Austin calls itself the Live Music Capital of the World, and the city backs it up. According to Wikipedia, Austin has more music venues per capita than any other U.S. city. The ZIP code that covers the downtown entertainment district has more bars and alcohol-serving venues than any other in the country. Whether you want a honky-tonk, a rooftop view, or a late-night taco, the city has a spot. This guide covers the main districts and what to expect. Hours and lineups change, so check before you go.
Sixth Street
Sixth Street is the best-known strip in town. It has a historic look, a long row of bars and clubs, and a crowd that runs from college students to visitors. Many blocks close to cars on busy nights. Expect cover bands, DJs, and plenty of noise. The street also hosts big events like the Pecan Street Festival and Halloween night. Go early on a weekend if you want a seat, and stay with your group when the crowd builds.
Rainey Street
Rainey Street used to be a quiet row of small bungalows built in the early 1900s. Since the early 2010s, many of those homes have become bars, restaurants, and hotels. Patrons sit on porches and in yards, often under string lights. It feels more relaxed than Sixth Street, and it suits groups who want to talk. Beer gardens like Banger’s offer more than 100 taps and a rotating schedule of live music. The district also holds the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center.
Red River Cultural District
Red River is where many touring and local bands play. The district includes Stubb’s, which pairs barbecue with outdoor concerts. Several small clubs sit within walking distance, so you can hop between shows. Plan your night around a headliner, and arrive early for a good spot near the stage.
South Congress and South Lamar
The Continental Club on South Congress opened in 1955 and still hosts live music almost every night. The Broken Spoke on South Lamar has been running since 1964 and calls itself the last of the true Texas dance halls. Show up early for a two-step lesson, then dance with strangers. These two venues give you a taste of Old Austin, a term locals use for a smaller and more bohemian era. Read More about the city’s music history and the Old Austin idea.
Big Stages
ACL Live at The Moody Theater is where the long-running TV series Austin City Limits is recorded. The Austin City Limits Music Festival fills Zilker Park each fall and has run every year since 2002. South by Southwest, usually shortened to SXSW, mixes film, interactive media, and music in the spring and takes over downtown. Hotels fill up and prices rise during these events, so book early.
Comedy, Theater, and Film
Esther’s Follies on Sixth Street mixes sketch comedy and political satire. Improv theaters like ColdTowne and The Hideout fill small rooms with laughs. The Paramount Theatre, which opened in 1915, shows classic films and live events. Alamo Drafthouse started in Austin in 1997, and its South Lamar location hosts the Fantastic Fest film festival. A movie with dinner served at your seat is a fun night out.
Beer and Cocktails
The Austin area has more than 50 microbreweries. Well-known names include Jester King, Live Oak, and Real Ale. Many breweries have patios, food trucks, and dog-friendly yards. Ask for a flight so you can taste a few styles.
Late-Night Food
Food trucks are part of the culture. Austin has one of the largest per-capita food truck scenes in the country. Breakfast tacos, queso, and brisket are local favorites. If you need a snack after midnight, look for trucks near the main bar districts.
Safety and Getting Around
- Use rideshare or a taxi if you drink. Uber and Lyft both run in the city.
- Check CapMetro schedules for late bus service.
- Stay hydrated, since Austin summers are hot, with highs above 90 degrees on about 123 days a year.
- Keep your phone charged and share your location with a friend.
- Watch your belongings in crowds.
A Sample Night Out
Start with dinner on Rainey Street. Walk to Red River for a show. Finish with a drink on Sixth Street, or take a ride south for a late set at the Continental Club. If you prefer a quieter night, catch a movie at the Paramount.
Local Tips
Weeknights are less crowded and often have lower covers. Many venues host free shows on weekdays. Tip your bartenders and the bands. Ask locals for their favorite small venue, since the best nights often happen in rooms that hold under 200 people.
After a late night, a slow Saturday morning helps. Browse the best farmers markets in Austin, TX for fresh produce for coffee, live music, and fresh ingredients for the week.
Austin rewards people who show up curious. Pick a district, pick a band you have never heard, and see where the night goes.
