Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
months. The museum's holdings include carved wooden masks, modern Latin American
paintings, historic photographs and contemporary art. Don't miss the back gallery, where
new and experimental talent is shown.
The museum's gift shop is another draw, with killer Mexican stuff that's pricey if
you're heading south of the border but reasonable if you're not.
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1
University of Texas Campus Area
The University of Texas cuts a huge swath of land through the area just north of down-
town; look for the main tower and you'll know you've arrived. Even if you're not an alum
or a Longhorn at heart, the area is home to several worthwhile museums.
University of Texas at Austin
MAP
UNIVERSITY
(
www.utexas.edu
; cnr University Ave & 24 Ave)
Whatever you do, don't call it 'Texas University' -
them's fightin' words, usually used derisively by Texas A&M University students to take
their rivals down a notch. Sorry, A&M, but the main campus of the University of Texas is
kind of a big deal. Established in 1883, UT has the largest enrollment in the state, with
over 50,000 students.
Notable buildings on campus include four excellent museums and the Texas Memorial
Stadium, home of the Texas Longhorns football team. But none define the UT campus as
much as the UT Tower. Standing 307ft high, with a clock over 12ft in diameter, the tower
looms large, both as a campus landmark and in Austin history as the perch that shooter
Charles Whitman used during a 1966 shooting spree. On a more cheerful note, it now
serves as a beacon of victory when it's lit orange to celebrate a Longhorn win or other
achievement.
The tower's observation deck is accessible only by
guided tours
( 512-475-6633; per person
$6)
, which are offered frequently in summer but only on weekends during the school year.
Advance reservations are recommended, although standby tickets may be available at the
Texas Union's front desk.
Want to see some Big 12 football or other college athletics while you're in town? The
UT Ticket Office
800-982-2386, 512-477-6060;
www.texasboxoffice.com
; Bellmont Hall,
MAP
9am-6pm Mon-Fri, 10am-4pm Sat)
is your source for all things Longhorn.
2100 San Jacinto Blvd;
