SXSW 2025: Discover the Best of Downtown Austin in the 2nd Street District!
Photo by Justin Wallace on Unsplash
Charge Up: Fitness and Fun Await in the 2nd Street District
Fuel Up: Dine & Unwind in the District During SXSW
Style Up: Dress to Impress & Stay Festival-Ready Up
The heart of Austin is alive with culture and creativity. The South by Southwest Conference & Festivals (SXSW) is bringing music, film, tech, and culture to downtown Austin, Texas from March 7–15!
Whether you’re a seasoned attendee or a first-timer, the 2nd Street District is your ultimate home base for dining, shopping, and recharging between events. Here’s how to navigate SXSW like a local and make your time in Austin truly unforgettable.
Charge Up: Fitness and Fun Await in the 2nd Street District
Get excited to experience all the music and fun that Austin’s vibrant 2nd Street District has to offer this week and throughout the whole year!
Catch the next wave of music at ACL Live, get active with fitness classes, and enjoy a bike tour through downtown — all at the 2nd Street District. Here is where the action is, so grab your friends and dive into all the fun the District has to offer during SXSW 2025!
The next wave of music is here! Rolling Stone’s Future of Music Showcase is taking over ACL Live at the Moody Theater during SXSW. This four-night event from March 11-14 features a stacked lineup of emerging artists poised to shape the future of music. Don’t miss these trailblazing musicians!
March 11 | Benson Boone, Hannah Bahng, LAILA!, Jasmine 4.t, Duplexity, and DJ Mel
March 12 | Megan Moroney, Stephen Wilson Jr., Larkin Poe, Brittney Spencer, DJs Moonshine and Prison Rodeo of Honky Tonkin in Queens
March 13 | Ivan Cornejo, CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso, Nsqk, GALE, and Riobamba
March 14 | Rema, Anycia, Samara Cyn, AJ McQueen, and Annabelle Kline
Celebrate the power of film during SXSW at Violet Crown Cinema. Experience anticipated premieres, compelling documentaries, and innovative shorts from the next generation of filmmakers. Find the complete schedule of screenings here.
It’s time for SXSW Sweat Week! Did you know that SXSW attendees can score a FREE week of Orangetheory Fitness classes? Take advantage & get your sweat on!
Keep your eyes out for outdoor fitness challenges around SXSW events for your chance to win Orangetheory swag and class passes! Follow @otfdta on Instagram to stay on top of pop-up locations and times.
Join us for the 2025 Arts & Parks Tour on March 15, 2025, from 11 AM - 3 PM. This FREE ride begins at Wooldridge Square and ends at Republic Square. Grab a snack in the 2nd Street District and enjoy an 11-mile journey through downtown Austin. Soak in the culture of the city and enjoy a casual ride with plenty of stops for artist talks, live performances, and more. Get your FREE tickets here.
Fuel Up: Dine & Unwind in the District During SXSW
Between inspiring keynotes, electrifying performances, and must-see film screenings, you’ll need to refuel to keep the SXSW energy going strong. Whether you are grabbing a quick coffee, indulging in authentic Texas BBQ, or unwinding with a handcrafted cocktail, the 2nd Street District has everything you need to make your heart and stomach happy.
Lamberts–Live Music
Start your SXSW mornings with a burst of energy from Jo’s Coffee! Grab a delicious coffee, pastry, or an order of breakfast tacos at this iconic Austin staple to keep you fueled for a long day of music, film, and more. Or if you’re looking for a tasty local lunch, Jo’s juicy burger is a must-try. Don't miss Jo’s famous Iced Turbo—a cult-favorite blend of coffee, espresso, hazelnut, chocolate, and cream and fit in like a true Austinite.
Nothing says Texas like BBQ and live music! Lamberts Downtown Barbecue is the go-to spot for upscale Texas BBQ with a creative twist. Housed in a restored 19th-century building, Lamberts serves slow-smoked meats and craft cocktails in a lively music scene — perfect for fueling up before or unwinding after SXSW events.
SXSW Specials & Happy Hour: Don’t miss Lamberts’ Happy Hour on Monday - Friday from 3-5 PM at the bar with $2 off cocktails, draft beer, and glasses of wine. All night on Mondays, enjoy half-price ribs and 2-for-1 whiskey — a must for BBQ & bourbon lovers!
Celebrate Pi Day on March 14 with Numero28’s authentic Neapolitan pizza pies. These wood-fired delights are the perfect way to honor 3.14! While you’re relaxing with friends and enjoying wood-fired pizzas, take your feast to the next level with fresh-made pasta and artisanal paninis. When it comes to Pi Day, one slice is never enough!
And for all the vegetarians, don’t worry, there are plenty of options for you too! Try the Caprese Panini, Margherita Pizza, or Busiate Pasta Alla Norma—each bursting with fresh, veggie-packed flavor. Plus, Numero28 has you covered with gluten-free pasta and pizza options!
Nourish your body and soul with a stop at The Well between all the SXSW excitement. The Well blends top-tier nutrition, local and sustainable farming, and authentic flavors for a culinary experience that redefines healthy food in downtown Austin. Stop by for happy hour drinks & snacks from 4-6 PM on Monday - Friday.
We’re obsessed with the Vegan Cashew Queso & Thai Lettuce Wraps! Added bonus! Every menu item is free of gluten, dairy, seed oils, soy, refined sugar, and GMOs, so you can feel good about what you are eating!
Style Up: Dress to Impress & Stay Festival-Ready
Experience the magic of SXSW in a one-of-a-kind outfit from the 2nd Street District, where style meets individuality. Whether you're searching for a statement piece to stand out at a show or a trendy yet comfortable fit for a full day of panels, you'll find it all along the streets of the 2nd Street District.
Or maybe you need a break from the high-energy crowds? Take a leisurely stroll through the district’s curated boutiques, where you can discover everything from locally designed fashion and artisan jewelry to unique home goods and Austin-inspired souvenirs.
Shop local and take home a piece of Austin’s creative spirit!
Texas sunshine calls for fresh sunnies from Sunglass Hut — grab a pair before hitting the festival scene. Browse spring favorites in-store with brands like Ray-Ban, Burberry, Miu Miu, and Ralph Lauren.
Designer brands at super sale prices — what could be better than that? United Apparel Liquidators showcases must-have apparel and accessories at 70-90% off retail! New arrivals are added weekly, so don’t miss your chance to snag a one-of-a-kind outfit so you head to SXSW in a style that stands out! Whether you're looking for trendy festival wear or timeless pieces, you're sure to find something that fits your vibe and budget.
Keep your feet happy all week long—whether you're dancing, walking, or exploring—with fresh kicks from Sneaker Politics. The team at Sneaker Politics is ready to help you find the perfect pair to keep you comfortable and looking on-point throughout SXSW. Don’t miss out on stepping up your shoe game!
Get some swag before you head home from SXSW. Stop by the Love, Tito’s retail store to stock up on your favorite Tito's Handmade Vodka merchandise. Outfit yourself in tees, hoodies, hats, and socks, grab gear for your next day on the green, and pick up a few new tools for at-home happy hour. Dogs are always welcome! Grab a new collar, leash, and dog toy, then snap a photo at our doggy photo booth.
Conclusion:
Austin’s most beloved event – the South by Southwest Conference & Festivals (SXSW) - is happening NOW and there’s no better place to experience the excitement than the lively 2nd Street District! It’s the perfect place to fuel up, style up, and charge up. Get ready for a week full of adventure, creativity, and memories that will last long after SXSW ends!
And remember, the best way to stay in the loop about all things 2nd Street District is to follow us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.