Austin City Limits 2025: Ultimate Festival Guide
About Austin City Limits Music Festival
Austin City Limits Music Festival has grown from its humble 2002 beginnings into one of America's premier music destinations. Held annually across two weekends in October, ACL transforms Austin's beloved Zilker Park into a sprawling musical wonderland featuring 140+ artists across eight stages.
With 75,000 daily attendees, ACL combines world-class music with Austin's legendary food scene, creating an authentic Texas festival experience that celebrates both emerging artists and global superstars.
2025 Festival Facts
- 📅 Dates: October 3-5 & 10-12, 2025
- 📍 Location: Zilker Park, Austin, Texas
- 🎤 Stages: 8 stages, 140+ artists
- 👥 Capacity: 75,000 per day
- 🏞️ Size: 350 acres in the heart of Austin
Quick Navigation
Featured Artists & Headliners
🎸 The Killers
Genre: Alternative Rock | Stage: American Express | Times: Sunday 8:30 PM (both weekends)
Las Vegas rock icons return with their anthemic stadium sound. Expect massive sing-alongs to "Mr. Brightside," "Somebody Told Me," and hits spanning two decades. Known for electrifying live performances that turn festivals into giant celebrations.
🎤 Hozier
Genre: Indie Soul/Blues Rock | Stage: T-Mobile | Times: Friday 8:15 PM (both weekends)
Irish singer-songwriter brings his powerful, soulful voice and socially conscious lyrics. From the global phenomenon "Take Me to Church" to recent hits like "Too Sweet," his live performances are emotionally captivating experiences.
🤠 Luke Combs
Genre: Country | Stage: American Express | Times: Friday 8:30 PM (both weekends)
Country superstar with authentic storytelling and crossover appeal. Chart-toppers like "Hurricane" and "Beautiful Crazy" showcase his ability to blend traditional country with modern production, perfect for Austin's diverse audience.
💃 Sabrina Carpenter
Genre: Pop | Stage: American Express | Times: Saturday 8:40 PM (both weekends)
Pop sensation evolved from Disney star to mature artist with sophisticated songwriting. Recent albums showcase introspective lyrics and polished production, representing the new generation of pop excellence.
🎸 The Strokes
Genre: Indie Rock | Stage: T-Mobile | Times: Saturday 8:15 PM (both weekends)
New York rock legends who defined early 2000s indie rock with "Is This It." Julian Casablancas and company continue to influence alternative music with their distinctive garage rock sound and effortless cool.
🎧 John Summit
Genre: House/Electronic | Stage: T-Mobile | Times: Sunday 8:15 PM (both weekends)
Chicago house music prodigy who's become a festival favorite. His infectious beats and festival-ready energy make him perfect for closing Sunday nights with a dance party under the Texas stars.
Festival Stages & Navigation
Strategic insights for each stage to help you navigate crowds, find the best spots, and plan efficient set transitions:
🎸 American Express Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Largest stage, heaviest crowds. Arrive 45-60 minutes early for headliners, 30 minutes for mid-tier acts.
Best Positioning
Center-left offers best sound balance. VIP viewing deck elevated on right side. Avoid far right - sound delays and obstructed views.
Logistics
Limited natural shade - peak sun 2-6 PM. Food vendors 100 yards behind stage. Restrooms often crowded - use Miller Lite area facilities.
Stage Transitions
8-minute walk to T-Mobile, 5 minutes to Lady Bird. Allow 15 minutes to exit crowds after headliners.
📱 T-Mobile Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Second largest stage. Moderate crowds for mid-day, packed for headliners. Arrive 30-45 minutes early for prime acts.
Best Positioning
Right side has superior acoustics and less dense crowds. Left side closer to food/drinks. Center gets very packed.
Logistics
Good tree shade on periphery. Multiple food courts nearby. Clean restroom facilities 2 minutes east. Water stations well-positioned.
Stage Transitions
Perfect central location. 3 minutes to Miller Lite, 6 minutes to BMI, 8 minutes to American Express. Efficient for stage-hopping.
🍺 Miller Lite Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Mid-size stage, lighter crowds. Easy to get close 15-20 minutes before most acts. Perfect for discovering new artists.
Best Positioning
Intimate setting allows good views from anywhere. Sound quality excellent throughout. Left side slightly better for taller crowds.
Logistics
Excellent shade from large oak trees. Premium bar selection nearby. Less crowded restrooms. Comfortable grass seating area.
Stage Transitions
Quick access to T-Mobile (3 min) and BMI (4 min). Longer walk to American Express (10 min). Good for afternoon stage-hopping.
🎵 BMI Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Smallest stage with intimate setting. Easy to get close even 10-15 minutes before shows. Most relaxed atmosphere.
Best Positioning
Anywhere offers great views due to small size. Front row easily accessible. Musicians often interact closely with audience.
Logistics
Limited shade - bring hat for afternoon sets. Fewer food options nearby. Quieter restrooms. Great for breaks between major acts.
Stage Transitions
Central location ideal for quick transitions. 4 minutes to Miller Lite, 6 minutes to T-Mobile, 5 minutes to Tito's.
📻 Beatbox Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Medium capacity, younger crowds for indie/alternative acts. Arrive 20-30 minutes early for popular artists like Japanese Breakfast.
Best Positioning
Center offers best sound clarity. Right side has slight elevation advantage. Left side easier exit for stage transitions.
Logistics
Partial shade coverage. Food trucks scattered nearby. Portable restrooms - quality varies. Water station at rear.
Stage Transitions
Moderate distance to other stages. 7 minutes to Lady Bird, 9 minutes to T-Mobile. Plan extra time for transitions.
🍸 Tito's Handmade Vodka Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Smaller stage, chill vibes. Easy access most times. Silent Disco after 8 PM draws different crowd. Great for breaks.
Best Positioning
Circular layout allows 360-degree viewing. Bar seating available on perimeter. Dance floor opens up for electronic sets.
Logistics
Premium cocktail bar with AC seating area. Clean restrooms nearby. Good shade options. Best stage for networking/socializing.
Stage Transitions
Central-ish location. 5 minutes to BMI, 8 minutes to T-Mobile. Perfect meeting spot - distinctive landmarks.
🐦 Lady Bird Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Mid-size stage, mixed crowds. Perfect for afternoon shows with good energy. Gets packed for popular indie acts like DJO.
Best Positioning
Slight slope provides natural amphitheater effect. Back areas still offer good sightlines. Right side has sound advantage.
Logistics
Excellent tree shade nearby for breaks. Quality food vendors adjacent. Well-maintained restrooms. Water refill easily accessible.
Stage Transitions
Shorter walk to American Express (5 min). Moderate distance to other stages. Factor in crowd density for exit timing.
🗺️ Navigation Pro Tips
Peak Traffic Times
- 4-6 PM: Heaviest stage-to-stage movement
- 7:30-8:30 PM: Major bottlenecks at main stages
- Set changes: Allow extra 5-10 minutes
Accessibility Features
- ADA viewing areas at all main stages
- Paved pathways between major venues
- Accessible restrooms marked on app
Comfort Zones
- Barton Springs Road: Best shade + seating
- Miller Lite area: Quieter, family-friendly
- Tito's Stage: AC bar for heat relief
Festival Stages & Navigation
Strategic insights for each stage to help you navigate crowds, find the best spots, and plan efficient set transitions:
🎸 American Express Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Largest stage, heaviest crowds. Arrive 45-60 minutes early for headliners, 30 minutes for mid-tier acts.
Best Positioning
Center-left offers best sound balance. VIP viewing deck elevated on right side. Avoid far right - sound delays and obstructed views.
Logistics
Limited natural shade - peak sun 2-6 PM. Food vendors 100 yards behind stage. Restrooms often crowded - use Miller Lite area facilities.
Stage Transitions
8-minute walk to T-Mobile, 5 minutes to Lady Bird. Allow 15 minutes to exit crowds after headliners.
📱 T-Mobile Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Second largest stage. Moderate crowds for mid-day, packed for headliners. Arrive 30-45 minutes early for prime acts.
Best Positioning
Right side has superior acoustics and less dense crowds. Left side closer to food/drinks. Center gets very packed.
Logistics
Good tree shade on periphery. Multiple food courts nearby. Clean restroom facilities 2 minutes east. Water stations well-positioned.
Stage Transitions
Perfect central location. 3 minutes to Miller Lite, 6 minutes to BMI, 8 minutes to American Express. Efficient for stage-hopping.
🍺 Miller Lite Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Mid-size stage, lighter crowds. Easy to get close 15-20 minutes before most acts. Perfect for discovering new artists.
Best Positioning
Intimate setting allows good views from anywhere. Sound quality excellent throughout. Left side slightly better for taller crowds.
Logistics
Excellent shade from large oak trees. Premium bar selection nearby. Less crowded restrooms. Comfortable grass seating area.
Stage Transitions
Quick access to T-Mobile (3 min) and BMI (4 min). Longer walk to American Express (10 min). Good for afternoon stage-hopping.
🎵 BMI Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Smallest stage with intimate setting. Easy to get close even 10-15 minutes before shows. Most relaxed atmosphere.
Best Positioning
Anywhere offers great views due to small size. Front row easily accessible. Musicians often interact closely with audience.
Logistics
Limited shade - bring hat for afternoon sets. Fewer food options nearby. Quieter restrooms. Great for breaks between major acts.
Stage Transitions
Central location ideal for quick transitions. 4 minutes to Miller Lite, 6 minutes to T-Mobile, 5 minutes to Tito's.
📻 Beatbox Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Medium capacity, younger crowds for indie/alternative acts. Arrive 20-30 minutes early for popular artists like Japanese Breakfast.
Best Positioning
Center offers best sound clarity. Right side has slight elevation advantage. Left side easier exit for stage transitions.
Logistics
Partial shade coverage. Food trucks scattered nearby. Portable restrooms - quality varies. Water station at rear.
Stage Transitions
Moderate distance to other stages. 7 minutes to Lady Bird, 9 minutes to T-Mobile. Plan extra time for transitions.
🍸 Tito's Handmade Vodka Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Smaller stage, chill vibes. Easy access most times. Silent Disco after 8 PM draws different crowd. Great for breaks.
Best Positioning
Circular layout allows 360-degree viewing. Bar seating available on perimeter. Dance floor opens up for electronic sets.
Logistics
Premium cocktail bar with AC seating area. Clean restrooms nearby. Good shade options. Best stage for networking/socializing.
Stage Transitions
Central-ish location. 5 minutes to BMI, 8 minutes to T-Mobile. Perfect meeting spot - distinctive landmarks.
🐦 Lady Bird Stage
Capacity & Crowds
Mid-size stage, mixed crowds. Perfect for afternoon shows with good energy. Gets packed for popular indie acts like DJO.
Best Positioning
Slight slope provides natural amphitheater effect. Back areas still offer good sightlines. Right side has sound advantage.
Logistics
Excellent tree shade nearby for breaks. Quality food vendors adjacent. Well-maintained restrooms. Water refill easily accessible.
Stage Transitions
Shorter walk to American Express (5 min). Moderate distance to other stages. Factor in crowd density for exit timing.
🗺️ Navigation Pro Tips
Peak Traffic Times
- 4-6 PM: Heaviest stage-to-stage movement
- 7:30-8:30 PM: Major bottlenecks at main stages
- Set changes: Allow extra 5-10 minutes
Accessibility Features
- ADA viewing areas at all main stages
- Paved pathways between major venues
- Accessible restrooms marked on app
Comfort Zones
- Barton Springs Road: Best shade + seating
- Miller Lite area: Quieter, family-friendly
- Tito's Stage: AC bar for heat relief
2025 Artist Lineup
Click any artist below to see their set times and stage info:
Insider Tips & Festival Strategies
🎯 Best Viewing Strategies
- •T-Mobile Stage: Arrive 30-45 mins early for headliners; right side has better sound
- •Miller Lite: Smaller crowds, great for discovering new artists
- •BMI Stage: Most intimate setting, easy to get close
- •Lady Bird: Perfect for afternoon shows, good shade trees nearby
- •VIP Viewing: Worth it for Saturday night headliners only
⏰ Timing & Logistics
- •Gates open: 11:00 AM - arrive early to beat entry lines
- •Peak crowds: 4-8 PM on all stages - plan accordingly
- •Stage walking time: Allow 10-15 minutes between distant stages
- •Food lines: Shortest at 11 AM-1 PM and after 8 PM
- •Shuttle timing: Extra 30-45 minutes after headliners end
🎪 Festival Navigation
- •Wristband activation: Do this BEFORE arriving (online or app)
- •Meeting spots: Tito's Handmade Vodka stage has the best landmarks
- •Shade strategy: Tree line along Barton Springs Road for breaks
- •Bathroom lines: Shortest near Miller Lite and BMI stages
- •Phone charging: Bring portable battery - outlets are scarce
💰 Money-Saving Tips
- •Water: Free refill stations throughout - bring empty bottle
- •Food strategy: Eat big breakfast, snack at festival, dinner after
- •Merch: Buy on Sunday for potential discounts
- •Drinks: Pre-drink responsibly - festival alcohol is expensive
- •Parking: Book neighborhood spots in advance online
🏆 Pro Tips from Festival Veterans
- • For set times and on-site navigation, ACL also provides a free festival app with live updates and an interactive map.
- • We've summarized key schedule and travel details below so you don't have to leave this page.
- • Saturday is the most crowded day - consider Friday or Sunday for easier navigation
- • Bring a bandana for dust and a light jacket for evening temperature drops
- • Take photos of your parking spot - everything looks the same after dark
Where to Stay: Austin Neighborhoods & Booking Strategy
🏨 Downtown Austin (Most Popular)
- •Distance to ACL: 2-3 miles, 15-min shuttle ride
- •Best for: Aftershows, restaurants, nightlife access
- •Hotels: W Austin, JW Marriott, Hilton Austin
- •Pros: Official shuttle pickup, walkable entertainment
- •Cons: Most expensive, books out earliest
🎸 South Congress (SoCo)
- •Distance to ACL: 1-2 miles, bike/rideshare friendly
- •Best for: Austin culture, vintage shopping, food trucks
- •Hotels: Hotel San José, Austin Motel, South Congress Hotel
- •Pros: Authentic Austin vibe, great restaurants
- •Cons: Limited shuttle access, higher rideshare costs
🌮 East Austin
- •Distance to ACL: 3-4 miles, 20-min ride
- •Best for: Trendy restaurants, local breweries, artsy scene
- •Hotels: Kimpton Hotel Van Zandt, Canopy by Hilton
- •Pros: Hip neighborhood, good value, food scene
- •Cons: Longer commute, fewer shuttle options
🏞️ Zilker/Barton Springs Area
- •Distance to ACL: Walking distance or short bike ride
- •Best for: Proximity to festival, outdoor activities
- •Options: Mostly Airbnb/VRBO, few hotels
- •Pros: Walk to festival, quieter after hours
- •Cons: Limited dining, books out first
Booking Timeline & Strategy
- January-March: Best hotel rates and availability. Book now for prime locations.
- April-June: Prices increase 20-30%. Downtown hotels start selling out.
- July-September: Limited availability, premium pricing. Focus on East Austin or Airport area.
- Festival Week: Extremely limited, 2-3x normal rates. Consider staying outside Austin.
Wristband Options & VIP Packages
General Admission (GA)
Access to all stages, food vendors, bars, merch, and festival activities.
GA+
All GA perks plus shaded lounges, air-conditioned restrooms, exclusive bars, and concierge services.
VIP
All GA+ perks plus VIP lounges with viewing decks, complimentary food/drinks in lounges, premium restrooms, and preferred viewing areas.
Platinum
All VIP perks plus on-stage viewing (where available), golf cart transport, exclusive bars, spa services, private restrooms, and gourmet dining.
Need wristbands? We have authentic ACL 2025 wristbands available for both weekends. View current pricing and availability →
2025 Food Vendors (ACL Eats)
ACL Eats brings together Austin's iconic flavors and festival classics, including many new additions this year. Options for every taste, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free:
Pizza & Italian
Tacos & Mexican
BBQ & American
International
Parking, Transportation & Getting There
- No onsite parking for general attendees. Use Austin's public transportation, festival shuttles, or rideshare for best access.
- Official Festival Shuttle: Runs from Republic Square downtown to Zilker Park all festival days, included with your ticket.
- Rideshare: Use the designated drop-off/pick-up at the park's south entrance for Uber/Lyft/taxis.
- Biking: Free bike parking near Barton Springs Road entrance; bring your own lock.
- ADA Parking: Limited accessible parking available with advance permit.
- Neighborhoods: No festival parking in surrounding neighborhoods; towing enforced.
- Plan ahead! Arrive early for best shuttle/bike access and allow extra time for security checks.
ACL Fest Nights & Austin Aftershows
Keep the music going after the park closes! ACL Fest Nights is the official aftershow series, bringing festival artists and special guests to legendary Austin venues each night.
Official ACL Fest Nights Schedule
🎸 Stubb's Waller Creek Amphitheater
🎤 Emo's Austin
🎭 ACL Live at The Moody Theater
🎫 Aftershow Tips
- • Shows typically start between 10 PM - 12 AM after festival gates close
- • Book rideshares early or plan walking routes - venues get crowded after festival ends
- • Many venues offer food and full bars for late-night fuel
Plus, look for unofficial parties, pop-up shows, and special events all over Austin during both weekends!
Austin Beyond ACL: Music City Essentials
Make the most of your Austin visit with these local favorites and cultural hotspots that define the city's legendary music and food scene:
🎸 Iconic Music Venues
🍖 Essential Austin Eats
🌊 Outdoor Austin
🛍️ Shopping & Culture
🤠 Austin Insider Tips
Austin Weather in October
Expect warm, sunny afternoons (highs in the 80s) and cooler evenings. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a poncho just in case—Texas weather can be unpredictable!
Festival Survival Tips
- Bring a reusable water bottle (free water refill stations available)
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for hours of walking and standing
- Portable chargers recommended (power outlets are rare)
- Light rain gear or poncho—Austin weather can change fast
- Set up a meet spot with your group in case phones die
Accessibility
ACL is committed to accessibility. There are accessible viewing areas, restrooms, parking (with permit), and festival info booths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do gates open?
Usually 11am each day (confirm closer to the event).
Can I leave and re-enter?
Yes, re-entry is allowed with your wristband.
Is the festival rain or shine?
Yes, the event takes place rain or shine.
Are lockers available?
Yes, multi-day and single-day lockers can be reserved in advance or at the festival.
Is there a lost & found?
Yes, visit the Guest Services tent or check online after the festival.
Festival Survival Tips
- Bring a reusable water bottle (free water refill stations available)
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for hours of walking and standing
- Portable chargers recommended (power outlets are rare)
- Light rain gear or poncho—Austin weather can change fast
- Set up a meet spot with your group in case phones die
Accessibility
ACL is committed to accessibility. There are accessible viewing areas, restrooms, parking (with permit), and festival info booths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do gates open?
Usually 11am each day (confirm closer to the event).
Can I leave and re-enter?
Yes, re-entry is allowed with your wristband.
Is the festival rain or shine?
Yes, the event takes place rain or shine.
Are lockers available?
Yes, multi-day and single-day lockers can be reserved in advance or at the festival.
Is there a lost & found?
Yes, visit the Guest Services tent or check online after the festival.
Austin Weather in October
Expect warm, sunny afternoons (highs in the 80s) and cooler evenings. Bring layers, sunscreen, and a poncho just in case—Texas weather can be unpredictable!
Festival Survival Tips
- Bring a reusable water bottle (free water refill stations available)
- Wear sunscreen, a hat, and comfortable shoes for hours of walking and standing
- Portable chargers recommended (power outlets are rare)
- Light rain gear or poncho—Austin weather can change fast
- Set up a meet spot with your group in case phones die
Frequently Asked Questions
What time do gates open?
Usually 11am each day (confirm closer to the event).
Can I leave and re-enter?
Yes, re-entry is allowed with your wristband.
Is the festival rain or shine?
Yes, the event takes place rain or shine.
Are lockers available?
Yes, multi-day and single-day lockers can be reserved in advance or at the festival.
Is there a lost & found?
Yes, visit the Guest Services tent or check online after the festival.
Disclaimer
This is an unofficial, independent festival guide created for informational purposes. We are not affiliated with Austin City Limits Music Festival, C3 Presents, or any official festival organizers. All artist information, schedules, and festival details are compiled from publicly available sources and may be subject to change. For the most current and official information, please visit the official ACL Festival website.