The UT Tyler Cowan Center (R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center) is the on-campus hub for Broadway shows, concerts, and lectures in Tyler, Texas. With two distinct spaces—the Vaughn Auditorium (~2,000 seats) and the Braithwaite Recital Hall (~161 seats)—the Cowan Center brings world-class performances to the UT Tyler campus, right in the heart of Tyler. Whether you’re planning a date night, a family outing, or an educational visit, we’ve got you covered with easy ticketing, practical venue details, and trusted hotel and dining recommendations close to campus.

Explore upcoming 2025-26 season highlights, including Parsons Dance, Count Basie Orchestra, DRUM TAO, Vitamin String Quartet, and Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, among other remarkable performances. Read on for seating details, parking tips, transit options, and nearby affiliate partner hotels and restaurants to simplify your visit.

Tip: arrive early to enjoy parking and find your seats. The Cowan Center is a premier performing arts venue on the UT Tyler campus with accessible parking, convenient transit routes, and on-site services to ensure a smooth experience. If you’re planning a group visit or a multi-event trip, we’ve got you covered with dependable access and trusted partner recommendations.

For the most current show information, availability, and accessibility accommodations, check the official Cowan Center pages and follow our affiliate partners for exclusive hotel and dining offers near UT Tyler.

Good to know

Seating, Parking & Venue Information

Capacity: Vaughn Auditorium ~2,000 seats; Braithwaite Recital Hall ~161 seats.
Address: 3900 University Blvd, Tyler, TX 75799 (UT Tyler campus).
Venue type: R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center / Cowan Center, campus performing arts venue for Broadway shows, concerts, lectures.
Seating chart: official seating chart available (sections include 1st/2nd Orchestra, 1st/2nd Balcony).
Parking: self-parking included with tickets; accessible parking available; valet parking $15; arrive early (30 minutes recommended); Lot 6 may be affected by construction.
Transit: served by Tyler Transit; MicroTransit/on-demand Campus Connector routes to Cowan Center; app-based booking available.
Nearby hotels (UT Tyler discount program): Hampton Inn & Suites Tyler – South; Holiday Inn Tyler – South Broadway; Holiday Inn Express & Suites Tyler South; La Quinta Inn & Suites Tyler – University Area; Staybridge Suites Tyler University Area; Hilton Garden Inn Tyler; etc.
Notable events: 2025-26 season features Parsons Dance, Count Basie Orchestra, DRUM TAO, Vitamin String Quartet, Tina – The Tina Turner Musical, plus other performances.
Renamed/demolished: no demolition or renaming; venue is active as the R. Don Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center (Cowan Center).