One of Austin’s beloved kickoff-to-spring traditions is the ABC Kite Fest. This free event will take place on Sunday, March 12 in Zilker Park, and if you haven’t been to the Kite Fest, it is a sight to behold. Hundreds of kites dot the Austin sky, with the beautiful downtown skyline as the backdrop.
As is the case with many of the events that take place at Zilker Park, traffic and parking can be a challenge. Here are some options:
Take a shuttle
Consider parking at one of the following free lots and taking a shuttle to the park. Shuttles will leave from:
    • Downtown at the State parking lots at 1604 Colorado
    • South at the Toney Burger Activity Center at 3200 Jones Road
Shuttles to the park will run from 9:45 am until 2:30 pm; return shuttles will run until 5:30 pm. The cost is $5 for people 12 and over. Kids and well-behaved dogs (on leashes) ride free.
Ride your bike
There will be bicycle racks on the south side of Barton Springs Road across from the Great Lawn.
Take the bus
Capital Metro offers several routes and stops that are convenient to Zilker Park. Find more information here:Â Capitol Metro schedules.
Brave the traffic and parking challenges in your car (if you must!)
Free parking will be available all day at One Texas Center at 505 Barton Springs Road.
Depending on other events taking place in the area, parking may also available for a fee at the The Palmer Events Center at 900 Barton Springs Road.
Be aware that Barton Springs Road will be closed from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm during the Kite Festival. Also, if you’re coming via Loop 360, do not plan to exit on Barton Skyway or Rollingwood/2244, as there will be significant delays/closures at those exits.
For more information, visit the festival website.
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