The Perfect Austin Game Day: Ziplining & Texas Football
Planning a Texas football weekend in Austin? Make your game day more than just the game. Start with a zipline adventure over Lake Travis, explore Austin, grab a drink and then head to the University of Texas for tailgating and kickoff.
You can also switch things up with a sunset zipline after the game or enjoy a relaxed morning at a local farmers market.
Here are a few ways to plan the perfect Austin game day.
Start With a Zipline Adventure
Kick off your day with Lake Travis Zipline Adventures. The 5-Line Adventure combines hiking, Lake Travis views and multiple ziplines. The longest line reaches speeds of up to 65 mph.
A morning tour is perfect for an afternoon football game. After your adventure, grab lunch and head toward downtown or the UT campus for pregame activities.
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
Try a Sunset or Night Zipline
Going to a night game? Save your zipline adventure for later in the day when available.
Spend the morning exploring Austin, enjoy the UT pregame activities and watch the game. Then finish your day with a sunset or evening zipline over Lake Travis.
Check the current Lake Travis Zipline Adventures schedule for available evening tours.
Watch the Game Downtown
Want to experience Austin’s famous game day atmosphere? Head downtown before kickoff.
Buford’s on West 6th Street is a popular spot for drinks, food, TVs and a large indoor and outdoor space.
Scholz Garten is another Austin favorite. Located near the UT campus, this historic beer garden is known for its game day crowds, outdoor seating and Texas football atmosphere.
For more UT-area sports bars, check out Posse East, Victory Lap, Cain & Abel’s or Pluckers. These spots offer plenty of TVs, food and drinks close to campus.
Experience a UT Tailgate
No Texas football weekend is complete without a tailgate.
Head toward the UT campus before kickoff to experience the crowds, music, food and burnt-orange spirit. Texas Athletics also offers official pregame destinations around DKR.
The 2026 lineup includes Bevo Blvd, Longhorn City Limits, Smokey’s Midway, Hook ‘Em Hangout and Big Bertha’s Bazaar. These areas feature food, drinks, live music, games and other pregame activities.
Stay in North Austin or Cedar Park
You do not have to go downtown to enjoy game day.
Pluckers is an easy choice for wings, drinks and sports in North Austin. If you are staying around Cedar Park, Mag’s Cedar Park is another local sports bar with TVs, food and a casual game day atmosphere.
For a spot near The Domain, Jack & Ginger’s Irish Pub at Domain NORTHSIDE is another option for food, drinks and sports.
Visit a Farmers Market Before the Game
Looking for a slower start to game day? Visit a farmers market in the morning.
The Texas Farmers’ Market at Bell in Cedar Park runs Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Shop local produce, grab breakfast and enjoy the morning before heading home for the game.
For a Sunday option, visit Texas Farmers’ Market at Mueller from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
After the market, grab your favorite game day snacks and watch the game at home. This is also a great option for families who want to avoid downtown traffic and large crowds.
Three Easy Austin Game Day Plans
Adventure Game Day: Start with a morning zipline at Lake Travis. Grab lunch, then head downtown for drinks and UT pregame activities before kickoff.
Night Game Day: Explore Austin during the day, visit the UT tailgates and watch the game. Finish with a sunset or evening zipline when available.
Relaxed Game Day: Visit the Cedar Park or Mueller farmers market, pick up some food and watch the game at home. You can also visit a local sports bar like Pluckers or Mag’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I go ziplining before a UT football game?
Yes. A morning zipline tour works well for an afternoon game. Be sure to allow enough time for your tour, transportation and game day traffic.
Can I go ziplining after a football game?
Yes, when evening tours are available. A sunset or night zipline can be a fun way to finish your Austin game day.
Where can I watch a UT football game in Austin?
Popular options include Buford’s, Scholz Garten, Posse East, Victory Lap, Cain & Abel’s and Pluckers.
Where can I tailgate for a Texas football game?
Fans can tailgate around the UT campus or visit the official Texas Athletics pregame areas, including Bevo Blvd and Longhorn City Limits.
What can I do before a UT game in North Austin?
Visit the Texas Farmers’ Market at Bell in Cedar Park, grab breakfast and then watch the game at home or head toward Austin for kickoff.
What is a good game day activity for families?
A morning zipline adventure is a great way to get outside before the game. Families can also visit a farmers market and watch the game at home.
External Links
Lake Travis Zipline Adventures: ziplaketravis.com
Texas Longhorns Athletics: texaslonghorns.com
Buford’s: bufordsatx.com
Scholz Garten: scholzgarten.com
Victory Lap: victorylapbar.com
Cain & Abel’s: cainandabels.com
Pluckers: pluckers.com
Jack & Ginger’s: jackandgingers.pub
Texas Farmers’ Market: texasfarmersmarket.org