This Saturday, Sept. 12, DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium in Austin, TX, hosts the showdown between Ohio State and Texas. The game kicks off at 6:30 PM CT on ABC. Texas fans have witnessed Ohio State eliminate them twice before. The Buckeyes won the 2024 CFP semifinal against the Longhorns and defeated them in the previous season opener.
Ohio State enters the match as the top-ranked preseason team, facing No. 5 Texas. College GameDay will be present on campus, adding to the excitement of this primetime event. Arch Manning leads Texas in this highly anticipated rematch.
Exploring Austin Before the Game
With a 6:30 PM kickoff, there’s plenty of time to enjoy Austin’s outdoors. The city offers various activities within an hour of the stadium. Here are some options to consider:
- Lady Bird Lake – Paddleboarding & Kayaking
Located under 10 minutes from the stadium, rentals cost about $20-30 per hour. Enjoy calm waters and view the downtown skyline while paddling. Gliding under the Congress Avenue Bridge might offer sights of the city’s bat colony. - Barton Springs Pool
Approximately 10 minutes from DKR, entry fees are around $5-9. This spring-fed pool remains at 68 degrees year-round, ideal for cooling down on a hot day. - Mount Bonnell (Covert Park)
Reachable in about 15 minutes and free to enter. A short climb of around 100 stairs provides a panoramic view of the Colorado River, Lake Austin, and the city skyline. Best visited in the morning or evening. - Barton Creek Greenbelt
About 15-20 minutes from the stadium and free. This area offers hiking and mountain biking opportunities along limestone canyons. Some swimming holes might be open depending on water levels. - McKinney Falls State Park
Located roughly 20 minutes from DKR with a $6 entry fee. Enjoy swimming holes and trails amidst Onion Creek’s waterfalls, away from urban hustle. - Lake Travis Zipline Adventures
A 25-35 minute drive, costing $135 per person for a full tour. Enjoy five ziplines, including the longest in Texas, along with a boat ride and a short hike.
Mid-September temperatures reach the low to mid-90s. Begin outdoor activities early, stay hydrated, and enjoy Austin’s natural beauty before the big game.