No Limit on Fun at the 2nd Street District: Your Guide to All Things ACL Festival Food, Fashion, and More
ACL Festival. Photo Credit: Taylor Regulski. Courtesy ACL Festival, austintexas.org
PRE-FEST ACL BLOCK PARTY: Join the 2nd Street District's Pre-ACL Block Parties on Fridays, October 4 and 11 from 5-10 p.m.
DINE: Fuel Up Before or After the Festivities
SHOP: Make a Statement With Your Festival Fashion
LIVE: Unwind From the Crowds for More Austin Fun
Austin’s 2nd Street District is a must-visit destination as the Austin City Limits (ACL) Festival returns October 4-6 and 11-13, 2024 at Zilker Park. Out-of-town visitors and locals alike can enjoy downtown Austin’s premier destination for dining, shopping, and letting the good times roll.
Located just minutes away from Zilker Park, the 2nd Street District is the perfect stop to unwind and recharge in between jamming out to the show-stopping musicians taking the stage. Whether you're craving a true Texas-sized bite to eat, in need of stylish festival gear, or looking for a laid-back spot to enjoy a cocktail with friends, the 2nd Street District has everything ACL festival-goers need to make their Austin adventure extraordinary.
ACL BLOCK PARTY: Join the 2nd Street District's Pre-ACL Block Parties
Pre-Festival ACL Block Parties
Before you even hit Zilker Park, join the 2nd Street District's Pre-ACL Block Parties on Fridays, October 4 and 11 from 5-10 p.m. Enjoy exclusive 20% off deals at participating stores like Hemline Austin, Sneaker Politics, and Stella Dallas. Live DJ sets will keep the energy up, while extended happy hours at Upstairs Circus and Jo’s Coffee, wine tastings at CRU Food & Wine Bar, and food specials at Taverna ensure you're well-fed and hydrated. There’s even a chance to score $25 tattoos and partake in yard games with ultimate prizes. It’s the perfect warm-up before the big weekend!
Plus, with Republic Square Park's ACL shuttles just a block away, 2nd Street District is the ideal place to park, shop, and get ready for a weekend of music. Don’t forget—the first two hours of parking are free with a purchase, making it easier than ever to enjoy everything this vibrant district has to offer.
DINE: Fuel Up Before or After the Festivities
You’ve just arrived in town ready for a weekend full of celebration, your favorite musical artists, and all Austin has to offer. Now you’ve been tasked with finding some pre-festivity fuel. Don’t let the daunting task overwhelm you. Head to the 2nd Street District for bold cocktails, a gourmet meal, or even just a quick, healthy bite to eat as you make your way to Zilker Park. Then as the festivities get rolling, come back to the 2nd Street District for food to keep the vibes alive.
Pre-Fest Munchies, Mixers & More
Margs, Mescal, Tequila: OH MY! Celebrate National Taco Day on October 4th with Happy Hour $3 taco specials from 5-7 PM at La Condesa. La Condesa is an award-winning modern Mexican restaurant featuring contemporary Mexican dishes made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. And if tacos are not your vibe, be sure to give the Quesadilla de Short Rib or Pescada a la Parilla a try. And for a little pre-party fun, order a drink made with spirits from one of the largest collections of 100% blue agave tequila and mezcal in the city.
BarChi Sushi is the place to go for all things Japanese cuisine from signature sushi rolls to fresh sashimi and all the Japanese comfort food in between. With daily Happy Hour specials and all-day Happy Hour on Sunday with discounted appetizers, sushi, maki rolls, cocktails and grilled skewers, a meal at BarChi Sushi will make for a satisfying start, or finish, to any evening.
Monday-Saturday Happy Hour: 4-7 PM
Monday-Saturday Reverse Happy Hour: 10 PM-12 AM
Sunday all day Happy Hour: 3-10 PM
Friday- Saturday Live DJ: 9 PM-Midnight
Dis, Dat & Dim Sum! RedFarm is a perfect pre-ACL Festival stop. Whether you're going for the signature Pac-Man dumplings or the spicy steamed sea bass, get your chopsticks ready for RedFarm's deliciously modern take on Chinese cuisine. And in the spirit of National Vodka Day on October 4th, say cheers with a Wing Clapper cocktail made of Pandon Leaf Infused Vodka, Coconut Oil Washed Chambery Blanc, and Tonka Bean Infused Noilly Prat Vermouth
Happy Hour: Monday-Friday Happy Hour: 4-6 PM
After Day 1 —Recharge with a Nutritious Lunch
Nourish your festival bones with a meal at The Well. This bold approach to healthy eating blends top-tier nutrition, local and sustainable farming, and authentic flavors for a culinary experience that redefines healthy food. After a long day in the sun singing along to your favorite tunes, nourish your mind, fuel your body, and feed your soul. Don’t miss their lunch special: pair any salad with a bone broth soup for just $17.
Take a break from the revelry down the street with a nutritious meal from Local Foods in the 2nd Street District. You’ll find a menu full of scratch-made sandwiches, hearty salads, and chef-created sides crafted with local ingredients. Plus their seasonal specials are MUST TRIES: Citrus Redfish Ceviche, Deconstructed Cheeseburger Salad, "Heart of Local" Shaken Iced Tea, and more!
Keep the Party Going!
A boozy brunch out on the town is the perfect start to a day spent at ACL Fest. Get your seafood weekend brunch fix at Bill’s Oyster in downtown Austin. With mouthwatering brunch options like the Crab Cake Benedict or Stuffed Bananas Foster French Toast (pictured below), Bill’s is the perfect gathering place before heading back to Zilker Park.
Prior to another rocking day of music, you don’t want to miss $3 Mimosas and Bellinis at Taverna on Saturdays. Pair a drink with an order of Chicken Waffles or Taverna Hash for the ideal Day 2 meal.
SHOP: Make a Statement with Your Festival Fashion
Stand out in the crowd with the perfect outfit for fashion-forward festival goers. With options for men and women, everyone can make a statement with their perfect party clothes. Search no further than the 2nd Street District for boho-chic outfits, eye-catching accessories, or the perfect pair of festival boots. Turn heads while you groove to the tunes.
You’ve got to be comfortable if you’re going to be standing for hours at ACL Fest. Mugsy Jeans are the most comfortable jeans ever made. Offered in a variety of colors and fits, grab yourself a pair and get grooving.
At Hemline, find all the trendy accessories, shoes, and apparel you need to complete your festival look. Hemline offers a range of stylish options for every taste. Don’t wait — new fall arrivals have just dropped.
ACL Official Merch is a must. Shop authentic ACL merchandise and unique gifts at Austin Rocks Texas, where music meets fashion. Support local Austin artists when you purchase exclusive apparel and gifts.
Don’t forget the Pre-ACL Block Parties on October 4 and 11, where you can get 20% off at participating stores while sipping on complimentary drinks!
LIVE: Unwind from the Crowds for More Austin Fun
Need a break from the festival hustle? Find an escape at the 2nd Street District where festival-goers can relax and recharge. The 2nd Street District is perfect for those moments when you need to unwind between sets or after a full day of festivities. Enjoy a little downtime fun in the heart of Austin.
Soothe your dancing feet with hot steamed towels and a massage at Lacquer. Or touch up your nails with the ultimate nail salon experience with innovative, soakless manicures and pedicures in a safe and clean, acrylic-free environment. Book your appointment online here.
Pamper yourself at milk + honey, a luxury spa that offers everything from rejuvenating massages to hydrating facials. After a long day of dancing in the sun, milk + honey is the perfect place to indulge in a detoxifying body treatment or a calming spa package that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for more festival fun. You can even stock up on their organic, cruelty-free skincare products for some post-festival self-care. Book your session today at milk + honey.
A flawless airbrush tan from Sugared + Bronzed is the ultimate compliment to your new festival wardrobe! You’ll get a personalized, streak-free tan that suits your skin tone and enhances your natural glow, making it the perfect accessory for your look! Book yours today!
Conclusion:
ACL Festival Photo Credit: VisitAustinTexas.org
While the ACL Festival takes center stage in October, downtown Austin’s vibrant 2nd Street District offers an ideal pre- or post-festival destination for food, shopping, and a chance to relax. Experience Austin’s unique charm as you keep the groove alive with all things music, art, dancing, and celebrating! Make your visit to Austin for this one-of-a-kind music fest, a weekend to remember. Don't forget to catch the Pre-ACL Block Parties on October 4 and 11 for unbeatable deals, live music, and more!
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