ACL {2024} Made Easy 

How to make the most of Austin City Limits Music Festival.

Words by Ashley Bowling

Photo by Roger Ho

Austin City Limits Music Festival is just around the corner, and if you’re planning to make the most of your weekend, I’ve got the ultimate itinerary that blends great music, local flavor, and a few hidden perks. Whether you’re there to see big-name headliners or want to experience something uniquely Austin, this guide will help you navigate the festival like you’re a seasoned local, leaving each night on a musical high.

Photo by Charles Reagan

Day 1: Ease Into the Festival

Start your day by exploring the festival grounds, soaking in the energy, and grabbing some local bites from East Austin taco trailer Discada, or some classic Texas grub from  Black’s Barbecue. You’ll want to pace yourself, but if you’re an American Express Card Member, don’t miss the Amex Experience area near the main stage. They’ve gone all out this year, offering some exclusive goodies. You can personalize a trucker hat or a mini tote in their Merch Customization Room, adding fun pins and making it festival ready. The Get Ready With Me station is perfect for a quick touch-up and a selfie with your Amex merch or festival pals.

Once you’re geared up, it’s time to check out some music. Start the weekend with Midnight Navy, a sax singer-songwriter from Austin who’s incorporating a sexy synth wave into his bedroom pop, feel-good melodies. Next, visit Norah Jones’ smooth, soulful voice drifting through the crowd, begging us to “Come Away” with her, straight back to 2002. Stephen Sanchez is also a great start to your festival experience. His smooth voice and nostalgic vibes will ease you into the ACL groove with a “High.” Afterward, swing by the Amex Small Business Market and shop for festival-ready accessories or quirky art from local brands like Xtao’, Future Vagabond, and Paper Work.

To close out day one, make sure to catch Leon Bridges. His soulful groove is guaranteed to have the crowd swaying under the Texas sky, singing along to one of his newest “That’s What I Love.” If you’re feeling extra lucky and you’ve got the right card, see if you can score some American Express Side Stage viewing access for an unbeatable vantage point of Chris Stapleton. His raw, country-fueled sound belting “You Should Probably Leave” will seem fitting, knowing that as the night winds down we’re sure to be experiencing the internal tug-of-war of “Should I Stay or Should I Go?”

Day 2: Go Big or Go Home

Start day two with a little more energy by heading to the Amex Saloon, exclusively for premium Card Members. There’s a saloon-inspired bar with shaded seating, lawn games, and a chill, Old Western atmosphere—perfect for getting a refreshing drink before diving into the music. If your outfit needs a little country refresh, you can personalize a pair of boots with custom branding while you’re there.

Saturday’s lineup is packed with must-see artists. First up is local artist, Zach Person, whose indie rock sounds leave music fans connected on a sonic level. Next, Teddy Swims’ mix of soul, rock, and pop will surely amp up your day while you “Lose Control.” After his set, grab some brisket tacos at Taco Bronco and head over to see Hermanos Gutiérrez. Their Latin-western hypnotic sounds will transport you straight to the desert from the heart of Austin. Next, Benson Boone will take the stage with an electrifying performance while the crowd sings along to “Beautiful Things.”

Of course, the main stage headliners are one of the biggest draws of the festival, and this year Dua Lipa’s set is sure to be an unmissable event. She’s bringing her high-energy pop to close out the night. Don’t forget to stop by the Mystery Merch Window earlier in the day for a chance to grab some limited-edition merch from Dua Lipa herself.

Day 3: Chill & Explore Local Talent

By Sunday, it’s time to check out some of Austin’s finest local musicians. Start with a “pop” by catching Chief Cleopatra and allow her ethereal performance to ease you and “Friends” into the day with infectious tunes like “Weekend Warrior.” Afterward, make a point to wander the small stages and catch some up-and-coming Austin talent. ACL always has a great lineup of local bands that are worth discovering. In my opinion, this is one of the best parts of ACL. You never know who you’ll discover. We’ve seen talents on small stages at ACL who have made huge names for themselves.

For those winding down their festival fun, head back to the Amex Experience for one last drink at the disco-cowboy-inspired bar. Try a hard seltzer or a non-alcoholic option if you’re detoxing from the weekend. Better yet, stop by Juiceland and sip like a local on a frozen concoction packed with nutrients.

Bonus Tips:

Amex Cashless Entrances will help you avoid long lines, so ensure you’ve linked your card to your ACL wristband. 

If you don’t have the Amex card, platinum cardholders get their cards overnighted to them once they are approved. So it’s not too late to get access to all the ACL Amex perks!

Don’t forget about the $5 Spend Credit—it’s an easy way to grab a little something extra at the festival.

With this easy ACL game plan, you’ll be able to hit the musical highlights, enjoy some exclusive perks, and still have time to explore the festival’s local flair. ACL 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable experience, leaving you singing and dancing long after the last encore—until next year.