Tips for Experiencing Austin City Limits Festival 2024: A Guide for an Unforgettable Weekend

The Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival is one of the biggest highlights of Austin’s vibrant music scene, drawing thousands of music lovers every year. With headlining acts, iconic stages, and a buzzing energy, ACL 2024 is sure to be an unforgettable experience. But beyond the music, Austin itself has so much to offer! Whether you’re here for a weekend or the entire festival, here are some essential tips to make the most of your time at ACL.

1. Prep for the Festival Grounds

Zilker Park is where all the magic happens, and it’s a massive space. Be ready to walk, stand, and dance for hours, so here’s what to bring:

• Comfortable shoes: Expect to cover a lot of ground between stages.
• Hydration: Stay hydrated! There are water refill stations, so bring a reusable water bottle.
• Sunscreen and hat: Austin sun in the fall can still be intense.
• Portable charger: Your phone will drain quickly with all the photos, videos, and setlist checks.

2. Check Out the Local Food Scene

ACL brings in some of the best local food vendors, but if you want to venture out to experience the authentic flavors of Austin, here are some must-try taco and BBQ spots:

Taco Spots:

• Veracruz All Natural – Known for their legendary migas tacos, this spot serves fresh, made-to-order tacos that are a local favorite.
• Torchy’s Tacos – An Austin institution, offering creative and tasty tacos like the "Trailer Park" or the "Brushfire." Also their queso is AMAZING!
• Rosita’s Al Pastor – If you’re craving street-style tacos, this food truck offers some of the best al pastor and carne asada tacos in the city.

BBQ Spots:

• Franklin Barbecue – No trip to Austin is complete without a stop at Franklin. Be prepared to wait, but the brisket is worth every minute.
• Black's BBQ – Another top contender for Austin’s BBQ crown, with a slightly shorter wait and it's lcoated just a few blocks from the fest.
• Micklethwait Craft Meats – Located in East Austin, this trailer offers a full BBQ experience, with some of the best sides (like jalapeño cheese grits) to complement the meat.

3. See the Other Side of Austin with an E-Bike Tour

ACL is intense, and sometimes you’ll need a break from the festival to explore the city. For a fun, easy, and unique way to see Austin, try an e-bike tour with YourBikerGang.com. This guided tour will take you to see iconic Austin sights, murals, and landmarks all while cruising around on electric bikes.

What’s cool about YourBikerGang is that their tours are a mix of history, local insights, and a bit of adventure. It’s perfect for recharging during the weekend while getting a glimpse of Austin’s quirky side.

4. Plan for the Weather

Austin weather in October can be unpredictable. Some years, you might enjoy cool, breezy temperatures, while other years might feel more like summer. Check the weather forecast ahead of time and plan accordingly by layering your clothes. Bring a disposable poncho just in case!

5. Public Transport & Getting Around

Parking around Zilker Park is scarce, so plan to use public transport or ride-sharing. Austin's CapMetro bus system is a great option, and they usually have special festival routes. You could also hop on a pedicab (be carefuly they can be expensive) or rent a scooter to get around downtown.

6. Explore More of Austin

If you have some downtime or you’re not spending the entire weekend at the festival, don’t miss the chance to explore more of what Austin has to offer:

• The Texas Capitol: It's taller than the one in DC and the grounds have a lot of historical monuments to explore.
• South Congress Avenue: A stroll along South Congress (SoCo) gives you a glimpse into Austin’s eclectic mix of boutiques, galleries, and live music.
• Record Stores: Vinyl enthusiasts should make time for a stop at Waterloo Records or End of an Ear.

7. Stay Open to Discoveries

Part of the fun of ACL is discovering new music. Don’t just stick to the headliners—explore smaller stages and artists. You might stumble upon your next favorite band or enjoy an unexpectedly intimate performance. We recommend the BMI stage for upcoming artists and the Tito's Handmade Vodka stage as they always have some amazing acts that turn that tent into a dance party!

8. Take Breaks to Recharge

With so much going on, it’s easy to get caught up in the festival’s pace. Make sure to find time for breaks—whether it’s lounging in a shady spot at Zilker or grabbing a bite at one of Austin’s great food spots. You’ll enjoy the experience much more if you pace yourself.

Whether you’re a festival veteran or a first-timer, these tips will help you make the most of ACL 2024. Enjoy the music, savor Austin’s food scene, and take time to explore the city beyond the festival grounds!

‍