There’s nothing more exciting than experiencing somewhere new with someone who absolutely loves what (or where) you are about to enjoy. We recently were in Austin for the weekend and during our time in the city, I received a tour from one of UT’s biggest fans and alums.
We started our morning early (to beat the heat if we’re being honest) and began our tour. First thing, we walked by the football stadium and Texas War Memorial just outside the stadium. This memorial is dedicated to all of the American Veterans in all wars. This memorial is vast, it’s incredible to see all of the names. Honestly, I never knew this was here but what a great tribute at a location where thousands come every year.
Having attended a much, much, much smaller campus, UT’s campus was both a fascination and a confusion. This campus is huge and walking around touring the buildings took us well over an hour. If I had provided a tour of my campus, it would’ve taken maybe, 20 minutes. The best example is the size of classrooms. Although, not all classrooms are this size, my trusty tour guide made sure to bring me into a room that he knew would blow my perspective. This is a large lecture hall. I’m quite certain, my entire college graduating class could’ve fit in this classroom (and I would’ve known the majority of them).
Perhaps the most iconic building on campus is the UT tower. Inside, you will find elaborate details in the ceiling and outside the Life Sciences library with marble floors and stairs. Outside, looking down thru the South Mall, you will find the State Capital building is directly to the south. Surrounded by the “six-pack” (six buildings surrounding the mall), there are various statues of historical leaders including Jefferson Davis, Woodrow Wilson and George Washington. It’s an incredible view on a historical campus. We even got to see a bride and groom greet each other on the tower steps for the first time before their wedding.
Here are a few more photographs from our walking tour…
One of the best ways to experience a new place is to experience it with someone who absolutely loves it. You’ll see the best of the best, hear endless stories of their experience and be brought to some locations that only the locals would know about. You won’t just get to see the cover on the book, you’ll really get into the nitty gritty what makes this such a special place.
Have you had an opportunity to experience somewhere new (to you) with someone who absolutely loved where you were at?
Wow! Great insight from your tour. Have you reached out to the University about your post? I’m sure they’d be delighted to see it.
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Confession….I am not a Longhorn fan! I know…I know…how can I live in Texas and not be a fan? Ha! I am a Sooner fan! And my Texas teams are Baylor and A&M. But, that doesn’t mean I don’t enjoy a visit to Austin and the university. How exciting that you got a tour of it. I love that piece of art with all of the boats (canoes maybe). Did you visit 6th street while you were there?
We did visit 6th but no pictures. We were all over the place but I say that with a grain of salt. I have no concept of where I am in Austin, that’s why I go with people who have lived there (aka this trip) haha. Put me in the country and I’ll find my way, a city – eh I’m pretty much lost. haha