Guide to taking your family to a University of Texas football game

By Gianna Ivy

There’s nothing quite like stepping into the buzz of a University of Texas football game with your kids: orange and white flags waving, cannons firing and that shared thrill when the kickoff drops.

Whether it’s your first game or part of a yearly ritual, a UT game is pure family magic. Decked out in Longhorn gear, you’ll cheer on together, high five under the stadium lights and make memories that stick, like the echoes of the horns long after the final whistle.

What to know

Get there early: Traffic and crowds around DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium can get intense, so plan to arrive well before kickoff. Early arrival also means you won’t miss the fan fare and pre-game rituals that really amp up the experience.

Bevo Blvd comes alive: Along Stadium Drive, tailgates and family friendly activities pop up well before the game. They are free and open to all, even if you don’t have a ticket. Games, food tents, face painting — there’s something for every kiddo.

Beat the heat: Austin summers can cook you. Bring sun hats, light colored clothing and keep kids shaded and hydrated. Frequent water breaks go a long way toward happy faces and fun memories.

Parking pointers: Parking fills up quickly, especially the garages near campus. Check the website for details on road closures and parking resources. These are the garages close to the stadium:

Brazos Garage: 210 E Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Austin, TX

Trinity Garage: 1815 Trinity St, Austin, TX

Manor Garage: 2017 Robert Dedman Dr, Austin, TX

San Jacinto Garage: 2400 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX

Where to get the gear

Make your kids feel like part of the team with burnt orange gear they’ll love. Here are some local spots:

Texas Longhorn Team Shop: Located just inside the Longhorn athletics complex, this is the official team store. You’ll find jerseys, hats, mini footballs and kid sized swag.

Address: 2109 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX

Hours: 10a.m.-4p.m. Monday-Thursday, 10a.m.-5p.m. Friday-Sunday

University Co-op: A longtime staple near campus, the Co-op stocks shirts, hoodies, caps and school supplies with Longhorn flair, including a collaboration with Lululemon.

Address: 2246 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX

Hours: 10a.m.-7p.m. Sunday, 10a.m.-8p.m. Monday-Friday, 9a.m.-8p.m. Saturday

Kendra Scott: Known for jewelry, this flagship store carries the exclusive “Game Day” collection that adds a stylish burnt orange sparkle to every outfit.

Address: 3800 N Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX

Hours: 11a.m.-6p.m. Sunday, 10a.m.-7p.m. Monday-Saturday

Where to eat

Fueling up is half the fun of game day, and Austin has plenty of family friendly spots just steps from campus.

Kerbey Lane Café – A go-to Austin institution for pancakes, queso and hearty breakfast plates. The laid back atmosphere makes it easy for families to settle in before the rush of game day.

Address: 2606 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX

Hours: 7a.m.-10p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 7a.m.-12p.m. Friday-Saturday

“Can’t go wrong with a Kirby Lane breakfast for the family,” Christy Gatchell wrote in a Google review. “They always have fun pancakes.”

Dirty Martin’s Place – A campus legend since 1926, Dirty’s serves up burgers, fries and shakes that keep fans coming back. Its no frills vibe and comfort food menu make it a perfect spot to grab lunch or dinner before or after the game.

Address: 2808 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX

Hours: 11a.m.-9p.m. Sunday-Wednesday, 11a.m.-12a.m. Thursday-Saturday

“A true Austin classic. If you’re visiting, you don’t want to miss this spot,” Sienna White wrote in a Google review. “With so many iconic restaurants disappearing, it’s refreshing to see Dirty Martin’s still holding strong.”

Amy’s Ice Creams
With playful flavors, mix-ins tossed right before your eyes and a welcoming atmosphere, Amy’s is the sweet treat to wrap up a day of cheering.

Address: 3500 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX

Hours: 11:30a.m.-11p.m. Sunday-Thursday, 11:30a.m.-12a.m. Friday-Saturday

“Dropped by on a hot 100F afternoon to cool off and to enjoy some unique ice cream,” Reuben Reyes wrote in a Google review. “I have been a customer of Amy’s for over 30 years and they do not disappoint.”