Austin, Texas, known for its vibrant music scene, burgeoning tech industry, and scenic outdoor spaces, also faces challenges typical of a rapidly growing city, such as parking. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, understanding the parking dynamics in Austin can significantly enhance your experience. This post provides a detailed overview of parking in Downtown Austin and the Texas Capitol with useful tips and FAQs.

Public Parking Options:

Austin offers a variety of public parking options, including street parking, parking garages, and lots. The city employs both metered parking and flat-rate parking garages, especially in downtown areas and near major attractions like Zilker Park and the State Capitol.

Parking Regulations:

Parking regulations in Austin are enforced to ensure turnover and accessibility. These include time limits, no-parking zones, and residential parking permits in certain neighborhoods. It’s essential to read signs carefully to avoid tickets and towing.

Event Parking:

During major events such as SXSW or Austin City Limits, parking in Downtown Austin becomes particularly challenging. Many venues and the city itself offer special event parking options which may come at a premium cost but provide convenience.

Q&A

Visiting GovExperts

Where can I park if I’m visiting GovExperts (919 Congress Ave., Ste 1255 Austin, Texas 78701)?

You can park at the Capitol Center Garage located at 919 Congress Avenue with an access to the entrance off of 10th st and Congress Ave. This garage offers convenient access to the GovExperts office as well as surrounding offices.

Parking in Downtown Austin

1. Where can I park in downtown Austin?

In downtown Austin there is generally metered street parking and various garages. Metered parking usually operates from 8 a.m. to midnight on different days of the week. Garages offer both hourly and monthly rates, providing alternatives for both short visits and regular downtown access.

2. What are the typical costs for parking?

Metered street parking typically costs between $1.00 to $1.25 per hour. Parking garages vary in price, with some offering evening rates and others providing flat daily rates or monthly passes.

3. Are there any parking programs for affordability?

Yes, Austin has an Affordable Parking Program designed to reduce economic barriers for those who work downtown, offering access to selected garages at reduced rates during specified hours.

4. What about parking for special events or overnight?

For special events, downtown parking rates/hours may vary, and some garages offer special event pricing. Overnight parking is available in metered spaces with an overnight fare. Parking on certain streets like 6th Street is restricted on weekends during specific hours.

5. Is there disabled parking available?

Yes, individuals with a disabled parking permit can park at metered spaces for free, providing accessible options throughout downtown Austin.

6. Are there electric vehicle charging stations in Austin parking facilities?

Yes, Austin is promoting green transportation, with many parking facilities now including EV charging stations.

7. Can I reserve parking in advance in Austin?

Yes, several apps and websites allow you to book your parking spot ahead of time, especially useful during major events.

For more detailed information and to view interactive parking maps, you can visit the City of Austin’s parking page or resources like Parkopedia and SpotAngels, which offer comprehensive guides and the ability to compare rates and find the best parking spots in real-time.

Parking at Texas Capitol

1. Where can I find parking at the Texas Capitol?

Parking is available at the Capitol Visitors Parking Garage between Trinity and San Jacinto Streets at 12th and 13th streets. The first two hours are free, with a charge of $1.00 for each additional half-hour. There is a maximum of $12.00 per day. Metered parking is also available. NOTE: Metered street parking between 10th Street and MLK Street is monitored and enforced by the Texas Department of Public Safety. These parking meters are enforced:

• Between 13th street and MLK street: Monday to Saturday 7am to 6pm
• Between 12th street and 10th street: Monday to Wednesday 7am to 6pm, Thursday and Friday 7am to 11:59 pm, and Saturday 11am to 11:59 pm.

Parking permits obtained from the City of Austin are not valid within the Capitol Complex.

2. What are the operating hours for the Capitol Visitors Parking Garage? 

The garage is open Monday through Friday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. No overnight parking allowed.

3. Are there special parking provisions for weekends and events?

During weekends, parking is sometimes free but can be subject to prepaid fees for special events. The maximum daily charge on weekends and special events can vary.

4. What are the enforcement hours for parking meters at the Capitol Complex?

Parking meters located between 13th street and MLK street are enforced Monday to Saturday from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The enforcement hours may vary slightly.

5. How can I obtain a disabled parking permit for the Capitol Complex?

To obtain a “Permanent Disabled” parking permit, you must present a completed application for a disabled permit at the Parking Administration Office. This application must be accompanied by evidence of a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) permanent disabled parking privilege issued by a tax assessor-collector or a recent physician’s prescription stating the permanent disability.

6. Is there a contact for more information on parking at the Texas Capitol?

For more details, you can reach out via email at [email protected] or by phone at 512.463.6365

These details should help you plan your visit to the Texas Capitol efficiently. Always check for any recent updates or changes before your visit, especially concerning special events that might affect parking availability and fees.