The #1 recurring practical question. The short version: park in a garage or
take the free shuttle; downtown meters are enforced, and event nights fill
everything.
- The CARTA free downtown shuttle loops let you park once (Northshore
garages or the aquarium garage) and ride free for the whole day
(gocarta.org).
- Free parking hours: many meters and garages go free after 6pm and on
weekends - check the posted signs; it changes.
- Aquarium / Riverfront garages - closest to the attractions; priciest on event days.
- Market Street Garage and the transit garage - standard downtown rates
(gocarta.org).
- EPB / Chamber garages - sometimes open for events; signs posted.
- County parking garage (615 Walnut St / 625 Cherry St) — the courthouse garage between the Courthouse and Courts buildings (map listings call it the County Central Parking Garage; LAZ-operated, 707 spaces). Free on weekends and weekday evenings (5pm–5am) since the County Commission approved it unanimously in Nov 2025 — see Local 3 News and Times Free Press. Handy for the Auditorium, Miller Plaza, and West Village. Verify posted hours before you go — policy can change.
- Arrive before 5pm or have a garage plan; streetside fills first.
- Follow the event parking signs - extra lots open around the stadium and
the Choo Choo.
- Leaving valuables visible in the car - car break-ins happen downtown,
park in attended garages and hide everything.
- Ignoring the 2-hour street limit while you "grab a bite" - they ticket.
- Driving a second loop "to find free" instead of just taking a garage -
garages are cheaper than the ticket.
Last updated: September 2026 — web-verified (Walnut St garage free evenings).