Austin, TX

Tips for surviving the Austin airport during ACL Festival

Published

7 months ago

October 4, 2024

Tips for surviving the Austin airport during ACL Festival

The Austin airport can randomly be a headache any day of the week. But things tend to take a chaotic turn each fall thanks to back-to-back weekends of Austin City Limits Music Festival.

The annual event will take over Zilker Park in Austin, Texas, Oct. 4-6 and Oct. 11-13. ACL Fest has grown in popularity in recent years, and the event typically draws attendees from across the country — and even the world.

This means the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (ABIA) will likely be busier than usual from Friday, Oct, 4, through Tuesday, Oct. 15, as hundreds of thousands of people flock to the Capital City for both weekends of ACL Fest.

The Austin airport also started an expansion project in April 2024. Due to the expansion, the airport will be under construction through 2026.

Translation: Flying out of Austin over the next two weeks might stress you out (more than usual) and give you a crowd-induced headache.

Whether you’re escaping the city to avoid the crowds associated with ACL Festival or are coming into town for the event, there are ways to make it in and out of the Austin airport alive with your sanity intact.

Tips for flying in and out of Austin-Bergstrom Airport during ACL Fest

Sometimes, things seem to go over better when you expect the worst. And flying in and out of the Austin airport during ACL Fest is no different.

This way, when things go smoothly, it’s a welcomed surprise. But if things go south, there’s not much to sweat and spiral over because you were expecting it anyway.

When flying into Austin, there are a few tips to follow that will help you maintain your sanity in an airport that’s far too small for the number of travelers it sees.

If you checked a bag on your way to Austin, expect a delay at baggage claim. Typically, travelers either get their bags from baggage claim within 30 minutes of their plane arriving at the gate, or they’ll have to wait over an hour.

There is no such thing as a happy medium when it comes to baggage claim at ABIA. In best best-case scenario, you get your bag without much delay. Worst case scenario, you’ll start spiraling while thinking the airline lost your suitcase due to the excessive amount of time spent waiting for it.

More often than not, your bag will arrive at baggage claim without issue — it just might take a touch longer than you’d like. This is where “expecting the worst” comes in handy.

So, pack your patience, grab a taco from one of the many local restaurants that line the main terminal at the Austin airport on your way to baggage claim, and await whatever odds the airport gods have in store for you that day.

From Friday, Oct. 4, through Tuesday, Oct. 15, the Austin airport recommends travelers who are flying out and will be using the general TSA screening lines, meaning those without TSA PreCheck or Clear, to arrive at least two and a half hours before their departure time for domestic flights, and three hours before departure for international flights.

There are three security lines at the Austin airport. Checkpoint 2 West (located between the United and American check-in counters) has security lines for those with TSA PreCheck and Clear. Security checkpoints open at 3 a.m. daily.

If you plan on checking a bag when flying out of Austin between Oct. 4 and Oct. 15, expect ticketing counters to be busy and lines to be long, especially for airlines that offer free or discounted checked luggage.

How to kill time at the Austin airport

The live music food court (Earl Campbell’s Taco Truck), located at the center of Austin’s east and west airport gates, is viewed on May 23, 2022, in Austin, Texas.Getty Images

Delays are a part of flying, and no matter how much it kills your vibe, a bad mood won’t change the fact your flight’s been delayed.

The good news is there’s a lot to do at the Austin airport. Plus, beers are cheaper there than they are at most music venues in Austin — and most drinks will be cheaper than they are at ACL Fest. That’s a win if we’ve ever heard one.

Whether you’re at the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport for a layover or are flying out after a weekend at ACL Fest, there’s surely a shop, record store, restaurant, cafe or bar calling your name.

The cool thing about the Austin airport is it aims to feature local vendors. There’s a Waterloo Records in the airport’s main terminal and a Tyler’s store, as well as local restaurants and coffee shops like Hut’s Hamburgers, The Salt Lick, Tacodeli, Jo’s Coffee, Second Bar + Kitchen, 24 Diner, Amy’s Ice Cream and The Peached Tortilla.

Some spots even let travelers take their boozy beverages to-go, allowing them to settle their preflight nerves with a drink in hand while obsessively checking the flight board at their gate.

Heck, you can even watch flights take off and land on the runway, thanks to the endless floor-to-ceiling windows that span the Austin airport.

Does this make it a little hotter than some travelers would like? Sure. But it also makes getting stuck at the Austin airport feel a touch more bearable and feel less like you’re stuck in a dungeon of travel hell.

If you want to kill time with something a little more interactive, head to the “Interimaginary Departures” setup between gates 12 and 14 (there is no gate 13 at ABIA).

This was designed by Brooklyn-based artist, Janet Zweig. You’ll see a sign with an infinity symbol and seats lined up at a seven-degree angle and a flight board with fake flights to Narnia and the Emerald City, to name a few destinations.

It’s kind of silly, but it beats being forced to listen to that one guy (you know the guy) talk on the phone at a soul-piercing volume.

Fastest way to get to rideshare pickup, rental cars at Austin airport

Wouldn’t it be great if you could grab your checked luggage, exit the Austin airport and snag a rideshare or cab from the pickup area?

In a perfect world, this would be the case. But those flying into Austin-Bergstrom International Airport should expect a bit of a trek to both the rideshare pickup and the rental car counters.

Since the airport’s expansion efforts are long overdue, space is a bit tight. Given how maddening the arrival and departure decks can be at ABIA, it’s almost like a twisted blessing in disguise that travelers must embark on a journey through multiple parking garages to reach the rental car counters and rideshare/cab pickup areas.

While you’ll see signs that say there’s a shuttle from the garage nearest the airport entrance to the garage where the rideshare pickup and rental car counters are, the shuttles — which are usually golf carts — don’t fit that many people and aren’t running as frequently as they should.

If you don’t have a checked bag, the fastest way to get to the rental car and rideshare pickup area, which are in the same garage, is by exiting through the upper level where the ticketing counters are. If not, you’ll have to wait for a painfully slow elevator in the first parking garage and take it to the second level before trekking to the actual garage where rideshare pickup and rental car check-in are located.

If you check a bag, you can always take an escalator up to the second floor and exit through the “arrival” doors. There is a designated walkway through the garages to both pickup areas. But people tend to drive a touch too aggressively in parking garages at the airport, so make sure you’re paying attention where you’re walking.

While the walk isn’t “far,” it can be annoying after a long day of travel. Plus, it’s open air, and if the weather is toasty that day, it might not be the most enjoyable trek. But, an air-conditioned rideshare or rental car awaits you at the end of your journey, and all the airport annoyances will soon melt away.

You can view a map here for help navigating to the rideshare pickup area at the Austin airport.

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Austin, TX

Orlando Outpaces Honolulu, Hawaii, Austin, Texas, Cincinnati, Ohio, Salt Lake City as America’s Top Summer Travel Destinations During this Memorial Day Trip Surge, What Everyone’s Talking About – Travel And Tour World

Published

9 hours ago

May 17, 2025

Press Room

Orlando Outpaces Honolulu, Hawaii, Austin, Texas, Cincinnati, Ohio, Salt Lake City as America’s Top Summer Travel Destinations During this Memorial Day Trip Surge, What Everyone’s Talking About – Travel And Tour World

Saturday, May 17, 2025

Orlando is officially leading the pack. As travelers pack their bags for the Memorial Day trip surge, it’s clear that Orlando outpaces every other contender. This year, it’s not just about sunshine and roller coasters—it’s about value, variety, and easy access. While cities like Honolulu, Hawaii, and Austin, Texas offer charm and excitement, Orlando delivers a complete summer travel package. And right now, everyone’s talking about it.

Meanwhile, Cincinnati, Ohio and Salt Lake City continue to attract savvy travelers with cultural gems and outdoor escapes. But even with their rising popularity, Orlando outpaces them in affordability, family appeal, and entertainment options. As the Memorial Day trip surge kicks off the season, the spotlight remains on Orlando.

People are skipping the long-haul flights to Honolulu, Hawaii in favor of quicker getaways. They’re choosing theme park thrills over live music in Austin, Texas. And while Cincinnati, Ohio and Salt Lake City offer great getaways, Orlando edges them out with sheer versatility.

What’s more, everyone’s talking about how Orlando has become the heartbeat of American summer travel. It’s the city that delivers on every front—fun, food, affordability, and family-friendliness.

So, as the Memorial Day trip surge fuels travel conversations nationwide, don’t be surprised that Orlando outpaces destinations like Honolulu, Hawaii, Austin, Texas, Cincinnati, Ohio, and Salt Lake City. This isn’t just a trend. It’s a travel takeover. And everyone’s talking about where they’re heading first.

Travel season is heating up—and so are travel prices. But even as airfare, hotels, and dining costs rise, your dream summer getaway doesn’t have to burn through your savings. A new study from WalletHub reveals the most affordable cities for summer travel in 2025, blending high value with high adventure.

Whether you’re looking to escape for a weekend or plan a multi-week vacation, these U.S. destinations rank highest in terms of cost, access, attractions, and overall travel convenience. What makes them stand out? Each city delivers a uniquely American experience—without the sticker shock.

WalletHub’s Methodology: What Makes a City Budget-Friendly?

WalletHub analyzed 100 major metro areas across six core metrics: travel costs and hassles, local expenses, attractions, weather, activities, and safety. The goal? To identify cities that offer the best value per vacation dollar.

Each destination was scored out of 100, creating a weighted average that puts both entertainment and economics into context. The cities topping the list aren’t just affordable—they’re also culturally rich, easy to navigate, and packed with reasons to visit now.

#1 Orlando, Florida – The Magic of Affordability

Orlando claims the crown this year, and not just because of its world-famous theme parks. While Disney and Universal attract families from around the globe, Orlando also offers incredibly affordable lodging (as low as $42 per night for 3-star hotels) and a surprising number of free and low-cost attractions.

Boat tours, art installations, lakefront parks, and quirky neighborhoods offer endless adventures without premium prices. Orlando blends luxury with budget-savvy fun, making it a no-brainer for travelers of all ages.

#2 Atlanta, Georgia – A Southern Star with Massive Value

Atlanta ranks second for many reasons: its strategic location, airport connectivity, and affordable access make it a central hub for both long-distance road trippers and air travelers. From free festivals and parks to low-cost entertainment, Atlanta stretches your dollar farther than most major cities.

It also shines with its vibrant food scene, rich Civil Rights history, and top-rated attractions like the Georgia Aquarium and World of Coca-Cola.

#3 Washington, D.C. – A Capital Experience That Doesn’t Cost a Fortune

America’s capital is surprisingly affordable. With dozens of free museums, national landmarks, and public gardens, D.C. offers one of the most enriching travel experiences in the U.S.—without spending big.

Hotels are reasonably priced, and public transport is convenient and safe. With a lower-than-average crime rate, Washington, D.C. is ideal for families, solo travelers, and cultural explorers alike.

Other Standouts: Culture, Comfort, and Cost-Saving All in One

Here are the remaining WalletHub top 15 affordable summer destinations for 2025:

#4 Honolulu, Hawaii – Surprising entry, but off-season airfare and island deals make it more reachable than ever.
#5 Austin, Texas – Live music, lakes, and low costs.
#6 Cincinnati, Ohio – A Midwest gem filled with art and food festivals.
#7 Salt Lake City, Utah – Outdoor adventure and calm, walkable neighborhoods.
#8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania – American history, vibrant culture, and walkable cityscapes.
#9 Miami, Florida – Art Deco, beaches, and unbeatable summer hotel discounts.
#10 Dallas, Texas – Museums, music, and modern family fun.
#11 Knoxville, Tennessee – Gateway to the Smokies with a small-town vibe.
#12 Tampa, Florida – Waterfront escapes and low-cost thrills.
#13 Richmond, Virginia – Civil War history and Southern hospitality.
#14 Chicago, Illinois – Big city adventure with surprising summer deals.
#15 Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Rodeos, rivers, and rising cultural status.

Why Budget Travel Is Booming in 2025

This year, travelers are getting smarter about their spending. Rising inflation and airfare costs are prompting tourists to seek greater value, not just the flashiest destinations.

Tourism boards across the country are responding by offering discounted travel packages, free public events, and hotel loyalty programs that reward extended stays. Many second-tier cities are investing in digital nomad amenities, local experience tours, and free public transit—all of which enhance the travel experience without increasing the price tag.

Moreover, family travel, road trips, and solo getaways are shaping 2025’s travel trends. Travelers want more authentic, local, and affordable experiences, and the destinations on this list deliver.

Travel Smarter: Tips for Booking Your Budget Getaway

Planning your summer escape? Here are a few quick strategies to maximize your travel dollar:

Travel midweek: Tuesdays and Wednesdays often offer cheaper flights and hotel rates.
Book early or last-minute: Dynamic pricing rewards both planners and flexible adventurers.
Use fare alerts: Track routes to cities like Atlanta, D.C., and Orlando for sudden dips.
Look beyond big chains: Boutique hotels, local rentals, and eco-stays often offer better value and experience.
Bundle up: Many destinations now offer city cards that include transit, museum entries, and attraction discounts.

What This Means for the Travel Industry

The WalletHub list reflects a broader shift in American travel behavior. Tourists are gravitating away from the most crowded, overpriced destinations and toward cities with soul, affordability, and accessibility.

For airlines and hospitality brands, the message is clear: price transparency, local partnerships, and traveler trust are more valuable than ever. The smartest brands are already tailoring packages to these rising destinations, knowing that volume and value now go hand in hand.

Regional airports, budget airlines, and boutique hotel groups stand to gain the most—especially those that invest in infrastructure and digital outreach before peak summer hits.

Final Word: Don’t Let High Prices Cancel Your Summer Plans

Travel doesn’t have to be exclusive. And a tight budget shouldn’t stop anyone from exploring the incredible diversity of the United States. From oceanfront boardwalks in Florida, to the historic heartbeat of Philadelphia, to the rising food scenes in Cincinnati and Dallas, the options for affordable, inspiring travel are more accessible than ever.

This summer, skip the stress and embrace the savings. Let your budget take you somewhere unforgettable.

Tags: Austin, Chicago, cincinnati, Dallas, florida, hawaii, honolulu, Illinois, Knoxville, Memorial Day Trip, Miami, Ohio, Oklahom, oklahoma city, pennsylvania, Philadelphia, richmond, salt lake city, Tampa, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia

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Austin, TX

It’s National Barbecue Day! Yelp names 2 Texas cities as the best for BBQ in America

Published

1 day ago

May 16, 2025

Press Room

It’s National Barbecue Day! Yelp names 2 Texas cities as the best for BBQ in America

Fire up that grill — it’s National BBQ Day!

National BBQ Day is celebrated each year on May 16. So if you ever actually need an excuse to grab some Texas barbecue on a Friday, this is your chance.

To celebrate the day as well as the approach of summer, Yelp has rounded up a list of the cities with the best barbecue. And don’t worry: You won’t need to leave the state to enjoy the most delicious smoked meats and mouthwatering sauces in the country.

Austin, San Antonio have the best BBQ in America, Yelp says

Yelp reviewers, like Southern Living readers, determined that Austin and San Antonio have the best barbecue around. Yelp searches for “Texas BBQ” increased by 63% in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the first quarter of 2024.

Austin was hailed as the best barbecue city in the country — and if that comes as a surprise, you haven’t been paying attention. A couple of months ago, Southern Living named Franklin Barbecue as the best barbecue joint in Texas for the third year in a row. La Barbecue’s brisket received a coveted Michelin star last year.

Here’s what Yelp had to say about the Texas capital’s barbecue scene:

Whether you like slow-smoked beef brisket, pork ribs, or house-made sausages, Austin has earned its reputation as a top barbecue destination. The city’s food scene features legendary brick-and-mortar BBQ joints, such as Terry Black’s Barbecue, and food trucks, including Micklethwait Craft Meat in East Austin. Yelp users praise Austin’s barbecue for its simple seasonings, which let the quality of the meat shine. Trays of tender brisket, flavorful ribs, and pulled pork sandwiches are among the most photographed dishes. Many users also highlight the perfectly tender texture of the meats at spots like Interstellar BBQ and Salt Lick BBQ.

Coming in second on Yelp’s city rankings is San Antonio. Its diverse barbecue scene features iconic food trucks like Brisket Boys and Cake-N-Que.

Yelp had this to say about barbecue in San Antonio:

Home to top-rated joints like Curry Boys BBQ, Smoke Shack and Garcia Barbecue, this major Texas barbecue city takes the No. 2 spot on this year’s list. Yelp reviews frequently highlight the mix of classic BBQ spots and new fusion-inspired restaurants like Reese Bros Barbecue. San Antonio also boasts a thriving food truck and casual barbecue scene, with spots like Nelson’s BBQ — ranked No. 28 on our 2022 Top 100 Places to Eat in Texas list — which is known for its Texas-style brisket smoked over mesquite wood.

LIST: Best US cities for BBQ 2025

Here are the top 10 cities for barbecue, along with their top-rated barbecue spot, according to Yelp:

Austin, TX: Jim’s Smokehouse
San Antonio, TX: Curry Boys BBQ
Kansas City, KS: Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que
Memphis, TN: Elwood’s Shack
Charleston, SC: Lewis Barbecue
Greenville, SC: Smoky Dreams Barbecue and Catering
Honolulu, HI: Ty’s BBQ and Grill
Tulsa, OK: Alpha Grill BBQ
Durham, NC: Moe’s Original BBQ
Nashville, TN: The Ridge Nashville

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Austin, TX

Paxton settles lawsuit with Travis County over security funds for DA granted behind closed doors

Published

2 days ago

May 15, 2025

Press Room

Paxton settles lawsuit with Travis County over security funds for DA granted behind closed doors

The lawsuit Attorney General Ken Paxton filed against the Travis County Commissioners Court in September over allegedly violating the Texas Open Meetings Act (TOMA) has been settled.

The lawsuit was filed after the commissioners court agreed to pay Travis County District Attorney José Garza $115,000 for private home security in a closed session in March 2024. Paxton’s office argued such a use of public funds should be deliberated during a regular session, when residents have a chance to weigh in.

Garza said a series of escalating threats, including tweets displaying his address and one handwritten note that read “Resign by the end of June or we will kill you” pushed him to ask for money for private security.

In the settlement, Travis County did not admit to violating TOMA but agreed to continue complying with the act going forward.

“This agreement balances public transparency with security concerns like those permitted for discussion in executive closed session, thereby protecting our employees and elected and appointed officials,” Travis County spokesperson Hector Nieto said in a statement.

Since the lawsuit was filed, the commissioners court has taken steps to ensure all elected or appointed officials receiving threats can get protection through the county. As attorney general, Paxton too has a taxpayer-funded security detail.

The Travis County Commissioners Court is in the midst of one other lawsuit with the attorney general. In September, Paxton also sued the county for funding a program that mailed out voter registration forms to unregistered voters ahead of the election. That litigation remains ongoing.

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