Travel Information

ACM MobiCom 2026: Austin Extended Stay Guide



Welcome to Austin, Texas! Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin is a vibrant city brimming with culture, incredible food, and outdoor beauty. Late October is arguably the best time of year to visit, offering perfect fall weather with cooler temperatures.

If you are planning to extend your stay before or after the MobiCom 2026 conference, you are in for a treat. Late October 2026 happens to be one of the busiest, most exciting times in the city. Below is a curated guide of things to do, see, and experience.



Major Special Events (Late October 2026)


If you are arriving early or staying through the weekend after the conference, you can catch some of Austin’s most spectacular events.

1. Formula 1 United States Grand Prix


Formula 1 United States Grand Prix

  • Dates: October 23–25, 2026
  • Venue: Circuit of The Americas (COTA)
  • Address:9201 Circuit of the Americas Blvd, Austin, TX 78617
  • Details: Arriving the weekend before the conference? The pinnacle of motorsports is in town! The F1 USGP is a massive three-day celebration of speed, featuring world-class racing and massive post-race headliner concerts. It is highly recommended to secure tickets and transportation well in advance, as the city will be packed.

2. Texas Longhorns vs. Mississippi State


Texas Longhorns vs. Mississippi State

  • Date: October 31, 2026
  • Venue: Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium
  • Address: 2100 San Jacinto Blvd, Austin, TX 78712
  • Details:  Stay for the weekend after the conference to experience a true Texas tradition: SEC College Football! The Texas Longhorns will take on Mississippi State right on the UT Austin campus. Tailgating starts early, and the atmosphere in the 100,000+ seat stadium is electric. Wear burnt orange!

3. Austin Film Festival


Austin Film Festival

  • Dates: October 29 – November 5, 2026
  • Venue: Various locations (Downtown Austin)
  • Details: Overlapping with the end of the conference, the Austin Film Festival is recognized as one of the top film and screenwriting festivals in the country. It is a fantastic opportunity to catch independent film premieres, panel discussions, and screenings right in the heart of downtown

4. U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game


U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame Game
  • Date: October 31, 2026 (7:00 PM)
  • Venue: H-E-B Center at Cedar Park
  • Address: 2100 Avenue of the Stars, Cedar Park, TX 78613
  • If you prefer the ice over the gridiron, the University of North Dakota and Michigan State will face off in this highly anticipated collegiate hockey showdown just north of Austin.

Fall & Halloween Festivities


Since the conference concludes just in time for Halloween, you can partake in Austin's unique seasonal celebrations!

  • Halloween on 6th Street (Oct 31) The historic entertainment district shuts down to vehicle traffic and becomes a massive, pedestrian-only costume party. It is crowded, loud, and uniquely Austin.
  • Viva la Vida Fest: Hosted by the Mexic-Arte Museum (419 Congress Ave), this is Austin’s largest and longest-running Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) festival, usually taking place the weekend before or of Halloween.Expect beautiful parades, art, and traditional food

Classic Austin "Must-Dos"


Even if you aren't attending a mega-event, Austin has plenty of everyday magic to offer conference attendees.

Outdoor Explorations


Outdoor Explorations
  • Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail: Need to stretch your legs after a day of networking? This lush, 10-mile trail loops right through the center of the city. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to see the skyline from the water.
  • Zilker Park & Barton Springs Pool:(2100 Barton Springs Rd) A 358-acre park featuring a massive natural spring pool that stays 68 degrees year-round.
  • Congress Avenue Bats: (South Congress Bridge) Austin is home to North America's largest urban bat colony. While many migrate south by late October, you might still catch some stragglers flying out at dusk!

Food & Entertainment


Food and Entertainment
  • Texas BBQ: No trip to Texas is complete without brisket. Check out Terry Black's BBQ (1003 Barton Springs Rd) or Franklin Barbecue (900 E 11th St - arrive early!).
  • South Congress (SoCo):  A vibrant street perfect for an afternoon of souvenir shopping, grabbing a slice at Home Slice Pizza, and taking a photo by the famous "I love you so much" mural.
  • Live Music: Catch a show at the iconic Continental Club (1315 S Congress Ave) or head to the Red River Cultural District for a dense concentration of live music venues.

Enjoy your stay in Austin and have a fantastic MobiCom 2026 experience!