Discover the Heartbeat of Austin’s Music Scene

Austin’s Local Musicians

First thing is First
There are 3 DIFFERENT MOODY Venues, and if you have tickets make sure you know where you are going!

Iconic & Legendary Venues

  1. The Continental Club
    • Vibe: Timeless, intimate, rockabilly charm.
    • Why Visit: Known as the granddaddy of Austin music venues, it’s been hosting live acts since 1955, from blues to rock.
  2. Antone’s Nightclub
    • Vibe: Blues-soaked and historic.
    • Why Visit: Dubbed the “Home of the Blues,” Antone’s has hosted legends like B.B. King and Stevie Ray Vaughan.
  3. Stubbs BBQ
    • Vibe: Outdoor, laid-back, Austin-famous.
    • Why Visit: Known for its BBQ and iconic outdoor amphitheater. Big names like Willie Nelson and Coldplay have played here.
  4. Mohawk Austin
    • Vibe: Indie, edgy, multi-level.
    • Why Visit: With indoor and outdoor stages, Mohawk hosts indie, punk, and experimental acts in an industrial-chic setting.

Intimate & Acoustic Spaces

  1. Cactus Cafe
    • Vibe: Warm, storytelling-focused.
    • Why Visit: Located on the UT campus, it’s a beloved space for singer-songwriters and acoustic acts.
  2. Saxon Pub
    • Vibe: Cozy, authentic, songwriter haven.
    • Why Visit: A classic listening room that’s intimate and perfect for hearing singer-songwriters up close.
  3. The Parish
    • Vibe: Intimate, refined, perfect acoustics.
    • Why Visit: One of the best indoor acoustics in town, hosting everything from indie rock to acoustic sets.

Eclectic & Alternative Vibes

  1. Empire Control Room & Garage
    • Vibe: Urban, versatile, vibrant.
    • Why Visit: A favorite for electronic, indie, and underground music, with multiple performance spaces.
  2. Hotel Vegas
    • Vibe: Gritty, cool, dive-bar-meets-rock-club.
    • Why Visit: Known for rowdy punk and garage rock shows, plus DJ nights.
  3. The Far Out Lounge & Stage
  • Vibe: Backyard party meets festival vibes.
  • Why Visit: Outdoor stage, food trucks, and a welcoming vibe make it perfect for a casual music night.

Jazz, Blues, and Soul Clubs

  1. Elephant Room
  • Vibe: Underground, moody, classic jazz bar.
  • Why Visit: Live jazz every night in a dimly lit basement with craft cocktails.
  1. Parker Jazz Club
  • Vibe: Sophisticated, upscale, smooth.
  • Why Visit: A sleek, intimate setting for jazz lovers, offering both local and touring acts.

  • Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, Parker Jazz Club is an elegant, intimate venue dedicated to preserving and celebrating the art of live jazz music. Known for its exceptional acoustics, sophisticated ambiance, and world-class performances, Parker Jazz Club hosts local legends, touring jazz musicians, and emerging talent in a setting that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Whether you’re sipping on a craft cocktail, enjoying the smooth sounds of a saxophone, or simply soaking in the velvety atmosphere, Parker Jazz Club offers an upscale escape for music lovers looking for a refined night out in Austin.

    Address:
    117 W 4th St #107B, Austin, TX 78701
    When:
    Open Wednesday through Saturday with live music performances starting in the evening. Showtimes and schedules are available on the official Parker Jazz Club website.
    Price:
    Cover charges vary depending on the performer and seating, typically ranging from $15 to $50. Reservations are highly recommended for premium seating.
    FUN FACT:
    Parker Jazz Club was founded by local musician Kris Kimura, whose vision was to create a world-class jazz venue in Austin. The club’s state-of-the-art sound system and Steinway grand piano ensure that every note resonates with clarity, making it a fav
  1. Half Step
  • Vibe: Chill, cozy, low-key.
  • Why Visit: Known for its soulful live sets and classic cocktails.

Large-Scale & Outdoor Venues

  1. Moody Theater (ACL Live)
  • Vibe: Iconic, polished, grand.
  • Why Visit: Home to the famous Austin City Limits tapings, it’s a must-visit for big acts and stunning acoustics.
  1. Germania Insurance Amphitheater
  • Vibe: Festival-sized, big-name arena.
  • Why Visit: Austin’s go-to for headlining tours and outdoor concerts.
  1. Zilker Park (During ACL Fest)
  • Vibe: Festival magic, sprawling green space.
  • Why Visit: Every October, it transforms into the home of the Austin City Limits Festival, one of the world’s most iconic music events.

Funky & Unique Spots

  1. Speakeasy
  • Vibe: Vintage, rooftop views, jazz & blues.
  • Why Visit: A multi-level experience with live music downstairs and a rooftop lounge with city views.
  1. Broken Spoke
  • Vibe: Honky-tonk legend, Texas two-step.
  • Why Visit: Known for live country music and dance lessons. It’s pure Texas charm.
  1. Skylark Lounge
  • Vibe: Hidden gem, sultry blues.
  • Why Visit: A lesser-known venue with soulful live acts and a laid-back vibe.
  1. Lustre Pearl South
  • Vibe: Casual, open-air, party vibes.
  • Why Visit: Live music, cold drinks, and plenty of picnic tables under the Texas sky.

    Hole in the Wall

Local Gems

  1. Sahara Lounge
  • Vibe: Global beats, eclectic, community-driven.
  • Why Visit: African beats, funk nights, and an all-are-welcome vibe.
  1. Spider House Ballroom
  • Vibe: Quirky, vintage, art-meets-music.
  • Why Visit: A venue for both indie bands and spoken word artists.
  1. Carousel Lounge
  • Vibe: Circus-themed, quirky, old Austin charm.
  • Why Visit: A true Austin oddity with a rotating stage and funky live acts.



MONDAY NIGHTS

1. Motown Monday at the Highball

  • Vibe: Retro, dance-floor magic, vibrant crowd.
  • Why Go: DJ sets spinning timeless Motown hits make for an electric start to the week. Get ready to dance under disco lights.

Address:
1120 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704

When:
Every Monday night. Music typically starts around 9:00 PM, but it’s best to check The Highball’s website or social media for updated event times.

Price:
Free! There’s no cover charge, but arriving early is recommended to secure a good spot.

39. Bluegrass Mondays at Radio

Every Monday night, Radio Coffee & Beer transforms into a bluegrass lover’s paradise with their weekly Bluegrass Mondays event. This cozy South Austin hotspot hosts local and traveling bluegrass bands that fill the outdoor patio with foot-tapping rhythms, fast-picking strings, and soulful harmonies. With a laid-back vibe, great craft coffee, and a fantastic beer selection, it’s the perfect setting to unwind, enjoy live music, and experience Austin’s rich musical culture. Whether you’re a lifelong bluegrass fan or just someone looking for a fun and free way to start the week, Bluegrass Mondays deliver an authentic Austin experience.

Address:
4204 Menchaca Rd, Austin, TX 78704

When:
Every Monday night. Music typically starts around 8:00 PM, but it’s best to check Radio Coffee & Beer’s social media pages for updates and lineup details.

Price:
Free! No cover charge, but tips for the band are highly encouraged.

FUN FACT:
Bluegrass Mondays have become such a beloved Austin tradition that the event often draws standing-room-only crowds, with music lovers spilling onto the patio under the Texas sky. It’s one of the best weekly live music events in Austin and a true testament to the city’s love for grassroots music and community vibes.

  • Vibe: Relaxed, communal, pickin’ under the stars.
  • Why Go: Grab a cold brew and soak in live bluegrass jams on the outdoor patio. It’s an authentic Austin tradition.
  1. The Little Longhorn Saloon – Honky-Tonk Mondays
    • Vibe: Classic Texas honky-tonk, boot-scootin’ vibes.
    • Why Go: Free live country music in a cozy neighborhood bar with iconic Austin charm.

Tuesday Nights

  1. Two-Stepping at The White Horse
    • Vibe: Spirited, dance-heavy, pure Texas energy.
    • Why Go: Live country bands paired with dance lessons make for a quintessential Austin night.
  2. Blues on the Green at Zilker Park (Seasonal)
    • Vibe: Open-air, relaxed picnic vibes.
    • Why Go: Austin’s beloved summer tradition featuring free live blues concerts at Zilker Park.

Wednesday Nights

  1. Singer-Songwriter Night at Cactus Cafe
    • Vibe: Intimate, heartfelt, storytelling magic.
    • Why Go: Listen to talented singer-songwriters in one of Austin’s most legendary acoustic venues.
  2. Vinyl Night at Hotel Vegas
    • Vibe: Vintage, eclectic, hip.
    • Why Go: Groove to live vinyl DJ sets featuring funk, soul, and indie classics.
  3. Barbarella – JImmy eat Wednesdays

Thursday Nights

  1. Honky-Tonk Thursday at Broken Spoke
    • Vibe: Classic Texas dance hall, boots required.
    • Why Go: Learn the Texas two-step and enjoy live honky-tonk bands in one of Austin’s most legendary dance halls.
  2. Bluegrass Night at The Austin Beer Garden Brewing Co. (ABGB)
    • Vibe: Craft beer, casual, toe-tapping tunes.
    • Why Go: Sip local brews while listening to lively bluegrass sets in a laid-back setting.

Friday Nights

  1. Friday Night Flamenco at The Elephant Room
  • Vibe: Sultry, moody, underground.
  • Why Go: Enjoy flamenco guitar sets in Austin’s most intimate jazz bar.
  1. Live at Guero’s Taco Bar (South Congress)
  • Vibe: Outdoor, casual, quintessential Austin.
  • Why Go: Enjoy live country, blues, or rock on Guero’s outdoor stage while sipping a margarita.

Saturday Nights

  1. Big Night at Mohawk Austin
  • Vibe: Indie, edgy, energetic.
  • Why Go: Catch some of the best indie and alternative bands in an industrial-chic venue.
  1. Soul Saturday at The Far Out Lounge
  • Vibe: Backyard party, vintage soul grooves.
  • Why Go: Groove to live funk and soul bands under the Texas night sky.

Central Market – Saturday

Sunday Nights

  1. Sunday Gospel Brunch at Stubb’s BBQ
  • Vibe: Soulful, uplifting, delicious.
  • Why Go: Feast on a Texas BBQ brunch while a live gospel choir fills the room with soulful melodies.
  1. Jazz Brunch at Geraldine’s
  • Vibe: Classy, rooftop views, soulful sound.
  • Why Go: Enjoy upscale brunch dishes with live jazz overlooking Lady Bird Lake.
  1. Chicken Sh*t Bingo at Little Longhorn Saloon
  • Vibe: Quirky, uniquely Austin, honky-tonk fun.
  • Why Go: Live music and bingo…played with a chicken. You won’t find this anywhere else!

Bonus: Ongoing Weekly Gems

  1. Open Mic Night at The Buzz Mill (Wednesdays)
  • Vibe: Laid-back, community-oriented, creative.
  • Why Go: A warm space to enjoy local musicians and storytellers.
  1. Free Live Music at The Saxon Pub (Nightly)
  • Vibe: Cozy, intimate, songwriter haven.
  • Why Go: The Saxon Pub hosts nightly live music, often featuring Austin legends.
  1. Live DJs at Upstairs at Caroline (Fridays & Saturdays)

Why Go: A fun urban escape with DJs spinning upbeat tracks.

Vibe: Rooftop bar, cool city views, breezy vibes.

ROCK THE PARK

22. The Ballroom @ Spider House

Located just north of the University of Texas campus, The Ballroom @ Spider House is a quirky and eclectic event venue that captures Austin’s signature charm. Known for hosting an array of events, including live music, comedy shows, burlesque performances, and themed dance parties, this space is as diverse as the city itself. The venue’s vintage aesthetic, paired with its laid-back vibe, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re catching an intimate live performance, laughing at a stand-up comedy show, or dancing the night away, The Ballroom @ Spider House offers an unforgettable Austin experience.

Address:
2908 Fruth St, Austin, TX 78705

When:
Event schedules vary, with shows and performances typically taking place in the evenings. Check their official website or social media pages for updated event calendars and ticket information.

Price:
Ticket prices vary depending on the event. Some shows are free, while others may require advance ticket purchases.

FUN FACT:
The Ballroom @ Spider House isn’t just a venue—it’s a cultural hub that has been a part of Austin’s creative scene for over 25 years. Known for its funky décor, including mismatched furniture, twinkling lights, and vintage flair, the space has become a beloved institution for supporting local artists, musicians, and performers.

Parker Jazz Club

Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, Parker Jazz Club is an elegant, intimate venue dedicated to preserving and celebrating the art of live jazz music. Known for its exceptional acoustics, sophisticated ambiance, and world-class performances, Parker Jazz Club hosts local legends, touring jazz musicians, and emerging talent in a setting that feels both luxurious and welcoming. Whether you’re sipping on a craft cocktail, enjoying the smooth sounds of a saxophone, or simply soaking in the velvety atmosphere, Parker Jazz Club offers an upscale escape for music lovers looking for a refined night out in Austin.

Address:
117 W 4th St #107B, Austin, TX 78701

When:
Open Wednesday through Saturday with live music performances starting in the evening. Showtimes and schedules are available on the official Parker Jazz Club website.

Price:
Cover charges vary depending on the performer and seating, typically ranging from $15 to $50. Reservations are highly recommended for premium seating.

FUN FACT:
Parker Jazz Club was founded by local musician Kris Kimura, whose vision was to create a world-class jazz venue in Austin. The club’s state-of-the-art sound system and Steinway grand piano ensure that every note resonates with clar