Consider the iconic Austin Motel sign a beacon in the dark, lighting the way for anyone intrepid enough to cross the river and explore South Congress.

Its catchy tagline ("So Close Yet So Far Out") and kitschy decor are only part of the story, though. From its earliest days as a San Antonio Highway stop to its current status as a classic Austin image, the Austin Motel has witnessed and participated in a neighborhood's dynamic evolution -- and lived to tell the tale.

Here, owner Dottye Dean and manager Michelle McCormick share that story with Jason:

Meet Dottye, Michelle, and the rest of the Austin Motel staff when you join us in Austin for the National Preservation Conference this October. The early bird deadline is only three days away -- register today!

Julia Rocchi

Julia Rocchi is the managing editor for the National Trust. By day she wrangles content; by night (and weekends), she shops local, travels to story-rich places, and walks around looking up at buildings.

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