Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) serves approximately 20 million passengers annually with nonstop service to more than 80 destinations. But in Austin, TX, where “Keep Austin Weird” is the rallying cry, this fast-growing airport does its part by offering passengers a creative line-up of live music, a smorgasbord of regional food vendors, and unusual art. When I land here, there’s no mistake I’m in Austin. And when I leave the city, there are plenty of reasons to head to the airport early to hang out.
How to navigate Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Most airlines at AUS operate out of the Main Terminal, also called the Barbara Jordan Terminal (BJT), which has east and west concourses. The terminal honors the lawyer, politician and educator who was the first African American congresswoman from the South. You’ll see a life-size bronze sculpture of Jordan in the terminal.
Frontier Airlines and Allegiant Air currently use the smaller South Terminal, but that’s set to change. The South Terminal is scheduled to be removed soon, with both airlines moving to the Barbara Jordan Terminal. An airport-wide upgrade is underway, so be prepared for ongoing construction and check the airport’s site for the latest terminal updates before you fly.
Getting to and from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Downtown Austin is about 12 miles from AUS airport and easy to access by car, taxi, shuttle van or rideshare.
For taxis and rideshares, pickups happen at the ground transportation center under the Consolidated Rental Car Facility. Skip the walk on hot days and take the free tram instead. Exit the bag claim area and cross the street to the entrance of the Red Garage.
The most budget-friendly way to travel between AUS and downtown is on CapMetro’s Bus Route 20. It runs about every 15 minutes, seven days a week, and gets you there in about 35 minutes. You can’t miss the bus stop, just look for the giant blue neon guitar outside the Main Terminal. A heads-up for budget airline flyers, the bus doesn’t stop at the South Terminal, so you’ll need to catch the free airport shuttle over to the Main Terminal first.
Security and arrival process at AUS
AUS has four security checkpoints (numbered 1, 2 East, 2 West and 3) that lead to all gates. (Note: due to construction, checkpoint 3 is temporarily closed.) Checkpoint lanes can be very long at AUS, especially in the morning before 8 am. So, if you have TSA Precheck or Clear membership be sure to head directly to Checkpoint 2 West to get access to an expedited lane.
Food, drinks and essential services at AUS
At AUS airport, the emphasis is on food and drink representing regional favorites and popular local purveyors. You’ll find tacos, Texas BBQ, brisket, Tex-Mex, beer, icecream, pizza, chicken, burgers, sushi and more. Most shops are filled with well-curated local and regional goods as well.
The numbers tell the story. Each year the airport serves up more than 1.1 million breakfast tacos and about 170,000 pounds of brisket, while selling over 7,000 “Keep Austin Weird” shirts. You’ll also find a pair of robotic coffee machines and vending machines dispensing LEGO, cupcakes and more.
The airport offers free Wi-Fi throughout the terminals.
Lounges and quiet spaces at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
If you need to unwind, there’s an Xpress Spa in the terminal and several airline lounges. You’ll find an American Airlines Admirals Club across from Gate 22, a Delta Sky Club on the Mezzanine Level near Gates 1 and 2 and a United Club on the Mezzanine Level across from Gate 22. Note, the Chase Sapphire Terrace, which featured indoor and outdoor seating on the mezzanine level, recently closed.
For some great plane spotting, head to Gate 1. The international flights come and go from this area, and the large windows offer a great view of the runway. If you’re looking to escape the noise, there’s a quiet room on the mezzanine level. It’s a welcome spot for anyone needing a moment to pray, meditate or just think without interruption.
Austin’s live music and art scene at the airport
Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World and that’s on full display at the airport. From Monday through Friday, live music is scheduled on 8 stages and venues scattered throughout the Main Terminal, adding up to more than 1000 live shows a year.
Because this is Austin, where someone once told me “You can’t spit without hitting a Grammy winner,” you can be assured the music you hear at the airport will always be great. Look on the AUS website for the weekly schedule or just walk around the terminal until you hear something that you like.
During winter holidays and major events such as South by Southwest and Formula 1 Grand Prix, there will be bonus performances and, occasionally, a surprise set by a well-known star. And don’t just watch the bands. Many celebrities fly commercial, and you may just spot someone you recognize in the crowd.
AUS also has an excellent public art collection. My favorites include the eight giant fiberglass guitars perched on top of the bag claim carousels. Also, don’t miss “Reality – Texas – Mythology” by Jill Bedgood, which features images of big hair and cowboy hats etched into the restroom mirrors. It’s a perfect, quirky Austin touch.
Traveling with kids at AUS
Kids will enjoy dancing to the live music, watching the planes and checking out the art. The airport website also has a free downloadable coloring and activity book called “Austie The Flying Pup,” which is full of travel tips for kids and is a great way to keep them entertained.
Hotels and airport area attractions
There are two hotels on AUS property, the Hilton Austin Airport and the Hyatt Place Austin Airport. The hotels sit next to each other, and both have free shuttle service, dining, and outdoor pools.
The Hilton is a full-service hotel with an unusual circular layout. The shape dates to the days when the airfield served as Bergstrom Air Force Base and the building was an air command center referred to as “the Donut.” The hotel doesn’t offer day passes to the pool or fitness center, but if I had an exceptionally long delay or a missed flight, I’d head to the Hilton and chill with a drink by the pool.
AUS cell phone lot amenities
The cellphone lot at AUS airport isn’t just a parking lot with portable loos. It has a gas station, restaurants, indoor and shaded outdoor seating, restrooms and two play areas for kids.
Viewing Area
You can watch commercial, general aviation and small military aircraft come from the Viewing Area on the east side of the airport property. The viewing area has parking, shade and benches. It’s called the Family Viewing Area, but all aviation geeks are welcome.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
