Home to more than 50,000 students, a reputation as one of the best universities in the nation and plenty of rich history, it goes without saying that the University of Texas is an integral part of the Austin experience. If you’re headed to Austin for a visit, there are plenty of live music and food options around campus that will make you throw up your horns and say “Hook ‘em!”

RESTAURANTS

Guadalupe Street runs along the western side of campus and is known locally as “The Drag”. On The Drag, you’ll find a selection of food for every palate. From college divey spots featuring burritos and pizza to French-inspired fare in an elevated setting, there’s plenty to try.

  • Cabo BobsBite into Mexican-style burritos, tacos, bowls and more with a SoCal coastal influence
  • Dirty Martin's Place: A campus area institution, Dirty Martin’s has been been serving up award-winning burgers for nearly 100 years
  • Via 313: Grab a deep dish Detroit-style slice at this beloved Austin food-truck
  • Hopfields: Located just north of campus, this gastropub features French-inspired fare
  • Counter Cafe: Enjoy diner classics with a 21st century healthy twist
  • Lucky Lab: Start your day with a hand pie and a jolt of java from student favorite, Lucky Lab
  • Olamaie: Only a couple blocks south of campus, Olamaie serves classic southern cooking with only the freshest ingredients in an elevated atmosphere

BARS & LIVE MUSIC

Like any university town, you’ll never find yourself too far from someplace to enjoy a drink. And, being the Live Music Capital of the World®, you’ll find great drinks and live music all in one place at the spots below.

  • Hole in the Wall: Aptly named, Hole in the Wall is a low-key dive that features live music nearly seven nights a week alongside a killer happy hour menu.
  • Cactus Cafe: Hear the next up-and-comer in the singer/songwriter scene with original works and no covers allowed at this spot
  • The Ballroom at Spiderhouse: Located, just north of campus stop by this multipurpose venue and catch some live music, poetry night, cabaret show or comedy night
  • Cain & Abel's: Enjoy cheap drinks, pub fare and plenty of tv's to keep an eye on the game at this West Campus staple 
  • Crown & Anchor Pub: Bring your pup along to hang out on the dog-friendly patio and sip on a wide selection of beers
  • Scholz Garten: Grab a pint, or catch a UT game, at Scholz Garten, the oldest drinking spot in Austin

SHOPPING

There are several boutiques and shops located close to campus, perfect for those looking to partake in a bit of retail therapy while visiting.

  • University Co-op: Get decked out in burnt orange and longhorn gear from head-to-toe at this spirit shop
  • Monkies Vintage and Thrift: Search for your next vintage find just steps from the university campus
  • Brother Friend: Located on the east side of campus, Brother Friend is full of mens clothing and leather goods
  • Longhorn Fashions: For trendy UT clothing and accessories pop by locally owned Longhorn Fashions
  • Buffalo Exchange: Buy, sell and trade trendy and vintage clothing for men and women
  • Pavement: This colorful spot just north of campus has curated a huge collection of new merchandise, vintage pieces and gently used clothing

UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS

The historic roots and exciting happenings of the university create a vibrant environment to explore and experience even if you’re not a longhorn yourself. 

  • University Athletics: With 65 national championships across all sports teams since 1949, cheering on the longhorns, whether it be football, volleyball or baseball, is a favorite pastime among students, faculty and alumni
  • Walking Tours: With over 400 acres to explore, take yourself on a self-guided tour of the campus or if you know a college age student interested in the university feel free to join a campus walking tour
  • UT Tower: Built in 1937, UT Tower has become an iconic symbol of the University of Texas and the Austin skyline

ARTS & CULTURE

Visiting the nearby arts & cultural attractions are a must when checking out the campus area. From renowned art galleries to interesting museums and exhibits, there is plenty to explore.

  • Blanton Museum of Art: Located on the university campus, the Blanton Museum of Art is the largest public collection in Central Texas comprised mostly of modern and contemporary art
  • Harry Ransom Center: Part archive, part library and part museum, the Harry Ransom Center boast permanent collections including an authentic Gutenberg Bible, a Frida Kahlo self-portrait and earliest photograph on record
  • Briscoe Center for American History: Peruse the vast collection of Texas and southern historical documents and materials
  • LBJ Presidential Library: In honor of our 36th president, the library houses a collection of documents from LBJ’s time in the White House as well as interactive exhibits exploring political issues faced during LBJ’s presidency
  • Murals Hunting: Find two of Austin’s most iconic murals, Hi, How Are You? and Austintatious, located just west of campus
  • Landmarks Public Arts Program: Discover more than 50 modern and contemporary public art installations throughout the main campus

After you’ve thoroughly explored the University of Texas campus and surrounding area, check out this list of the top things to see & do in Central Austin.