UT is in a prime location in Austin. There is so much of that city that defines The University and vice versa. There is plenty of awesome on campus and around it with great places like Cain and Ables and Posse East, but there is a lot of great once you venture a bit further away. Downtown is famous for 6th street, which wouldn't be 6th street without Leslie in his leotards and tiaras. South Congress (SoCo) is great, more of the eclectic Austin style can be found down there with great food and great shopping. Barton creek is a great place to hang out in the summer, but I'd recommend hiking down to the Greenbelt over going to Barton Creek. Or, if its a really pretty warm day, take the time to drive the 30 minutes down to San Marcos to float the river. Thursday afternoons at El Arroyo are key once you hit 21. Plan your schedule around that one. Trust me. And above all else - don't forget that Austin is the live music capital! So many live shows from established artists and newcomers with something for everyone, no matter what your taste in music is!