Travel Tips for Kentucky Fans in Austin, Texas

The 4-6 record isn’t slowing down BBN. Even though there is not a ton of buzz about the matchup with No. 3 Texas, ahead of the season Kentucky fans planned to be at DKR for the school’s second-ever game at DKR. There were reports of blue all over the city more than 48 hours before kickoff. Blue is getting in.

Texas is a cool town with a lot to do, so how do you narrow it down? I am not an expert, but I know a guy who might be. Clay Bollinger is a Louisville native who worked behind the scenes with Kentucky football for a few years. Now he’s an Austin resident and he has some advice for Kentucky fans who are experiencing Austin for the first time.

Where to Watch the Kentucky Basketball Game

It’s a question I’ve been asked often. I do not know where KSR HQ will be. Planning is not our forte, however, I can tell you where you can certainly find Kentucky fans. The UK Alumni Association is hosting a watch party at Champions Sports Bar. If you want to try something different, I’ve also heard you can find some Kentucky fans at Chalmers in East Cesar Chavez. Here are a few more suggested watering holes from Mr. Bollinger.

Nickel City
Scholz Garten (close to DKR)
Haymaker (close to DKR)
Skinny’s Rustic Tap
Dainty Dillo
Chalmers Uptown
Armadillo Den
Austin Garden & Studio
Latchkey
Lucky Duck
Central Machine Works
Whisler’s

What to Eat in Austin

The BBQ in Austin is some of the best in the world. You can’t go wrong at any of these spots. Looking forward to a three-meat combo of brisket, pork ribs, and jalapeno sausage. I’m dreaming of it and it’s immaculate.

Interstellar and Micklethwait might come with a wait. You also can’t go wrong at the OG, Terry Black’s. Stiles Switch was one of three recommendations from Inside Texas‘ Joe Cook. His “off the beaten path” BBQ joint of choice is Moreno’s on the south side of town. You can find a few more recs here.

Pregame for Kentucky at Texas

Kentucky fans will gather en masse for the Cat Walk at approximately 12:45 pm CT. It’s located near the Moody Center in the southeast corner of DKR at Gate 32.

You will probably see a few Kentucky fans out and about at SEC Nation. The SEC Network’s traveling road show will be in Austin for the first time. They’re setting up shop at the Hook ‘Em Hangout on the northwest corner of DKR. The show is from 8-11 CT.

Once the TV show ends, you can catch live music at Longhorn City Limits on the LBJ Lawn. Mason Lively is up first, followed by the Josh Abbott Band at 12:30 pm CT. We can’t wait to see Big Blue Nation out in full force.

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Thanks to Friends of Coal for fueling the KSR Road Trip to Texas. Friends of Coal is dedicated to informing and educating Kentucky citizens about the coal industry and its vital role in the state’s future. We provide a united voice for an industry that has been and remains a critical economic contributor to Kentucky. By working together, we can provide good jobs and benefits for future generations. Coal is RESILIENT, RELIABLE, and AFFORDABLE.

Friends of Coal is a volunteer organization. All are invited to be a part of our organization, which consists of proud Kentuckians as well as residents from beyond our borders. Head to friendsofcoalkentucky.org to learn more.