ACL Fest is rolling back into Zilker Park October 3-5 and 10-12, and it’s shaping up to be two unforgettable weekends.

With over 100 artists covering everything from rock and indie to country, hip hop, and EDM, there’s something for everyone. ACL Fest is more than just a music fest. It’s peak Austin energy with good tunes, good food, and good people from all over the world.

Where to Stay

Hotel Van Zandt

Looking for a great place to crash during ACL? Hotel Van Zandt on Rainey Street is a solid pick. It’s just a quick drive or rideshare to Zilker Park, and you’ll be right in the middle of one of Austin’s liveliest spots for food and drinks. The vibe’s on point, with live music at Geraldine’s most nights and a rooftop pool that’s perfect for kicking back between sets. It’s got that cool Austin energy with a touch of luxury, and even made it onto Michelin’s list of top Texas stays. For more information as well as hotel packages be sure to visit Hotel Van Zandt’s web page. But if you want that full-on music-lover’s Austin experience, Van Zandt’s tough to beat.

The Frame Hotel – SoCo

It can be overwhelming during ACL weekend with crowds of people and super long lines everywhere you go. You may find yourself seeking peace and comfort rather than the crowded, noisy places full of energy. If you find yourself seeking a calm oasis, I know just the spot.

The Frame Hotel – SoCo isn’t your typical hotel. There is no hotel lobby, no receptionist greeting you at the front desk, no room keys, no pool, no onsite restaurant, no lines or elevators. Tucked away on the corner of Austin’s iconic South Congress “SoCo” neighborhood, the Frame Hotel offers a serene escape for those who prioritize peace and privacy, and view luxury as a state of calm and comfort. With convenient check-in and keyless entry, there’s no need to worry about small talk or waiting in lines. You’re not dealing with anyone but yourself. Just you and a simple, stress-free arrival. 

The hotel is in prime location; you’re steps away from amazing restaurants, fun shopping, lively bars, and everything in between that you need for a memorable weekend on South Congress. So while staying in Austin for ACL, this is the place to escape fast-paced city life yet close enough to head back into the action whenever you’re ready. 

If Van Zandt or Frame Hotel are booked or you want to explore additional options, check out The Line Austin, The Otis Hotel, JW Marriott, or the Four Seasons, all downtown and super easy to get to the fest. 

Must-See Bands at ACL Fest 2025 

Headliners across both weekends include Sabrina Carpenter, Hozier, Luke Combs, The Strokes, John Summit, and the recently added The Killers. The daily headliner slots (Friday/Saturday/Sunday) are consistent each weekend: Friday is Hozier & Luke Combs, Saturday is Sabrina Carpenter & The Strokes (with Doechii and DJO joining), and Sunday wraps with The Killers & John Summit, along with Feid, T‑Pain and Mk.gee.

If you’re wondering who to prioritize, keep in mind that some artists only perform one weekend.

• For Weekend One, make sure to catch Phantogram, Modest Mouse and Maren Morris, since they won’t play again.
• On Weekend Two, prioritize Rilo Kiley, especially if you’re a fan of their reunion tour, and Pierce the Veil if you’re into their emo‑punk energy

Honestly, no matter which weekend you go, your lineup is jam‑packed. Between global pop stars, indie legends, and rising names like Mk.gee, Feid, Polo & Pan, Wet Leg, Rainbow Kitten Surprise and more, it’s impossible to go wrong. ACL always mixes huge headliners with eclectic up‑and‑comers, so wandering from stage to stage is half the fun.

ACL Eats

From tacos and local brews to vegan bites and sweet treats, the ACL Eats Food Court is your chance to taste the best of Austin without ever leaving Zilker Park. It’s loaded with favorites from some of the city’s top restaurants (plus a few nearby gems), so whether you’re craving something quick between sets or planning a full-on foodie stop, you’ll find plenty to dig into.

ACL Nights

When the crowds start winding down at Zilker Park each night, the real fun kicks off.  ACL Fest Nights is where the festival energy spills into some of Austin’s coolest venues. These aren’t wristband-only happenings; they’re single-ticket after‑shows featuring big names and rising stars in intimate, unforgettable settings. You can catch Wet Leg tearing it up at Stubb’s on Oct 11, the night before their main‑stage weekend two appearance. Or swing by Emo’s on Riverside for sets by Phantogram (Oct 4), Passion Pit (Oct 6), or Role Model (Oct 11).

Mix in some nostalgia and blaring guitars with Dr. Dog at Stubb’s on Oct 2, Modest Mouse on Oct 3, and MJ Lenderman on Oct 9. EDM fans, you’re covered too: LP Giobbi pumps energy at Devil May Care (Oct 4 & 11), while Zeds Dead at Emo’s or Polo & Pan at Concourse Project on Oct 12 offer a choice between hard-hitting bass or dreamy electro vibes.

Want something a little indie‑quirky? MARINA and Mallrat team up on Oct 5, DJO (better known as Joe Keery) brings his groove with Post Animal on Oct 10, and CA7RIEL & Paco Amoroso deliver their genre-blending Argentine magic on Oct 13. Other fun picks include Yoke Lore & Vincent Lima at the Scoot Inn (Oct 9), Hotline TNT (Oct 3) and Ocean Alley (Oct 2) at Empire Garage, plus Joey Valence & Brae (Oct 9) rocking Empire Garage, even Antone’s throws its hat in the ring with Confidence Man and La LoM.

ACL Tips

Here are a few tips that will help make your experience at ACL Fest the best one possible. For more information, check out the ACL Fest Guide.

• Ride the shuttle! There is no parking at Zilker Park or the surrounding neighborhoods, and traffic will be bumper to bumper for miles around. Riding the shuttle is the least stressful way to go!
• Bag Policy – All bags will be searched before entry. Bags can be no larger than 12”x6”x12”. Anything larger than 6”x9” must be clear.
• Don’t put cell phones in your back pockets! We always hear about cell phones that go missing each year.
• Stay hydrated! Bring an empty reusable water bottle and refill it with free water at one of the many Hydration Stations located throughout the park.
• Don’t forget your sunscreen! Non-aeresol containers of 3.4oz or less are allowed. Hats and sunglasses are also must-bring items!
• If it looks like rain, wear rain boots and bring a rain poncho. No umbrellas allowed.
• Zilker Park is smoke free. No smoking OR vaping allowed.
• If you need prescription medications, you must bring it in the pharmacy-labeled container and present it to the medical staff at each entrance gate. Only bring a sufficient supply for that day.

At the end of the day, ACL Fest isn’t just about the music. It’s the full Austin experience packed into two weekends. From discovering your new favorite band to grabbing tacos and a cold local brew between sets, the festival is as much about the vibe as it is the lineup. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fest regular, ACL 2025 is shaping up to be one you won’t want to miss. So grab your wristband, plan your schedule, and get ready for another unforgettable time at Zilker Park.

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Cover Photo Chad Wadsworth

Brian Maass, a lifelong Austinite, is passionate about music, travel, and capturing life’s moments through his camera lens. He resides in Round Rock, Texas, with his wife, Dana Kent Maass, and their loyal dog, Chester.

Leean Vargas is the Highlight Reel newsletter editor at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and an honors graduate of Texas State University with a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations. She is a concert enthusiast who loves traveling, photography, good food, and discovering new hangout spots in her beloved city, Austin, Texas.