Flawn Academic Center

Flawn Academic Center Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Austin Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Peter T. Flawn Academic Center (FAC) is a cornerstone of academic and cultural life at the University of Texas at Austin. Established in the early 1960s as the university’s first open-stack undergraduate library, the FAC has transformed into a vibrant hub supporting student achievement, interdisciplinary collaboration, and artistic enrichment. Named after Peter T. Flawn, UT Austin’s 19th president and champion of educational innovation, the FAC remains a gateway to both campus life and Austin’s broader historical and cultural landscape. This guide details visiting hours, accessibility, amenities, and nearby attractions to help you plan a rewarding visit. For the latest updates and visitor information, refer to official UT Austin resources (FAC Events Calendar, UT Campus Map, Career Success Space).

Introduction
Visiting Hours and Tickets
Getting There
Accessibility
Facilities and Services
Art Exhibits and Cultural Highlights
Special Events and Tours
Visitor Tips and Etiquette
Safety and Security
Nearby Attractions
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Summary and Key Information
References

Visiting Hours and Tickets

The Flawn Academic Center is generally open to the public during standard university hours:

Monday–Thursday: 7:30 AM – Midnight
Friday: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Sunday: Noon – Midnight

Hours may vary during holidays, exam periods, or special university events. For the most current schedule, check the FAC Events Calendar. Admission is always free, and no tickets are required for general entry. Certain special events or workshops may require advance registration.

Getting There

The FAC is centrally located at 2304 Whitis Ave, Austin, TX 78712, adjacent to the iconic Main Building and UT Tower.

By Car: Parking is available in university garages (e.g., San Antonio Garage, Brazos Garage), though spaces fill quickly and require payment. Check UT Construction Updates for current access information.
By Public Transit: Capital Metro buses (#1, #7, #20) serve the campus area. The University Station MetroRail is within walking distance. UT students and staff ride free with valid ID (UT Resources).
By Bike/On Foot: The campus is pedestrian- and bike-friendly, with ample bike racks near the FAC.
Directions: For precise navigation, use Apple Maps.

Accessibility

The FAC is fully ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all visitors:

Accessible entrances, ramps, and elevators
Restrooms on every floor
Assistive listening devices available for events
Service animals welcome

Visitors needing specific accommodations should contact the Office of Disability Services in advance.

Facilities and Services

Study and Collaboration Spaces

Quiet Study Rooms: Ideal for focused work, available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Group Collaboration Areas: Equipped with whiteboards, large tables, and digital displays.
Computer Labs: Mac and PC workstations for UT affiliates and event participants.
Wi-Fi: Free guest access; temporary logins available at the ITS Help Desk.

Career and Event Spaces

Flexible Classrooms: Modern rooms with A/V technology for classes, workshops, and hybrid events (Career Success Space).
Interview Rooms: 30 standard and four larger rooms for interviews, some equipped for virtual meetings.
Changing Rooms & Lockers: For student interview prep and secure storage.

Services

ID Center: Main floor location for issuing UT ID cards.
ITS Help Desk: Walk-in support for technical issues and guest Wi-Fi access.
Campus Computer Store: Technology sales and support, open to the public.
Lost and Found: Located at the main desk.

Amenities

Restrooms and Water Fountains: Available on all floors.
Food & Drink: Vending machines on-site; nearby dining at the Texas Union and along Guadalupe Street.

Art Exhibits and Cultural Highlights

The FAC is committed to celebrating creativity and cultural heritage:

Art Curatorial Internship Exhibits: Student art on the second floor, rotated every two years (Career Success Art).
Leeds Gallery: Permanent recreation of Erle Stanley Gardner’s study, featuring personal artifacts (Flickr: wallyg).
Outdoor Sculpture: Charles Umlauf’s “The Torchbearers” is displayed outside, symbolizing the pursuit of knowledge.

Special Events and Tours

While the FAC does not offer regular public tours, it is featured in UT Austin campus tours and frequently hosts public events such as:

Career fairs
Art exhibitions
Academic workshops

Check the FAC Events Calendar for upcoming opportunities. Photography is generally permitted in public spaces, but please respect privacy during classes or interviews.

Visitor Tips and Etiquette

Best Times to Visit: Early mornings, between semesters, or outside peak exam periods offer a quieter experience.
Photo Policy: Personal photography allowed in public areas; ask before photographing people or events.
Quiet Zones: Maintain a low noise level in study areas.
Check for Event Closures: Review the events calendar before your visit, as some spaces may be reserved.

Safety and Security

The FAC is monitored by campus security and features:

Emergency call boxes throughout the building
Secure after-hours access (UT ID required)
Regular patrols by campus police

Visitors should keep personal belongings secure and comply with all safety protocols. Carry a photo ID and report any suspicious activity to security staff (Flickr: wallyg).

Nearby Attractions

Take advantage of the FAC’s central location to explore other campus and city highlights:

UT Tower: Guided tours and city views (Flickr: wallyg)
Blanton Museum of Art: European, Latin American, and contemporary art
Harry Ransom Center: Rare books, manuscripts, and exhibits
Texas Union: Historic student activity center
Turtle Pond: A tranquil campus retreat
Texas State Capitol: Iconic landmark with public tours

All are within a short walk or drive from the FAC.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the Flawn Academic Center visiting hours?
A: Typically Monday–Thursday 7:30 AM–Midnight, Friday 7:30 AM–9:00 PM, Saturday 10:00 AM–9:00 PM, Sunday Noon–Midnight. Check the FAC Events Calendar for updates.

Q: Is there an entry fee or ticket required?
A: No, general admission is free. Some events may require registration.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: No regular tours, but the FAC is included in campus tours. Special tours may be announced via the events calendar.

Q: Is the FAC accessible for visitors with disabilities?
A: Yes, the building is fully ADA-compliant.

Q: Can I take photographs inside the FAC?
A: Discreet photography is allowed in public areas. Please avoid photographing private meetings or classes.

Q: How do I access Wi-Fi?
A: Free guest Wi-Fi is available; inquire at the ITS Help Desk for a temporary login.

Summary of Key Visiting Information and Tips

The Peter T. Flawn Academic Center exemplifies UT Austin’s dedication to accessible education, innovative learning spaces, and dynamic cultural engagement. With free admission, diverse facilities, rotating art exhibits, and special events, the FAC welcomes students, visitors, and the community. Its proximity to iconic campus and Austin landmarks makes it an ideal starting point for exploring the university and city. Accessibility features ensure all guests can comfortably enjoy the center, and ongoing programs foster academic and community collaboration. For the best experience, consult current hours and events, and use tools like the Audiala app for navigation.