The Austin Convention Center is the most eminent event venue in the city. If there's an important event in Austin, it's probably happening here. This state-of-the-art venue spans six blocks, featuring five exhibit halls, 54 meeting rooms, seven ballrooms, and many show offices. It also showcases iconic art pieces such as paintings and photographs by some of the region's most talented artists.
Its convenient location in central downtown puts it in short distance to many hotels, historic landmarks, entertainment hubs, and only eight miles from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. As you can see, the surroundings of the Austin Convention Center can get pretty busy, so if you are attending an event here, you'll want to plan additional time for transportation and finding parking around the venue.
If you want to save some valuable time and make your day easier, why not reserve your parking space ahead of time? WithSmartPass by Smarking you'll have a safe place to leave your car in a garage that's located just minutes away from the Austin Convention Center. Stop driving around and avoid parking tickets. Planning ahead is the smart way of parking.
Where to Park Near the Austin Convention Center
Parking in downtown Austin can get very tricky, especially during special events. There are paid parking spots available but they fill up quickly. Being the cultural, entertainment and business center of the city, there's always something going on, and you don't want to miss the first quarter of that special event because you were driving around looking for parking. So take note; here are some of the best parking garages near the Convention Center.
The Austin Convention Center Garages
There are two parking garages located right next to the Austin Convention Center; 2nd Street Garage, located on and 5th Street Garage. The 2nd Street Garage is located on 201 East 2nd Street just two blocks away from the venue, and has entrances on Brazos and San Jacinto streets. The 5th Street Garage is located northeast of the Convention Center at Red River and 4th Street with an entrance on 5th street.
The first 30 minutes are free on both garages and the rates go from $5 for 3 hours up to $48 for 24-hour parking (no overnight). Keep in mind the 2nd Street garage does not accept cash, and there are mobility-impaired accessible parking spaces available near the elevators on both facilities.
Chase Tower Garage
The Chase Tower parking garage is located on 221 W 6th St, just a short 10-minute walk from the Austin Convention Center. The rates go from $3 for 20 minutes up to $30 for 24-hour parking (3 a.m. the latest). It's right on 6th street so keep in mind it can fill up very quickly, and availability is first come first served, so get there early if you want to secure a spot.
301 Congress Garage
This convenient parking garage located on 301 Congress Avenue, is also a popular option for people attending events at the Convention Center as it is just a couple blocks away from the venue. The rates go from $3 for the first 20 minutes up to a $35 daily max, and $10 for 12 hour parking on weekends (Sat-Sun).
Austin City Hall Garage
You'll find the Austin City Hall parking garage on 301 W 2nd St, which is less than a 10-minute walk to the Austin Convention Center. Here you get the first 30 minutes for free and the prices go from $5 for one hour up to $25 for the day. They also offer a night rate of $10 if you access the garage from 5 p.m to 5 a.m Monday - Sunday. Keep in mind this parking garage has designated spaces for City Hall employees and community members, so the availability can be limited.
The Perfect Location in Downtown Austin
The Austin Convention Center is perfectly located in the heart of downtown, circled by plenty of hotels, parks, museums, and business hubs. These are some other locations within walking distance of the venue.
Omni Austin Hotel
The Omni Hotel in downtown Austin offers spectacular views, luxury amenities, high-standard accommodations, and fuss-free access to the Austin Convention Center. It also offers grand ballrooms, spacious meeting rooms, and a wonderful heated rooftop pool. If you're staying here during your visit to the Lone Star State's capital, you can also find nearby Omni Austin hotel parking at the Indeed Tower garage.. Discover more Omni Austin hotel parking.
Hilton Austin
Another great place to stay near the Austin Convention Center is the Hilton Hotel on 500 E 4th Street, right next to the venue. It is great for business trips and events, but also, steps away from some of the best entertainment in Austin. The hotel offers 41 event venues, and one of the biggest ballrooms in the city. Discover Hilton Austin parking spots here.
Indeed Tower
The Indeed Tower is a standout skyscraper in the heart of downtown Austin. If you're in for business, you will find top-class office amenities, a dedicated conference center, beautiful outdoor terraces and even a high-performance fitness center. On the grounds, you can also enjoy a nice retail and restaurant area where you can take a break or have a nice lunch after your event.
If you don't like wasting your time, driving around and paying parking tickets, the Smarking garage at the Indeed Tower is your best bet. With our online software, you can reserve your parking days ahead of time and have a space waiting for you on event days. Our parking garage allows access only to pass holders, so you can be sure your car will be safe, and you'll get the best rates in the area. Discover more parking options at the Indeed Tower here.
The Bullock Museum
If you want to learn about the history of Texas, the Bullock Museum is a must-visit. It is a little bit of a longer walk to get there from the Austin Convention Center, but if you walk on Congress Avenue, you'll have an amazing view of the Texas Capitol, cute funky shops, and Instagram-worthy picture spots along the way.
At the museum, you'll find three floors of exhibitions that celebrate Texas history and its culture, as well as an amazing laser IMAX theater. It's definitely worth taking some time to explore the grounds for a couple of hours if you have some extra time before or after your event. Parking near the Bob Bullock Museum is easy with Smarking.