Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) sits just 5 miles southeast of downtown Austin on the former site of Bergstrom Air Force Base. The airport is named after Captain John August Earl Bergstrom, an Austin native killed during the attack on Pearl Harbor. These days it handles over 20 million passengers annually and has built a reputation for showcasing local culture — live music in the terminal, locally-owned restaurants instead of generic chains, and a general vibe that actually feels like Austin.
Terminal Layout
The Barbara Jordan Terminal is the main building, with 34 gates including six for international flights. It breaks down into three areas:
Central Departure Area
Gates 15 through 23. The Admirals Club and United Club lounges sit on the mezzanine level above gate 22.
East Concourse
The newest section, covering gates 1 through 13. Best selection of shops and restaurants in the airport. The Delta Sky Club near gate 2 has an outdoor patio bar on the mezzanine level, which is a nice touch.
West Concourse
Gates 24 through 34. Smaller dining and retail selection but still solid options.
Security Checkpoints
Three checkpoints: two on the east side (upper and lower levels) and one on the west side (upper level). TSA PreCheck and CLEAR Plus lanes at all three.
Where to Eat
AUS went all-in on local restaurants, and it shows. Over 40 spots, mostly homegrown Austin businesses rather than the usual airport chain rotation.
The Standouts
Salt Lick BBQ — Between gates 20 and 21. The brisket is the draw, but you can also order a whole brisket packaged to take home. Lines form around mealtimes for a reason.
Tacodeli — Solid breakfast tacos for early departures. Their Salsa Dona has some real kick to it.
The Peached Tortilla — Near gate 17. Korean steak tacos with bulgogi, Chinese BBQ chicken, brisket options. The menu sounds eclectic but it works.
Noble Sandwich — They make the sandwiches on a hot griddle in front of you. The Knuckle Sandwich (roast beef, caramelized onions, horseradish sauce) is the one people keep coming back for.
Kome Sushi A-Go-Go — Near gate 12. Japanese food, sushi, and ramen. A good change of pace from the BBQ and tacos.
Coffee and Quick Bites
Caffe Medici does locally-roasted coffee and is a better choice than the Starbucks. Amy’s Ice Cream serves their famous Mexican Vanilla plus dairy-free options if you need something sweet before boarding.
Parking
Red Garage
Closest to the terminal with covered parking and direct access. $7 per hour, $32 daily max.
Blue Garage
Right behind the Red Garage, about a 3-minute walk. $5 per hour, $23 daily max. Free EV charging on the ground floor.
Economy Parking
$12 per day with a free 24/7 shuttle that takes 5-7 minutes to reach the terminal. The cheapest on-site option by a wide margin.
Getting To and From AUS
Rideshare and Taxi
Uber and Lyft pickup is under the Car Rental facility behind the Red Garage. The ride to downtown takes 15-20 minutes depending on traffic.
Public Transit
Capital Metro Route 20 connects the airport to downtown Austin. The trip runs about 30-40 minutes and costs a fraction of rideshare.
Things Worth Knowing in 2026
Live Music Stage — AUS bills itself as the “Live Music Capital of the World Airport.” There’s a stage in the central terminal area with free performances throughout the day. Check the schedule on the airport’s website or just follow the sound.
Security Wait Times — Lines get long during SXSW, Austin City Limits, and the usual holiday travel windows. Two hours before domestic flights is safe during events. Normal weekdays are more forgiving.
Expansion Project — A $5 billion expansion is underway, adding Concourse B (26 new gates) and Concourse M (6 gates). Construction is active, so expect some detours and temporary signage.
The Short Version
Austin-Bergstrom is one of the better mid-size airports in the country, mostly because of the food and the local character. The terminal layout is simple enough that you won’t get lost, the dining options are legitimately good, and the expansion should keep up with the city’s growth. Show up with enough time to eat some barbecue or grab breakfast tacos before your flight — the food alone is worth arriving a little early.
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