SXSW may be over, but we’re here to spill the tea on the festival’s highs and lows. The festival is always packed with pop-ups. While you may find some a bit lacking, others do an excellent job entertaining and exciting fans. Enter Paramount+ and The Lodge.
The Lodge returned for year two and it certainly stole the spotlight! With endless photo ops, interactive experiences, and drinks to keep the party going, we’re breaking down why it should be at the top of your list for SXSW in the future and why it’s at the top of our 2025 list.
Here’s Why Paramount+ The Lodge Topped Our 2025 List as the Best SXSW Experience
The Lodge takes over one of the few bars left on Rainey Street. Clive has been remodeled but keeps much of its original structure and it’s the perfect venue for this pop-up event. Upon walking in you’re given a lodge pass and greeted with TVs playing multiple shows/ movies from Paramount+.
It’s not just about looking good — The Lodge is packed with interactive experiences that keep attendees engaged. Whether it’s Star Trek aura readings or diving into immersive activities, there’s never a dull moment. Now, what about the drinks? Let’s just say the party didn’t stop. Each time you enter the The Lodge you receive two drink tickets that are good for creative concoctions to refreshing classics. The drinks were top shelf, tasty, and we didn’t hear anyone complaining.
Movies/ TV shows featured at The Lodge:
- Dexter
- Gladiator II
- Yellowjackets
- 1923
- Star Trek: Strange New Worlds
- MobLand
- Happy Face
- Survivor
- School Spirit
Here’s an inside look at the photo ops and installations.
The Final Word: This Is SXSW’s Not So Hidden Gem
While SXSW may be a whirlwind of panels, music and movies, The Lodge proves to be the unexpected star. It isn’t just a place to chill — it’s the ultimate destination for diving into experiences of shows you love or haven’t yet discovered. So, if you want to make the most of SXSW in 2026, start planning your visit to The Lodge now (fingers crossed it returns!). Trust us, it’ll be the highlight of your festival pop-up experience.
