University of Texas tailgating isn’t just a warm-up—it’s the main event. The food? Fire. The vibes? Unmatched. The sea of burnt orange? Blinding (in the best way). Whether you’re a first-timer or a tailgate vet with brisket in your blood, this guide has everything you need to tailgate like a true Longhorn.

Let’s get into it—where to go, what to bring, and how to make your tailgate the one everyone talks about (in a good way).

Best University of Texas Tailgating Spots at UT Austin

Location is everything. You don’t want to be that guy setting up camp in a random parking lot far from the action. Here's where real ones post up:

State Parking Lots

Managed by the Texas Facilities Commission (TFC), these are prime territory. But here’s the catch: you’ve got to reserve your spot ahead of time. Think of it like scoring floor seats—you snooze, you stand.

Bevo Boulevard

This is where the party lives. Located on San Jacinto Blvd, Bevo Boulevard is UT’s official pregame zone. Think live music, food trucks, drink tents, giant screens—basically a music festival with football as the headliner.

Texas Exes Alumni Center

This one’s fancy. If you’re a Texas Exes member, you’ve got access to AC, drinks, food, and all the high-end tailgating perks. If not? Make a friend who is. Fast.

Scholz Garten

Not technically on campus, but legendary enough to include. It’s the oldest beer garden in Texas and about a football’s throw from the stadium. Great spot for pre- and post-game hangs.

Drink Like a Champion

Nothing says “game day” like a drink in hand. Here are two we dare you to try (and a few non-alc MVPs too):

🍊 The Burnt Orange Blitz

• 2 oz tequila
  

• 1 oz triple sec
  

• Orange juice to top
  

• Splash of lime
  

• Rim your glass with chili-lime salt if you want to be fancy.
  

🥃 The Hook ‘Em Highball

• 2 oz bourbon
  

• Top with Topo Chico
  

• Squeeze of lemon
  

• Garnish with burnt orange pride.
  

Keep It Cool: Load up on sweet tea, Gatorade, and cold water. And yes, bring a cooler that’s actually cold. Nobody wants lukewarm lemonade.

Game Day Grub: Big Texas Energy Only

Let’s be real—half the reason we’re here is for the food. (We said half.)

Texas Classics:

• Brisket – Low and slow, just like your uncle’s stories from the last championship.
  

• Jalapeño poppers – Cream cheese, bacon-wrapped, spicy. Enough said.
  

• Breakfast tacos – Required if you’re setting up before noon. Bonus points if they’re homemade.

Longhorn-Themed Munchies:

• Longhorn Loaded Nachos – Layered with burnt orange cheese, smoky brisket, and spicy jalapeños.
  

• Bevo BBQ Sliders – Sloppy, savory, and impossible to eat neatly. That’s how you know they’re good.
  

• Touchdown Trail Mix – Sweet, salty, and spicy. Add orange M&Ms if you’re extra.

What to Wear (So You Look Tailgate-Ready on IG)

Burnt orange is non-negotiable. But here’s how to rock it right:

• Victory Vintage Tees – Look like a diehard fan, even if you just learned what a first down is.
  

• Lightweight Layers – Austin weather does what it wants. Be ready for sun, sweat, or surprise rain.
  

• Game Day Accessories – Cowboy hats, beaded necklaces, and your Flagpole-To-Go setup (duh). Flags flying? You’re winning.

Tailgate Games That Bring the Heat

Want to get the crowd going? Bring the gear that makes people stop and say “okay, this is the tailgate.”

• Cornhole (Texas Edition) – Don’t show up with plain boards. We’re talking Longhorn-branded, orange-and-white beauties.
  

• Tower Stack (a.k.a. Giant Jenga) – Add dares or trivia to the blocks for a chaotic good time.
  

• Mini Football Toss – Easy to pack. Fun for kids and adults. Pairs well with light trash talk.
  

🔥 Pro Tip: Host a mini UT trivia game—winner gets bragging rights, loser has to be on cooler duty.

Final Pep Talk: Make It Legendary

University of Texas tailgating is a full-contact sport in itself. Whether you’re repping burnt orange with the best of ‘em or just there for the BBQ and vibes, remember this: the memories made before kickoff are half the fun.

So bring the heat, wave your flag (you know the one), and get loud. Because in Austin, we don’t tailgate casually—we tailgate like we mean it.

See you on game day. We’ll be the ones with the flagpole. 🤘

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