About the Zilker Hillside Theater
Parking Information
To keep the summer musical free and open to all, Zilker Theatre Productions is introducing paid parking for the first time. This step is vital in helping us build long-term sustainability and cover the rising operational costs of producing a full-scale musical in Zilker Park.
Your support through parking fees ensures the arts remain accessible to everyone, and helps keep this Austin tradition alive for years to come. Thank you for being part of our community and helping us bring live musical theatre to Zilker Park, at no cost to attend, every summer!
Enter the park from the Mopac Service Road at Andrew Zilker Road.
Parking Details – Summer 2025
Paid Parking Begins:
- Thursdays & Fridays, 5:00 PM
- Saturdays & Sundays, 4:00 PM
- Roads reopen at 8:30 PM nightly
Pricing:
- General Parking (Polo Field): $20 per vehicle
- VIP Parking (Top Lot, limited): $100 per vehicle (subject to availability)
- Payment: Credit/Debit Card only – no cash accepted
- ADA Parking: No charge for vehicles with ADA placards or plates
Designated Lots:
- Polo Field & Andrew Zilker Road: General Audience
- Behind the Theatre (Pool Lot): Reserved ADA Parking Only
- Bike Racks: Available onsite
Free Parking Options:
- Under Mopac bridge at Stratford Drive & Lou Neff Road
- Stratford Lot (Rock Garden Lot)
- Lou Neff Drive around the park
Alternative Transportation Options
CapMetro Bus Routes:
- Routes 3, 4, 30, and 663 have stops near Zilker Park. For schedules and stop info, visit: org/ourservices/busroutes
Rideshare Drop-off Location:
- Intersection of Stratford Drive & Andrew Zilker Road
Parking FAQ
What if the Polo Field is closed?
Free parking under the Mopac bridge will be available. After 7:15 PM, VIP spaces may open to general parking.
What if the show is canceled due to weather?
Parking fees will not be charged if the closure happens before 5:00 PM. No refunds once payment is processed.
Can I prepay for parking?
At this time, parking is first-come, first-served and not available for pre-purchase.
Is ADA parking available?
Yes! Vehicles with valid ADA placards or plates may park for free in the reserved pool lot behind the theatre. Please notify a parking attendant upon arrival. Signs onsite will also direct you.
Have more questions? For parking concerns or assistance, please contact Central Texas Valet at their dedicated line: (737) 320-7195
Weather Policy
In the event of inclement weather on show nights, we will post an update on social media. The ZTP team believes that the show must go on for our audience members, and we will endeavor to present our show until the last possible moment. Thank you for your understanding if we are forced to cancel a performance because of actor and audience safety, weather, or city ordinance.
Pets
Pets are not allowed. (Except service dogs) Due to the large number of people in close quarters, as well as distractions for your fellow play-goers and the actors, we ask that you please leave your pets at home.
Food & Drink
Feel free to bring a picnic basket and/or cooler. No smoking, alcohol or glass containers allowed in the park area by law. A variety of ice cold drinks and snacks can be purchased from ZTP’s Concession Stand – proceeds benefit the production.
Prohibited Items
No smoking, alcohol or glass containers allowed in the park area by law. Please help us keep The Hillside clean by putting your trash and recycling in the available containers – and packing as much out with you as you can.
Seating
Blankets
Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets to sit on The Hillside and enjoy the show. Blankets may be put down on The Hillside at any time, including before the show. However, please note that ZTP is not responsible for any lost or stolen items.
In order to make the most efficient use of The Hillside, we encourage you to place blankets as close together as possible. And please take up only as much room as you actually need! Austin in known for its friendliness so if you end up having space left over, consider offering to share your blanket with those in less fortunate viewing spots.
*Plastic tarps are not allowed.
Lawn Chairs
Full-height lawn chairs are only allowed in the ADA section or at the top of The Hillside as they block the view of other patrons. Please be respectful of patrons on blankets when placing full height chairs.
Chair Rental
ZTP is offers low profile (28″) stadium chairs for a donation of $5 per seat. These chairs can be placed anywhere on the hillside for the duration of our performance. Please look for our rental booth and bring a photo ID. Chairs are available while supplies last.
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible seating is located at the front of the stage. If you require access to this seating space, please see one of our front of house staff or COA staff members, and we will ensure your needs are accommodated.
Reserved Spaces
ZTP often needs to block off spaces for our donors and cast members’ families. Please respect these marked areas.
No Sit Zone
A clear walkway on the second level must be maintained at all times.
Strobe Lighting
Please be aware that strobe lighting is used in some ZTP presentations. Please contact us for strobe lighting information for a particular show.
ZTP's Hillside Tips Checklist
Beverly S. Sheffield Zilker Hillside Theater
A beloved outdoor theatrical venue, located in heart of Austin’s Zilker Park near the picturesque Barton Springs. The Zilker Hillside Theater has been home to engaging events, shows, and concerts for over 50 years. The Hillside is host to many exciting annual events such as Shakespeare in the Park, Zilker Theatre Productions’ Summer Musical, and The South Asian New Year.
For more information, please visit AustinTexas.gov.
Getting to The Hillside
Questions about getting to The Hillside? Visit our transportation information page.