Where to Tailgate for UT Football Games in Austin
Are you ready to bleed burnt orange and get hyped for another season of Texas Longhorns football? As an Austin-based premium alcohol delivery service, we know a thing or two about elevating game day experiences. Whether you're planning a bachelor party, corporate event, or just a good old-fashioned tailgate, we're here to share our insider tips on the best places to set up shop before kickoff.
The Drag: University of Texas Campus
You can't talk about UT football tailgating without mentioning the iconic "Drag" - the stretch of Guadalupe Street that borders the university's main campus. This area transforms into a sea of burnt orange on game days, with fans lining the streets, vendors selling Longhorns merch, and the sounds of the Longhorn Band echoing through the air.
Some of the most popular tailgating spots on the Drag include:
- Gregory Gym Lawn - A sprawling green space perfect for setting up tents, grills, and games.
- Littlefield Fountain - An iconic landmark where fans gather to take photos and soak up the pre-game atmosphere.
- San Jacinto Boulevard - The street that runs along the edge of campus, often packed with tailgaters.
Longhorn City Limits: Downtown Austin
Just a stone's throw from campus, the Longhorn City Limits festival transforms downtown Austin into the ultimate UT football fan experience. Held on the Waller Creek Amphitheater grounds, this epic tailgate party features live music, food trucks, beer gardens, and all the burnt orange spirit you can handle.
Some key details about Longhorn City Limits:
- Location: 208 Nueces St, Austin, TX 78701
- Ticketed event (free for UT students)
- Opens 4 hours before kickoff on game days
- Full bar, local food vendors, and entertainment stages
6th Street: Bars & Nightlife
No UT football tailgate is complete without a post-game trip down the legendary 6th Street. This vibrant entertainment district is packed with bars, clubs, and restaurants that keep the party going long after the final whistle. Some of the most popular Longhorns hangouts include:
- Coyote Ugly Saloon - A high-energy bar known for its dancing bartenders and rowdy crowds.
- Blind Pig Pub - A lively sports bar with plenty of TVs, cheap drinks, and a huge outdoor patio.
- Sherlock's Baker St. Pub & Grill - A classic pub setting with a menu of pub grub favorites.
Lustre Pearl East: Private Tailgating
For a more elevated, VIP-style tailgating experience, consider reserving a private event space at Lustre Pearl East. This spacious, well-equipped venue offers everything you need to host the ultimate Longhorns watch party, including:
- Covered outdoor patios and lawns
- Full-service bars and catering options
- Audio/visual equipment and high-speed WiFi
- Ample parking and transportation options
Whether you're planning a corporate outing, bachelor/bachelorette bash, or just a big group of friends, Lustre Pearl East can provide a turnkey tailgating solution with all the bells and whistles.
| Location | Capacity | Amenities | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Drag | Thousands | Open spaces, street vendors, Longhorn Band | Large groups, casual fans, pre-gaming |
| Longhorn City Limits | 10,000+ | Live music, food trucks, beer gardens | Tailgate party experience, families |
| 6th Street Bars | Varies by venue | Drinks, TVs, dance floors, outdoor seating | Post-game celebrations, nightlife |
| Lustre Pearl East | 500-1,000 | Private event space, catering, A/V equipment | Corporate/group outings, VIP experience |
Insider Tips for the Perfect UT Football Tailgate

Having helped plan countless tailgate parties in Austin, we've picked up a few insider tips to ensure your game day experience is a slam dunk:
- Arrive Early: The best spots on The Drag and at Longhorn City Limits fill up fast, so get there at least 3-4 hours before kickoff.
- Bring the Right Gear: Pack a portable grill, cooler, folding chairs, and any other tailgating essentials you'll need.
- Order Drinks in Advance: Let Party On Delivery handle your beverage needs with our premium alcohol packages and cooler delivery service.
- Have a Game Plan: Decide on a meeting spot, schedule, and transportation plan with your group ahead of time.
- Pace Yourself: Pace your drinking and eat some food - you'll want to keep the energy high all the way through the 4th quarter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What time do the tailgating areas open on game days?
A: The Drag and Longhorn City Limits generally open 4-6 hours before kickoff, while private event spaces like Lustre Pearl East may have more flexible timelines. We recommend arriving at least 3-4 hours early to secure a good spot.
Q: Can I bring my own alcohol to a UT football tailgate?
A: Yes, you're welcome to bring your own beer, wine, and liquor to most tailgating areas around the stadium. However, keep in mind that glass containers are often prohibited for safety reasons. For a more seamless, premium tailgating experience, let Party On Delivery handle your alcohol and cooler needs.
Q: Are there any age restrictions or ID requirements for tailgating?
A: Most tailgating areas around UT Austin are open to all ages, but the bars and beer gardens on 6th Street will have standard 21+ policies. Make sure everyone in your group has a valid ID if you plan to visit the downtown nightlife district.
Q: Can I reserve a specific tailgating spot or space?
A: For the more casual, public tailgating areas like The Drag and Longhorn City Limits, there are no reservation options - it's first-come, first-served. However, you can reserve a private event space at venues like Lustre Pearl East to guarantee a prime tailgating location with all the amenities.
Q: Where can I park for UT football tailgating?
A: Parking around the UT Austin campus and downtown Austin can be a challenge on game days. We recommend looking into public transportation options like the CapMetro bus system or using a rideshare service. You can also reserve parking spots in advance through services like ParkWhiz.
Ready to elevate your tailgating? Explore our tailgate party packages, cooler delivery, and premium beverage service for UT football tailgates in Austin and let Party On Delivery handle the details. Hook 'em horns!



This article is part of our comprehensive The Ultimate Guide to UT Football Tailgating in Austin. Explore the full guide for more tips and resources.

Allan Henslee
Founder & CEO of Party On Delivery, helping Austin celebrate in style since 2023.
