The Topeka Performing Arts Center (TPAC) in Topeka, KS offers world-class Broadway shows, concerts, and other events in the heart of downtown. With limited parking directly around TPAC, knowing where to park nearby is key to having a smooth experience getting to and from shows. This article provides an overview of the best parking options within a short walking distance of TPAC.
TPAC Parking Garage
The closest and most convenient parking option is the TPAC parking garage directly across the street from TPAC at 214 SE 8th Avenue. The parking garage has 360 spaces on 5 levels and is exclusively for TPAC patrons.
Hours: The TPAC parking garage opens 1 hour before performances and events at TPAC and closes 1 hour after performances end.
Cost: Parking in the TPAC garage is $5-10 per vehicle depending on the event. Cash or credit cards are accepted.
Accessibility: The parking garage has elevators and stairwells on each level for accessibility. There are accessible parking spaces located near the elevators on each level.
The TPAC parking garage tends to fill up quickly, so arriving early is recommended, especially for popular shows. The garage is conveniently located right across the street from TPAC, making for a very short walk to events.
On-Street Parking
On-street parking is available on several streets around TPAC in downtown Topeka:
- SE 8th Street – On the same block as TPAC
- SE 7th Street – 1 block south of TPAC
- SW Jackson Street – 1 block west of TPAC
- SW Van Buren Street – 2 blocks west of TPAC
Most on-street parking around TPAC is metered or has a 2-hour limit. Rates are typically $1-2 per hour with payment required Monday-Saturday from 8am-5pm. Be sure to read signage carefully to avoid getting a parking ticket.
Some key tips for on-street parking:
- Have plenty of quarters for parking meters
- Watch the time and move your vehicle before the time limit is up
- Avoid parking in no parking or loading zones
On-street parking tends to fill up fast, so arriving early is key. However, some spots may open up as showtime nears and people leave to go into TPAC. Checking a wider radius of blocks around TPAC can help find an open spot.
Topeka Library Garage
Another option within a short walk of TPAC is the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library parking garage at 1515 SW 10th Avenue, about 2 blocks southwest of TPAC.
Hours: The garage is open daily from 7am-11pm.
Cost: Parking is free in the library garage.
Accessibility: The garage has elevators and stairwells for accessibility. There are accessible parking spaces on the first floor near the elevator.
This 5-level parking garage offers over 500 free spaces. From there, it is about a 5-10 minute walk northeast along SW 10th Avenue to reach TPAC. This garage is great if the TPAC garage and on-street parking are full.
Evergy Plaza Garage
The Evergy Plaza parking garage at 820 S Kansas Avenue is another option approximately 4 blocks southeast of TPAC.
Hours: The garage is open 24/7.
Cost: Parking is free after 5pm on weekdays and all day on weekends. On weekdays from 7am-5pm, parking is $1 per hour.
Accessibility: The garage has an elevator and stairwells for accessibility. Accessible parking spaces are located near the elevator entrance.
This 7-level garage has over 900 spaces. From Evergy Plaza, it is about a 10-15 minute walk northwest along S Kansas Avenue and then SW 8th Street to reach TPAC. When evening or weekend shows are happening at TPAC, the free parking here is very convenient.
Street Parking Near Evergy Plaza
In addition to the Evergy Plaza garage, metered on-street parking is available near Evergy Plaza that can serve as an overflow option. Prime streets to check are S Kansas Ave, SW 8th Ave, SW 7th Ave, and SW Van Buren St. Parking rates vary but tend to be $1-2 per hour. Watch for time limits and pay close attention to signage. From Evergy Plaza, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to TPAC.
Parking Validation
Some shows and events at TPAC will provide parking validation if you park in the TPAC garage or other nearby garages like Evergy Plaza. Validation will cover part or all of your parking fee. Be sure to ask when you arrive if parking validation is available. TPAC will announce ahead of time on its website and social media if a show is offering parking validation.
Public Transportation
Instead of driving and parking near TPAC, consider taking public transportation. The Quincy Street Station is just 2 blocks east of TPAC, providing access to Topeka Metro bus routes. Many buses stop right at 6th and Quincy next to the station. Fares are $1 per ride or $3 for an all-day pass.
Some key Topeka Metro routes that stop near Quincy Street Station include:
- #4 Wanamaker
- #5 29th & Fairlawn
- #11 Oakland Express
With some advance planning, you can plot a bus route to TPAC from many points around Topeka. The bus drops off right near TPAC, avoiding any parking hassles.
Ridesharing
Using a rideshare service like Lyft or Uber is another parking-free way to get to TPAC. With the rideshare drop-off zone right in front of TPAC on SW 8th Street, it makes for very convenient door-to-door service. Rates vary based on time and demand, but are often comparable or cheaper than parking costs.
Accessibility at TPAC
TPAC aims to provide excellent accessibility for all patrons. In addition to having accessible parking spaces at all recommended parking garages near TPAC, the facility offers:
- Wheelchair availability – TPAC has wheelchairs to borrow free of charge
- Accessible seating – Choose wheelchair accessible seating when purchasing tickets. Companion seats are nearby.
- Accessible restrooms – ADA-compliant restrooms are available on every level
- Assistive listening devices – Headsets or other listening devices are available
- ASL interpretation – Available for some performances with advance request
Contact the TPAC box office ahead of time to request and arrange for any accessibility needs. The friendly staff is there to help.
Top Parking Tips for TPAC
To summarize, here are the top tips for where to park at TPAC:
- Arrive early – Give yourself plenty of time to park and get inside
- Consider TPAC garage – Most convenient but fills fast
- Check on-street parking – But watch for time limits and costs
- Use nearby garages – Library, Evergy Plaza good backups
- Ask about validation – Some shows provide free or discounted parking
- Try the bus – Quincy Street Station is very close by
- Use a rideshare – Easy dropoff right at TPAC entrance
With numerous parking and transportation options in the vicinity, you can choose the best way to arrive at TPAC for your show or event. Follow these tips to park or get to TPAC smoothly and focus on enjoying the wonderful performances and amenities inside this premier Topeka venue.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about parking at the Topeka Performing Arts Center:
What is the address for the TPAC parking garage?
The address for the TPAC parking garage is 214 SE 8th Ave, Topeka, KS 66603. It is directly across SW 8th Street from TPAC.
How late can I park at the TPAC garage?
The TPAC garage closes 1 hour after performances end at TPAC each night. Make sure to move your vehicle by then.
Can I park at TPAC if I’m not going to an event there?
No, the TPAC parking garage is only for people attending events, performances, and shows at TPAC. It is not available for public parking otherwise.
Is street parking free near TPAC?
Most on-street parking near TPAC is metered or has a time limit. Be sure to have change for meters and avoid parking longer than posted time limits unless you move your vehicle. Read all parking signs closely.
Are there accessible parking spaces at TPAC?
Yes, the TPAC garage, nearby public garages, and on-street parking have dedicated accessible/handicap parking spaces near entrances and elevators.
Can I get parking validated if I don’t park in the TPAC garage?
Sometimes, but you will need to ask TPAC ahead of time. Some events provide validation for other garages like Evergy Plaza. Check with the box office.
What bus routes go to TPAC?
Useful Topeka Metro routes that stop near TPAC include #4, #5, and #11. Get off at the Quincy Street Station, just 2 blocks east of TPAC.
Where do rideshares drop off at TPAC?
Rideshares can drop off right in front of TPAC along SW 8th Street in the designated rideshare pickup/dropoff zone.
Where can I find wheelchair assistance at TPAC?
Check in at the box office when you arrive and TPAC staff can provide a wheelchair if needed. Accessible seating must be arranged when purchasing tickets.
Conclusion
Finding parking for events and performances at the Topeka Performing Arts Center is easy with numerous options within a short walking distance. Arrive early, consider the TPAC garage, check street parking, or use nearby public garages like the Library and Evergy Plaza. Public transit and rideshares also provide convenient parking-free transportation to TPAC’s front doors. With accessible parking, seating, and amenities, TPAC provides stellar accommodations for visitors of all needs. Follow these tips to park stress-free and focus on enjoying the wonderful shows at this premier Topeka venue.