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Visitors Guide

Getting to the Capitol/UT Campus from the Airport

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is about 10 miles from the Capitol/UT area. Your main options:

  • Public Transit (CapMetro Route 20): Runs directly from the airport's lower level to downtown and the UT campus. $1.25 per ride, 35–45 minutes.
  • Rideshare & Taxis: Uber and Lyft pick up from the ground floor of the Rental Car Garage. Expect to pay $25–$40 and 15–20 minutes depending on traffic.
  • Rental Cars: All major companies are on-site at the airport.

Things to Do Near the Capitol & UT Campus

  • Texas Capitol: Free guided tours available daily.
  • Blanton Museum of Art: On the UT campus. Free on Thursdays.
  • Bullock Texas State History Museum: Three floors of exhibits on Texas history, plus an IMAX theater.
  • LBJ Presidential Library: On the UT campus. Free admission.

Downtown Austin

Downtown is walkable from the conference area. 6th Street runs from the historic bar district ("Dirty 6th") to Rainey Street, a quieter stretch of bars and restaurants in converted bungalows a few blocks south. Congress Avenue connects the Capitol to Lady Bird Lake.

Live Music

  • Stubb's Amphitheater: Outdoor and indoor stages on Red River Street.
  • The Parish: Mid-size room on 6th Street.
  • Emo's Austin: On Red River, known for punk, metal, and alternative shows.
  • Continental Club: On South Congress, open since 1957.

Check Do512.com for listings during your stay.

Other Things Worth Doing

  • Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail: A 10-mile paved loop around Lady Bird Lake with multiple access points from downtown and South Congress. Kayak and paddleboard rentals available along the lake.
  • Zilker Park: Large city park along Lady Bird Lake, south of downtown.
  • Barton Springs Pool: Spring-fed outdoor pool, stays around 68–70°F.
  • South Congress (SoCo): Independent shops, food trailers, and restaurants. The Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony flies out at dusk from March through October.