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Stop 2 of 14

Main Street Market Square Historic District

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Main Street Market Square Historic District

Now, let me point out some interesting details about this district. The Main Street Market Square Historic District has some irregular boundaries, which just adds to its unique charm. It encompasses all the blocks between Travis and Main Streets, from Texas Street to the northern boundary of the University of Houston-Downtown. And if we head south from Market Square at Preston Street, we'll capture all the blocks until we reach Buffalo Bayou.

You'll find some real treasures within this district. There's the University of Houston-Downtown, a four-year state university, known for its incredible students and educational offerings. It's one of the anchors of this district, keeping the energy alive.

But what truly steals the show here is Market Square Park. Let me tell you, this place has seen it all! It used to be the site of not one, not two, but four Houston City Halls and City Markets. Then, we have three stunning 19th-century structures adjacent to the park, namely the Fox-Kuhlman Building, the Baker-Meyer Building, and the Kennedy Bakery Building. These buildings are like a time machine, transporting us back to the rich history of this city.

And don't worry, we won't miss out on other architectural gems in this district. Eugene Heiner, the renowned architect, has left his mark here too! He designed some fantastic buildings, including the Henry Brashear Building and the Sweeney and Coombs Building. They're truly a sight to behold.

But wait, there's more! Just across the street, we have the Houston National Bank, which used to be owned by the famous Ross S. Sterling. Plus, we can't forget the Magnolia Brewery Building and the Magnolia Ballroom, built by the Houston Ice and Brewing Company. They knew how to bring the party, I tell ya!

And those are just a few of the incredible historic buildings that line Main Street in this district. We're talking about the Rice Hotel, the Barringer-Norton Building, the Scanlan Building, and many more. So get ready to walk back in time while enjoying the present-day beauty of Main Street Market Square Historic District!

Alright, let's move on to our next stop! Remember to take lots of pictures so you can look back on this wonderful tour.

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