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.

This hotel is perfectly located in downtown Austin, just minutes away from Lady Bird Lake and the convention center. With outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, and pet-friendly policy, it's ideal for both work and play. Enjoy dining at one of the 3 on-site restaurants or unwind with a drink by the poolside bar. Rooms are cozy and modern, featuring luxury bedding and designer toiletries. Plus, the 24/7 concierge and event spaces make it a great choice for business travelers. A true gem in the heart of the city!




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

Unexpected rain throughout our trip turned out to be a blessing in disguise thanks to the thoughtful touches at this hotel. Upon arrival, I was pleasantly surprised to find an umbrella waiting in my room—no need to scramble for one when the skies opened up! It’s these little details that make all the difference, showing real care and attention. The location is fantastic too—just a short walk to downtown Austin and super convenient for exploring the city. It’s clear they prioritize guest comfort, and it shows. A truly memorable stay with a perfect blend of convenience, charm, and hospitality.

A perfect stopover during my day trip to Austin! The Westin Austin Downtown is incredibly convenient—right in the heart of the city with easy access to all the top attractions and restaurants. The rooftop pool is a real highlight: spacious, stylish, and offering stunning views of the skyline. I spent an afternoon lounging by the water, sipping a cool drink as the sun dipped below the horizon—it was pure relaxation. The room was clean, modern, and well-appointed, and the staff went above and beyond to make the stay comfortable. If you're visiting Austin for just a day or two, this hotel is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend for both business and leisure travelers.

The location is fantastic—super easy to access and right in a vibrant neighborhood with everything nearby. The building feels well-maintained, and the staff are friendly and helpful. It’s a great spot for exploring Austin on foot or by public transit. The only small suggestion: adding a small table and two chairs would make enjoying the balcony even better. Otherwise, everything is perfect—clean, quiet, and thoughtfully designed. Would definitely stay here again.

Staying at Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown - University was an absolutely delightful experience from start to finish. The hotel is impeccably managed, with staff who go above and beyond to make guests feel welcome. Special shoutout to Jonathan at the front desk—he was incredibly attentive, always anticipating our needs before we even asked. His warm personality and genuine hospitality made a lasting impression. The location is fantastic—just steps away from downtown Austin’s vibrant scene and the university area. Public transit access is convenient, and there are plenty of great dining options nearby. Everything about this stay felt thoughtfully curated. I left feeling refreshed, well taken care of, and already planning my next visit. Highly recommend for anyone looking for a stylish, welcoming, and well-run urban retreat.

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.

Thompson Austin is an exceptional place to stay. The martini selection at the bar is outstanding, and the cuisine at Arribas delivers top-tier quality with bold, delicious flavors. Its location is perfect—just a half-block from Sixth Street means you're close to all the action yet enjoy a surprisingly quiet and private atmosphere. The ambiance is refined, the staff are attentive, and every detail feels thoughtfully curated. I’d absolutely stay here again and highly recommend it to anyone visiting Austin.

Staying at The Loren Hotel Austin was an absolute delight—this boutique gem in downtown Austin truly stands out. From the moment we walked in, the ambiance was elegant yet welcoming. The bed was incredibly comfortable with plush linens, and I loved waking up to robes and slippers waiting for me. The room featured a Nespresso machine, plus a well-stocked mini-bar with premium snacks (though some items were paid). It’s quiet and thoughtfully designed, making it a perfect retreat after a busy day exploring the city. Valet parking was a big plus—no stress finding a spot. Every staff member we met was genuinely kind and attentive, creating a warm, personal touch throughout our stay. We only stayed one night, but it felt like a much longer getaway. I’d definitely recommend extending your visit to fully experience all the hotel has to offer—luxury, comfort, and charm in every detail.
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