A Perfect UT Longhorns Game Weekend: Barbecue, Swimming, and Football in Austin
A guide to enjoying a football weekend in Austin, featuring boutique hotels, local dining, outdoor activities, and game-day traditions around the University of Texas campus.
Austin’s ever-changing identity blends tech innovation, natural beauty, and a vibrant food scene, but its heart remains a college town. When football season kicks off, the city dons burnt orange, and visitors can immerse themselves in a weekend of barbecue, outdoor adventures, and Longhorns spirit. Here’s how to make the most of a game-day getaway in Austin.
Victorian retreat near South Congress, or Hotel Ella, a Greek revival mansion close to UT’s campus. The Carpenter Hotel in Zilker offers a striking Brutalist design. Since Austin’s light rail isn’t operational yet, a car or ride-hailing service is essential, especially on game days.
Alternatively, CapMetro’s rapid bus routes (801 and 803) run along South Congress and Lamar, connecting downtown to UT. Dress casually-cowboy boots and jeans are welcome-but always wear burnt orange during football season.
Day 1: South Congress Exploration
Start your morning at Carpenter Coffee Bar with a Texas Sun cold brew (honey and orange zest) or a seasonal pastry. Then, cool off at Barton Springs Pool, where the 68-degree waters offer a refreshing escape. Tickets cost $4-$9 for non-residents.
For lunch, head to Sandy’s Hamburgers for a classic cheeseburger and butterscotch malt, or try Loro, an Asian smokehouse by James Beard Award-winning chefs, for a Mango Spritzy Rice slush or a Frozen Spicy Watermelon margarita. Afterward, explore South Congress Avenue, Austin’s premier shopping strip. Visit Tecovas or Lucchese for cowboy boots, browse the SoCo Makers Market for handmade goods, and pick up unique souvenirs at Paper Work.
End the day with a NY-style slice at Home Slice and a cocktail at Hotel Magdalena’s Equipment Room, a vinyl-listening bar with creative drinks like the Queen of the Rodeo (mezcal, tequila, and avocado syrup). If you’re up for dancing, Broken Spoke offers honky-tonk vibes and two-step lessons.
Day 2: Game Day on Campus
Fuel up with a Trrbl Latte (banana, chocolate, and Nilla Wafer) from Terrible Love in Hyde Park, paired with pastries from Texas French Bread. Then, head to UT’s campus for pre-game festivities. The article suggests enjoying the tailgate atmosphere, but specifics on campus activities are left open for visitors to explore.
Whether you’re a student, alum, or first-time visitor, Austin’s blend of food, nature, and college spirit makes for an unforgettable football weekend.
Source: Eater