Austin City Limits Music Festival is almost here, and with tens of thousands of music lovers converging on Zilker Park, a little preparation goes a long way toward making your experience unforgettable — for all the right reasons. The City of Austin has released its official guidance to help attendees stay safe, comfortable, and festival-ready across both weekends.
ACL Fest 2025 takes place over two weekends at Zilker Park in Austin, Texas. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned ACL veteran, brushing up on the city's recommendations before you head through the gates is genuinely worth your time.
Here's what smart festivalgoers are keeping in mind: Stay hydrated — Texas October heat can still be intense, and free water refill stations are available throughout the park. Wear sunscreen and dress in breathable layers, since temperatures can swing significantly from afternoon to evening. Comfortable, closed-toe shoes are highly recommended given the amount of ground you'll cover moving between stages.
Transportation is a big deal at an event this size. The City encourages attendees to use public transit, rideshare drop-off zones, or park-and-ride options rather than trying to drive directly to Zilker. Planning your arrival and departure routes ahead of time saves serious stress. Walking and biking access is also well-supported, so consider those options if you're staying nearby.
Know your surroundings when you arrive — locate the nearest medical stations, information booths, and emergency exits. If you're attending with a group, pick a meeting spot early in the day in case anyone gets separated in the crowds. Cell service can get congested at peak times, so a prearranged plan beats relying on a text that might not send.
ACL Fest is one of Austin's crown jewels, drawing world-class performers and a genuinely electric atmosphere. A few smart moves before you go means more time enjoying the music and less time dealing with avoidable headaches. Get your bags packed, your playlists ready, and your safety plan locked in — it's going to be a spectacular run of weekends at Zilker Park.