Gloria, in nearby west Austin.

This stunning architectural site and museum, tucked just off Rainey Street overlooking Lady Bird Lake, was closed for two years for a multimillion-dollar renovation that expanded its physical space and scope of programming. Dedicated to celebrating Latino artists and empowering a new generation of Mexican-Americans, the museum boasts a phenomenal education department and offers popular youth and family programs. Live performances and community events are available throughout the year, ranging from flamenco recitals and hillside music concerts to Día de los Muertos celebrations.

Founded in 1984, this museum in the heart of downtown is a beguiling, moderately-sized showroom devoted to traditional and contemporary Mexican and Latin American art. The permanent collection includes 5,000 works of art, notably historic lithographs, colorful modern prints, silkscreens, etchings, and traditional ritual masks. If you visit during the local Day of the Dead celebrations, don't miss the Viva la Vida Fest hosted here in late October. Admission is free on Sunday.