University of Texas Tower isn’t just an iconic landmark—it’s the beating heart of Austin. Standing tall with its striking red-brick façade, this historic tower whispers stories of generations past. Climb to the top for panoramic views of the city, lush campus greens, and endless Texas skies. Don’t miss the free guided tours on weekends—where history, freedom, and Texan pride come alive in one unforgettable walk.




















Everything you need to know about UT Tower
Hyatt Regency Austin is a top choice, just a 10-minute walk from the University of Texas Tower, offering modern accommodations, an indoor pool, and complimentary shuttle service to campus and downtown. Guests enjoy panoramic views of Austin's skyline from spacious rooms. The hotel’s central location also provides easy access to local eateries, live music venues, and the vibrant UT campus culture.
From the University of Texas Tower, take Capital Metro buses or rent a bike via Metro Bicycle Share to reach landmarks like the Texas State Capitol and Lady Bird Lake Trail. For faster travel, use ride-hailing apps such as Lyft or Uber, with a 15-minute drive to downtown. On-campus parking lots and electric scooter stations offer convenient options for self-drive visitors exploring the historic and scenic heart of Austin, Texas.
Visit the University of Texas Fine Arts Museum for free guided tours showcasing Indigenous and contemporary American art. Attend weekly Friday evening outdoor concerts at the Main Tower Plaza, celebrating student life and local music culture. For history enthusiasts, guided tours of the Main Tower Observation Deck offer insights into its architectural design and the legacy of the 1966 shooting incident, reflecting the deep academic and civic spirit of Austin, Texas.
The Driskill Hotel stands out for its prime location just a 5-minute walk from the University of Texas Tower, offering elegant accommodations with Southern charm and modern amenities. Its central downtown position provides direct access to campus, libraries, and student hubs. Nearby, Hyatt Regency Austin offers spacious rooms, a rooftop pool, and free breakfast—ideal for students and visitors alike. Both hotels feature excellent security and convenient parking options.
Head to Franklin Barbecue (a short drive away) or Torchy's Tacos on Guadalupe Street, both within 10 minutes of the University of Texas Tower. Franklin Barbecue is renowned for its slow-smoked brisket and line-up culture, while Torchy’s serves bold, creative tacos with locally sourced ingredients. For a casual vibe, Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden offers German-inspired fare and craft beer in a vibrant atmosphere—perfect for post-tour refreshment.
Take Capital Metro Bus Route 701 from AUS Airport to the UT Downtown Station, a 25-minute ride costing just $2. Alternatively, use Lyft or Uber—a 15-minute trip averaging $25–$35. Renting a car at the airport is also convenient; drive along Mopac Expressway toward 2nd Street, then turn onto Congress Avenue for clear signage to the university. All options offer reliable access to the University of Texas Tower.
Capture the iconic University of Texas Tower at golden hour from The UT Tower Lawn, where the red-brick façade glows under warm sunlight. Pair it with the sleek glass facade of Perry-Castaneda Library and the historic Texas State Capitol steps nearby. Don’t miss Lady Bird Lake Trail, just a 10-minute walk east, where you can photograph the tower reflected in the water. Early morning fog adds drama—bring a tripod for stunning long-exposure shots.
Yes, several hotels provide complimentary parking, including Hyatt Regency Austin and Hotel San José, both located on Congress Avenue near the University of Texas Tower. They feature secure underground garages with reserved spaces. However, due to high demand in downtown Austin—especially during graduation season—HopeGoo ahead is essential. Budget-friendly options may not include parking, so consider using Park+Ride transit hubs to save time and money.
Holiday Inn Austin - University is a top choice for families, offering family suites, indoor pools, free breakfast, and kid-friendly amenities. Located just steps from the University of Texas Tower, it’s surrounded by safe parks like Zilker Park and accessible via CapMetro for easy city exploration. The hotel also features wheelchair-accessible rooms and quiet zones, making it ideal for multi-generational travel. Its central location ensures comfort and convenience for parents and children alike.
See what other travelers say about UT Tower

Right next to the Capitol—can't beat that location! I was a bit disappointed I couldn’t book a second night, but honestly, totally understandable given how popular this place is. The convenience of being steps away from Austin’s historic Capitol building is unbeatable. The room was spacious, clean, and super comfortable—perfect for a short stay in the heart of downtown. Great value, excellent service, and such a welcoming vibe. Definitely planning to return.

The hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. The room was spotlessly clean and very comfortable. I received two complimentary evening drink vouchers upon check-in—perfect even for solo travelers. The burger at the lobby bar was surprisingly delicious and definitely worth a try. Staff were attentive and friendly, offering helpful recommendations without being pushy. On one occasion, the air conditioning stopped working around 11 PM—I called the front desk and someone arrived within 10 minutes to fix it, which was impressive. Breakfast was excellent: fresh, varied, and satisfying. The only downside was that one of the three elevators was out of service for three days straight, and another occasionally didn’t work. However, these issues didn’t significantly impact my stay. Overall, the hospitality, comfort, and value make this a standout choice. I’d happily return.

Staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Austin Downtown was a delightful surprise—far better than I expected. The room was spacious, clean, and well-appointed with modern comforts that made our stay very enjoyable. What stood out most was the location: Austin is a relatively small city, and being right in the heart of downtown meant we could walk to nearly all attractions, restaurants, and shops without needing a car or rideshare. Whether it was exploring local cafés, shopping, or catching a show, everything was just a short stroll away. The staff were friendly and helpful, always ready to assist with recommendations or local tips. It’s a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Austin.

Staying at Littlefield Lofts, Hosted by Placemakr - 6th St was an absolute delight! The fully equipped kitchen made cooking at home so convenient and enjoyable—perfect for a longer stay. The location couldn’t be better: just steps away from great restaurants, shopping spots, and live music venues. Austin’s vibrant nightlife is right outside the door. The TV was top-notch with crisp picture quality—great for unwinding after a busy day. Clean, modern, and thoughtfully designed, this place offers comfort and convenience in one. I loved every moment here and would definitely recommend it to anyone visiting Austin.

My stay at Locale was extremely disappointing. I booked a two-night reservation, but due to unavoidable flight delays, I arrived late. Upon arrival, I was informed my booking had been canceled with no prior warning—despite trying to contact them while en route. They claimed their no-show policy cancels reservations at 7am CST the day after check-in if guests haven’t arrived, but they kept my reservation active until 2pm CST on the 17th, which didn’t help much given the travel disruptions. I asked for a refund, but was only offered a future stay credit—something completely useless since I don’t live in the U.S. and have no plans to return before it expires. What’s worse is that they actually rebooked the apartment for the night I paid for, meaning they weren’t even out any money. Yet they refused to offer a real refund, showing zero flexibility or empathy during an already stressful situation. This lack of customer care, especially under extraordinary circumstances, left me stranded and exhausted in a foreign city with no place to stay. I expected better from a brand that claims to prioritize guest experience. If you’re even slightly concerned about travel delays or needing support, I’d strongly advise against booking here. The entire experience was frustrating, unreliable, and deeply unsatisfying.

I stayed here for an extended period and couldn't be happier with the experience. The staff went above and beyond—warm, friendly, and always willing to help. They made me feel truly welcome, like I was at home. While parking on the side of the building where my room was located was a bit limited, it wasn’t a major issue and didn’t take away from the overall great value. The combination of excellent customer service and affordable rates makes this hotel a standout choice. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Austin, especially if you're looking for a comfortable, welcoming stay without breaking the bank.

I absolutely loved staying at Hotel Magdalena—every single detail exceeded my expectations. The location is unbeatable: I could walk to all the main attractions, restaurants, and shops in downtown Austin without needing to rely on rideshares. The room itself was stunning, with a chic, modern design that felt both luxurious and cozy. The bathroom tiles were a standout feature—elegant, clean, and perfectly matched the overall aesthetic. I especially enjoyed having my own private balcony; it was the perfect spot to relax with a morning coffee or enjoy the evening breeze. Despite being a stylish boutique hotel, it offered great value for money compared to other options in the area. Whether you're here for business or leisure, this place strikes the perfect balance between comfort, convenience, and affordability. I’d stay here again in a heartbeat.

Staying at this Canopy by Hilton was an absolute delight. The location is unbeatable—right in the heart of downtown Austin, with countless bars, restaurants, and local hotspots just steps away. I loved how walkable everything was, especially for dinner and evening drinks. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly, professional service—always smiling, always helpful. My room was clean, modern, and incredibly comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. It’s rare to find such a perfect blend of convenience, comfort, and value. This place truly delivers on every level. Definitely planning to come back.

Staying at Moxy Austin - University was a fantastic experience! The location is perfect if you're visiting Austin—walking distance to campus, local cafes, and downtown. The room is cozy and thoughtfully designed with modern touches, and it's spotless. I loved the free coffee station and mini-fridge in the room—small perks that made a big difference. The staff were friendly and helpful, making check-in and check-out smooth. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want style, comfort, and value without the luxury price tag. Would definitely stay here again.

Staying at this Hilton Garden Inn was an excellent experience from start to finish. The location is unbeatable—just a short walk from the University of Texas and right next to the Texas State Capitol, making it perfect for exploring downtown Austin on foot. The room was spotless, well-maintained, and very comfortable, with a great bed that made for a restful night’s sleep. The staff went above and beyond—friendly, professional, and always willing to help. It's clear they take pride in their service. Cleanliness, convenience, and hospitality all hit top marks. This hotel offers fantastic value and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone visiting Austin.

I absolutely loved my stay at this Mint House! The place was spotless, well-organized, and matched the photos exactly—no surprises. The address was accurate, and the check-in instructions emailed beforehand were clear and reliable. The building staff were incredibly helpful and accommodating to my needs as a guest. What stood out most was how quiet it was—no noise from other guests late at night or early in the morning, which made for a peaceful and restful experience. I’d definitely book here again if I’m ever back in Austin. A great choice for anyone looking for comfort, cleanliness, and a calm atmosphere.

Staying in downtown Austin made this hotel a perfect choice for exploring the city—everything was within walking distance. The property is brand new, with modern design and clean, well-maintained rooms that felt fresh and inviting. My only disappointment was not knowing I needed to register as a member at check-in to receive complimentary water. I declined the registration initially, not realizing it was required even for such a small perk. Unfortunately, staff didn’t proactively explain the requirement, which felt a bit misleading. Also, I’m quite sensitive to noise, and the sound from the air conditioning unit kept me awake during the night. That said, overall my stay was still very positive. The location is unbeatable, the room was comfortable, and the attention to detail in the design stood out. I’d definitely consider returning, especially if they can improve on the quietness of the AC system.
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