The 4 Best Sports & Events in Austin

Home of the Texas Longhorns football team, this 100,000-seat stadium is one of the loudest and most storied venues in college football. Game days transform the entire 40 Acres neighborhood into an electric sea of burnt orange, with tailgating starting hours before kickoff. Tickets for marquee matchups sell out fast and secondary-market prices spike, so plan well ahead. The sheer scale and tradition make it an unmissable Austin experience even for casual fans.

Home of Austin FC, the city's MLS franchise, Q2 Stadium opened in 2021 and is widely regarded as one of the best soccer-specific stadiums in the United States. The 20,738-seat venue features a stunning canopy roof, raucous supporter sections (Los Verdes and Austin Anthem), and an atmosphere that rivals top European grounds. Tickets are in high demand — Austin FC has sold out nearly every home match since opening — so buy well in advance. The Verde culture here is genuine and passionate, making this a must-visit for any soccer fan.

One of the largest and most well-regarded climbing gyms in Texas, Austin Bouldering Project offers extensive bouldering walls, top-rope and lead climbing, yoga, and fitness classes in a vibrant East Austin warehouse space. The route-setting is consistently praised, and the community is welcoming to beginners and seasoned climbers alike. Day passes are available but a membership pays off quickly for regulars. It can get crowded on weekday evenings after work, so weekend mornings tend to be more relaxed.

Opened in 2022, this 15,000-seat arena on the UT campus is home to Texas Longhorns men's and women's basketball and hosts major concerts and events year-round. The facility is modern and well-designed with excellent sightlines and premium amenities. Parking and traffic around the UT campus can be challenging on event nights, so rideshare or the UT shuttle is strongly recommended. It has quickly become one of Austin's premier indoor sports and entertainment venues.