7 Ways to Get Around Austin During SXSW

SXSW is almost here! Thousands will flock to Austin, Texas, for 10 days of film, music, tech, and more. The 2022 South By Southwest Conference and Festival runs from March 11-20. If you’re driving in Austin during this time, make sure you have your SXSW parking game plan ready to go.

Here’s what you need to know for SXSW parking and transportation.

SXSW Parking

SXSW parking will be in extremely high demand, with many garages and lots filling up quickly. For your best shot at a parking spot, you’ll want to reserve in advance.

You may want to consider reserving a parking spot for the entire duration of your stay in Austin and using other modes of transportation to get around downtown.

Search and reserve SXSW parking near downtown and the Austin Convention Center through SpotHero.

SXSW Transportation Tips

So what else do you need to know about getting around during SXSW? Once you’ve parked your car, here are other transportation options in Austin:

SXSW Festival Shuttles

The SXSW Festival Shuttle is a free shuttle that runs between the Austin Convention Center and most SXSW Festival venues. Shuttles usually depart every 10 minutes from the Convention Center during conference hours.

Track Festival Shuttles In Real-Time
Shuttle Route Overview
2022 Downtown Shuttle Map

Shuttle Schedule:

Friday, March 11 | 10 am – 2 am

Saturday, March 12 – Monday, March 14 | 9 am – 2 am

Tuesday, March 15 – Saturday, March 19 | 9 am – 2:30 am

Public Transportation – CapMetro

CapMetro is Austin’s regional public transportation provider. With the CapMetro App, your smartphone becomes your ticket. Use the app for schedules, maps, and real-time arrival information.

SXSW Special Service Information

More Information

Download the App

Bike-sharing – SXcycle

Austin’s B-cycle bike-share stations are conveniently located throughout the downtown area. Day access passes are available at each B-station–all you need is a credit card. Bikes come equipped with baskets, lights, and gears.

More Information

Traditional Cab Services

Not surprisingly, cabs are in high demand during SXSW. Schedule a taxi or call to arrange for pick-up from your hotel. The following cab services operate in the Austin area:

Yellow Cab Austin – (512) 452-9999, or book through the zTrip App
Lone Star Cab – (512) 836-4900
Austin Cab Company – (512) 478-2222
Austin Taxi Co-op — 512-333-5555

Alternative Cab Services

PediCabs

Pedicabs operate throughout Austin day and night, mostly in the Central Business District, Rainey St, and East 6th St areas. There are pedicab staging areas around downtown, but you can also just flag one down.

Pedicab drivers are licensed and regulated by the City of Austin Ground Transportation Department and usually work for tips or a charge-per-block fare.

Electric Cab

You may also see electric cabs driving around. Electric Cab provides a safe and green ride for evening entertainment and special event pedestrians in Downtown Austin.

More Information & Service Area

Enjoy Austin and have a great time at SXSW!