Picture this: You’re standing in front of what looks like a three-story rainbow made entirely of stuff your neighbors threw away. Bicycle wheels spiral up toward the sky. Old appliances peek out like colorful puzzle pieces. And yes, there’s actually a toilet or two built right into the walls.
Welcome to the Cathedral of Junk—South Austin’s most gloriously weird masterpiece that’ll make you rethink everything you know about art.
What You’re Getting Into
Tucked away at 4422 Lareina Drive, this isn’t your typical Saturday adventure. Artist Vince Hannemann has spent 35 years turning 60 tons of discarded treasures into a climbable, walkable, totally Instagram-worthy experience that reaches over 30 feet into the Texas sky.
But here’s the kicker—you can actually walk through it. Climb the stairs, explore different rooms, and discover childhood toys mixed with street signs and kitchen appliances. It’s like stepping inside someone’s wildest dream about recycling.
Why You’ll Fall in Love
This place changes you. One minute you’re photographing a vintage bicycle wheel, the next you’re spotting a toy from your own childhood wedged between colorful bottles. Visitors keep saying the same thing: “Pictures don’t capture how it feels when the whole structure gently sways as you climb.”
And it’s always evolving. Vince regularly tears down sections and rebuilds them into something completely new. That three-story tower everyone used to climb? He recently transformed it into a maze of themed rooms. You literally can’t see the same thing twice.
Here’s How to Make It Happen
Step 1: Call (512) 299-7413 and ask Vince to schedule your visit. Fair warning—he picks up when he’s in the mood, so try a few times. Think of it like calling your coolest uncle who’s always working on some project in his garage.
Step 2: Most people visit between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., but Vince keeps it flexible. When you call, he’ll give you the exact parking instructions (hint: be super respectful of his neighbors).
Step 3: Bring $5 per adult or $10 for your whole group. Kids and veterans often get in free, and he takes cash or card.
Step 4: Plan for 30-60 minutes of pure wonder. Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be doing some climbing.
Why This Weekend Is Perfect
Summer’s winding down, which means perfect weather for exploring Austin’s outdoor art scene. Plus, after being nearly shut down by city officials in 2010 (don’t worry—volunteers and engineers stepped in to make it completely safe), the Cathedral feels more precious than ever.
This is Austin’s DIY spirit at its finest. While other cities have fancy galleries, we have a guy in his backyard who turned trash into treasure and opens his gate to anyone curious enough to call.
The Real Talk
You’re not just visiting art—you’re stepping into someone’s life’s work. Every piece tells a story about finding beauty in the forgotten, about building something amazing with your own hands, about keeping Austin beautifully, wonderfully weird.
Your kids will remember this forever. Your friends will be begging for the address. And you’ll drive home with that satisfied feeling that comes from discovering something truly special in your own backyard.
Ready to go? Grab your phone, dial (512) 299-7413, and book your spot in Austin’s most unexpected adventure. Trust us—this is the weekend story you’ll still be telling years from now.
Cathedral of Junk | 4422 Lareina Drive, Austin | By appointment only | $5 suggested donation
