Cathedral of Junk
4.5FreeExplore Austin's iconic suburban backyard sculpture crafted from discarded treasures.
Tucked away in a South Austin residential backyard, the Cathedral of Junk is a sprawling, multilevel art installation created by artist Vince Hannemann using over 60 tons of discarded items. Visitors can explore staircases, rooms, and themed alcoves built entirely from old electronics, bicycle parts, tires, and vintage household objects. This quirky, ever-evolving landmark remains one of Austin's most memorable folk art attractions.
History
Vince Hannemann began constructing the Cathedral of Junk in 1989, using items he found or was given. Over the years, it has grown into a massive structure that reflects the spirit of Austin's artistic community.
Expert notes
- Visit during the afternoon for the best lighting for photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking around the structure.
- Check the website for any special events or visiting hours.
Features
- Interactive art
- Local artist creation
- Photo opportunities
More things to do in Austin
Austin Bat ToursFreeExperience guided sunset water tours to watch Austin's famous bat colony
Zilker Botanical GardenFreeDiscover a 31-acre natural oasis of themed gardens in Austin.
Texas State CemeteryFreeExplore the historic resting place of Texas icons and state leaders
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area$Explore a massive pink granite monolith in Texas Hill Country
Hutto Lake ParkFreeA scenic lakeside park featuring walking trails, fishing, and picnic spots.
Inks Lake State Park$A scenic Texas Hill Country getaway for swimming, camping, and hiking