Visitor’s Guide

Welcome to Austin and to SOLAR 2026. This visitor’s guide is designed to help you plan your trip, navigate the city, and make the most of your conference experience. Bookmark this page and check back for updates as the conference approaches.

Conference at a Glance

• Dates: October 19–21
• Venue: Palmer Events Center, Austin, TX
• Format: Fully in-person

SOLAR 2026 brings together researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, educators, and advocates to advance solar-led renewable energy solutions through technical sessions, workshops, networking, and exhibitions.

Getting to Austin

By Air

Austin is served by Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), approximately 8 miles from downtown and the Palmer Events Center.

Transportation from the Airport:

• Rideshare services (Uber and Lyft)
• Taxis
• Rental cars
• Capital Metro Airport Flyer (Route 20)

By Car

Austin is accessible via major highways including I-35, US-290, and TX-71. Parking garages and surface lots are available near the Palmer Events Center and throughout downtown.

Conference Venue

Palmer Events Center

Address: 900 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78704

Located along Lady Bird Lake, the Palmer Events Center sits between downtown Austin and the South Congress district. The venue is within walking distance of parks, trails, restaurants, and hotels.

Where to Stay

Austin offers a wide range of accommodations, from large hotels to boutique and budget-friendly options.

Recommended Areas:

• Downtown Austin
• South Congress (SoCo)
• East Austin

October is a popular time to visit Austin. Attendees are encouraged to book lodging early. 

AirBnBs:

#Beds	Location	Total Price	Booking Link
3	2nd St	$959	Kasa | Renovated Kitchen, Pool Access | 2nd Street
2	Lake Austin Blvd	$371	7-Minute Walk to Deep Eddy Pool! Parking + Grill
1	W 5th	$46	Clarksville’s Bungalow in the Trees
3	W 6th	$665	6th St Escape w/Refreshing Pool – Walk Everywhere!

Getting Around the City

• Walking: Many downtown destinations are walkable from the conference venue
• Public Transit: Capital Metro buses and MetroRail
• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are widely available
• Biking & Scooters: Austin has extensive bike lanes and shared electric scooters

What to Expect in October

• Weather: Warm days and mild evenings
  • Average daytime highs in the low 80s (°F)
  • Evening lows in the mid 60s (°F)
• What to Wear: Business casual attire for conference sessions; comfortable walking shoes recommended

Dining & Local Favorites

Austin is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene.

You’ll find:

• Tex-Mex and tacos
• Barbecue
• Vegetarian and vegan-friendly options
• Coffee shops, food trucks, and casual dining

South Congress and Downtown Austin offer many dining options within walking distance or a short ride from the venue.

Things to Do in Austin

If you have time before or after conference sessions, consider exploring:

• The Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail
• Zilker Park and Barton Springs Pool
• Live music venues throughout the city
• Shops, galleries, and cafés along South Congress Avenue

Sustainability in Austin

In alignment with the mission of the American Solar Energy Society and the renewable energy community:

• Bring a reusable water bottle
• Use public transportation, biking, or walking when possible
• Support local and sustainable businesses
• Recycle and compost where available

Accessibility & Inclusion

ASES is committed to providing a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible conference experience. Accessibility services and accommodation details will be shared closer to the event.

Stay Connected

Updates will be shared through:

• The SOLAR 2026 conference website: ases.org/conference
• On-site signage and the information desk
• Official conference communications through the Whova App.

We look forward to welcoming you to Austin for SOLAR 2026 and to three days of learning, collaboration, and connection!