WHY ATTEND REAL PLACES

Why should you attend?

Real Places is for anyone passionate about preserving Texas history. Connect with experts, learn new skills, and find inspiration to protect our past and shape the future of preservation.

Elevate Your Work

Gain practical, hands-on knowledge from top experts in sessions designed to help you succeed.

  • Learn new skills: From fundraising and grant writing to building maintenance and conservation, our sessions cover a wide range of topics.
  • Earn credits: Get continuing education credits from the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the American Planning Association (APA).
  • Boost your community: Improve your organization’s preservation efforts and make them more representative of Texas's rich history.
  • Discover funding sources: Find out how to use state and federal tax credits to cover up to 45 percent of building rehabilitation costs.
A woman in a green dress stands in front of a poster that describes Freedom Colonies

Connect with Peers

Build relationships with professionals who share your passion.

  • Network with the best: Meet peers from across the state, including architects, city preservation officers, historians, and museum managers.
  • Access key experts: Connect with over 100 Texas Historical Commission staff members and other partner organizations all in one place.
  • Join a community: Find colleagues in your region facing similar challenges and share ideas.
A man in a vest talks with a group of women in western attire before a sign that reads Texas Heritage Trails

See for Yourself

Hear what past attendees have to say about Real Places.

  • "Wow, what a fantastic Real Places conference! I truly think this was one of the best historic preservation related conferences I have ever attended!" – 2026 Attendee
  • "For a historical preservationist and historian, this was like going to Disneyland..." – 2026 Attendee
  • "The insights gained on history and preservation are invaluable. I am so glad I had the opportunity to attend." – 2024 Attendee
  • "This conference brings so many organizations together—that is why I love Real Places." – 2024 Attendee
  • "Really great—a mix of hands-on, data collection and strategy, sharing best practices, discussing current trends, and fascinating historical info." – 2024 Attendee
A room full of people converse with each other and with the creators or posters placed throughout the room.