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Venues #14 in Austin, Texas

The Long Center for the Performing Arts

4.7 · 1,387 reviews
Culturally sophisticated and expansive
The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704, United States
Interesting facts
1

The venue's iconic white columns were salvaged from the original Palmer Auditorium that stood on the same site.

2

The Dell Hall stage floor is constructed with a 'sprung' wood system specifically engineered to reduce impact for professional dancers.

3

The building was designed to achieve LEED Silver certification, focusing on energy efficiency and sustainable materials.

4

The 'City Terrace' acts as a public gathering space that remains open to the public during many non-ticketed events.

5

The construction project involved recycling over 95 percent of the materials from the demolished Palmer Auditorium.

6

The facility's roof structure is designed to function as a giant sound dampener to prevent noise pollution from neighboring areas.

Overview

The Long Center for the Performing Arts is a multi-venue cultural hub built into the foundation of the former Palmer Auditorium. The site features the 2,442-seat Michael & Susan Dell Hall, which utilizes a specialized acoustic design for orchestral and theatrical performances. The venue is home to the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, and Ballet Austin. Its iconic architecture includes a large, circular 'City Terrace' that offers a direct view of the downtown Austin skyline. The building incorporates recycled materials from the previous auditorium, including steel and concrete components. It serves as the primary hub for diverse touring Broadway shows and contemporary musical acts. The facility is situated on a 13-acre site managed by the city and a private non-profit partnership.

Photo spot

The elevated City Terrace looking north across Lady Bird Lake toward the downtown Austin high-rises.

Insider tips

Check the City Terrace for free community events, such as outdoor film screenings or yoga sessions, which occur frequently during pleasant weather.

Arrive early to walk the grounds, as the elevation provides one of the most unobstructed views of the Austin skyline.

Pre-purchase parking in the attached garage, as on-site capacity is limited during major sold-out events.

What to avoid

Attempting to park on the street in the surrounding residential neighborhoods, as towing is strictly enforced.

Etiquette

Business casual to formal is standard for evening performances; avoid loud conversation during acts.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
2.5-3 hours
Best time to visit
Sunset, to watch the downtown skyline illuminate across Lady Bird Lake.
Address
The Long Center for the Performing Arts, 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704, United States
30.260, -97.751
Get directions
Details
Resident CompaniesAustin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, Ballet Austin
Venue Capacity2,442 seats in Dell Hall

Frequently asked

Plan for about 2.5-3 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunset, to watch the downtown skyline illuminate across Lady Bird Lake..

The elevated City Terrace looking north across Lady Bird Lake toward the downtown Austin high-rises.

Close by you'll find Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park, Butler Metro Park, The Paramount Theatre.