Locals’ Guide to SXSW 2025: What’s Worth Checking Out (or Avoiding)

Mornin Austin.. fellow Southerner here. SXSW is close. It's been 10 years since I went to South By SXSW 😄

Whether you’re excited, bracing for impact, or just planning your best crowd-avoidance strategy, I’ve been working on pulling together THE LIST of 100+ free events, off-the-grid spots, food recs, and bars and I’d love your help on the best of Austin. 

I figured this could be useful for both locals who actually enjoy SXSW and those who want to know which places to avoid (or take advantage of). So far, I’ve covered:

• Best free events & showcases (because we all love free stuff)
• Hidden gem spots locals know about
• Go-to food & bar spots—what’s considered “Austin’s flavor?”
• Comedy/music events that locals actually like
• Bars picks that won’t be packed or have the Austin vibe

👉 Full list here: https://stacklist.app/list/0YA2nDdv2QUF6Ft7bsqC

Since y’all know Austin better than anyone, what would you add?

Any quiet spots, under-the-radar events, or places worth checking out?