| DKR–Texas Memorial Stadium Quick Table | Home of the Texas Longhorns (NCAA – SEC) |
|---|---|
| Opened | 1924 (multiple expansions and renovations, most recently in 2021) |
| Capacity | 100,119 |
| Best Value Seats | Upper Deck Sideline (Sections 104–107 or 123–126) – Great midfield views for less |
| Premium Seating | Longhorn Club, Touchdown Club, Field Club, Centennial Suite |
| Top Stadium Foods | Smoked Brisket Nachos, Texas Sausage Wraps, Roasted Corn Cups |
| Nearby Bars | Posse East, Cain & Abel’s, Scholz Beer Garden |
| Closest Hotels | AT&T Hotel and Conference Center, Hampton Inn Austin, Hotel Ella |
| Transit Access | CapMetro shuttles, walking from downtown and campus areas |
🔍 Need a custom plan for your Texas Longhorns gameday? Use our Gameday Guides AI to get personalized tips on where to sit, what to eat, and where to stay near DKR–Texas Memorial Stadium.
Best Seats At Texas Football Games
DKR Texas Memorial Stadium seats 100,119 and is the fourth-largest stadium in college football. The atmosphere on game days is legitimately electric—”Texas Fight” and “The Eyes of Texas” echo through downtown Austin, and the entire city shuts down for Longhorns football. The concourses get packed, parking is a disaster if you don’t plan ahead, but the sightlines from the lower bowl are genuinely great and the stadium atmosphere is one of the best in the country.
Seating Guide
DKR is an east-west oriented stadium with the Texas sideline on the west side (Sections 1-19) and the visitor sideline on the east side (Sections 20-35). The stadium holds just over 100,000 fans across three main levels: lower bowl, club/suite level, and upper deck. Think about seating based on sun exposure, proximity to midfield, and whether you want chairback seats versus benches—the heat in Austin during early-season games is no joke.
Best Non-Premium Seats
West Sideline Chairback Seats (Sections 3-6, Rows 6-66): These are the sweet spot for non-premium seating. You’re on the Texas sideline between the 30-yard lines with actual chairback seats instead of metal benches, and you get the best sightlines in the stadium. Rows 10-30 are ideal—close enough to see plays develop without extreme upward angles, and you’re in the action without being so low that players block your view. Downside: these seats get direct sun for early-season games until late afternoon. Bring sunscreen and a hat, or you’ll regret it by halftime.
Upper Deck Midfield (Sections 108-110 or 127-129): If you want legitimate value, the upper deck between the 30-yard lines is surprisingly good. You’re farther away, but the elevated view lets you see play development better than lower-corner seats. You’ll save $40-70 per seat compared to lower-bowl chairbacks. Trade-off: you’re missing the energy of the lower bowl, and concession lines get brutal at halftime. Some sections have partial overhang coverage starting at row 66+, which helps with sun and occasional rain.
End Zone Seats (Sections 35-37 or 1-2): Budget option with decent atmosphere. You’re behind the action, but the student section energy is nearby and you’ll save money. Best for fans who care more about being in the stadium than having perfect sightlines. These benches get packed and hot—dress light.
Weather & Shade Reality
Austin in September and early October is brutally hot. The west sideline (Texas side, Sections 1-19) faces direct sun for afternoon games until around 5-6 PM depending on the time of year. The east sideline (visitor side, Sections 20-35) gets shade earlier in the game. If you’re attending a day game in August, September, or early October, seriously consider the shade situation—you’ll be sitting in 95°F heat with zero relief for hours.
Rows 71+ in Section 9, rows 66+ in Section 8, and upper rows in various sections have overhang coverage. These seats provide shade and some rain protection, but they’re farther from the field. If you’re going to an early-season game, pick shade over proximity—you can’t enjoy great seats if you’re suffering from heat exhaustion.
What to Avoid
Upper Corner Seats (Sections 101 and 102, 133 thru 135): These are the worst value in the stadium. You’re far away, at a severe angle to the field, and getting zero benefit from the upper deck’s elevated view of play development. They’re cheap for a reason—save your money and watch at a bar downtown instead.
Lower Bowl Behind the Benches (Sections 7-8, 27-28): You’re close to the field, but standing players, coaches, and camera crews block your view constantly. Unless you’re scouting coaching decisions or love watching the sideline more than the game, skip these.
Bleacher Seats in Full Sun (Sections 10 to 15 Lower Rows, Early Season): Metal benches with zero shade for 3+ hours in Austin heat. You’ll be miserable by the second quarter. If you must sit here, bring water, sunscreen, and low expectations for comfort.
Premium Seating For Texas Football
DKR has multiple club levels ranging from high-end luxury to solid value options. The stadium renovated and expanded club offerings significantly in recent years, and the premium experience here is legitimately good compared to other college stadiums.
The Best Club: Texas Club & Touchdown Club
Location: West sideline, mid-field sections with climate-controlled lounge access.
Price range: Season tickets run $800-1,000+ per seat depending on exact section, plus required donations. Single-game prices vary wildly by opponent—expect $300-600 per seat for big SEC matchups.
What’s included: Unlimited food and drinks—actual good stuff like barbecue, tacos, and local Austin food vendors, not generic stadium concourse garbage. Climate-controlled lounge with full bar, high-end decor, HD flat-screen TVs showing other games, dedicated bathrooms with zero wait, and cushioned chairback seating. In-seat wait service available during games.
The lounge itself: The food quality is legitimately excellent with rotating Austin vendors and premium options. Real bartenders, not just a station. The vibe feels connected to the stadium—you’re watching the game on TVs when you’re inside, but you’re not isolated from the crowd energy. Crowd level gets busy before kickoff and at halftime, but it never feels cramped like the main concourses.
Who this is for: Entertaining clients, celebrating milestone birthdays or anniversaries, one-time splurge for a huge rivalry game (Oklahoma, Texas A&M, Alabama). Not for families on a budget or die-hard fans who want to stand and scream for four hours.
Reality check: You’re paying 3x-4x the price of regular seats for better food, air conditioning, and quiet. You’re losing some of the raw stadium energy. Worth it if you’re working or want a luxurious experience; not worth it if you actually want to feel the full intensity of 100,000 screaming fans.
Best Value Club: Longhorn Lounge
Location: West sideline, Sections 18LL-19LL, Rows 54-64.
Price range: Season tickets around $720 per seat plus $500 donation. Significantly cheaper than the top clubs.
What’s included: Access to a club lounge with complimentary beer, wine, and soft drinks. Limited food options (not unlimited like the top clubs). Regular chairback seating in a good location between the 30s. Dedicated bathrooms.
The vibe: Unpretentious and feels like a real hangout, not a corporate space. Less crowded than the main concourse, but you’re around actual Texas fans who care about the game. This is for people who want something nicer without the sticker shock of the premium clubs.
Who this is for: Season ticket holders or regulars attending 3+ games per season. Fans who want a quieter place to grab a drink and use the restroom without standing in 20-minute lines.
The math: You’re paying $15-25 more per seat than comparable lower-bowl seats but getting lounge access and free drinks. Makes total sense if you’re arriving early or staying late—the value compounds if you actually use the lounge.
Other Notable Clubs
Field Club (Sections 36C-41C): Lower level behind the south end zone with lounge access and premium amenities. Good if you want club benefits without paying for sideline location.
Centennial Suites: Located underneath the upper deck on the west sideline with climate-controlled lounges, full cash bar, high-end food and beverage, HD TVs, and cushioned chairback seating. These are private suites for groups—expect to pay significantly more than club seats.
Suites & Group Options
Suites at DKR run $5,000-12,000+ per game depending on size, location, and opponent. They seat 15-20 guests and include five-star catering (available for order at $100-150 per guest for full meals with drinks), comfortable seating, high-end decor, private bathrooms, and your own entrance. Corporate teams, big celebrations, and wealthy alumni book these. Call the Texas Athletics group sales office directly or work with a suite broker like SuiteHop—brokers usually get you better deals on the secondary market
For information on how to get premium seats to Longhorn games check out their website.
DKR Texas Memorial Stadium Seating Chart
The Darrell K Royal–Texas Memorial Stadium, located in Austin, Texas, has an official seating capacity of 100,119, making it the largest stadium in the Big 12 Conference and the seventh-largest stadium in the United States. Here is the Current Seating Chart to Texas Football Games.
Texas Longhorn Football Tickets
As Texas transitions into the Southeastern Conference after a run to the College Football Playoff, tickets will be at a premium. But with some planning you should be able to get your hands on tickets to most games. Here are some options:
Get Texas Longhorns Tickets Here! Vivid Seats has tickets to Texas Longhorn games and just about any event going on in Austin from ACL to the F1 race to events at the Moody Center.
Official UT Athletics Website: The official website of UT Athletics offers a ticketing portal where you can purchase tickets for various sporting events, including football games. Visit the website and look for the “Tickets” or “Sports Tickets” section to explore available options
Remember to check the specific game’s date, time, and ticket availability in advance. Prices and availability can vary depending on the popularity of the game and the seating section.
DKR Texas Memorial Stadium Bag Policy
DKR uses a clear bag policy. Approved bags include:
- Clear plastic bags up to 12″ x 6″ x 12″
- One-gallon clear resealable plastic storage bags (like Ziploc)
- Small clutch bags or purses up to 4.5″ x 6.5″ (these don’t have to be clear)
Prohibited bags include backpacks, diaper bags, camera/binocular cases, mesh or straw bags, grocery totes, duffel bags, and any non-clear bags larger than 4.5″ x 6.5″. If you show up with a prohibited bag, you’re either taking it back to your car or throwing it away. There are no bag storage facilities at DKR.
Key Stadium Policies
No Outside Food or Beverages: All outside food and drinks are prohibited. This includes water bottles. Water is available from concession stands inside the stadium.
Cashless Venue: DKR operates cashless for all transactions. Bring credit/debit cards or mobile payment options (Apple Pay, Google Pay). Cash is not accepted.
No Re-Entry: Once you leave the stadium, you cannot re-enter on the same ticket. Plan accordingly—if you exit, you’re done for the day.
Texas Football Gameday Insider Tips
Texas football game days have evolved significantly in recent years. The university transformed the pre-game experience into a full festival with Bevo Blvd, free concerts, and drastically reduced concession prices through the “Fan First” initiative. If you haven’t attended a game at DKR in the last few years, the experience is completely different—and better. Here’s how to navigate the heat, crowds, and new traditions like a local.
The New Pre-Game: Bevo Blvd & Longhorn City Limits
The pre-game scene has completely changed over the past few years. San Jacinto Blvd shuts down to traffic and becomes Bevo Blvd—a massive, free block party that opens 3.5 hours before kickoff. This is where the real game-day energy starts building.
The “Happy Hour” Hack: Arrive early at Bevo Blvd and grab $5-6 beers and hard seltzers before heading into the stadium. You’re saving $6-8 per drink compared to inside DKR, and the atmosphere is electric with live music, food vendors, games, and burnt orange everywhere.
Bevo’s Arrival: Roughly 3 hours before kickoff, a parade clears the street for Bevo XV (the live Longhorn steer mascot) to enter the stadium. This is the must-see photo op—everyone stops to watch and the energy goes through the roof.
Longhorn City Limits (LCL): Located on the LBJ Lawn (northeast corner of campus), this is a FREE concert series featuring national headliners. Previous acts include Ludacris, Nelly, and Aloe Blacc. You don’t need a game ticket to attend—just show up and enjoy the music. This runs before select games, so check the schedule if you’re planning around it.
Food & Drink Strategy
“Fan First” Pricing: Texas slashed concession prices on core items a few years ago, and it’s a massive value improvement. Water costs around $3, hot dogs and popcorn run about $4, and other items are priced significantly below typical stadium gouging. You don’t need to smuggle snacks anymore—the prices are actually reasonable.
What’s Worth Eating: Rudy’s BBQ replaced Salt Lick as the main BBQ vendor inside the stadium. It’s reliable Texas barbecue, fast service, and smells incredible. Pluckers Wing Bar, an Austin favorite, has stands serving their famous wings. Earl Campbell’s hot sausage links are spicy and iconic—worth trying if you like heat. Cabo Bob’s still serves fresh burritos and tacos with quality ingredients.
Hydration Warning: You can bring in one factory-sealed water bottle up to 1 liter. Do this, especially for early-season games. The “Water Monsters” (large free refill tanks) are located throughout the concourse, but lines get long in September when temperatures hit 95°F+.
Arrival & Gate Strategy
Gates open 90 minutes before kickoff. Gates 8, 25, and the main gates on the west side turn into bottlenecks 60 minutes before game time. If you don’t have a specific gate assigned on your ticket, enter through Gate 1 or Gate 32 (North End Zone)—both are huge and process crowds faster than the smaller side gates.
Show up 2+ hours early for big games if you want to experience Bevo Blvd, catch the team walk, and avoid gate lines. If you just want to get to your seat, arrive 60 minutes early and use the north end zone gates.
Seating & Shade Strategy
The Golden Rule of DKR: The stadium runs north-south. The West Side (home sideline, Sections 3-8) gets shade first as the sun sets behind the press box. The East Side (visitor sideline, Sections 26-32) and North End Zone bake in the sun until late afternoon. For early-season games, this matters more than seat location—shade beats being 10 rows closer if it’s 95°F.
Student Section Reality: Sections 16-28 (Southeast corner) are student-heavy. If you sit here, expect to stand the entire game. The energy is electric, but if you want to sit, look elsewhere.
Stadium Traditions & Culture
Smokey the Cannon: Located in the South End Zone, this cannon fires loudly on kickoff and every Texas score. If you’re sensitive to loud bangs, avoid sitting in the low rows of Sections 16-18—you’ll be right next to it.
Hook ‘Em Horns: The iconic hand sign (index and pinky fingers extended, middle fingers grasped with thumb). You’ll see 100,000 people throwing this up simultaneously during “Texas Fight” and “The Eyes of Texas.” Learn it before arriving.
Lighting the Tower: After the game, look at the UT Tower (visible from the North End Zone). If Texas wins, it glows burnt orange. It’s a beautiful sight walking back through campus after a victory.
“Texas Fight” and “The Eyes of Texas”: The fight song and alma mater. The crowd roars through these songs multiple times during games. After victories, the team and fans stay to sing “The Eyes of Texas” together—it’s tradition.
One Deep Hack: Beat the Rideshare Trap
Do NOT try to call an Uber or Lyft from MLK Blvd or San Jacinto immediately after the game. It’s gridlock with 100,000+ people requesting rides simultaneously, and you’ll pay surge pricing 2x-3x normal rates while waiting 60+ minutes. Instead, walk north of Dean Keeton Street or into the neighborhoods east of I-35 (about 10-15 minutes from the stadium). You’ll escape the geofenced surge zone, get cheaper rides, and actually find a driver willing to pick you up. This saves you $20-40 and an hour of frustration.
Alternatively, stick around Bevo Blvd or head to a nearby bar for 30-40 minutes after the game. Let the crowds clear, enjoy the post-game atmosphere, and then request your ride when traffic has calmed down.
UT Football Parking
Driving and parking for Texas games is challenging. Over 100,000 fans converge on campus, turning the surrounding streets into gridlock 2-3 hours before kickoff. Public transit, rideshare, and the free UT shuttle system are all better options than driving and parking near the stadium.
Driving & Parking
University parking requires permits purchased in advance through Texas Athletics. Official lots cost $40-60+ depending on location and opponent. Lots open several hours before kickoff and fill quickly for big games.
Street parking near campus is free but nearly impossible to find on game days. Arrive 3+ hours early if you want any chance of snagging a spot.
Private lots and neighborhood yard parking are available for $30-50 within walking distance of the stadium. These fill by mid-morning for big games.
UT Shuttle (Free Option)
Park for FREE at the UT Intramural Fields and take the FREE Longhorn Express shuttle to DKR. The shuttle runs starting 2 hours before kickoff with the last departure 30 minutes before game time. Post-game shuttles run until 1 hour after the final whistle. This is the best value option—you avoid parking fees entirely and get dropped off at the stadium gates.
UT also runs shuttles from other parking areas including Lot 118 with ADA-accessible service. Check the UT Parking & Transportation website for specific routes and schedules.
Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Rideshare works for getting to the stadium but becomes expensive and slow post-game. Expect to pay $12-25 from downtown Austin or nearby neighborhoods depending on distance. Post-game surge pricing can double or triple your fare, and pickup locations get chaotic with 100,000+ fans requesting rides.
The hack: Walk 10-15 minutes away from the stadium toward downtown or campus before requesting a post-game ride. You’ll escape the geofenced surge zone and avoid waiting 60+ minutes for a driver.
CapMetro Public Transit
Austin’s public transit system (CapMetro) runs enhanced service on game days with routes converging near DKR. Route 10 stops directly at Texas Memorial Stadium. Fares are low (under $3 for most routes), and this works well if you’re staying downtown or along a major bus route. UT students, faculty, and staff ride free with a valid UT photo ID.
Post-game exit strategy: If you drove, don’t rush to your car immediately after the final whistle. Traffic is gridlocked for 45-60 minutes. Instead, walk to Sixth Street or West Campus for food and drinks, let traffic clear for 30-40 minutes, then head to your car. You’ll save time and actually enjoy the post-game atmosphere.
Walking
If you’re staying downtown Austin (Sixth Street, Congress Avenue area) or in West Campus, walk to the stadium. The walk from downtown takes 20-30 minutes, and you’ll experience the game-day energy building as you get closer to campus. This eliminates all parking and traffic drama.
Fun Gameday Bars in Austin
Austin’s bar scene is legendary, and game day transforms downtown into one massive burnt orange party. Before kickoff, head to Scholz Garten or Posse East—these are THE pre-game spots where die-hard Longhorns pack the patios hours before the team takes the field. Post-game, Crown and Anchor is the move for celebrating wins with fellow fans, or hit Sixth Street and Rainey Street to experience Austin’s “Live Music Capital of the World” reputation. Both streets are packed with bars featuring live music, rooftop patios, and late-night energy. The entire city shuts down for Texas football—take advantage of it.
Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto Blvd): This is THE premier game-day spot in Austin. The legendary place to see and be seen before kickoff. Located in downtown Austin right near DKR, Scholz Garten is a historic German beer garden that doubles as the ultimate Longhorns sports bar. Established in 1866, it’s the oldest operating business in Texas, and the history shows—you’re drinking beer in the same place Texas fans have gathered for over 150 years.
The spacious outdoor beer garden and indoor hall offer plenty of seating with multiple TVs for watching other games while you wait for kickoff. The beer selection is excellent with local Austin brews and German imports on tap. German-inspired cuisine includes bratwurst, pretzels, schnitzel, and solid bar food. The atmosphere during game days is electric—burnt orange everywhere, the band sometimes performs nearby, and you’ll be surrounded by generations of Texas fans.
Pro tip: Arrive 2-3 hours before kickoff for big games. The patio fills fast, and if you’re not there early, you’ll be standing the entire time. This is THE Austin tradition—if you skip Scholz’s before a game, you’re missing half the experience.
Posse East (2900 Duval St): A legendary UT game-day bar not far from the stadium, and it’s everything you want in a college football bar—cheap drinks, a lively patio packed with die-hard Longhorn fans, and zero pretension. This place gets absolutely wild before kickoff with students, alumni, and locals all mixing together. The vibe is authentic Austin football atmosphere—you’re not here for craft cocktails or upscale food, you’re here to drink beer, throw up Hook ‘Em Horns, and get fired up before heading to DKR.
The outdoor patio is where the action happens. Multiple bars keep the lines moving, prices are reasonable (especially compared to downtown), and everyone is wearing burnt orange. If you want to experience what Texas game day feels like for actual fans versus tourists, this is your spot.
Pro tip: Cash helps speed up transactions. Get there early for big games—the place turns into a madhouse 90 minutes before kickoff.
The Tavern (922 W 12th St): My favorite spot. Located on West 12th Street, The Tavern is a classic Austin sports bar that’s been serving locals since 1933. It has a laid-back, unpretentious atmosphere with a wide selection of beers, multiple TV screens, and a menu featuring delicious bar food. The white wings are a must-try—legitimately some of the best in Austin. The crowd skews local rather than tourist, which means you’re around people who actually care about the game, not just the Instagram moment.
The Tavern works for both pre-game (if you want something lower-key than the Scholz’s madness) and post-game (when you want a solid bar with good food without fighting Sixth Street crowds). Remember: you’re never too far from 12th and Lamar. If you know, you know.
Crown and Anchor (2911 San Jacinto Blvd): British pub near campus that becomes a Texas fan headquarters post-game. The vibe is celebration after wins—packed patio, live music often, solid beer selection, and fish and chips that are legitimately good. This place fills up fast after big victories with fans singing “The Eyes of Texas” and reliving key plays for hours. If you want to stay in the game-day atmosphere after leaving the stadium without hitting the chaos of Sixth Street, this is the move.
Other Notable Spots
Little Woodrow’s (6th Street) – Popular bar with vibrant atmosphere, extensive drink selection, outdoor patio, and multiple TVs. Great for socializing and watching games with a lively crowd. Gets packed on game days with a good mix of students and young alumni.
Lavaca Street Bar – Two locations in Austin offering a vibrant sports bar experience. Great selection of beers on tap, ample seating, plenty of TVs, and a lively atmosphere that attracts serious sports fans. Solid backup option if your first-choice bars are too crowded.
Shoal Creek Saloon – Friendly sports bar near downtown with cozy atmosphere and cold beer. Several TVs throughout, pool tables, and live music on certain nights. More low-key than the main game-day spots—good for fans who want to watch without the insanity.
Uptown Sports Club – Blends classic Austin charm with elevated bar food, craft cocktails, and a laid-back vibe perfect for pre- or post-game hangs. Short drive from the stadium. Stylish spot to catch the game or celebrate a Longhorn win with better-than-average food.
Dogwood (6th Street) – Stylish bar with chic indoor setting and spacious rooftop patio offering city views. Serves craft cocktails, beer, and wine with a trendy, energetic ambiance. More upscale than typical sports bars—good for post-game if you want something fancier.
The Strategy
Best for pre-game: Scholz Garten if you want the full legendary Texas experience, or Posse East if you want authentic fan energy with cheaper drinks. Both get packed 2-3 hours before kickoff—arrive early.
Best for post-game: Crown and Anchor for celebrating with fellow Longhorns, or head to Sixth Street/Rainey Street for Austin’s famous live music and nightlife scene. The Tavern is perfect if you want solid food and a local vibe without fighting massive crowds.
Best value: Posse East has the cheapest drinks and most authentic atmosphere. You’re saving money and getting a better experience than overpriced downtown bars.
Sixth Street and Rainey Street play a significant role in Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World.” If you’re visiting for a game weekend, experience both—Sixth Street is more chaotic and touristy, Rainey Street has a more neighborhood feel with converted house-bars and craft cocktails. There are way too many great places to mention, but these spots give you the full Austin game-day experience from pre-game traditions to post-game celebrations.
Austin Restaurants
Austin has evolved into one of America’s great food cities. The BBQ scene is world-class—Franklin Barbecue set the standard, and dozens of excellent pitmasters have followed. Tacos are everywhere, from gas station breakfast tacos to upscale Mexican restaurants serving inventive creations. The broader restaurant scene punches above its weight with Michelin-starred dining, creative sushi, and farm-to-table concepts that showcase Texas ingredients. You’re here for football, but the food is half the reason to visit Austin.
BBQ
Franklin Barbecue is the most famous BBQ joint in America for good reason—the brisket is legitimately perfect. Lines form hours before opening and they sell out daily. If you’re willing to wait 2-4 hours, it’s worth experiencing once. La Barbecue, Terry Black’s Barbecue, and Kerlin BBQ offer excellent alternatives with shorter waits and similarly outstanding smoked meats. Micklethwait Craft Meats just upgraded from a beloved food trailer to a brick-and-mortar restaurant in January 2025—everything is scratch-made from sausage to pickles, and it’s a personal favorite for fans who want top-tier BBQ without the Franklin’s wait.
Tacos
Austin’s taco scene is the standard. Veracruz All Natural serves fresh, flavorful breakfast tacos with homemade salsas—the migas taco is legendary. Torchy’s Tacos has creative options like the Trailer Park taco and addictive queso. Tacodeli offers both traditional and inventive tacos with high-quality ingredients—great for breakfast tacos. Valentina’s Tex Mex BBQ combines barbecue and Tex-Mex for smoked brisket tacos and the famous Real Deal Holyfield taco. Taco Flats on Burnet Road serves creative tacos ranging from classic al pastor to fried chicken, paired perfectly with margaritas.
Upscale Dining
Uchi is Austin’s celebrated sushi destination with creative Japanese-inspired dishes. Olamaie serves elevated Southern cuisine with seasonal ingredients and recently earned Michelin One Star status. Emmer & Rye embraces farm-to-table dining with a frequently changing menu, handmade pastas, and artisanal bread. La Condesa offers modern Mexican cuisine with inventive tacos like lamb barbacoa and crispy Brussels sprouts. There are more, but this will get you started.
Hotels Near DKR Texas Memorial Stadium
Stay downtown near Sixth Street or in the UT campus area—you’ll walk to DKR in 15-30 minutes, avoid parking nightmares, and experience Austin’s bar, restaurant, and live music scene before and after games. Downtown Austin transforms on game days with burnt orange everywhere, packed patios, and live music spilling onto the streets. Don’t isolate yourself in a hotel near the airport or suburbs—the entire point of attending a Texas game is experiencing Austin’s culture alongside the football.
Luxury Options
Hotel Van Zandt: Situated in the Rainey Street district, Hotel Van Zandt offers stylish accommodations, live music events, a rooftop pool, and easy access to popular nightlife spots.
The Driskill Hotel: This historic luxury hotel is located on 6th Street and offers elegant rooms, upscale amenities, and a fantastic location for exploring downtown Austin.
W Austin: This trendy and contemporary hotel offers a unique experience with modern rooms, chic decor, and a vibrant atmosphere. It boasts an on-site spa, rooftop pool, trendy bars, and is within close proximity to downtown attractions and UT. This is also where the famous Austin City Limits show is taped.
The Westin Austin Downtown: Located in downtown Austin, The Westin offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool with panoramic views, a fitness center, and a variety of dining options. It is conveniently situated near the Formula One track and other popular attractions.
JW Marriott Austin: This upscale hotel boasts spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, multiple restaurants and bars, and is conveniently connected to the Austin Convention Center.
The LINE Austin: Located on the shores of Lady Bird Lake, The LINE Austin offers modern and stylish accommodations, an outdoor pool, on-site dining options, and stunning views of the lake and downtown.
Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt: Another excellent option on Rainey Street, the Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt combines luxury with a vibrant atmosphere, offering beautifully designed rooms, a rooftop pool, and live music events.
The Princess: The Princess is a boutique hotel located in downtown Austin, offering a charming and intimate atmosphere. With uniquely decorated rooms, personalized service, and a central location, it provides a delightful stay for guests.
Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol: Situated near the Texas State Capitol, the Sheraton Austin Hotel at the Capitol offers comfortable accommodations with modern amenities.
Budget-Friendly Austin Hotels:
Austin Motel: Located just south of downtown Austin, the Austin Motel offers affordable retro-style accommodations and is within walking distance of the vibrant South Congress Avenue.
Extended Stay America Austin – Downtown – 6th St.: Situated on 6th Street, this budget-friendly hotel provides comfortable rooms with kitchenettes, making it a convenient option for longer stays.Firehouse Hostel: Found in a renovated historic fire station, Firehouse Hostel offers budget-friendly dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms, with a communal kitchen and a cozy lounge area.
HI Austin: Located a bit outside of downtown, HI Austin is a budget-friendly hostel offering both dormitory-style and private rooms. It’s situated on the shores of Lady Bird Lake and provides a peaceful retreat with access to hiking trails and water activities.
These are just a few options, but Austin has a variety of hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals available throughout the city to suit different budgets and preferences.
Fun Things to Do in Austin
Explore Sixth Street and Downtown Austin: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Sixth Street, where live music, historic architecture, diverse dining options, unique shops, and exciting events come together to create an unforgettable experience.
Rainey Street: A trendy neighborhood known for its historic bungalow-style houses transformed into bars, food trucks, and live music venues. Situated southeast of downtown, it provides a unique and laid-back atmosphere, drawing both locals and visitors for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary offerings.
The Domain Austin: The Domain is a premier shopping, dining, and entertainment destination located in Austin, Texas. With its upscale and contemporary atmosphere, this open-air lifestyle center offers a unique and enjoyable experience for visitors. The Domain features a diverse range of high-end retailers, including luxury brands, boutique shops, and popular department stores. It also offers a wide selection of dining options, ranging from trendy restaurants to casual eateries, catering to various tastes and preferences. With its vibrant energy and regular events and festivals, The Domain is a must-visit destination for fashion enthusiasts, food lovers, and those seeking a memorable shopping experience in Austin. Don’t forget to check out the Rock Rose District in The Domain full of local shops and eateries.
Explore the University of Texas Campus: If you’re attending a Longhorns game, take some time to explore the University of Texas campus. Visit iconic landmarks like the Tower or the LBJ Presidential Library, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of college life.
Visit Zilker Park: Located near downtown, Zilker Park is a fantastic place to relax and enjoy outdoor activities. Take a stroll, have a picnic, or rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore Lady Bird Lake. Go for a run or a bike ride on theLady Bird Lake Hike and Bike trail. One of the best if not the best urban trails in the country.
Enjoy Live Music: Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, so make sure to catch a live performance at one of the city’s many venues. See the link for this week’s live music or go grab a hard copy of the Austin Chronicle. From small bars to larger concert halls, you’ll find a wide range of musical genres to suit your taste.
Explore South Congress Avenue: Wander down South Congress Avenue and explore its unique shops, boutiques, and art galleries. Grab a bite to eat at one of the many local eateries or food trucks and soak up the eclectic atmosphere.
Barton Springs: Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Barton Springs, a spring-fed swimming pool that offers a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. Take a dip in the cool waters, surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees. Also Explore the Barton Creek Greenbelt: Adjacent to Barton Springs, the Barton Creek Greenbelt offers a network of scenic trails for hiking and biking.
Why You Should Go
DKR has one of the best atmospheres in college football. The stadium is loud, the traditions are iconic, and the entire city of Austin shuts down for Longhorns football. The concessions are legitimately excellent with local Austin food vendors, the sightlines from midfield seats are great, and you’re in the middle of one of the best food and music cities in America. If you’re looking for a complete game-day experience that goes beyond just watching football, Austin and DKR deliver.
If you like to travel to College Football Stadium, dont’ forget to check out those and all of our college football guides here! And for Texas fans:
For baseball fans check out Daikin Park (formerly Minute Maid Park) in Houston and Globe Life Park in Arlington and of course AT&T Stadium home of the Dallas Cowboys. Hook Em’.
This guide includes insights from personal visits as well as updated info from team sources, fan forums, and stadium policies. We aim to help you plan with confidence — enjoy your gameday.