Tau Ceti mural
Austin's tallest mural, a 100-foot rainbow spectacle by Josef Kristofoletti, offering a vibrant and cosmic photo opportunity.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Tau Ceti mural
Best Time
Softer light, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Austin's tallest mural, a 100-foot rainbow spectacle by Josef Kristofoletti, offering a vibrant and cosmic photo opportunity.
"The colors are so vibrant that you’ll feel “WOW” 🤩"
📸 Best Photo Angles
Experiment with iPhone pano mode for less distortion and more clarity when capturing the full height.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky downtown; be ready to walk a bit from nearby garages.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Rainbow Spectacle
East 2nd & Brazos Street, Downtown Austin
Austin's tallest mural, a 100-foot-tall rainbow explosion of color that's a must-see photo op.
Cosmic Inspiration
East 2nd & Brazos Street, Downtown Austin
Named after a star, this mural by Josef Kristofoletti offers a cosmic and magical backdrop for any visitor.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Angles
Experiment with iPhone pano mode for less distortion and more clarity when capturing the full height.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky downtown; be ready to walk a bit from nearby garages.
🌈 Embrace the Colors
The vibrant rainbow hues are stunning, especially on a cloudy day when colors pop without harsh glare.
📍 Location Check
Find it at East 2nd Street & Brazos Street in Downtown Austin.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Angles
Experiment with iPhone pano mode for less distortion and more clarity when capturing the full height.
🚗 Parking Strategy
Parking can be tricky downtown; be ready to walk a bit from nearby garages.
🌈 Embrace the Colors
The vibrant rainbow hues are stunning, especially on a cloudy day when colors pop without harsh glare.
📍 Location Check
Find it at East 2nd Street & Brazos Street in Downtown Austin.
✨ Tallest in ATX
Marvel at Austin's tallest mural, standing at over 100 feet high!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Tau Ceti mural for its stunning, vibrant rainbow colors and impressive scale, calling it Austin's tallest and a 'cosmic magical place.' It's a highly recommended, free photo opportunity that brightens the downtown area. However, some find parking to be a significant challenge.
"They painted the corner gap of a building with a rainbow pattern. It looks cool and definitely makes the neighborhood more attractive."
Matt B
"Super nice spot if you love photography. There are times when you may have done wait times but when we reached the spot it was empty!
Parking is a problem because it’s difficult to find something nearby so you may have to walk a little but it’s a must visit if you are at Downtown Austin.
The colors are so vibrant that you’ll feel “WOW” 🤩"
Keerthan
"Tallest mural in Austin, 103 feet by local artist. I bet tons of pictures are done at this spot. Very Impressive, cosmic magical place."
Kristina B
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tau Ceti mural is located in Downtown Austin at the intersection of East 2nd Street and Brazos Street. While public transport options exist for downtown, many visitors find it easiest to drive and park in a nearby garage. Be prepared for a short walk to reach the mural itself.
Parking directly at the mural can be difficult. The best approach is to utilize the parking garages in the downtown area, such as the Austin Convention Center garage or others nearby. Expect to walk a few blocks to reach the mural.
Yes, if you are already in Downtown Austin, walking to the Tau Ceti mural is a great option. It's a central location and a pleasant stroll through the city.
For those coming from further out, consider ride-sharing services or public transportation to reach the downtown core, which can simplify parking concerns.
Absolutely! Downtown Austin is bike-friendly, and you can easily cycle to the mural and secure your bike nearby.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, the Tau Ceti mural is a public art installation and is completely free to view and photograph.
As an outdoor mural, the Tau Ceti mural is accessible 24/7. However, for the best photography and experience, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
There is no admission fee. This vibrant piece of street art is a gift to the city and its visitors.
Yes, photography is highly encouraged! It's a popular spot for photoshoots, and visitors often share their shots online.
The mural is a permanent fixture on the side of a building, so it's always visible. However, lighting conditions will vary throughout the day and year.
📸 📸 Photography
Many photographers suggest visiting during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for softer light. Some reviews mention that cloudy days can make the colors pop even more vibrantly without harsh sun glare.
For capturing the full height, consider using a wide-angle lens or experimenting with your phone's panorama mode. Adjusting exposure to balance the bright colors is key.
The entire mural is a photo opportunity! Standing directly in front of it or a little distance away allows you to capture its impressive scale.
Drone usage in downtown Austin is subject to strict regulations. It's best to check current FAA and local ordinances before attempting to fly a drone.
Its immense size (over 100 feet tall) and the vibrant, continuous rainbow pattern make it a visually striking subject for any photographer.
🎫 🌟 Onsite Experience
The Tau Ceti mural is a massive, colorful rainbow artwork painted on the side of a building in Downtown Austin, Texas. It's known as Austin's tallest mural, standing over 100 feet high. 
The mural was created by local artist Josef Kristofoletti.
Absolutely! Visitors rave about its vibrant colors and impressive scale, calling it a 'cosmic magical place' and an 'epic photo op.'
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes here, primarily for taking photos and admiring the art.
Yes, Austin is known for its vibrant mural scene. While Tau Ceti is a standout, other notable murals like 'Greetings from Austin' and 'I Love You So Much' are also popular.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep in mind that parking in downtown Austin can be a bit of a scavenger hunt, so be prepared for a short walk from a parking garage.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during early mornings or late afternoons for optimal lighting conditions, as the softer light can make the vibrant colors pop beautifully.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
While the mural itself is free, the main cost consideration will be parking in downtown Austin. Look for affordable parking garages or utilize street parking if available, and be prepared for a short walk.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Artistry of Tau Ceti
+1 The design, inspired by the star Tau Ceti in the constellation Cetus, features a vibrant, continuous rainbow pattern that transforms the side of a building into a breathtaking visual spectacle. Its sheer scale and the artist's bold use of color have made it a beloved landmark and a popular spot for both locals and tourists. +1Kristofoletti's work often explores themes of connection and the cosmos, and the Tau Ceti mural is no exception. The artwork invites viewers to pause and appreciate the beauty that can be found in urban spaces.
When planning your visit, consider the time of day for the best photographic results. While the mural is impressive at any hour, the softer light of early morning or late afternoon can enhance its colors and reduce harsh shadows.
Capturing the Perfect Shot
This technique helps in fitting the entire 100-foot-tall artwork into a single frame. Beyond technical tips, the timing of your visit can significantly impact your photos. Many recommend visiting during the 'golden hours'—early morning or late afternoon—when the natural light is softer and more flattering.
Remember that the mural is located in a busy downtown area, so parking can be a challenge.
The effort is well worth it to capture this iconic piece of Austin's street art. 
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit