Austin to Temple Airport Shuttle
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How is Your Service Different?
- Any Address - We pick up and drop off at your home, business, hotel or any airport.
- Better - most rides are non-stop and no sharing in a Nice Car, SUV or Shuttle.
- Flexible - we pick you up on your schedule 24/7. It's also always free to change the date or time if your flight changes.
- Safer - we don't leave you at a bus stop, and all our drivers go through nationwide fingerprint background checks.
- Faster - most rides take half the time, because it's just you in the vehicle. No need to stop and wait everywhere.
- Convenient - Door to Door means no need to arrange or pay for a Taxi or Lyft to get home.
- Affordable - once you add it all up, it's the same price or less than other shared ride shuttles for two or more people, or less than Uber with just one person.
Our Great Company
With more than 100,000 customers and 5 years in business, Texas Shuttle LLC owns Austin to Temple Shuttle, and has shuttle drivers all over the State of Texas. The Texas Shuttle serves Austin and Temple with direct airport transportation statewide. Heading there from Temple? See our Temple to Dallas page for direct service.
Main Office
320 Decker Drive
Irving, TX 75062
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Complete Guide to Traveling from Austin to Temple, Texas
If you're planning a trip from the vibrant capital city of Austin to the historic charm of Temple, you're in for a straightforward journey through Central Texas. Whether you're traveling for business, visiting family, or exploring new destinations, understanding your route options, travel times, and local attractions will help you make the most of your trip between these two thriving Texas cities.
Distance and Travel Time from Austin to Temple
The drive from downtown Austin (78701) to downtown Temple (76501) covers approximately 70 miles along the primary route through the heart of Central Texas. Under normal traffic conditions, most travelers complete this journey in 1 hour and 15 minutes to 1 hour and 30 minutes. However, rush hour traffic in Austin and construction zones can extend travel time significantly, particularly during weekday morning commutes between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM and evening rush hours between 4:30 PM and 6:30 PM.
Traffic on Interstate 35 tends to be heaviest through the Round Rock area, which is typically the first major bottleneck you'll encounter heading north from Austin. Weekend travel generally moves more smoothly, though Saturday mornings can see increased traffic as Texans head to shopping destinations and recreational areas throughout the corridor.
The Best Route: Interstate 35 North
The most direct and commonly traveled route from Austin to Temple follows Interstate 35 North for its entirety. This highway provides a straightforward path through several Central Texas communities, each with its own character and amenities for travelers needing rest stops, fuel, or a quick meal.
Your journey begins in Austin at the intersection of I-35 and Highway 290 West, where you'll head north on I-35. The highway passes through the suburb of Round Rock, home to the famous Round Rock Premium Outlets and the Dell Diamond baseball stadium. Continue north past the city of Georgetown, known for its historic courthouse square and the beautiful San Gabriel River. From Georgetown, the next major city is Belton, the county seat of Bell County, before reaching your destination of Temple.
Route Comparison Table
| Route Option | Distance | Est. Travel Time | Traffic Considerations | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| I-35 North (Direct) | ~70 miles | 1:15-1:30 | Heavy through Round Rock during rush hours | Fastest option, direct route |
| US-183 North to TX-195 | ~85 miles | 1:45-2:00 | Lighter traffic, some rural sections | Avoiding I-35 congestion |
| Toll 130 (Pickens Parkway) | ~72 miles | 1:15-1:25 | Tolls required, typically less traffic | Faster during peak traffic times |
| US-79 through Taylor | ~78 miles | 1:35-1:50 | Passes through small towns | Scenic, avoiding highways |
Major Highways and Landmarks Along the Way
Understanding the highways and notable landmarks between Austin and Temple helps you navigate confidently and identify opportunities for breaks during longer journeys. Interstate 35 serves as the main artery connecting these Central Texas communities, but several other highways intersect your route and provide alternative paths if conditions warrant.
Interstate 35 Corridor Overview
I-35 runs from Laredo to the Oklahoma border, making it one of the most important north-south corridors in Texas. Between Austin and Temple, this interstate generally maintains two to three lanes in each direction, with rest areas and fuel stations readily available at regular intervals. The speed limit on I-35 is typically 70 mph through most rural sections and 60-65 mph through urban areas.
Notable Communities Along the Route
Round Rock, located approximately 15 miles north of Austin, serves as a major commercial hub with extensive shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Round Rock Express minor league baseball team plays at the Dell Diamond, which sits just off I-35 and makes for an excellent family detour if you have time.
Georgetown, about 30 miles north of Austin, welcomes visitors with its beautifully restored downtown square featuring historic buildings, local boutiques, and restaurants. The Williamson County Courthouse, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, anchors the square and provides a perfect photo opportunity.
Belton, situated just south of Temple, is home to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and offers access to Miller Park, a scenic area along the Leon River. Belton's historic downtown provides a glimpse into small-town Texas charm with locally owned shops and restaurants.
Driving Tips for Your Austin to Temple Trip
Planning ahead can make your drive smoother and more enjoyable. Here are essential tips for navigating the Austin to Temple corridor safely and efficiently.
Best Times to Travel
If your schedule allows flexibility, the ideal times to drive from Austin to Temple are mid-morning (10:00 AM to 12:00 PM) or early afternoon (1:00 PM to 3:00 PM) on weekdays. Weekend travel is generally relaxed, though Saturday mornings can see increased traffic as travelers head to destinations throughout Central Texas. Sunday afternoons typically experience moderate traffic as travelers return from weekend getaways.
Weather Considerations
Central Texas weather can be unpredictable, particularly during spring thunderstorm season from March through May and the occasional winter ice event in January or February. Before departing, check current weather conditions and be prepared to adjust your departure time if severe weather is forecasted. I-35 can become hazardous during heavy rain due to reduced visibility and hydroplaning risks.
Vehicle Preparation
Ensure your vehicle is in good condition before any road trip, especially during summer months when Texas heat puts extra strain on cooling systems and tires. Check your tire pressure, coolant levels, and make sure your air conditioning is functioning properly. Keep a emergency kit in your vehicle including water, a first aid kit, and a charged phone charger.
Alternative Transportation Options
Not everyone wants to drive, and several alternative transportation options exist for traveling between Austin and Temple.
Public Transportation
Capital Metro, Austin's public transportation authority, operates routes throughout the city but does not provide direct service to Temple. For public transit options, you may need to combine bus service with rideshare connections. Temple has its own public transit system, Temple Transit, which provides local service within the city.
Rideshare Services
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft operate throughout both Austin and Temple, though availability in Temple may be more limited than in Austin. Scheduling your ride in advance is recommended, particularly for early morning or late evening travel. Estimated costs for rideshare between the two cities vary based on demand, so checking the app during your planned travel time will give you the most accurate pricing.
Shuttle Services
Several shuttle services operate between Austin and Temple, particularly serving the medical community given Temple's status as a regional healthcare hub. These services are particularly useful for appointments at Scott & White Medical Center or other medical facilities in Temple. Reservations are typically required and estimated costs depend on the specific service provider.
Train Service
Amtrak's Texas Eagle route passes through Temple, connecting the city to San Antonio, Austin, and stations northward. The Austin station is located in downtown Austin, making train travel a viable option if you prefer not to drive. However, train schedules are limited, so advance planning is essential.
Things to Do in Temple, Texas
Temple offers several attractions that make the drive worthwhile, whether you're visiting for the day or staying longer.
Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum
Miller Park
Medical and Wellness Tourism
Frequently Asked Questions About Austin to Temple Travel
How far is Temple from Austin?
What is the best route from Austin to Temple?
Are there tolls on the route from Austin to Temple?
What cities are between Austin and Temple?
Can I take a bus from Austin to Temple?
What is there to do in Temple, Texas?
Is the drive from Austin to Temple scenic?
Austin to Temple: Distance, Drive Time, and Every Way to Get There
Temple, Texas sits about 71 miles north of downtown Austin along the I-35 corridor, making it one of the easiest day trips or commuter runs in Central Texas. Whether you're heading up for a medical appointment at Baylor Scott & White, visiting family, or connecting onward to Waco or Dallas-Fort Worth, you have three practical options: drive yourself, ride a Greyhound bus, or book a private shuttle. This guide covers the route, the schedule, the stations, and what to expect door to door.
How Far Is Temple from Austin?
Temple is approximately 71 miles from Austin, and the fastest scheduled bus service covers that distance in around 1 hour 40 minutes, according to Greyhound's published schedule. If you're driving, plan on roughly 70 to 80 minutes under normal traffic conditions on Interstate 35 — less if you time it outside of rush hour, and considerably more if you hit Friday afternoon or holiday weekend congestion through Georgetown and Salado.
Temple sits just north of Belton and south of the Temple-Belton corridor's main landmarks. Downtown Temple, the historic Santa Fe Depot, and the Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum are all clustered on the city's east side near I-35, while newer development and medical campuses stretch west toward Highway 36 and the Loop 363 bypass.
Driving from Austin to Temple: Step-by-Step Directions
The drive from downtown Austin (78701) to Temple (76501) is a straightforward shot up I-35 North:
- Head north on I-35 from downtown Austin. From the Capitol area, you'll merge onto I-35 North via the frontage roads near E 9th Street or E 15th Street, depending on your starting point.
- Pass through Round Rock and Georgetown. You'll cover the northern Austin suburbs first — Round Rock around mile 15, then Georgetown around mile 25. This stretch is where I-35 traffic is thickest during morning and evening rush hours.
- Continue north through Salado. About 10 minutes past Georgetown, you'll pass the Salado exits — a popular stop for the village's shops, restaurants, and historic inn if you want to break up the trip.
- Skirt Belton. I-35 passes along the west side of Belton, home to the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and Belton Lake just off the highway.
- Take the Temple exits. Downtown Temple is reached via TX-53 (Adams Avenue) or the Loop 363 business routes. If your destination is on the west side — near Temple Mall or the medical district — take the TX-36 West or Loop 363 exits.
Tip: I-35 through Central Texas is one of the state's busiest corridors, and construction zones between Georgetown and Temple are common. Check TxDOT's drivetexas.org for lane closures before you leave, and allow an extra 20–30 minutes buffer during peak travel times.
Taking the Greyhound Bus from Austin to Temple
For travelers without a car, Greyhound offers direct service from Austin to Temple. The ride covers roughly 71 miles in as little as 1 hour 40 minutes, with two departures daily (per Greyhound's schedule page for this route).
Austin to Temple Bus Schedule
- First departure: 8:05 AM
- Last departure: 11:30 AM
- Daily departures: 2
- Fastest trip time: approximately 1 hour 40 minutes
- Distance: approximately 71 miles
Because both departures run in the morning, this route works best if you can arrive in Temple by early afternoon. If you need an afternoon or evening arrival, a private shuttle or a drive is the more flexible choice.
Austin Departure Stations
Greyhound serves Austin from three stops, so double-check your ticket to confirm which one your bus uses:
- Austin Eastside Bus Plaza — 363 Shady Lane, Austin, TX 78702. Buses board at Bay A, B, or C. Note that the station interior may be closed on certain holidays (such as Memorial Day, Juneteenth, and Independence Day), but trips still operate outside the building as scheduled.
- Downtown Austin (9th St) — 703 E 9th St, Austin, TX 78701. Buses board in the parking lot at 703 E 9th St, located on the corner of E 9th Street and the I-35 frontage road — convenient if you're staying downtown or near the Convention Center.
- Austin South Congress — 300 Radam Ln, Austin, TX 78704. The bus boards at Bay H at the South Congress Transit Center, a handy pickup point for travelers coming from South Austin or near the Congress Avenue bridge area.
Temple Arrival Station
Buses arrive at 1661 W Barton Ave, Temple, TX 76504, on the city's west side. Passengers board and deboard along the southern curb on W Barton Avenue, just north of the Whataburger parking lot — an easy landmark to spot. From there, you're a short drive from Temple Mall, Loop 363, and the western medical corridor, and about 10–15 minutes from downtown Temple.
Baggage Allowance
On the Austin to Temple Greyhound route, you can bring one carry-on bag (up to 16 x 12 x 7 inches and 25 lbs) and one checked bag at no extra cost, per Greyhound's baggage policy. That's enough for a weekend bag or medical-trip luggage without paying fees.
Digital Ticket and Live Bus Tracking
Greyhound issues digital tickets through its app and website, so you can board with your phone — no paper ticket needed. The app also offers live bus tracking, so you can watch your bus's real-time location and estimated arrival as you wait at the station. Arrive at least 15–20 minutes before departure, especially at the Eastside Bus Plaza, where bays fill up quickly.
Onboard Comforts: Free Wi-Fi and Power
Greyhound coaches on Texas routes include free onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets at your seat, extra legroom seating options, and reclining seats — enough to catch up on email or stream a show during the short hop up I-35. Actual prices depend on date, demand, fuel, and provider.
What to Expect on Your Trip from Austin to Temple
Here's a realistic picture of the journey, whichever mode you choose:
- Boarding: For the bus, arrive 15–20 minutes early with your digital ticket ready. At the Eastside Bus Plaza, check the departure board for your bay (A, B, or C); downtown, look for the curb at 703 E 9th St.
- The ride north: You'll ride up I-35 through Round Rock, Georgetown, and Salado, with the landscape shifting from urban sprawl to Hill Country-adjacent hills around Salado, then flattening out through Belton.
- Arrival: The Temple stop at 1661 W Barton Ave puts you on the west side of town near familiar fast-food landmarks. Arrange a local pickup, a taxi, or a rideshare in advance if your final stop is downtown or at a medical campus — local transit options from the stop are limited.
- Return trip planning: With only two daily departures, check the return schedule before finalizing your plans, or book a shuttle if you need a specific return time.
Need to Make a Change to Your Booking?
Plans shift — especially for medical and family travel. Greyhound allows ticket changes and cancellations through its website and app under its published fare rules; flexible fares offer the most lenient change terms, while economy fares are more restricted. Review the fare rules shown at checkout before you buy, and make changes online rather than at the station when possible, since station counters can have limited hours (including holiday closures noted above).
If you book a private shuttle with us instead, changes are handled directly with our dispatch team — just call ahead and we'll adjust your pickup time or location, subject to availability.
How to Book Your Bus Ticket from Austin to Temple
- Go to greyhound.com or open the Greyhound app. Enter "Austin, TX" as your origin and "Temple, TX" as your destination.
- Choose your departure station. Select Eastside Bus Plaza, Downtown 9th St, or South Congress depending on which is most convenient — confirm the exact stop listed on your ticket.
- Pick your date and fare. Two departures run daily (8:05 AM and 11:30 AM per Greyhound's current schedule). Compare fare types if you think your plans might change.
- Add seat selection if desired. Reserved seating is optional and available for a fee at booking.
- Save your digital ticket. Your ticket appears in the app or by email — show it on your phone when boarding. Use the app's live tracking feature on travel day to monitor your bus.
Getting Around Temple Once You Arrive
Temple is a compact city, but it's spread enough that you'll want a car or a rideshare for most trips. Key destinations include:
- Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Temple — the city's largest employer and a major referral hospital serving Central Texas, located on the west side near TX-36 and Loop 363.
- Downtown Temple and the Santa Fe Depot — the historic railroad district along Avenue A and Adams Avenue, home to the Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum, local restaurants, and shops.
- Frank W. Mayborn Civic & Convention Center — the region's events venue on the city's north side.
- Temple Mall — the main retail hub on the south side near S 31st Street.
Onward connections are easy from Temple: it's about 25 minutes south to Belton, 40 minutes north to Waco, and 35 minutes west to Killeen and Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood) via US-190.
Related Routes from Austin
If you're building a longer Central Texas itinerary, these routes connect through the same I-35 corridor:
- Austin to Round Rock shuttle — the first leg of the Temple drive
- Austin to Georgetown shuttle
- Austin to Belton shuttle
- Austin to Killeen shuttle — just west of Temple via US-190
- Austin to Waco shuttle — the next major stop north on I-35
- Austin to Dallas shuttle — for longer corridor trips
Frequently Asked Questions: Austin to Temple
How far is Temple, Texas from Austin?
Temple is approximately 71 miles north of Austin. The trip runs entirely along Interstate 35 North, passing through Round Rock, Georgetown, Salado, and Belton along the way.
How long does it take to get from Austin to Temple?
Driving takes roughly 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes depending on I-35 traffic. The fastest Greyhound bus covers the distance in about 1 hour 40 minutes, per Greyhound's published schedule for this route.
Is there a bus from Austin to Temple?
Yes. Greyhound operates 2 daily departures from Austin to Temple. The first bus leaves at 8:05 AM and the last at 11:30 AM. Buses depart from up to three Austin stops (Eastside Bus Plaza, Downtown 9th St, and South Congress) and arrive at 1661 W Barton Ave in Temple, near the Whataburger parking lot.
How much does the bus from Austin to Temple cost?
Bus fares on this route vary by date and demand and have historically started in the mid-teens of dollars one-way (estimate — check greyhound.com for current pricing). One carry-on and one checked bag are included at no extra charge.
What is the best route to drive from Austin to Temple?
I-35 North is the direct and standard route for the entire 71-mile trip. An alternative for avoiding the worst I-35 congestion is US-183 North to TX-195 near Georgetown, which brings you into Temple from the southwest via Killeen — though it usually takes longer, it can be a useful fallback when I-35 has major closures.
Can I bring luggage on the Austin to Temple bus?
Yes. Greyhound's policy for this route allows one carry-on bag (up to 16 x 12 x 7 inches and 25 lbs) plus one checked bag at no additional cost.
Is there an alternative to the bus for a car-free trip?
Yes. A private shuttle offers door-to-door service on your schedule — useful for medical appointments at Baylor Scott & White, group travel, or trips that don't fit the two morning bus departures. Contact Texas Shuttle for a quote based on your pickup location, time, and party size.
Last updated: 2025. Schedules, fares, and station details are subject to change — always confirm current details with Greyhound (greyhound.com) or MapQuest before you travel.
Why travelers ride Austin to Temple with Texas Shuttle
The Austin-to-Temple run follows the direct interstate corridor north out of the city, passing through Round Rock and Georgetown before the rolling country opens up toward Temple. Depending on traffic through Austin and the Round Rock corridor, the drive typically takes about an hour and a half — longer at rush hour or during big UT football weekends, when traffic leaving downtown can stretch the trip considerably. Door-to-door pickup means we come to you in neighborhoods from Hyde Park to Mueller to The Domain, so you never circle the airport looking for parking.
A large share of our riders on this route are headed to Baylor Scott & White Medical Center, one of the largest hospital complexes in Central Texas. We regularly shuttle patients and visiting family members from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport straight to the medical campus or to hotels nearby. Students, relocating families, and professionals commuting between Austin and the Temple–Belton area round out the mix. Many are tired travelers who simply don't want to make the long drive back south after a late-arriving flight.
My flight into Austin lands late. Can you still pick me up for the ride to Temple?
Yes. We monitor incoming flights and adjust your pickup time if your arrival is delayed, so your driver will be there when your plane lands — even if that's well after the scheduled time. Just share your flight number when you book.