About Austin
One of the fastest-growing cities in the country, Austin is the capital of Texas and the fourth largest city in the state. Austin has historically been a modest city that is supportive of local, independent businesses, with adherents asking visitors and residents alike to “Keep Austin Weird.”
There are a variety of activities including outdoor recreation, semi-professional sports, cultural activities and a thriving and very well-known live music scene. The city also plays host to several large-scale events annually, such as the South by Southwest film festival (SXSW), the three-day Austin City Limits Music Festival and the family-friendly Eeyore’s Birthday Party.
With a variety of old and new venues, including historic buildings, modern conference centers and the University of Texas, you won’t have any trouble finding an Austin class space for anything you want to teach. Whether it’s a rehearsal hall, artist studio or open-air park for Tai Chi or Tae Kwon Do, you’ll also find support services to make your space a perfect learning environment.
Class Space Options in Austin
Once you’ve selected an Austin class space, you’ll likely need the help of a few local businesses to get things up and running. Austin has many professional service providers offering everything from marketing services to cleaning services.
- Equipment Rental
Depending on the type of class space you select, you may need to fill out the classroom area with basics such as tables, chairs, audiovisual equipment or even kitchen equipment. There are several companies offering furniture for typical classroom setups appropriate for crafting, writing, art and more. You’ll also find more specialized equipment, such as screens and projectors, sound systems or event musical instruments.
- Printing Services
No matter what kind of subject matter you plan to teach, you may need handouts, worksheets or other printed collateral. Many Austin printing companies offer a quick turnaround on jobs large and small, whether you need 20 registration packets or 200 worksheets. Some can also provide large-format printing jobs such as banners or poster-sized signage to display in front of your venue.
- Marketing and Promotions
You have your class space, your materials and enough handouts for your students – now you just need students. Marketing and promotions companies can provide services aimed at getting students through the door, from placing ads online and in the local newspaper to viral video campaigns and even billboards.
Class Space Options in Austin
Focus more on your subject matter and teaching methods and less on logistics and vendor selection by letting one of Austin’s professional event planners take the reins. Leaving the small details to an experienced planner leaves you free to do what you do best, which is engaging your students.
- Pearl Events
The team at Pearl Events is experienced in planning events and meetings of all shapes and sizes. Team members meet with clients to get to know you and incorporate as much of your personality or your subject matter into your event as possible. The full-service firm can build an event from the ground up or help you with any last-minute organization you may need.
- Hentrich Creative Consultants
Owner and lead planner Victoria Hentrich founded Creative Consultants in 1990 and puts her two decades of experience to use for large and small occasions. Hentrich has a long list of famous clients including Willie Nelson, Siegfried and Roy, and even the Queen of England. She and her daughter, Jennifer, are a dynamic team offering full-service planning, coordination, event management and more.
- Wild Sky Events
With more than 12 years of experience in planning a variety of gatherings, planners at Wild Sky Events have expertise in all things hospitality. From mastering logistics to providing unique decorating and woodworking services, Wild Sky Events ensures that your event will be one-of-a-kind. From social occasions to corporate events, Wild Sky Events excels in turning empty spaces into extraordinary, design-rich spaces.
Pros and Cons of Class Spaces in Austin
Austin is a dynamic city with much to offer in the way of class spaces and support services, but there are some advantages and disadvantages you should consider before making a final decision.
Advantages
- Public transportation
Austin has been called one of the top 10 US cities for transportation options, with 3,000 bus stops and a busy light rail system.
- Great food
Austin has an ever-evolving dining scene to satisfy foodies. Some class functions may call for catering or food to be brought in and the choices will be plentiful.
- Vendor choices
Being a populous city, the choices of companies ready to assist with your Austin class space are many.
Disadvantages
- Summer heat
Summer in Austin is very hot and humid bringing exhaustive temperatures and a bug population.
- Lack of seasonal change
If you are holding fitness classes, for example, you’ll be limited in what you can do seasonal-wise. Teaching skiing lessons just won’t work.
- Traffic
Congested roads and freeways are an ever-present problem in this expanding city.
Famous Locations in Austin
- Texas State Capitol
Originally built in 1853, the Texas State Capitol was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1986. This distinct building is called one of the nation's "most distinguished state capitols" and rightly so. Exquisite rooms and furniture, current photographs and a medal of honor exhibit make this famous Austin location a must-see when in the city.
- Barton Springs Pool
Fed by natural hot springs, the Barton Springs Pool is a three-acre limestone pool in picturesque Zilker Park. The pool, which has an average temperature of 70 degrees, is perfect for year-round swimming, even during Austin’s relatively mild winters. The pool is also a federally protected animal habitat, home to the endangered Barton Springs salamander.
- Lady Bird Lake
This beautiful reservoir is an exceptional addition to the Austin area. Created in 1960, flood control and recreation are its two main uses today. Zilker Park is adjacent to the lake. It’s a great place to watch sports activities like Dragon Boat races and rowing practices for teams from schools like The University of Texas.
