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San Marcos River waterfall. Photo courtesy of Wikimedia.

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College campus tours

A quick guide for Austinites visiting top Texas colleges

A college road trip is more than just a tour — it’s a chance for families to explore the towns their teens may one day call home. For rising high school seniors in Austin eyeing Texas A&M, Texas Tech or Texas State, here’s a short guide to where to stay, eat and visit.

Texas A&M – College Station
Stay: The Texas A&M Hotel and Conference Center offers upscale convenience on campus. For retro flair, Cavalry Court in Century Square is a lively alternative.
Eat: For student-approved bites, try Layne’s Chicken Fingers or Fuego Tortilla Grill. Dixie Chicken is a local legend near Northgate.
Visit: Tour the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, stroll Military Walk and don’t miss Downtown Bryan for boutique shopping and live music.

Texas Tech – Lubbock
Stay: Cotton Court Hotel offers boutique charm with modern amenities, including fire pits and a pool, just a mile from campus.
Eat: The Nicolett serves refined West Texas fare, while Cast Iron Grill is a breakfast favorite. For barbecue, locals swear by Evie Mae’s.
Visit: See the Buddy Holly Center, explore the National Ranching Heritage Center, enjoy a wine tasting at McPherson Winery and walk the First Friday Art Trail downtown.

Texas State – San Marcos
Stay: Crystal River Inn provides a cozy, historic stay, while Comfort Suites offers convenience near campus.
Eat: Pho Tran 88 and Italian Garden deliver flavor on a student budget. North Street fuses Indian dishes with craft beer.
Visit: Float the San Marcos River, browse the outlet malls or catch live music at Cheatham Street Warehouse.

Campus visits may bring you for a day, but these towns offer a taste of the life that could await your student.