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Austin, Texas / Theaters and music

Long Center for the Performing Arts

Located along Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, the Long Center for the Performing Arts is a premier nonprofit venue. Known as Austin's Front Row, it offers stunning skyline views and world-class cultural performances.

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Long Center for the Performing Arts
thelongcenter.org, og_image_thelongcenter.org

What is the Long Center for the Performing Arts and where is it located?

The Long Center for the Performing Arts is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization and performing arts venue located in downtown Austin along Lady Bird Lake. Its physical address is 701 W. Riverside Drive, Austin, Texas 78704.

What performing arts companies are based at the Long Center?

The Long Center is the permanent home and founding resident venue for three major companies: the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, and Ballet Austin.

What are the hours for the box office?

The 3M Box Office is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. For weekend performances, it opens 90 minutes prior to showtime.

Does the venue offer accessible seating?

Yes, accessible seating is available for physically disabled guests. Visitors requiring wheelchair accessibility or other special seating are advised to notify the box office when purchasing their tickets.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

The Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts is a prominent cultural hub situated in downtown Austin, Texas. Operating as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit arts organization, the center officially opened its doors on March 28, 2008, following an extensive ten-year construction period. Today, it proudly brands itself as Austin's Front Row, welcoming visitors to experience the creative energy of the city.\n\nThe Long Center serves as the permanent home and creative anchor for its three founding resident companies: the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Opera, and Ballet Austin. These prestigious organizations have been integral to the venue since before its curtains first opened. To accommodate these diverse performances, the campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including the grand Dell Hall and the intimate Rollins Studio Theatre.\n\nStrategically situated at 701 W. Riverside Drive, the venue boasts a highly celebrated location along the shores of Lady Bird Lake. One of its most defining features is its skyline-facing orientation, which offers spectacular, sweeping views of downtown Austin. This makes the center not just a destination for indoor performances, but a scenic landmark that connects deeply with the surrounding urban landscape.\n\nDedicated to welcoming all patrons, the Long Center provides accessible seating options for physically disabled guests, including accommodations for wheelchairs, which can be arranged by contacting the box office. The onsite 3M Box Office operates regularly during the week and opens ahead of weekend performances to assist theatergoers.

Visitor tips

  • Visit the 3M Box Office Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. to purchase tickets in person.
  • If you are attending a weekend performance, the box office opens 90 minutes prior to showtime.
  • For guests requiring wheelchair or special accessible seating, contact the box office at 512-472-5992 when purchasing tickets.

Nearby context

Situated along the scenic Lady Bird Lake at 701 W. Riverside Drive, the Long Center is a cornerstone of Austin's downtown waterfront. This prime location places it near other popular city green spaces, offering a perfect transition from a relaxing lakeside stroll to a sophisticated evening of performing arts.

Sources

Evidence and links