Best Places to Stay for ACL
Best Stays for ACL 2025: Where to Stay for the Ultimate Festival Experience
Updated: August 1, 2025
Planning your trip to Austin City Limits Music Festival 2025? One of the most important decisions you'll make is where to stay. With thousands of fans flooding into Austin each October, accommodations can sell out fast. To help you plan, we’ve compiled a guide to the best areas and hotels in Austin—plus how Xenia Events can secure your room and festival passes in one seamless package.
1. Downtown Austin – Steps from the Action
Staying downtown means you’re at the heart of the ACL experience. You’ll be close to Zilker Park, legendary Austin music venues, and an incredible selection of bars and restaurants. Most downtown hotels offer easy access to festival shuttle stops, meaning you can skip parking headaches and focus on the music.
Who it’s best for: Festival-goers who want a lively atmosphere and late-night entertainment just outside their door.
2. South Congress – Trendy and Iconic
South Congress, known locally as "SoCo," gives you the quintessential Austin vibe. Boutique hotels, famous taco spots, and unique local shops line the streets. It’s a quick rideshare or shuttle ride to the festival, and you’ll love the eclectic energy this area offers before and after the shows.
Who it’s best for: Travelers seeking Austin’s charm, great photo ops, and walkable local flavor.
3. Riverside & Lady Bird Lake – Relax with a View
If you want to mix festival excitement with some downtime, Riverside hotels and vacation rentals are a perfect fit. You’ll find scenic trails for morning walks, kayaking spots, and stunning views of the city skyline—all just a short drive to Zilker Park.
Who it’s best for: Guests who want a quieter retreat while still staying close to the action.
4. East Austin – Artsy and Up-and-Coming
East Austin has exploded in popularity thanks to its creative energy, local breweries, and unique boutique stays. This area offers a mix of budget-friendly and mid-range accommodations with a more local, off-the-beaten-path feel. You’re a quick rideshare away from the festival while enjoying some of the city’s best food trucks and live music venues outside the main downtown strip.
Who it’s best for: Travelers who love discovering hidden gems and want an authentic Austin experience.
5. The Domain – Modern Comfort with Shopping and Dining
The Domain, located in North Austin, is perfect if you prefer upscale hotels, shopping, and dining all in one place. While it’s about a 20–25 minute drive to Zilker Park, many visitors like the modern, clean atmosphere and access to high-end amenities. It’s also easier to secure rooms here during sold-out festival weekends.
Who it’s best for: Guests who want a quieter stay away from the downtown crowds, with great restaurants and bars just steps away.
6. Luxury Resorts & VIP Stays
For travelers seeking the ultimate experience, Austin offers five-star hotels and private rental properties with premium amenities. Combine your ACL pass with luxury lodging, private transfers, and exclusive pre- or post-festival activities for a turn-key experience like no other.
Who it’s best for: VIP travelers who value comfort, service, and a personalized festival experience.
7. Xenia Events Package Stays – Stress-Free Booking
Finding a hotel during ACL can be overwhelming. Many rooms sell out months in advance, and prices skyrocket as the festival dates get closer. Our ACL travel packages take the stress out of planning by including:
- ✔ Hand-picked hotel accommodations in the best areas for your style and budget
- ✔ Guaranteed festival passes
- ✔ Private or group transfers to and from the festival
- ✔ Optional upgrades to VIP experiences, local tours, and more
With Xenia Events, you won’t need to piece everything together—we handle the details so you can focus on the music and the memories.
Book Your ACL 2025 Stay Now
Accommodations sell out quickly, and waiting too long can leave you with high prices or long commutes. Let us secure your hotel, passes, and transportation in one easy, all-inclusive package.