About this venue
Long Center for the Performing Arts is one of Austin's major venues for the performing arts. Opened in 2008, the center was created through the transformation of the former Palmer Auditorium, with parts of the original structure and materials incorporated into the new building. Its distinctive circular ring beam was preserved as one of the complex's defining architectural features. The main auditorium, Michael & Susan Dell Hall, offers 2,442 seats and accommodates theatre, opera, ballet, orchestral concerts, and other large-scale performances.
Dell Hall was designed with a strong emphasis on acoustics. Acoustic banners, a purpose-built orchestra shell, protection from exterior noise, and tiered seating help distribute sound throughout the auditorium. Parterre, Mezzanine, and Balcony levels, together with six private boxes, provide a classic theatre setting, while adaptable technical systems allow the hall to host a wide range of performances and productions.
The Long Center is located at 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, United States, on the southern side of Lady Bird Lake. The main parking option is the Palmer Events Center Parking Garage on Barton Springs Road, with access from the Riverside Drive and South First Street area as well as Barton Springs Road. The circular drive beside the Long Center provides a convenient passenger drop-off point and valet service for many performances. Several bus stops are also within a short walk of the entrance; for a broader overview of getting around Austin by public transport, see the city information below.
About the city
Austin, the capital of Texas, is not only a technology hub but also one of the most recognizable U.S. destinations for sports, concerts, and nightlife. The city blends a relaxed vibe with the energy of a major metropolis, so going to an event is often just the start of the evening. Visitors are drawn by a diverse live-performance scene, neighborhoods packed with bars and clubs, and a food culture that ranges from iconic food trucks to top-tier restaurants.
Getting around Austin is especially convenient for visitors who want a stress-free route to arenas and stadiums. Public transit is run by CapMetro, and its bus network plus CapMetro Rail (MetroRail) connect key areas of the city and make it easier to reach popular pre- and post-event hubs. If you’re flying in, Austin–Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) is the main gateway, while train travel is served via the Austin Amtrak Station, located close to downtown.
If you want to add a sightseeing “bonus” to your ticket, Austin delivers effortlessly: the city is ideal for walks and short outings before or after an event. Around Lady Bird Lake and its trails, it’s easy to take a breather with skyline views, and the nearby parks and green spaces are perfect for unwinding ahead of a night out. For the urban side of the experience, there’s Sixth Street and South Congress, known for a lively atmosphere, shops, murals, and social spots, while the Texas State Capitol adds a more classic contrast to the city’s modern energy.
