When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Moody Center
Why Moody Center is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Moody Center, located on the University of Texas at Austin campus, stands out as a premier multi-purpose arena that brings friends and communities together. Opened in 2022, this state-of-the-art venue boasts a seating capacity of over 15,000, perfectly accommodating large gatherings, whether for the Texas Longhorns basketball games or major concerts. Designed specifically for concerts and entertainment, the arena offers exceptional acoustics and top-tier hospitality, making it an ideal spot for memorable social and cultural experiences. Beyond sports and music, Moody Center hosts family shows and local events, providing a diverse agenda that appeals to a wide audience. The venue is modern and clean, with spacious concourses and a variety of food and drink options, ensuring comfort and convenience for visitors. Notably, Moody Center embraces sustainability, distinguished by its LEED Gold certification and innovative waste sorting operations, showcasing its commitment to environmental responsibility. The combination of cutting-edge design, a vibrant event lineup, and eco-friendly initiatives makes Moody Center a compelling destination to meet up with friends and enjoy Austin’s dynamic cultural scene.
Here's what people think of Moody Center
As of recent, Moody Center holds a 4.4-star rating based on 3689 reviews.
User reviews of Moody Center reflect a predominantly positive experience, with a 4.4-star rating based on nearly 3,700 reviews. Many concertgoers and sports fans praise the venue for its modern design, cleanliness, and excellent acoustics, which enhance the live event atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the wide concourses that facilitate easy movement and the variety of food and beverage options available, making the visit both enjoyable and convenient. Positive comments often highlight the venue's vibrant atmosphere during concerts and sporting events, as well as the attentive staff and overall hospitality. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention issues with the arena's architectural design, describing it as less favorable. A few patrons note that alcohol prices can be pricey, which is typical of large event venues. Despite these isolated critiques, the general consensus is that Moody Center offers a superior entertainment experience. In conclusion, the positive feedback regarding event quality, amenities, and acoustic performance outweighs the negatives, positioning Moody Center as a favored destination for both locals and visitors seeking memorable outings.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Miguel Zaldivar
Great venue, terrible/expensive parking. Nice bathrooms. Great food selection. Unless you're sitting on the floor, then you'll need to walk up what seems like 9 flights of stairs in order to get hot food. Being in the Indeed club was nice I didn't realize our tickets had access. Basically our section had access to its own bar, a very large one, with two food vendors and our own bathroom. Overall a great time. Ugh, the drinks and food cost so much. Now I can't afford eggs for breakfast! 😩
Beth Miller
This building replaced the Erwin Center that was torn down. Went to see Bocelli. Not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of entrances making it easy to get in quickly. Plenty of employees helping you find your seat. So many pedicabs to take you back and forth! Fun night!
Joseph Santos
We went here for a concert to see the greatest band ever: Brand New! The venue was beautiful and clean. It was easy to get around and find our seats and the staff were polite and helpful. Food and drinks were on the pricey side so we didn’t get anything but a lot of people around us got food and it smelled great!
carlos gonzalez
First time at the moody center and really liked the venue! Traveled from southeast Texas to attend a linkin park concert and the experience did not disappoint. I also got preferred seating in the indeed club and highly recommend doing so. The alright alright alright pizza was delicious.
Karla Carreon -Arellano
The experience was amazing ! Most importantly The acoustics in the building are spectacular. The best I have heard . In the big stadiums when sitting up top, the sound gets lost. However, at this. Venue the sound does not get lost. I would absolutely travel from DFW to Austin to hear a band. Worth it .. I can’t add videos or I would up load one . LINKIN PARK absolutely demolished us in Austin. What an experience.#Austin #linkinpark
Miguel Zaldivar
Great venue, terrible/expensive parking. Nice bathrooms. Great food selection. Unless you're sitting on the floor, then you'll need to walk up what seems like 9 flights of stairs in order to get hot food. Being in the Indeed club was nice I didn't realize our tickets had access. Basically our section had access to its own bar, a very large one, with two food vendors and our own bathroom. Overall a great time. Ugh, the drinks and food cost so much. Now I can't afford eggs for breakfast! 😩
Beth Miller
This building replaced the Erwin Center that was torn down. Went to see Bocelli. Not a bad seat in the house. Plenty of entrances making it easy to get in quickly. Plenty of employees helping you find your seat. So many pedicabs to take you back and forth! Fun night!
Joseph Santos
We went here for a concert to see the greatest band ever: Brand New! The venue was beautiful and clean. It was easy to get around and find our seats and the staff were polite and helpful. Food and drinks were on the pricey side so we didn’t get anything but a lot of people around us got food and it smelled great!
carlos gonzalez
First time at the moody center and really liked the venue! Traveled from southeast Texas to attend a linkin park concert and the experience did not disappoint. I also got preferred seating in the indeed club and highly recommend doing so. The alright alright alright pizza was delicious.
Karla Carreon -Arellano
The experience was amazing ! Most importantly The acoustics in the building are spectacular. The best I have heard . In the big stadiums when sitting up top, the sound gets lost. However, at this. Venue the sound does not get lost. I would absolutely travel from DFW to Austin to hear a band. Worth it .. I can’t add videos or I would up load one . LINKIN PARK absolutely demolished us in Austin. What an experience.#Austin #linkinpark
How to reach Moody Center
None
Website: None
Why rally at Moody Center with your friends?
Moody Center offers an unbeatable atmosphere for gathering with friends or family due to its combination of world-class entertainment, modern design, and spacious capacity. Located on the University of Texas at Austin campus, this 15,000+ seat multi-purpose arena blends the energy of a major concert hall with the excitement of premier sports events. Whether you’re rallying for a Texas Longhorns basketball game, catching a top-tier musical act, or attending a unique local event, Moody Center’s environment is electrifying and inclusive. The venue proudly hosts over 150 nights of entertainment each year, creating countless opportunities for social experiences filled with high energy and shared memories. Its design caters not only to the fans but also ensures exceptional hospitality, with cutting-edge sound and comfortable seating allowing everyone to engage fully in the experience. The fact that Moody Center was created through a partnership involving major entertainment companies and UT adds to its prestige, making it a cultural and social hub that resonates with a diverse crowd. Rallying here means joining a vibrant community space that supports fun, connection, and excitement—ideal for any group wanting to share an unforgettable outing.
What activities can you do at Moody Center with your group?
Moody Center offers a broad array of activities that make it perfect for gatherings. The arena primarily hosts University of Texas men’s and women’s basketball games, providing a thrilling setting for sports fans to cheer on their team together. Beyond basketball, the venue presents numerous concerts featuring the biggest names across many musical genres like rock, pop, hip-hop, country, classical, Latin, jazz, and more. This variety ensures that any group can find a performance that matches their tastes and enjoy shared moments of live music magic. Additionally, Moody Center regularly hosts family shows and local sporting events, offering diverse entertainment beyond sports and concerts. For groups looking for something unique, the arena accommodates special events that tap into Austin’s dynamic cultural scene. The space's modern amenities enhance every experience: high-quality acoustics, multiple seating options, and spacious concourses make socializing comfortable and easy. Whether catching a game, enjoying a concert, or attending a cultural event, Moody Center turns any group visit into a dynamic, shared adventure.
Why is Moody Center ideal for group meetups and celebrations?
Moody Center is particularly well-suited for group meetups because of its large seating capacity and versatile event calendar. With over 15,000 seats, it can comfortably accommodate large parties, making it easy to attend events without splitting up. The venue’s design promotes socializing, with plenty of common spaces and modern amenities that support group interaction before, during, or after events. Its location on UT’s campus means accessibility is excellent, with easy parking and nearby public transportation options, allowing groups to gather conveniently without logistical headaches. The arena’s food and beverage offerings cater to group preferences, providing a variety of snack and meal options that fit different tastes and dietary needs, enhancing the collective experience. For celebrations such as birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers, the buzzing atmosphere of a game or concert provides a natural backdrop of excitement and engagement that connects attendees through shared enthusiasm. This combination of capacity, comfort, amenities, and vibrant energy makes Moody Center an unmatched venue for memorable group outings.
What makes Moody Center stand out in Austin’s entertainment scene?
Moody Center distinguishes itself in Austin’s rich entertainment landscape through its state-of-the-art design and partnerships. Opened in 2022, it is a modern arena equipped with advanced technologies tailored for optimal acoustics and fan experience, setting a new benchmark for live events in the city. This venue reflects Austin’s reputation as the “Live Music Capital of the World” by hosting a wider range of top artists and performers than many other local venues. The collaboration between the University of Texas, Oak View Group, Live Nation, and C3 Presents ensures the Moody Center attracts globally-renowned entertainers while serving as a key sports and cultural hub. Its funding from the Moody Foundation, with over 75 years of philanthropic support for Texas institutions, connects the arena to a legacy of community investment and cultural enrichment. Unlike older venues, Moody Center offers the latest in comfort and technology, making each event not just enjoyable but also immersive and memorable for groups. Its presence enhances Austin’s entertainment options, combining academic sports pride with world-class music and events.
How accessible and guest-friendly is Moody Center for visitors?
Accessibility and guest comfort are top priorities at Moody Center, enhancing the experience for groups traveling together. Located at 2001 Robert Dedman Drive on the UT Austin campus, it benefits from multiple parking options including self-park facilities, easing arrival for visitors driving in from different parts of the city or beyond. The arena is also easily reachable via public transport, minimizing stress for groups who prefer shared rides or transit. Inside, the venue incorporates wide concourses and clear signage to facilitate smooth movement and gathering points for groups. Expertly trained staff and comprehensive guest services ensure that assistance is readily available, whether for questions, special accommodations, or group needs. The arena is designed to be family-friendly and inclusive, with amenities for guests of all ages and accessibility requirements, supporting an enjoyable experience for everyone. These thoughtful details underscore Moody Center’s mission to be a welcoming place for community celebrations, group outings, and unforgettable shared experiences.
What types of events can you expect to witness at Moody Center year-round?
At Moody Center, visitors can expect a vibrant lineup of over 150 events annually, ensuring varied and exciting opportunities throughout the year. Regularly scheduled UT basketball games draw energetic crowds invested in collegiate sports, creating a spirited atmosphere for sports enthusiasts and casual fans alike. The concert calendar is especially diverse, featuring headline acts from music genres spanning rock, pop, hip-hop, indie, country, jazz, classical, and Latin, which keeps content fresh and appealing to different audiences. In addition to sports and concerts, Moody Center hosts family-friendly shows that offer entertainment options tailored for younger guests or mixed-age groups, making it a flexible destination for group gatherings of all kinds. The venue also accommodates special events such as cultural celebrations, local community happenings, or occasional conventions and exhibitions. This robust event variety enables groups to pick and choose experiences that fit their interests and social plans, reinforcing Moody Center as a go-to location for dynamic gatherings in Austin.
Why is the Moody Center’s environment conducive to socializing and group bonding?
The design and ambiance of Moody Center foster social interaction and group bonding by creating an engaging, inclusive, and comfortable atmosphere. Its spacious layout and well-thought-out architecture provide plenty of common areas where friends and family can meet and mingle before and after events without feeling crowded. The high-quality sound systems and visual displays ensure that everyone shares the same immersive experience, enhancing collective enjoyment. Food and beverage lounges and concession areas encourage group breaks and conversations, transforming wait times into social moments. The overall vibe of excitement during games, concerts, or shows energizes groups, helping to strengthen connections through shared enthusiasm and memorable moments. By combining technological innovation with thoughtful fan-friendly spaces, Moody Center becomes more than just a venue—it serves as a communal gathering spot that naturally supports social cohesion and joyous reunions.
How does Moody Center support memorable group celebrations like birthdays or reunions?
Moody Center offers an exceptional venue for celebrating birthdays, reunions, or special occasions by providing a dynamic setting guaranteed to make such events stand out. Its vast capacity allows for inviting large groups without sacrificing seating proximity, so everyone stays part of the celebration. The range of events and performances available means you can tailor the occasion to the guest of honor’s preferences, from favorite sports teams to beloved musicians or family-friendly shows. The arena’s amenities—including premium seating, VIP options, and food and beverage packages—can be customized to enhance the event experience, creating an exclusive yet inclusive atmosphere. Moreover, the lively crowd and vibrant setting naturally infuse parties with energy and fun, making these milestones vivid and unforgettable. Booking a celebration at Moody Center ensures not only group togetherness but also a one-of-a-kind ambiance filled with excitement and joy.
In summary, Moody Center stands out as a premier destination for hosting group meetups in Austin thanks to its cutting-edge facilities, expansive event offerings, and focus on guest comfort and social experience. Its role as both a sports arena and entertainment venue, combined with its welcoming design and community roots, makes it an ideal rallying point for friends and families seeking memorable outings.