The Long Center Parking - The Best Options to Avoid Last-Minute Hassle

The Long Center for the Performing Arts provides state-of-the-art performance stages for local art groups, including the Austin Lyric Opera, Ballet Austin, and the Austin Symphony Orchestra. Facing the city skyline, Austin's creative home has a unique location offering the most stunning views of the city.

However, the Long Center parking options are not many, and in general, finding parking anywhere in downtown Austin can be a pain. It's no doubt that the driving routes to the Long Center are generally impacted by numerous events around town and local traffic.

If you are attending an event here, and you don't want to miss a moment of this remarkable experience, Smartpass by Smarking is here to save the day. Our flexible parking management software allows you to pick and pay for your parking spot ahead of time. Forget about the hassle of driving around looking for last-minute free space.

Avoid Meters, Tickets & Citations

After a nerve-racking drive, setbacks, and probably a stressful hunt for parking, getting an Austin parking ticket or citation is the last thing you want. So, planning your parking ahead of time is not a bad idea. Here are some Long Center parking garage options.

Valet Parking - $18

If you arrive early, you can access valet parking drop off from the Long Center Circular Drive using the Riverside Drive entrance, it's the first of two driveways on the right side of the street (Keller Williams Circular Drive. Valet Parking is available for most events and performances taking place in Dell Hall. It closes 15 minutes before showtime, so if you are running late, skip the valet and try to find one of the parking garages. Keep in mind, that only cash is accepted at the valet booth.

Palmer Events Center Garage - $8

The Palmer Events Center Parking Garage is located right next to the Long Center and is also accessible from the Riverside Drive entrance (the second driveway using the left lane). Keep in mind this is a public parking facility, and it often fills as it is shared with the Palmer Events Center which may host simultaneous events.

This garage also has Mobility Impaired/Accessible parking spaces available near the elevators on all levels. The valet parking drop-off is also available for mobility-impaired access.

Complimentary Parking

The Palmer Events Center offers complimentary garage parking available for vehicles that have one of the following specialty license plates: Distinguished Service Cross, Air Force Cross, Pearl Harbor Survivors, Army Distinguished Service Cross, Medal of Honor, Navy Cross, Legion of Merit Medal, Medal of Honor, Purple Heart, Pearl Harbor Survivors, and Prisoners of War (House Bill 618 and City Code Section 12-3-8).

One Texas Parking Garage - $8 to $10

The One Texas Center Parking Garage is also available as an overflow parking option. It's located behind the One Texas Center building, off of Haywood Avenue on the southeast corner of Barton Springs Road and South First Street. The garage entrance is next to the Extended Stay America, about a 5-minute walk to the Long Center.

Smarking Parking Garage

Most public parking garages close to the Long Center start to fill up about 30 minutes before showtime. To make your day easier, Smarking provides you with a hassle-free option, offering flexible passes that adjust to your parking needs.

By using your QR code on your mobile, you can access a safe and convenient parking garage just within walking distance of your destinations. Reserving your parking spot ahead of time will take the stress out of your special events.

Popular Locations Nearby

Not going to the Long Center? Many Austin landmarks are located very close by, so a Smarking parking pass is still a great option for you. Here are some other locations you might be visiting nearby the Long Center for the Performing Arts.

The Indeed Tower

This outstanding office building is the tallest and largest in downtown Austin. Apart from its many office amenities, fitness and conference center, there are more than 175 restaurants, bars and coffee shops around. You surely will have something to do around the Indeed Tower and Smarking is your best parking option on the block.

In fact, check out the Indeed Tower parking spots available.

Lady Bird Lake

This river-like reservoir in the Colorado River is the perfect place to go for some outdoor fun, and it's located right by the Long Center. If you are planning on doing one of the hiking and biking trails or enjoying the boardwalk, our parking garage is just minutes away. Get a Smarking day pass and enjoy a worry-free walk.

Butler Pitch & Putt

This historic golf course is located less than a mile away from the Long Center. Whether you are assisting a special event, or just want to spend a day enjoying their many amenities, don't let parking be a headache. The Smarking parking garage is your best bet.

Hyatt Regency Hotel

The Hyatt Regency Hotel is a sophisticated hotel located right on Lady Bird Lake. With its convenient location, you’d be able to take a short stroll to Congress Ave Bridge where they host Austin’s famous bat show. Witness 1.5 million free-tailed bats fly around in the summer at sunset. View the best Hyatt Regency hotel parking spots here.

Dougherty Arts Center

There's always something going on at the Dougherty Arts Center. Austin's Heart of Arts offers a variety of events, theater performances, workshops, gallery openings, art classes and more. If you are taking part in any of these events, find secure and fuss-free parking

nearby. Just 5 minutes away from Dougherty Arts Center, you will find available parking at W Austin.

Peter Pan Mini-Golf

Just a 12 minute walk from the Long Center for the Performing Arts, you'll find the famous Peter Pan Mini-Golf park. For generations, this park has been a great place for families to spend a great Austin-style day and take a picture with the iconic Peter Pan statue as well as the full-size T. Rex. The Smarking parking garage is just minutes away.