Houston Rodeo 2026 Parking: $25 Official Lots vs. Cheap Nearby Spots

Houston Rodeo 2026 Event Details

Lineup

Cody Johnson
Chris Stapleton
Luke Bryan
Lainey Wilson
J Balvin
Rascal Flatts
Lizzo
Creed
Kelly Clarkson
Tim McGraw
Parker McCollum
Shaboozey
Koe Wetzel
Pepe Aguilar
Dwight Yoakam

Event Information

Age RestrictionAll Ages

Dress CodeWestern / Casual

Parking Capacity72220 spots

Schedule

6:00 PM(NRG Stadium)

Doors Open (Weekdays)

6:45 PM(NRG Stadium)

Rodeo Starts (Weekdays)

8:45 PM(Star Stage)

Concert Starts (Weekdays)

2:00 PM(NRG Stadium)

Doors Open (Weekends)

2:45 PM(NRG Stadium)

Rodeo Starts (Weekends)

5:00 PM(Star Stage)

Concert Starts (Weekends)

Houston Rodeo 2026 Parking Information

Pricing

Regular$50.00

Premium$75.00

VIP$100.00

Features

Covered Parking (some garages)
Tailgating (limited areas)
Shuttle Service
Cashless Entry

Get ready for the world's largest livestock show and rodeo! The Houston Rodeo 2026 takes over NRG Park from March 2 to March 22, bringing three weeks of championship rodeo action, carnival rides, and a massive lineup of superstar concerts. With over 2 million visitors expected, parking at NRG Stadium can be a serious challenge. The official Yellow and 610 lots cost $25 (cashless only) and fill up fast, leading to long walks and even longer exit times. Smart attendees are skipping the gridlock by booking private parking through Prked. By reserving a driveway or garage spot nearby, you can often park closer to the entrance than the official lots, save money, and avoid the post-show traffic jams. Whether you're there for the bull riding, the BBQ, or to see stars like Cody Johnson & Chris Stapleton, having a guaranteed parking spot lets you focus on the fun, not the search.

Introduction

Welcome to the big show. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (HLSR) isn't just an event—it's a 20-day takeover of the city. From March 2 to March 22, 2026, NRG Park will host over 2 million visitors for the world's largest livestock exhibition, top-tier rodeo action, and nightly concerts from superstars like Cody Johnson. Whether you're here for the mutton bustin', the carnival deep-fried Oreos, or the headline act, one thing is certain: parking can be a beast.

With crowds this size, the 610 Loop becomes a parking lot of its own. But don't worry—we've done the deep research to help you navigate NRG Park like a seasoned cowboy. From official cashless lots to secret local driveways that skip the gridlock, here is your ultimate guide to parking for the 2026 Houston Rodeo.

Official Parking Options & Pricing

NRG Park has massive parking capacity, but it's divided into specific color-coded lots. Most official parking is cashless (credit/debit only), so leave the cash for the carnival games.

Public Parking Lots ($25)

The primary lots for the general public are the Yellow Lot and the 610 Lot.

Yellow Lot: The main public lot. Enter via Gate 16 off Main St. It opens daily at 6 AM. This is often the most convenient for general entry but fills up fast.
610 Lot: Located off West Bellfort and Kirby. Opens at 9 AM. A solid backup if Yellow is full.
OST 1 Lot: Located nearby, often serves as a park-and-walk or shuttle lot depending on flow.

Cost: Official public parking is typically $25 per vehicle.

Permit Parking

If you see lots labeled Blue, Red, Orange, Maroon, Teal, or Purple, keep moving unless you have a specific pre-purchased permit. These are reserved for season ticket holders, volunteers, and committee members. Do not try to enter these without a hangtag; you will be turned away.

The "Rodeo Express" Park & Ride

If you want to avoid the chaos of driving into the NRG complex entirely, the Park & Ride system is a local favorite. You park at a remote lot and take a shuttle or the METRORail straight to the gate.

Fannin South Transit Center: Park here ($20) and take the METRORail one stop to the stadium. It's fast, but the train gets packed like sardines after the concert.
Maxey Road, Monroe, & West Loop: These lots usually offer free parking with a shuttle fee (approx. $4-$7 round trip). The shuttles drop you off right near NRG Center/Arena.
Woodlands Express: For those coming from the north, the Woodlands Township runs a reservation-based shuttle from the Sawdust Park & Ride.

Event Parking Rules & Arrival Strategy

When to Arrive: Traffic on Kirby Drive and the 610 Loop hits a standstill around 5:00 PM on weekdays. If you're attending a weekday show (Rodeo starts 6:45 PM), aim to be parked by 4:30 PM. For weekends (Rodeo starts 2:45 PM), arrive by 12:00 PM to enjoy the carnival beforehand.

Tailgating: While the World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (Feb 26-28) is a massive tailgate party, traditional tailgating in public lots (Yellow/610) during the main Rodeo run (March 2-22) is generally restricted. Most folks park and head straight to the carnival or The Hideout.

Clear Bag Policy: Remember, NRG Park enforces a strict clear bag policy. Don't walk 20 minutes from your car just to be sent back because of a purse.

Alternative Parking: The Local Secret

Here's the thing savvy visitors know: the official lots are convenient to enter, but they can be a nightmare to exit. You might wait over an hour just to leave the Yellow Lot after a sold-out concert.

This is where Prked comes in.

Locals living in the neighborhoods surrounding NRG Park (especially near Murworth Dr and Lantern Point) often list their private driveways and garage spaces on Prked.

Cheaper: You can often find spots for 40-50% less than the $25 official rate.
Faster Exit: Because you're parking in a residential driveway on the perimeter, you can often slip out onto side streets and avoid the main lot bottlenecks entirely.
Guaranteed: Unlike the Yellow Lot which can hit capacity, booking a spot on Prked guarantees you a space waiting for you.

It's honestly the move if you want to leave the venue quickly and beat the traffic home.

Money-Saving Tips

Check Prked First: Before paying full price at the gate, check the app. You might find a driveway two blocks away for $15 instead of $25.
Carpool: With a $25 flat rate per car, splitting the cost among 4 people makes official parking very affordable.
Use the Metro: Taking the Red Line rail from downtown or the Museum District is only $1.25 each way. If you can park for free somewhere along the rail line (far from the stadium), this is the cheapest option.
Avoid Rideshare Surge: Uber/Lyft surge pricing after the concert is brutal. Walking a few blocks to a pre-booked Prked spot saves you from the $80 surge fare.

Accessibility (ADA Parking)

ADA parking is available in the Blue Lot and Yellow Lot for $25 per day.

First-Come, First-Served: These spots go quickly. You must have a valid state-issued handicap placard or license plate.
Drop-Off: There is usually an accessible drop-off point near Gate 9 off Kirby Drive, but note that Kirby closes to traffic at certain times (often 9 PM weekdays / 6 PM weekends), so check the daily schedule.

Pro Tips for the 2026 Rodeo

Weekdays vs. Weekends: Weekday evenings are rush-hour madness. If you can, take a half-day off work or use the Park & Ride. Weekends have earlier start times, so the traffic is slightly more spread out.
The "After-Show" Wait: If you park in the official lots, don't rush to your car immediately after the concert. Go to the carnival or grab a bite. The traffic jam in the parking lot usually clears up after about 60-90 minutes.
Pre-Book: Whether it's the Woodlands Express or a private spot on Prked, having a reservation reduces anxiety. There is nothing worse than circling the Yellow Lot at 6:30 PM wondering if you'll miss the National Anthem.

Enjoy the 2026 Houston Rodeo! Wear your comfortable boots—there's a lot of walking—and drive safe.

Houston Rodeo 2026 Parking FAQ

How much is parking at the Houston Rodeo 2026?

For the 2026 season, official public parking lots at NRG Park (like the Yellow Lot & 610 Lot) typically charge $25 per vehicle. These are cashless lots, so you'll need a credit or debit card. If you're looking to save a bit of cash or find a spot that doesn't require navigating the massive official lots, savvy visitors often check Prked. Local residents & businesses near the stadium list their private driveways for rent on Prked, often at competitive rates that can undercut the official venue pricing.

Where are the official Houston Rodeo parking lots located?

The main public parking lots for the Rodeo are the Yellow Lot, located at 9003 S Main St, & the 610 Lot at 9051 S Main St. There's also the OST 1 lot at 2103 South Braeswood Blvd. These lots fill up incredibly fast, especially on concert nights. The Yellow Lot is generally considered the primary option for general admission, but be prepared for a bit of a walk or a tram ride to get to the stadium gates.

Are there cheaper parking options for Houston Rodeo?

Official lots are a flat $25, but you can find free parking at some of the Rodeo Express shuttle lots like the West Loop (4675 S Braeswood) or Monroe (8833 1/2 Gulf Fwy) lots—you just pay about $7 per person for the shuttle ride. For a true 'local hack' closer to the venue, I'd recommend checking Prked. You can often find private spots in the surrounding neighborhood that are cheaper than the premium lots & save you the per-person shuttle fee if you have a full car.

Can I buy Houston Rodeo parking in advance?

Official daily parking in the public lots (Yellow & 610) is typically first-come, first-served & paid upon arrival, which can be stressful if you're running late. However, you can absolutely book a guaranteed spot in advance through Prked. It's a lifesaver for peace of mind—you reserve a specific driveway or garage spot near NRG Park ahead of time, so you know exactly where you're going & that a space is waiting for you no matter how crazy traffic gets.

Does the Houston Rodeo accept cash for parking?

No, the Houston Rodeo has gone completely cashless for all official parking lots. You must pay with a credit card, debit card, or mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay at the gate. Make sure you have your card ready to keep the line moving. If you book a private spot via Prked, that's also handled digitally in advance, so you don't need to worry about transactions on arrival.

What is the best parking lot for the Houston Rodeo?

Honestly, it depends on your patience. The Yellow Lot is the largest & most popular, but leaving it after a big concert can take over an hour due to gridlock. The 610 Lot is another solid option but suffers similar congestion. If you want to avoid the post-show bottleneck, many regulars prefer parking further out at a Shuttle Lot (like Reed Road) or booking a private spot on a nearby street via Prked, which often allows for a much quicker exit onto side roads.

Is there handicap accessible parking at NRG Park for the Rodeo?

Yes, there is limited ADA parking available in the Blue & Yellow Lots for $25 per day. These spots are first-come, first-served & require a valid state-issued handicap placard or license plate. Once these spots are full, you'll be directed to other lots. Alternatively, the Rodeo Express shuttles from lots like OST 1 & West Loop are wheelchair accessible & drop you off right near NRG Center & NRG Arena.

How do the Houston Rodeo shuttles work?

The Rodeo Express shuttles are a fantastic way to skip the traffic jam at NRG. You park at a remote lot (like Maxey, Monroe, or West Loop), & comfortable buses take you straight to the venue. Parking at these lots is often free or low-cost, & you just pay for the round-trip bus ticket (usually around $4-$7). The shuttles run continuously, so you rarely have to wait long. It's often less stressful than fighting for a spot in the Yellow Lot.

Can I take the METRORail to the Houston Rodeo?

Absolutely, & it's one of the smartest moves you can make. You can park at the Fannin South Transit Center (1604 West Bellfort Ave) for about $20-$25, which usually covers parking for your car & rail wristbands for all passengers. From there, it's a short ride on the Red Line to the 'Stadium Park/Astrodome' station. The train drops you right in front of NRG Park, completely bypassing the 610 Loop traffic.

What time do the Houston Rodeo parking lots open?

The Yellow Lot typically opens at 6 a.m. daily, which is great if you're planning a full day of livestock shows & carnival rides. The 610 Lot usually opens around 9 a.m. If you're heading to the World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (Feb 26-28), lots open early, but traffic is heavy by mid-afternoon. For evening concerts, try to arrive at least 2-3 hours before the show starts to handle traffic & security.

Can I tailgate in the Houston Rodeo parking lots?

Here's the thing: unlike Texans games where tailgating is huge, tailgating in the public pay lots (Yellow/610) during the Rodeo is generally not permitted or practical due to how tightly they pack the cars. The 'tailgating' experience is really centered around the World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest before the Rodeo starts. If you want a private space to hang out before the show, renting a driveway nearby through Prked might give you that little extra room you won't get in the official crammed lots.

What if the Houston Rodeo parking lots are sold out?

On big concert nights (like Go Tejano Day or major country stars), the official lots can technically reach capacity or become virtually inaccessible due to traffic. If that happens, you have three options: head to a remote Park & Ride lot, look for pirate lots on Fannin (which can be pricey & risky), or check the Prked app to see if a local homeowner has a last-minute spot available nearby. It's a great backup plan when the 'Lot Full' signs come out.

Is there a drop-off zone for rideshare at the Rodeo?

Yes, Uber, Lyft, & taxi drop-offs are usually located in a designated zone within the Yellow Lot (often near Gate 16B off Main St). Be warned: surge pricing leaving the event can be astronomical, & the wait times for a car can exceed an hour. Many locals recommend taking the METRORail one stop south to Fannin South or one stop north into the Medical Center & catching your rideshare from there to save money & time.

How far is the walk from the Yellow Lot to NRG Stadium?

It's a bit of a trek. Depending on where exactly you park in the massive Yellow Lot, you could be walking 10 to 15 minutes to reach the stadium gates. There are trams run by committee members that circulate through the lots to pick people up & drop them off near the entrance, which is a lifesaver if you're wearing cowboy boots that aren't quite broken in yet.

Does the Woodlands Express go to the Houston Rodeo?

Yes! The Woodlands Express offers a special seasonal service from the Sawdust Park & Ride (701 Westridge Rd). It's a very popular option for folks coming from the north side. You buy a round-trip ticket (usually ~$15), park your car for free at the Park & Ride, & enjoy a climate-controlled coach bus ride straight to NRG. It runs on weekends & weeknights during the Rodeo.

What is the traffic like leaving the Houston Rodeo?

Honestly, it's gridlock. Leaving the Yellow or 610 lots after a sold-out concert can take 60-90 minutes just to get onto the highway. The police direct traffic, but with 70,000+ people leaving at once, it's slow. To avoid this, consider parking in a private spot via Prked on a side street. You can often exit through the neighborhood roads & reach a different on-ramp, bypassing the main line of cars stuck at the stadium gates.

Is overnight parking allowed at NRG Park for the Rodeo?

No, overnight parking is strictly prohibited in the daily public lots. All vehicles must be removed after the event ends each night. If you leave your car, it will likely be towed. If you need to leave a vehicle overnight for some reason, you're better off finding a secure garage in the Medical Center or booking a multi-day spot with a private host.

How long is the Houston Rodeo event each day?

The Rodeo is a marathon, not a sprint! On weekdays, the rodeo competition starts around 6:45 PM, with the concert following around 8:45 PM or 9:00 PM. On weekends, it starts earlier (around 2:45 PM). However, the grounds (carnival, livestock show, shopping) open much earlier. Most people spend 4-6 hours on site. Make sure your parking plan accounts for a long day—you don't want to be rushing back to a metered spot.

Is parking different for the BBQ Cookoff vs the Rodeo?

The lots are the same (Yellow, 610, etc.), but the demand pattern is different. The World's Championship Bar-B-Que Contest (Feb 26-28, 2026) is a massive street party atmosphere. Traffic starts much earlier in the day (around 2 PM) as people leave work early to head to the tents. The shuttle lots are highly recommended for the Cookoff because the onsite lots fill up with team permit holders & early arrivals very quickly.

Are there EV charging stations at NRG Park?

NRG Park has very limited EV charging infrastructure in the public lots. You shouldn't rely on charging your car while parked there for the Rodeo. It's best to top up at a Supercharger or public station elsewhere in Houston before you head to the venue, so you aren't worrying about range while you're trying to enjoy the concert.

What is the bag policy & does it affect parking?

NRG Park has a strict clear bag policy (clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags not exceeding 12"x6"x12"). Small clutch purses are also allowed. If you bring a non-compliant bag, you will be turned away at the gate & have to walk all the way back to your car to store it. Given that the walk from the Yellow Lot can be 15 minutes each way, checking your bag before you leave your vehicle is crucial to saving your feet!

Where do motorcycles park at the Houston Rodeo?

Motorcycles generally park in the same lots as cars, & unfortunately, they usually have to pay the full vehicle rate ($25). There isn't a dedicated discount motorcycle lot for the general public. Sometimes finding a smaller private spot via Prked can be cheaper for bikers, as some hosts offer lower rates for motorcycles since they take up less driveway space.

Houston Rodeo 2026 Local Area

NRG Park is located in the South Loop district of Houston, sandwiched between Kirby Drive, South Main Street, & Interstate 610. During Rodeo season, this entire area transforms into a high-traffic zone. The 'Medical Center' traffic to the north adds to the congestion, making the main entrances off Kirby Drive particularly slow during peak hours (5 PM - 8 PM). For getting to the venue, the METRORail Red Line is a solid public transit option, stopping right at NRG Park. However, if you're driving, local knowledge is power. Many residents in the nearby Braeswood and Astrodome neighborhoods rent out their driveways through Prked, offering a 'park and walk' alternative that savvy locals swear by. These spots often allow you to utilize the pedestrian bridges over Kirby, dropping you right near the carnival entrance while your car stays safe in a residential driveway, away from the fender-benders of the main lots. Nearby dining is limited to fast food on Main St, so most attendees stick to the carnival food (fried Oreos, anyone?) or head to Rice Village or Montrose pre-show.

Houston Rodeo 2026 Parking Guide: Official Lots, Maps & Best Alternatives