Austin, as it grows, remains a college town at heart. The University of Texas at Austin is at the center of it all, covering 431 acres in Central Austin. The campus offers a variety of attractions, from museums and architecture to delicious food and activities for visitors to explore.
Museums
The Blanton Museum of Art, the largest art museum in Central Texas, houses over 21,000 works in its collection. It offers a unique look at art, both old and new, with distinctive flower sculptures and installations like Ellsworth Kelly’s Austin. The museum also features a blue mural and tickets are priced at $15 for adults.
Explore President Lyndon B. Johnson’s life and legacy at his presidential library on campus. Learn about his contributions to Texas and the nation, with tickets priced at $8 for adults. The Texas Science & Natural History Museum is another must-visit, showcasing Texas’ diverse fauna and history for $10 per adult ticket.
Architecture & Public Art
The University of Texas boasts a rich architectural history, with iconic buildings like The Tower designed by French-born architect Paul Philippe Cret. The Tower serves as the University’s center and has a memorial to victims of a tragic shooting in 1966. The campus features various architectural styles, from Beaux Arts to Brutalism.
The Littlefield Home, a Victorian mansion on campus, offers a glimpse into the University’s history and serves as a special events venue. Public art, curated by the University’s Landmarks program, includes installations like James Turrell’s The Color Inside and sculptures of historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr.
Food
The area around the University is a food lover’s paradise, with eateries like Kerbey Lane Cafe and China Family UT offering delicious meals. Food trucks are a staple of UT’s student culture, providing unique cuisine across campus. The Texas Union is a popular spot for students, housing restaurants, a bowling alley, and a performance venue.
For a fancy dining experience, Clay Pit and Hopfields offer contemporary Indian and French fusion cuisine respectively. The University also hosts various events, from sporting games to concerts, ensuring there’s always something happening on campus. Check out local event calendars to see what’s on during your visit to the Forty Acres.
In addition to exploring the University of Texas campus, visitors can also check out other attractions in Austin. The city has a vibrant arts and culture scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a thriving food and music scene. Be sure to explore all that Austin has to offer during your visit to the capital of Texas.