How to Escape SXSW
Every year, two weekends in March are taken up by SXSW keynote speakers, musical performances, and interactive exhibitions. Attendees fill the streets, take over coffee shops, and leave you with absolutely no parking. In effect, from March 10-19, Austin will come to a standstill.
Words By Jessica Devenyns
Find the Locals’ Hideaway
Not everyone can or wants to leave Austin to the mercy of SXSW tourists. Many choose to stay in Austin to protect whatever vestiges of their city they can. If you are one of these vigilantes, make sure that you at least have a few places that you can go to discuss defense techniques with your comrades and enjoy a few hours of serenity before you once again brave the bustle.
A good place to start is Cuvée Coffee. Although their coffee is good and the location is trendy, the shop’s Wi-Fi blackout policy makes it less than ideal for those Instagramming their SXSW adventures and checking their schedules for the next event.
Another great option is Nubian Queen Lola’s Cajun Soul Food. This east side staple has been serving up delectable dishes for years. Somehow, however, it remains a safe spot under eventhe radar to enjoy good food and great conversation. Just be aware that it’s closed on Sundays and Mondays to feed the homeless.
Putting Your House Up for Grabs
This year, consider SXSW an opportunity. Rather than grumble that you can’t find street parking in your own neighborhood, leave that battle to someone else and rent out your home for the week.
List your home on Airbnb or HomeAway. Every night that you are away from the mayhem you could be earning between $500-$1000. Think about it, you could be rewarded for escaping the chaos.
So while you are away enjoying the quiet serenity of wherever else in the United States you choose to go, rest assured that you are getting your trip paid for and then some.
Take a Hike
If all else fails, take a hike. Grab your gear, grab your friends, and drive out of the city for the weekend. You don’t even have to go far. Just east of town you’ll find Webberville Park off FM 969. A little farther on, you’ll come upon Bastrop State Park off TX 21. Whichever park you choose to visit, rest assured you’ll see a whole lot of nature and no signs of SXSW.
