Whether you’re a seasoned ACL veteran or a first-timer, the Austin City Limits festival can be a little overwhelming. Check below for our tips and tricks on what to bring, where to eat, and where to stay. For more ACL information and the performance lineup, please visit HERE.
ACL Guide: Where To Stay
From boutique hotels in eclectic neighborhoods to swanky downtown properties, here are a few of our favorite hotels that offer more than just a comfy bed.
Austin Proper Hotel | Situated in Downtown’s Second Street District, Austin Proper is a luxury lifestyle hotel that features Lady Bird Lake and city views.
600 W 2nd St | 512.628.1500
Hotel Magdalena | A distinct hotel from Austin’s acclaimed Bunkhouse! This South Congress hotel features four buildings connected by exposed elevated walkways and courtyards, creating a treehouse feel inside the grounds.
1101 Music Ln | 512.442.1000
Hotel Saint Cecilia | A secluded luxury hotel in the heart of Austin’s South Congress District. The 14 room property, situated on an 1880 estate, is a tribute to rock and roll opulence, and royal elegance.
112 Academy Dr | 512.852.2400
Hotel San José | Kick up your heels and relax at this bungalow-style hotel in the vibrant SoCo neighborhood of Austin.
1316 S Congress Ave | 512.444.7322
Hotel Van Zandt | Known for being very modern and chic, this central hotel offers a great location for walking to local bars, restaurants, and Austin fun.
605 Davis St | 512.542.5300
Kimber Modern | This stylish boutique hotel in South Austin has only five guest rooms, and caters to guests looking for a truly private and relaxing hideaway.
110 The Circle | 512.985.9990
The LINE Austin | At the crossroads where Lady Bird Lake meets downtown, the LINE Austin draws influence from both the surrounding natural beauty and the creative energy that fuels the city.
111 E Cesar Chavez St | 512.478.9611
South Congress Hotel | Modern boutique hotel located in the heart of Austin’s iconic South Congress shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
1603 S Congress Ave | 512.920.6405
Thompson Austin | Located in the music and entertainment district of downtown Austin, Thompson Austin is a sophisticated urban getaway for locals and visitors to let loose and enjoy all that Austin has to offer.
506 San Jacinto Blvd | 737.787.1234
ACL Guide: What To Bring
In addition to your festival wristband, we recommend bringing the following items.
Some of the most comfortable shoes ever! Visit Allbirds’s SoCo store where their one-of-a-kind retail experience meets Austin’s one-of-a-kind culture.
1011 S Congress Ave | 737.219.0070
Great for sitting on when you need a break from standing. Also, a blanket will be less cumbersome than a chair and ACL provides lockers if you don’t want to carry it around.
2727 Exposition Blvd | 512.474.7685
Face mask. Headband. Sun shield. The uses are endless. Made with recycled REPREVE® Performance Microfiber that provides UPF 50 protection no matter how you wear it.
1333 S Congress Ave #110 | 512.575.8080
Stylish and on the allowed to bring in list. These clear bags are designed with stadium bag policies in mind. Just make sure your clear bag does not exceed 12″ x 12″ x 6″.
4410 Burnet Rd Suite C | 512.472.5762
These high-quality sunglasses are both stylish and durable. You can also enjoy life without the fear of breaking the frame because Krewe offers a replacement pair should the frames get damaged.
1503 S Congress Ave | 504.459.1450
Keep the sun at bay with a hat from this South Congress boutique that offers a selection of Stetson hats that can be fully customized.
1512 S Congress Ave | 512.949.0034
The only prestige skincare brand 100% dedicated to suncare, making it easy to incorporate UV protection into your daily routine. All sunscreens have to be in a non-aerosol container and 3.4 ounces or less.
Whole Earth Provision Co. | Binoculars
Get close to the action but avoid the crowd with these simple and light binoculars.
1014 N Lamar Blvd | 512.476.1414
Take advantage of the refill stations and keep your drinks cold long past sundown. All water bottles must be completely empty before entering the park.
220 S Congress Ave | 512.640.7249
ACL Guide: What To Eat
ACL offers a surprising amount of food and drink, most of them hyperlocal. Take the opportunity to try a spot you’ve never been to before and always try to dine during off times.
Amy’s Ice Cream | One of Austin’s most iconic ice cream shops offering handcrafted, artisan premium ice cream, fruit ices, and frozen yogurt.
Burro Cheese Kitchen | Artisanal grilled cheese trailer serving up non-traditional innovative grilled cheese sandwiches layered with flavor.
Chi’lantro BBQ | A Korean Mexican fusion food trailer that now also has a few brick and mortar locations. Be sure to try their signature Kimchi Fries.
East Side Kings | Japanese street food with a touch of Austin soul. Their brussels sprout salad is a must-try!
Micklethwait Craft Meats | Texas barbecue trailer serving up barbeque meats and a notably daily smoked sausage selection.
Sno-Beach Sno-Cones | This local favorite has been keeping Austin cool with sno-cones since 1993. Now to just decided on a flavor.
Southside Flying Pizza | Serving up hand-tossed pizzas made from the finest and freshest ingredients.
Tiny Pies | Small pies, BIG taste. The best pies are not only made by hand but also handheld. They offer both sweet and savory flavors so order a pie pack and try them all!
Wholly Cow Burgers | Known for delicious organic grass-fed beef burgers, cheesesteaks, reubens, and much more! Bite into a burger that’ll make you say, “Holy Cow!”
ACL Guide: Tips and Tricks
Just a few more tips and tricks to easily navigate the two weekends!
– Don’t forget your Festival Wristband
– There is no local requirement to provide a Negative COVID-19 test result, Vaccine Card, or Vaccine Record for entry at this event
– Austin Kiddie Limits will return this year
– Use the Lady Bird Lake side entrance (near the Mopac pedestrian bridge) for a shorter wait time and quicker entry
– There’s no parking available, so plan to take a rideshare, scooter, or jump on the shuttle that picks up at Republic Square Park
– Screenshot the ACL lineup performance times and make it your Lock Screen
– Hand sanitizer and tissues will save you after using the port-o-potties
– If you want a closer spot for a specific performance, prepare to head over at least 30 minutes beforehand
– Wear comfy shoes you won’t mind getting dirty
– Drink a bunch of water on festival mornings to prepare and help you stay hydrated
– Avoid leaving your phone in your back pocket or backpack to prevent theft