Urbanspace’s Guide to ACL 2024

Festival heads & music lovers, this one’s for you!

Written by: Becca Youngers

With its inaugural year in 2002, the Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL Fest) has certainly added to Austin’s title of “Live Music Capital of the World.” The two-weekend festival kicks off the fall season each October. The festival is set for Oct. 4-6 and 11-13 this year and is expected to bring in large crowds of locals and new visitors to check out all Austin has to offer. 

Whether you’ve attended since 2002, are a first time attendee or aren’t a festival person but love live music, we’ve curated our guide to two fantastic weekends celebrating music in Austin. Check it out!

 

Artists We’re Looking Forward To

Chappell Roan: The sky is truly the limit for this Midwest princess. After going viral from her 2024 Coachella performance, Chappell Roan has consistently sold out venues and drawn in massive festival crowds at Gov Ball and Lollapalooza this summer. She also recently was awarded Best New Artist at the 2024 VMAs. Expect audience engagement, lots of pink cowboy hats, and the “HOT TO GO!” dance (even if you don’t know it before, you will be doing it on a loop after!). 

Dua Lipa: Another big pop name making their way to ACL Fest, Dua Lipa is known for her big production value on stage including choreography and costuming. She’s stopping at ACL Fest on her Radical Optimism Tour and will be closing out both Saturdays on the American Express stage.  

Jungle: With “Back on 74” going completely viral on social media this past year, Jungle was a great grab for the festival. They’re a dance/electronic group from the UK that’s been making music for over 10 years together. They’ll bring a fun energy to both Saturday evenings playing on the Miller Lite stage. We’d recommend grabbing dinner in the food area and checking them out!

Leon Bridges: Raised in Fort Worth, Leon Bridges is returning to ACL Fest to begin his tour, “The Leon Tour.” Bridges is an R&B artist with music inspired by the soul music of the 50s and 60s. Bridges is a Texan through and through, and we’re excited to hear hits like “Texas Sun” and “Coming Home” on the American Express stage both Fridays of the festival.

Full schedule for both weekends: here

Support Smaller Artists!

While the headliners draw the majority of crowds each year, the entire artist pool is extremely diverse and everyone is worth checking out. If you have a free set between artists, we recommend checking out a smaller artist. Your support means so much to them, and who knows, if they become a huge artist one day, you can definitely call yourself a real fan of theirs!

Full Festival Guide from ACL: here

 

Eats & Drinks

Nervous Charlie’s: Arguably some of the best bagels in Austin, Nervous Charlie’s is a vendor at ACL Fest again this year! Nothing can really cure the itch for a good bagel besides the real thing, so check them out in the food area. 

Bambino: A new favorite in Austin after opening their doors in March 2024, Bambino, will be serving its pizza in the Big Tent this year. The Big Tent will also feature craft beer and cocktail options for attendees.  

Juiceland: Want a refreshing drink that’s not water or alcohol? Juiceland has you covered. They always bring out fun drinks for ACL that are extremely refreshing in between seeing artists. In the past they’ve had cherry limeade, blue raspberry lemonade, cucumber mojito agua frescas and many more!

Veracruz All Natural: Known for their incredible tacos, Veracruz All Natural will be back at ACL Fest this year. Started by two sisters, Reyna and Maritza Vazquez, with a dream of owning their own restaurant, they have become a favorite for many Austinies. 

Full list of 2024 food vendors: here

 

Tips & Tricks

Festival Shuttles: Don’t want to pay a bunch for transport? ACL Fest offers free shuttles to and from Republic Square Park downtown. The best part? They drop you off at a lower traffic entrance for a great start to each day at the festival. 

Hydration: Hydration is key at any festival or big event. While outside food and drink is prohibited, the festival has a good amount of water fill stations spread throughout the grounds. We’d even recommend a water backpack (these are allowed!) to avoid having to fill up frequently.

ACL Mobile App: ACL Fest offers a mobile app that allows you to create your own schedule for artists you want to see during the festival. You simply press the heart for each artist you want to see, and the app will notify you when to head to their set based on your preferences. You can also reserve lockers through the app for storage!  

 

Festivals aren’t your thing but you still love music?

ACL Fest Nights: If there’s just one or two artists you wanted to see in the lineup at ACL Fest, we definitely recommend seeing if they are part of ACL Fest Nights. They start on Wednesday Oct. 2 and continue until Oct. 11. Great artists like Still Woozy, Foster the People and Remi Wolf are all performing. It’s a great way to support these artists without paying the amount of a festival pass.

Hulu Streaming: Maybe you couldn’t justify paying for a pass to ACL Fest or crowds aren’t your thing, but you still love the lineup for this year? Hulu is streaming the first weekend of ACL Fest for all of its subscribers. This way you can tune in to your favorite artists from the comfort of your home!

Boiler Room Austin: For those into EDM and house music, Boiler Room is coming to Austin for two nights on Oct. 5-6. Based in the UK, Boiler Room has gained popularity and are coming to Austin, Dallas and El Paso for their BR World Tour. 

 

Conclusion

While ACL can be seen as a crazy, stressful time for a lot of people, the entire month of October is a great time to experience and try new things in Austin. Go see an artist your friend has always been talking about, try a new restaurant you overheard a local mentioning, or even switch up your coffee order with a fall special! The possibilities are truly endless. Happy October!

 

 

Top Five Places to Watch Texas Football this Fall

It’s football season and we got you covered!

Written by: Byrn Peters

As the excitement of Texas football season approaches, fans across Austin are gearing up to cheer on the Longhorns. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love the game day atmosphere, finding the perfect spot to watch the game can make all the difference. Austin is home to a variety of sports bars and venues that offer unique experiences for football enthusiasts. From historic hangouts to lively patios, there’s something for everyone. Here are our top five favorite spots to grab a drink with friends and enjoy some Texas Longhorn football this fall.

1. The Tavern

Established in 1916, The Tavern has been Austin’s go-to spot for football fans for over a century. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and delicious sports bar fare—like bacon-wrapped wings, queso, and hearty burgers—The Tavern is a favorite among locals. With 46 HD surround TVs spread across its two levels. It’s a prime spot to catch both local and NFL games. If you’re seeking a historic and vibrant place to watch football, The Tavern is the perfect choice.

2. Skinny’s Off Track Bar

Skinny’s Off Track Bar is a 1970s-inspired sports bar perfect for football fans. With personal TVs in indoor booths and a spacious outdoor patio, it offers both cozy and lively atmospheres. Enjoy beer, wine, specialty cocktails, and bites from their on-site food truck. Don’t miss out on beer buckets and $5 Smashburgers—perfect for game day with friends!

3. Scholz Garten

Scholz Garten is one of the oldest bars in Texas, and has been an Austin favorite for over a century. Located near UT, this German beer garden is a prime tailgating destination. With authentic German food and the city’s largest selection of German beers on draft, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a game in a historic setting.

4. Parlor and Yard

Located on West 6th Street, Parlor and Yard is a lively spot perfect for football fans. Known for its casual, laid-back vibe, this bar offers a mix of indoor and outdoor seating, complete with yard games to keep the energy up during halftime. With plenty of big screens, a solid drink menu, and a fun atmosphere, Parlor and Yard is a great choice for catching the game with friends on West 6th.

5. Victory Lap

Victory Lap, close to the UT Austin campus, is an elevated sports bar designed for Longhorn fans. Opening early for tailgaters and staying late for post-game celebrations, it’s a vibrant space filled with Texas Longhorn pride. The outdoor patio, set up as a turf field, has ample seating along with misters and fans to keep you cool on warm days. With a massive screen and multiple TVs, Victory Lap provides a top-notch game day experience.

 

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a historic venue steeped in tradition or a modern spot with a vibrant atmosphere, Austin has plenty of options for watching Texas football this fall. Each of these top five spots offers something unique! Hook ‘em, Horns!

 

 

 

Summer Activities To Do in Austin

Need some summer time fun?

Summer in Austin is a season filled with endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there are plenty of activities to help you make the most of the sunny Texas days. Here are some of our top recommendations to make your summer in Austin one for the books!

Cool Off at Barton Springs & Deep Eddy Pool: a natural spring-fed swimming hole located in Zilker Park, is an iconic Austin destination. The pool maintains a refreshing 68-70 degrees year-round, making it the perfect spot to escape the Texas heat. Just a short drive away, Deep Eddy Pool is another historic swimming spot with a laid-back vibe and a rich history dating back to 1915. Both locations offer a refreshing retreat and a quintessential Austin experience.

Hiking at Mount Bonnell: for those who enjoy outdoor adventures, a hike up Mount Bonnell is a must. As one of the highest points in Austin, Mount Bonnell offers breathtaking views of the city skyline and the Colorado River. The hike is relatively short but steep, making it suitable for most fitness levels. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with beautiful panoramic views.

Savor TX BBQ from Terry Black’s: no trip to Austin is complete without indulging in some Texas BBQ. Terry Black’s BBQ is renowned for its mouthwatering smoked meats and classic sides. Located in the heart of the city, this family-owned establishment serves up some of the best brisket, ribs, and sausage in town. Grab a plate, find a shady spot, and savor the flavors of authentic Texas barbecue.

Paddle board on Lady Bird Lake: situated in the heart of Austin, is a popular spot for water sports. Rent a paddle board and explore the serene waters while taking in views of the downtown skyline and lush greenery. Paddle boarding is a fun and relaxing way to enjoy the outdoors and get a bit of exercise at the same time. Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture the scenic beauty of the lake.

Enjoy Live Music at the Continental Club & the Elephant Room: Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, and for good reason. The city boasts a vibrant music scene with numerous venues offering live performances. The Continental Club is a legendary spot that hosts a variety of genres, from rock to country. For a more intimate setting, head to the Elephant Room, a cozy jazz club in downtown Austin. Both venues provide an authentic taste of Austin’s rich musical heritage.

 

Pickleball at Bouldin Acres : is a prime spot for enjoying this fast-paced, fun sport. This outdoor venue combines great food, drinks, and pickleball courts, making it an excellent place to spend an afternoon or evening. Whether you’re a seasoned player or new to the game, you’ll find courts and communities welcoming to all skill levels. It’s a great way to stay active and enjoy the vibrant energy of Austin.

 

 

Top 5 Vintage Spots in Austin

Feeling Nostalgic? 

Discover the vibrant vintage scene of Austin, Texas this summer! Whether you are looking for a pair of vintage sunnies for a pool party at The Independent or a funky lamp to add some flair to your apartment, Austin is home to a treasure trove of vintage spots that will make you and your space pop. We curated a list of the city’s best kept vintage shops.

 

Room Service: Housed in a reclaimed pharmacy and soda fountain from the 1950’s, Room Service is a 3,500 square foot vintage explosion with something for everyone. Located on the North Loop Strip, Room Service hails curated vintage from the 50’s, 60’s, 70’s, 80’s and beyond. While Room Service features an extensive furniture collection, it also boasts an equally broad selection of lighting, jewelry, wall art, books, and relics. 

 

Uncommon Objects: Indulge your nostalgic cravings at Uncommon Objects, a unique emporium nestled in the heart of Austin. Established in 1991 and located in the North Loop, Uncommon Objects has evolved from a modest antique collective into a haven for transcendent junk and quirky relics of American culture. With twenty-four dedicated antique sellers under one roof, Uncommon Objects offers a genuine and sometimes eccentric glimpse into history, providing the perfect blend of sentimentality and curiosity for vintage enthusiasts. 

 

Prototype Vintage: If you have been on the hunt for that perfectly worn leather jacket or boot cut jeans, Prototype Vintage located on South Congress is a great spot to add unique pieces to your closet. Founded in 2005 by two best friends, Audrie San Miguel & Emily Larson as a vintage furniture store, Prototype has flourished into an essential destination within Austin’s vintage clothing landscape. Stop by Prototype the next time you are on South Congress and snap a selfie in front of their iconic green wall. 

 

Charm School Vintage: Charm School, a vintage haven located in East Austin, features handmade, culturally rich, and well-traveled garments. Specializing in the eclectic vibes of the 1970s and influenced by Victorian 1930s allure, Charm School boasts natural fabrics and textiles like leather, lace, velvet, and silk. Beyond fashion, Charm School showcases handmade apothecary products, independent jewelry, and ethically-sourced crystals, prioritizing sustainability and supporting local artisans and ethical practices. 

 

Full Circle Vintage: Full Circle Vintage is credited with keeping Texas history alive through, you guessed it, cowboy boots. Owner and professional boot-finder Joey Medina keeps stories alive through repairing, reserving, and reselling boots. If you aren’t shopping for your next pair of boots, Full Circle has also curated an extensive vintage t-shirts collection to pair with their selection of perfect broken in Levis. Just near the edge of the University of Texas Campus, Full Circle is a one stop shop for curating a quintessential Texas wardrobe.

10 Things To Do in Austin This May

May is a beautiful month to visit Austin, with sunny days and bearable Texas temperatures, it is the perfect time to explore all the city has to offer before the summer rush! Whether you’re a foodie, music lover, or outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone in Austin this May. Here are some of the most exciting events and activities happening in Austin this month:

Pecan Street Festival (May 6-7): This free, family-friendly festival takes over historic Sixth Street for two days of live music, food vendors, and local artists selling their wares.

Hot Luck Festival (May 19-22): This food and music festival brings together some of the top chefs from around the country for four days of culinary delights and live music performances.

Austin Reggae Festival (May 27-29): This annual festival features three days of live reggae music, food vendors, and local craft beer.

Hiking and Biking Trails: With mild temperatures and beautiful scenery, May is a great time to explore Austin’s many hiking and biking trails. Some popular trails include the Barton Creek Greenbelt, Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail, and the Walnut Creek Trail.

Austin City Limits Live at the Moody Theater: This legendary music venue hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout May, featuring both local and national artists.

Austin FC Soccer Matches: May is the start of the MLS season, and Austin’s own soccer team, Austin FC, will be playing several home matches at Q2 Stadium. Catch a game and join the excitement of the city’s newest sports team.

Congress Avenue Bat Colony: Every evening from May to September, the Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Watch as over 1.5 million bats emerge from under the bridge at sunset.

Austin Food and Wine Festival (May 27-29): This three-day festival celebrates Austin’s vibrant culinary scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine and cocktail seminars.

Art Galleries: Austin is home to a thriving art scene, with many galleries showcasing works from local artists. Some popular galleries to check out include the Blanton Museum of Art, The Contemporary Austin, and the Mexic-Arte Museum.

Texas State Capitol Tours: Take a guided tour of the Texas State Capitol building, a historic landmark and the largest state capitol building in the country. Learn about Texas history and the state’s legislative process.

These are just a few of the many exciting things to do in Austin in May 2023. With so much to see and do, there’s never been a better time to visit this vibrant city.