Restaurants & Bars
A trip to Austin isn't complete without exploring the renowned food scene, and student-favorite Dirty Martin's Place is sure to be a family hit. Be sure to try a Kum-Bak Burger paired with a local beer for an iconic Austin experience. For live music, great local drinks and true Austin culture, head to Hole in the Wall which has been showcasing incredible live music acts for over 40 years. This bar has live music almost every night of the week and serves up plenty of drink specials to enhance the experience.
Cheer on the Longhorns at Scholz Garten, a community staple since 1866. Chow down on schnitzels and pretzels and celebrate Texans' German heritage in an iconic beer garden. Newer to the college bar scene is Victory Lap. Their large outdoor patio and giant screen are perfect for watching Texas sports. Grab a bright orange frozen boozy creamsicle and pay attention to the UT memorabilia throughout the bar.
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UT Tower. Credit Erin Newman-Mitchell.
Things to Do
The University of Texas houses several world-class museums that display diversity through art, history, science and culture. To see the best of local and international art, stop by the Blanton Museum of Art and take a tour, or walk through at your own pace. The museum holds regular events and tours. For the history buffs in the family, stop by the LBJ Presidential Library on the Eastern edge of campus and explore LBJ's presidency and lifespan. Exhibits are informative and family friendly. Be sure to stop by on August 27 and celebrate LBJ's birthday with free admission and cake!
Just across East Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard from the Blanton is the Bullock Texas State History Museum. The Bullock is filled with interactive Texas history exhibits and is home to the city's IMAX theater. Snap a photo with the 35-foot star in front to show your friends that everything is bigger in Texas. While you're making your way around the Forty Acres, take in the sights on a self-guided tour. Catch iconic UT landmarks like the UT Tower, Littlefield Fountain and the turtle pond and take in various architectural styles across campus.
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Shopping
If you’re looking for school merch, thrifted treasures, or unique physical media, the shops around campus have you covered. University Co-op is the go-to for official Longhorn gear, including jerseys, hoodies, t-shirts, and UT-themed decorations—wear your burnt orange with pride! Guadalupe Street, aka “The Drag,” is also known for its shopping, especially its vintage and thrift stores, like Pavement and Monkies Vintage & Thrift. From novels to nonfiction, Alienated Majesty Books sells some of the most unique titles in town. And over at Antone's Record Shop, you’ll find a varied (yet tasteful) selection of CDs, cassettes, vinyl records, and band merchandise.