Spring is in full swing in Austin as the South by Southwest Conference & Festivals prepares to kick off next week. From March 4-7, SXSU EDU will host educational events, followed by a week-long celebration from March 8-16. The event is anticipated to draw thousands to Austin for networking opportunities, keynote speakers, advancements in technology, and live performances by artists and musicians.
To facilitate transportation to and from the festivities, SXSW offers a free shuttle service operating between the Austin Convention Center and various festival venues. Attendees can catch the shuttle in front of the Convention Center or at Trinity Street. The shuttle schedule is as follows:
– Friday, March 8th: 10 a.m. to 2 a.m
– Saturday, March 9th: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m
– Sunday, March 10th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. Daylight Saving Time
– Monday, March 11th: 9 a.m. to 2 a.m
– Tuesday, March 12th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (with East Austin service from 7:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.)
– Wednesday, March 13th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (with East Austin service from 7:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.)
– Thursday, March 14th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (with East Austin service from 7:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.)
– Friday, March 15th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (with East Austin service from 7:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.)
– Saturday, March 16th: 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. (with East Austin service from 7:00 p.m. to 2:30 a.m.)
For those utilizing public transportation, CapMetro offers bus and train services to and from SXSW venues. The CapMetro Rail will extend its operating hours until 2:30 a.m. on select days, with regular service until midnight on other days. Additionally, Rapid bus routes 801 and 803 run until early morning hours on specific days throughout the festival.
Night Owl bus routes are also available from midnight to 3 a.m., departing regularly from Sixth Street and Congress Avenue. Visitors can access special SXSW services, including MetroBike rentals and transportation to the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
In addition to public transportation options, bike taxi rides are a popular mode of transport in Austin, especially within the Central Business District and entertainment areas like Rainey Street and East Sixth Street. Visitors can also opt for traditional taxi services or utilize metered street parking or off-street parking facilities in the city center.
For more information on transportation services during SXSW, including bike taxi locations and parking details, attendees can refer to the City of Austin’s online resources. Plan your journey to and from the 2024 South by Southwest Festival for a seamless and hassle-free experience.