Free downtown Austin parking starts this week for local visitors

A Park ATX parking meter sign showing ways to pay for parking is seen along Guadalupe Street. in Austin on April 1.
Ricardo B. Brazziell/American-Statesman

The Downtown Austin Alliance is rolling out a new effort to keep foot traffic flowing to downtown businesses as construction ramps up at the Austin Convention Center.

On Monday, the group began offering free and discounted parking through a 10-week “Downtown Patron Parking Pilot,” aimed at easing access to restaurants, bars and entertainment venues affected by the convention center’s ongoing redevelopment.

The pilot program, running through April 30, is designed to support small businesses navigating reduced foot traffic during the convention center overhaul, offering customers up to two hours of free parking or discounted rates for longer stays at two centrally located garages.

How to get free, discounted parking under new program

Participating businesses distribute parking vouchers to patrons, which can be redeemed at the Second Street Garage at 201 E. Second St. or the Fifth Street Garage at 601 E. Fifth St. The vouchers are valid all day Sunday through Thursday and until 4 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.

Parking remains first-come, first-served, and both garages may close periodically for special events.

More than two dozen businesses are participating. Near Second Street, participating spots include Antone’s Nightclub, Cedar Door, Parker Jazz Club and Sushi Roku Austin, among others. Around Fifth Street, the list includes Central District Brewing, Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill, Seven Grand Whiskey Bar and The Escape Game, along with a mix of bars, shops and entertainment venues.

Vouchers will be available through April 30 or while supplies last.