Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium seats 100,119 fans in the heart of Austin. The Longhorns have joined the SEC, bringing new rivalries and national spotlight to the Forty Acres. This guide covers everything you need for gameday in Austin—from Bevo Blvd tailgating to the best burnt orange viewing experiences.
Stadium History
Named after legendary coach Darrell Royal and dedicated as a memorial to Texans who served in World War I, the stadium opened in 1924. Multiple expansions have transformed it into one of the largest venues in college football.
Texas has won four national championships with DKR as home field. The atmosphere when rivals visit—especially now that SEC opponents like Alabama and Georgia come to Austin—ranks among the most electric in sports.
Best Seats in DKR
North End Zone Student Section
The loudest section in the stadium. Students pack in early and lead the cheers all game. The "Texas Fight" song gets deafening. If you want energy over comfort, this is your spot.
West Side (Sections 1-20)
Premium seating with the best views. The press box provides shade in afternoon games—crucial during September heat. Expect to pay $250-400 for SEC matchups.
East Side (Sections 21-40)
More affordable with solid views. Morning sun can be brutal early season, but you're looking at the field with the Austin skyline behind it. Bring sunglasses.
Upper Deck
Budget-friendly at $75-150. The view is distant but complete. The concrete can get scorching—wear appropriate footwear.
Bevo Blvd: Tailgating Central
Bevo Blvd is Texas's premier pregame destination. Located on San Jacinto Boulevard between the stadium and LBJ Library, it features:
- Live music stages with Austin bands
- Food trucks from Austin's best restaurants
- Interactive games and activities for families
- Longhorn Network broadcast setup
- Bevo XV appearances (the live longhorn mascot)
Bevo Blvd opens 4 hours before kickoff and is free to enter. It's the best introduction to Texas football culture.
Traditional Tailgating
Private lots around campus host traditional tailgates. The scene around Brazos Street and East Dean Keeton Street gets intense. Look for the elaborate RV setups with TVs showing other games.
Austin Gameday Eats
- Torchy's Tacos: Austin institution, multiple locations
- Franklin Barbecue: World-famous BBQ (arrive early)
- Dirty Martin's: Classic gameday burgers
- Scholz Garten: Historic beer garden, steps from stadium
Parking Options
Campus Lots (Permit Required)
Most campus lots require donor permits. The few public lots fill by 7am on big game days. Don't plan on this unless you have a pass.
State Capitol Garage
Free parking on weekends, about a 15-minute walk to the stadium. Gets full by mid-morning. Arrive by 9am for noon kickoffs.
Downtown Garages
Park downtown and take the free UT shuttle or rideshare. Post-game, you're already positioned for 6th Street celebrations.
Gameday Traditions
- Hook 'Em Horns: The hand sign—index and pinky up, middle fingers down
- Texas Fight: School fight song, played after every score
- Bevo: Live longhorn steer who attends every home game
- Big Bertha: The world's largest bass drum
- The Eyes of Texas: Postgame alma mater, sung win or lose
Weather Preparation
- September-October: Hot (85-100°F). Sunscreen essential. Bring water.
- November: Finally cooling (60-75°F). Perfect football weather.
- Late Season: Can get cold by Texas standards (40-55°F). Light jacket recommended.
Quick Reference: DKR Stadium
- Address: 405 E 23rd St, Austin, TX 78712
- Capacity: 100,119
- Gates open: 2 hours before kickoff
- Must visit: Bevo Blvd, Scholz Garten
- Conference: SEC (as of 2024)