10 Best Live Music Venues in Austin, Texas

Crowd cheers as band performs on stage at vibrant live music venue. Colorful lights illuminate the energetic atmosphere. Instruments and speakers fill the space

It’s no secret that Austin is the live music capital of the world. From small dives to larger venues, there are endless places to experience some of the best live music around.

If you’re looking for a list of can't-miss live performances and the best concert venues in Austin, then look no further! Read on to find out where you should be going to hear some amazing tunes at some legendary music venues.

1. The Continental Club

Famed for its classic neon sign flashing above the entrance and an official landmark on South Congress, this legendary music venue has been operating since 1955.

The Continental Club located on South Congress Avenue, has become an iconic part of the city’s scene. It grew into one of the premier live music venues in Austin and has become a hub for rock, country, swing and blues music every night of the week.

It has hosted performances by the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Joe Ely, and T-Bone Burnett. With its intimate atmosphere and top-notch sound system, it’s no wonder that The Continental Club is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The Continental Club offers a mix of live music from both local legends and national acts as well as plenty of options for food and drinks. This live music venue is a must-stop if you're looking for a great night out in Austin.

The Continental Club
1315 S Congress Ave
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-441-2444

Check out The Continental Club here.

2. Antone's Nightclub

Antone's Nightclub also known as “Home of the Blues” is one of the most historic spots in Austin's live music history. This iconic blues club was established in 1975 by the late Clifford Antone and is located in downtown Austin.

It has seen plenty of big names pass through its doors, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, Jimmie Vaughan, ZZ Top and more! Antone’s has brought Austin a variety of blues and musicians from further afield such as B.B. King, Muddy Waters, Ray Charles, and James Brown.

As well as offering up amazing talent, Antone’s boasts great food and drinks! Antone’s indoor bar and a friendly staff, making it a great spot for a night out.

Antone's Nightclub
305 E 5th St.
Austin, TX 78701
United States

Phone: +1 512-814-0361

Check out Antone's Nightclub here.

3. Emo's East

Emo’s East is one of the most popular live music venues in town, offering both indoor and outdoor stages for acts ranging from rock to hip-hop. Situated just off Sixth Street, this spot is perfect for those who want to get away from the hustle and bustle but still enjoy some great tunes!

Emo’s East is on of the more spacious music venues in Austin with a capacity of over 2,000 people. It is known for its punk and alternative shows and has also hosted bands such as The White Stripes and Nirvana. Emo’s larger outdoor stage and area, is perfect for enjoying a drink and some live music on a warm Texas evening.

Emo's East
2015 E Riverside Dr
Austin, TX 78741
United States

Phone: +1 888-512-7469

Check out Emo's East here.

4. Stubb's Bar-B-Q

Stubb’s Bar-B-Q has been around since 1968 and is still going strong today! The iconic music venue offers up everything from country & western to pop punk with shows happening almost every night of the week. Plus their delicious BBQ menu makes it the perfect spot for dinner before or after your show!

In the 1970′s, Stubb’s restaurant burst onto the music scene. Stubbs was home to musicians like Joe Ely and Stevie Ray Vaughn. Other famous and local musicians who would “play for their supper” included Muddy Waters, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash and Linda Ronstadt.

With both an indoor stage and outdoor stage, Stubb’s hosts a variety of shows it's also considered a must-visit spot for anyone looking to experience some authentic Texas music and cuisine.

Although small in size, Stubb’s Restaurant was always filled with good friends, great music and plenty of Stubb’s Legendary Bar-B-Q.

Stubb's Bar-B-Q
801 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States

Phone: +1 737-465-1218

Check out Stubb's Bar-B-Q here.

5. The White Horse

Whether you're a local or a tourist, the White Horse is one of those places in Austin that everyone knows and loves. It's been around for more than a decade, and it has become an iconic part of the city's nightlife.

The White Horse was founded in 2006 by two music fans, who wanted to create a venue that would bring together all kinds of different genres and styles of music. It was once a small dive bar but has since grown into one of hottest spots for live music in Austin. This eclectic spot hosts an array of different genres throughout the week including indie rock, rockabilly, bluegrass and even Latin jazz!

When you walk into the venue, you can feel its energy right away. There's always something going on—whether it's live music, trivia night, or just people shooting pool and having drinks. The atmosphere is always welcoming and relaxed.

One thing that really sets it apart from other bars in Austin is its food menu. In addition to offering classic pub fare like burgers and fries, they also have some unique items like queso fundido fries and fried chicken sliders with pickled jalapenos.

Plus they have awesome cocktails that'll help keep you energized all night long! It is beloved by locals for its live music, dancing, and cheap drinks. It’s a laid-back spot that feels like a true Texas hangout.

The White Horse
500 Comal St
Austin, TX 78702
United States

Phone: +1 512-553-6756

Check out The White Horse here.

6. Cactus Cafe

The Cactus Café is an unforgettable spot located on the University of Texas campus offering up intimate performances from local musicians as well as national names like Lyle Lovett, Lucinda Williams and Shawn Colvin just to name a few.

This lively café offers patrons a unique atmosphere unlike any other music venue in town! The Cactus Café is a cozy venue that has hosted some of the biggest names in folk and acoustic music and a variety of touring acts.

It has a great sound system and a listening room atmosphere, making it the perfect place for music lovers to catch an intimate performance by a singer-songwriter. Not to be confused with the excellent Cactus Cafe Food Truck operating out of Frisco TX!

Cactus Cafe
2247 Guadalupe St
Austin, TX 78712
United States

Phone: +1 512-475-6515

Check out The Cactus Café & Bar here.

7. The Broken Spoke

If you’re a fan of classic country music, then The Broken Spoke should definitely be on your radar. This legendary honky-tonk spot has been the go-to venue for country music in Austin for over fifty years now, and it shows no signs of slowing down any time soon.

The Broken Spoke bills itself as “the last true Texas dance hall," hosting weekly dances with traditional country bands playing every Friday & Saturday nights that draw large crowds from all over Texas.

If you're looking for an authentic taste of old-school country then this is definitely the place for you! With celebrity guests and dance lessons galore there's plenty to see and do.

The Broken Spoke has been around since 1964. It’s a great spot to catch some live country music and to try your hand at some two-stepping on the dance floor. The Broken Spoke is also known for its delicious chicken fried steak and cold beer.

The Broken Spoke
3201 S Lamar Blvd
Austin, TX 78704
United States

Phone: +1 512-442-6189

Check out The Broken Spoke here.

8. One World Theatre

Located in the heart of Austin, Texas, One World Theatre is a premier performance venue that plays host to a variety of live music and theatrical performances. From local talent to international superstars, One World Theatre offers an unforgettable experience that will make you want to come back again and again.

One World Theatre's architecture alone is enough to draw crowds from far and wide – the modern building is designed to provide an intimate setting where every seat feels like it’s just feet away from the stage.

One World Theatre offers up some amazing shows by local acts as well as international acts like Robert Plant & Leon Bridges just to name a few. This intimate indoor stage sets itself apart by providing patrons with an unparalleled audio experience courtesy of their world class sound system - making it one unforgettable experience!

One World Theatre is situated on a hilltop with stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. It’s a one of the best concert venues to catch a show in a luxurious setting, with a lineup that includes everything from jazz to classical to world music.#

With its unique atmosphere and commitment to quality performances, it’s no wonder why this theatre has remained popular throughout the years. If you haven’t had the chance yet, we highly recommend checking out what One World Theatre has to offer – you won’t regret it!

One World Theatre
7701 Bee Caves Rd
Austin, TX 78746
United States

Phone: +1 512-330-9500

Check out the One World Theatre here.

9. Mohawk

Mohawk was built in 2006 and is a unique music venue and bar. They host music events of all genres and they are known for killer rock shows, great fashioned service and decent prices.

Mohawk hosts everything from punk rock shows to hip hop events - so whatever type of music tickles your fancy there's something here for everyone!

With two stages inside plus another outside patio stage this spot offers plenty of room for fans to dance around all night long on the dance floor- plus they have delicious tacos too which make it even better! Mohawk also hosts a variety of indie rock shows.

The outdoor stage is particularly popular during the warmer months. Mohawk also has a great bar and a fun atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out with friends and listen to some live music in Austin.

Mohawk
912 Red River St
Austin, TX 78701
United States

Check out the Mohawk here.

10. Scoot Inn

Last but not least we have historic Scoot Inn which prides itself on being “Austin’s favorite beer garden."

Located right next door to Mohawk this spot features lots of tasty beers plus some awesome food trucks serving up delicious eats throughout the day and night which helps make it one fun hangout spot during SXSW or anytime really!

Scoot Inn is a historic venue that has been around since 1871. This legendary venue was established in 1871 and is considered one of the hottest event venues in Austin! Scoot Inn is located only a mile away from the Convention Center.

Providing a unique atmosphere and extraordinary hospitality, the historic Scoot Inn provides state-of-the-art lighting and sound, custom menus and mixology.

Scoot Inn
1308 E 4th St
Austin, TX 78702
United States

Check out historic Scoot Inn here.

Austin the Live Music Capital

With so many incredible live music venues in Austin it can be hard to decide where exactly you should go when looking for some awesome live music experiences - luckily we've got you covered with our list above which includes only the very best places in town!

No matter what genre or artist you're looking for there will definitely be something here that meets your needs, so don't miss out on these unmissable spots when visiting Austin.

Other concert venues to keep on your radar:

C-Boys Hearts & Soul - a Jazz and Soul music club on South Congress.
Hotel Vegas - Hotel Vegas features an intimate stage and larger outdoor stage.
Moody Outdoor Amphitheater - Moody Theater Features headliners and is located in downtown Austin.
Elephant Room - The Elephant Room is Known for it's Jazz musical performances.
ACL Live - Is an outdoor performance venue in downtown Austin and PBS's ACL Live is the longest-running Music series.
Moody Center - Biggest concert hall in Austin.
The Far Out Lounge & Stage - Situated South Austin and has a larger and smaller stage.