Whether it’s bumper-to-bumper traffic or insufficient parking space, logistical issues can ruin an ACL-goer’s experience. To help those planning to attend ACL this weekend, the Daily Texan has outlined the various options for getting to the festival.
Bicycle:
Pedaling to and from Zilker Metropolitan Park is by far the easiest and most efficient way to attend ACL. Bike racks are available just outside the festival entrances and the City of Austin promises to provide more racks than ever before. Mellow Johnny’s bike stations will have on-site mechanics to conduct any emergency repairs and provide supplies such as locks and tubes for purchase.
Festival-goers without bikes can take advantage of Austin’s bike sharing system, Austin B-cycle, which has rental stations all around the city. The company charges $8 for 24 hour use, and goers can avoid additional fees by dropping off any B-cycles at the official valet located near the B-entrance on Barton Springs Road.
Automobile:
There is limited parking available at the festival for those with a state-issued handicap plate or placard. For all other ACL-goers, driving a personal vehicle means parking in the neighborhoods surrounding Zilker Park. Festival organizers discourage this, so be courteous to homeowners by leaving driveways unblocked and picking up any trash. Leave early if choosing this option, as traffic will be slow. The City of Austin also provides free shuttles to and from ACL at the designated pickup/dropoff area at Republic Square on 4th and Guadalupe streets. Shuttles run from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Other options include taxis, ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft, or carpooling with a friend. The closest drop-off location is on the North end of the pedestrian bridge. Uber and Lyft will be more expensive than usual with increased fares, but first time users can enter the promo code “ACLFEST2015” with Uber for a free ride up to $25.
Walk:
Of course, the most reliable form of travel to and from the festival only requires a comfortable pair of shoes. Walking from campus to Zilker Park will take about an hour, so the Daily Texan recommends taking the 1 bus down Guadalupe Street and hopping on the Anne Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike trail along the Congress or South 1st bridges. For those considering this option, remember that getting to the festival will be much easier than leaving. After a full day of dancing outside, the walk home may feel like an overwhelming hike. Make sure to fill up on water and dress comfortably.
