As the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin, Texas doesn't fall short on places to experience all different styles of music. In particular, East Austin is home to many venues that are full of character, both new and old. Locals and visitors flock to the east side every day of the week to get their live music fix and to experience authentic Austin vibes. Here are our top 8 favorite venues to catch a live show in East Austin.
Hotel Vegas & Volstead
Hotel Vegas and sister bar The Volstead Lounge form a buzzing, multi-stage music compound that captures the quintessential East Side rock 'n' roll vibe. Hotel Vegas is known for its vintage, gritty atmosphere and a constant lineup of high-energy rock, garage, and punk acts. Right next door, The Volstead Lounge offers a more intimate setting, often featuring electronic and indie music. Together, they share a sprawling outdoor patio, making it easy to hop between acts and enjoy a night filled with eclectic sounds.
Historic Scoot Inn
For a true taste of Austin history, look no further than the Historic Scoot Inn. Established in 1871, this East Sixth Street hang masterfully blends history with a modern concert experience, featuring both a rustic indoor bar and a large, modernized outdoor stage. This landmark venue consistently hosts touring national acts across genres like indie rock, Americana, and country.
Drinks Lounge & Records
Drinks Lounge is altogether bar, record shop and neighborhood hang. Catch local DJs spinning records each weekend (check their events calendar for special nights like Destiny's Child tunes and themed drinks!). Relax and refuel from your evening of music and dancing with their "tot-chos"—crispy tater tot nachos covered in queso, jalapeños, pico, black beans and sour cream.
Sahara Lounge
Venture slightly further east and you will find the Sahara Lounge, an eclectic and vibrant gem that feels like a true cultural melting pot. This family-owned venue is dedicated to showcasing diverse global sounds. Its atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, often described by locals as preserving the original East Austin feel. You’ll typically hear a mix of Afrobeat, Reggae, Funk, Jazz, and World Beat. The venue is particularly famous for its long-running, award-winning Saturday Africa Night residency.
Kenny Dorham's Backyard
This unique outdoor venue honors its namesake, legendary jazz trumpeter and East Austinite Kenny Dorham, and is a pillar of the East 11th Street cultural district. As the outdoor music space for the cultural arts non-profit DiverseArts, the programming at Kenny Dorham's Backyard remains rooted in the traditional African American music community. Travelers can expect to hear everything from jazz, blues, and soul to R&B and hip hop. It is known for its long-running Blue Monday Blues Jam, offering a unique community experience.
Monks Jazz Club
For a more sophisticated and focused musical experience, seek out Monks Jazz Club. This intimate, listening-room atmosphere is dedicated entirely to quality live jazz and is located within the legendary Historic Downbeat Diner and Bar. Monk’s is where the city’s passion for live entertainment hits the high notes, featuring traditional jazz, modern jazz, and fusion. It offers a chance to see high-level musicianship in a setting designed for appreciating the art form.
The White Horse
If your soundtrack includes a two-step, then The White Horse is your essential East Austin destination. This beloved honky-tonk is the epicenter of the city’s country and western swing scene, offering a lively and authentic Texas experience. Located on East Sixth Street, the spacious floor is perpetually busy with locals and visitors enjoying affordable drinks and stellar live bands every single night. It’s a true Austin staple, offering a genuine taste of Texas country, western swing, bluegrass, and Americana, complete with free dance lessons on certain evenings.
Parish
Parish showcases all genres with local, national and international acts. With live music almost seven nights a week, it's an easy bet that you can find a show worth watching whenever you're in town. Connected bar My Oh My is dubbed "a small bar for big hangs." This listening lounge has killer vibes with DJs spinning beats that are bound to make you dance.
The dynamic collection of venues in East Austin perfectly captures the creative, inventive, and fresh culture of the city. Whether you’re seeking to embrace the area’s historic music traditions or indulge in the electric energy of a rock show, this area of town offers a genuine and evolving Austin experience.
Beyond the music, East Austin is home to some of the city’s hottest culinary flavors, vibrant murals, and historic attractions. See more to do and explore East Austin to plan the rest of your trip.
