Ever heard of Austin City Limits? It’s one of the largest music festivals in the country, and one of my favorite parts about living in Texas. Every year, thousands of people dressed in the hippiest attire they can muster swarm to Zilker Park for two weekends full of performances from over 100 bands. It takes place in the middle of Austin, Texas, one of the most unique cities in America.

While many non-Texans might picture Austin as just another Texas town full of cowboys, southern twangs and sweet tea (it is the state capital after all), they would be mistaken. Austin is a bustling, vibrant city chalk full of art, music, color and the raddest of vibes, making it the perfect destination for this three day weekend music fest.

Have I sold you on it yet? If the answer is yes, then you’re in luck! I’m about to give you all the tips you should know when attending ACL for the first time.

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Tip #1: Hydrate!

You’re in Texas in October. The sad reality is that you will be hot. Very hot. So if you bring one thing besides your wristband, let it be an empty water bottle. They won’t let you in with any liquid, but there are water filling stations scattered throughout the park where smiling volunteers will fill up your water bottle free of charge, whenever you need it! Lots of people bring camel backs, too. That provides easy access to water and a convenient way to carry your stuff around, so it’s a win win!

Tip #2: Don’t Dress to Impress

The first year I went to ACL I wore booties with a two inch heel, and it was still to this day one of the most stupid decisions I’ve ever made. You’re going to be standing or walking around for the majority of the day (even at the performances you don’t sit), so wear comfortable shoes!

Tip #3: Get Connected

If you go to aclfestival.com/wristband you can connect your card information to your wristband for a stress-free way to pay for things at the festival. This was the first year I did it, and I’m never doing it another way. It’s great to not have to worry about losing your credit cards so truly the only things you need to bring with you are your phone, ID, water bottle and wristband!

Tip #4: Do Your Research

Make sure to look at the schedule before you show up and figure out who you want to see when. I often print it out, highlight my top picks, and take a picture of it to have on my phone. Might be a little old school… or type A… but you’ll thank me later! They almost always schedule two big performers that everyone knows and loves to play at the same time on different stages, so prioritizing is key.

Tip #5: Timing Is Everything

I’d recommend getting to the park a little later in the day, or at least not at peak times. The lines can get pretty crazy (and uber prices expensive) in the morning, so I’d recommend grabbing lunch beforehand and making your way there in the early afternoon. Don’t worry- most of the performances really worth seeing aren’t until later in the day anyway. That way, you can save yourself from having to spend twice as much on food inside the park, and you’ll beat the crowds.

And last but not least, Go Explore!

As I mentioned earlier, Austin is such a unique city that offers a broad range of activities. Make sure you take some time to see the sights, and eat all the food, duh (three words: Kerbey Lane queso). Some can’t miss spots are South Congress (or “SoCo”), an area jam packed with quirky boutiques, restaurants, food trucks and more. Home Slice Pizza is always a favorite of mine! The Domain is great for all you big spenders, or window shoppers, and is full of excellent brunch spots! The Culinary Dropout is a definitely a winner for their large portions and smiling service. One of the many things that makes Austin unique to other Texas cities is its abundance of nature spots. From hiking, to swimming, to kayaking, Austin’s pretty much got it all. Rent a paddle board and make your way down the Colorado River, lay out at Barton Springs, or dive in head-first at Hamilton Pool. Whatever you choose to do, make the most out of your stay in the Texas State Capital!

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xo, The Girl Out of Texas