Austin's legendary music scene has earned us the title of Live Music Capital of the World®, and for good reason. From historic venues that have hosted countless legends to the new wave of talent emerging from our creative city, Austin's musical identity continues to evolve while honoring its roots. Here's your guide to experiencing the true essence of Austin's iconic music scene.
Antones. Credit to Arnold Wells.
1. Antone's Nightclub
Founded by the late Clifford Antone in 1975, this legendary blues club helped launch the careers of Stevie Ray Vaughan and Gary Clark Jr. while hosting blues legends like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and Albert King. Antone’s Nightclub is located on East 5th Street, continuing its legacy as Austin's "Home of the Blues" 50 years later.
Who to Watch
Antone's "Blue Monday" tradition continues with regular appearances by Austin blues veterans like Soul Man Sam. The venue also hosts rising stars like Jackie Venson, who brings her innovative guitar skills to the stage monthly.
2. Continental Club
Since 1955, this South Congress institution has been the cornerstone of Austin's music community. What began as a swanky private supper club has transformed into a premier venue for roots, rockabilly, country and rock performances. Legends like Robert Plant, Wanda Jackson, and Gary Clark Jr. have graced its stage, while contemporary Austin artists like White Denim and Black Pumas have electrified its intimate space.
Who to Watch
Continental Club's weekly residencies showcase Austin's finest, including William Harries Graham's Wednesday night sets and The Blues Specialists every Friday night. Don't miss Josh Perdue's jazz performances upstairs at the Continental Gallery each weekend.
3. The Saxon Pub
A fixture on South Lamar since 1990, The Saxon Pub has earned its reputation as a songwriter's haven. The intimate listening room has hosted over 30,000 performances, featuring everyone from local legends like Bob Schneider and Patrice Pike to surprise appearances by Willie Nelson and Kris Kristofferson.
Who to Watch
The Saxon Pub features one of Austin's longest-running residencies with Bob Schneider's Monday night "Lonelyland" shows. The venue also hosts Patrice Pike's regular Thursday night performances.
4. Elephant Room
Descend the stairs into this underground jazz club, where the low ceilings and brick walls create the perfect atmosphere for nightly jazz performances. Operating since 1991, this downtown venue has become Austin's premier jazz destination, featuring both established musicians and rising stars from the city's vibrant jazz scene.
Who to Watch
The Elephant Room features regular performances by the Sarah Sharp Quintet, along with emerging talent from the University of Texas' renowned jazz program. Check their calendar for weekly residencies featuring local favorites like Church on Monday with Elias Haslanger and Dr. James Polk.
Ray Prim at Stubb's. Credit Ismael Quintanilla III.
5. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q
This iconic venue combines Texas barbecue with live music in the heart of Austin's Red River Cultural District. With both indoor and outdoor performance spaces, Stubb's hosts national touring acts and local favorites alike. The venue's Sunday Gospel Brunch remains one of Austin's most beloved musical traditions, combining soulful performances with hearty Southern cuisine.
Who to Watch
While Stubb's is known primarily for touring acts, they often sprinkle local acts into their lineup. The venue's weekly Gospel Brunch let's you taste iconic Stubb's barbecue while a gospel band graces the indoor stage.
6. Hole in the Wall
Since 1974, this The University of Texas-area dive has been a proving ground for countless Austin musicians. With its unpretentious atmosphere and diverse booking policy, the Hole in the Wall continues to nurture new talent while honoring its storied history that includes early performances by Spoon, Shakey Graves, and Black Angels.
Who to Watch
The venue's lineup changes The Hole in the Wall has become a launching pad for new Austin artists like Kalu & The Electric Joint.
7. Cactus Cafe
Also tucked inside the The University of Texas campus, this intimate venue has been a premier acoustic listening room since 1979. The Cactus Cafe has hosted early performances by artists like Lyle Lovett and Alison Krauss, continuing its tradition of showcasing the finest songwriters in a space where every note resonates.
Who to Watch
The Cactus Cafe features regular performances from accomplished Austin songwriters like Betty Soo and Matt the Electrician.
8. ACL Live at The Moody Theater
Home to the iconic Austin City Limits television show, this state-of-the-art downtown venue has welcomed music's biggest names since opening in 2011. The 2,750-capacity theater provides an intimate concert experience despite its size, and has hosted performances from Willie Nelson, Radiohead and countless other legendary acts.
Who to Watch
Catch major performers at ACL Live tapings, via lottery system. The venue also features seasonal shows from local legends like Asleep at the Wheel.
9. The Paramount Theatre
This historic downtown theater has been a cultural landmark since 1915. With its outstanding acoustics and classic architecture, The Paramount Theatre provides an elegant setting for musical performances ranging from jazz and blues to country and rock. The venue's summer classic film series offers a cinematic complement to its musical programming.
Who to Watch
The Paramount hosts performances year round showcasing promising local talent like Sir Woman and Ley Line in the historic setting.
The White Horse. Credit Arts + Labor. .
10. The White Horse
Since opening in 2011, this East Austin honky-tonk has become the epicenter of Austin's thriving country and western swing scene. With its spacious dance floor, affordable drinks, and nightly live music, The White Horse embodies the unpretentious spirit that has defined Austin's music venues for generations.
Who to Watch
The White Horse features regular performances from Austin country stalwarts like the Shinglers, as well as line dancing every Saturday night.
11. Hotel Vegas
This East Austin venue has become a hub for indie rock, psychedelic, and garage bands since opening in 2011. With indoor and outdoor stages, Hotel Vegas hosts multiple bands nightly, making it one of the best places to discover emerging talent in Austin's vibrant rock scene. Be sure to check out the neighboring East Sixth Street sister bar, Volstead Lounge, a vintage venue that features music acts and dance parties.
Who to Watch
Hotel Vegas features regular performances from Austin's thriving psych rock community, including residencies from bands like Nolan Potter's Nightmare Band and Holy Wave.
12. Historic Scoot Inn
Dating back to 1871, this historic East Austin venue claims to be the oldest continuously operating bar in Central Texas. The spacious outdoor stage and indoor bar area host an eclectic mix of musical styles, reflecting the diverse community that has developed around it.
Who to Watch
Historic Scoot Inn features regular performances from Austin's country, soul and funk communities, including Tomar & The FCs.
13. Carousel Lounge
Since 1963, this circus-themed dive bar has maintained its quirky character and dedication to local music. The Carousel Lounge's small stage has hosted countless Austin musicians in an unpretentious setting that embodies the city's "Keep Austin Weird" ethos.
Who to Watch
Carousel Lounge features regular performances from Austin rockabilly legends like Alan Gill.
14. Speakeasy
This three-level downtown venue offers a variety of musical experiences, from intimate jazz in the basement to dancing on the rooftop terrace. Operating since 1997, Speakeasy combines Prohibition-era aesthetics with modern sound systems and diverse booking policies.
Who to Watch
Speakeasy hosts Austin favorite The Spazmatics every Wednesday night for those who love an '80s jam. If 2000's pop-punk is more your vibe, Jimmy Eat Brisket is often on Speakeasy's live music calendar.
15. Victory Grill
Founded in 1945 as a venue for returning African American soldiers, this historic East Austin landmark was a cornerstone of the "Chitlin' Circuit" that hosted legends like B.B. King, Etta James, and Billie Holiday. Today Victory Grill still presents live music (call ahead for schedule), along with elevated Southern fare at the onsite restaurant and bar Victory East.
Who to Watch
Victory Grill celebrates its rich history with regular blues and soul performances from Austin icons like the Peterson Brothers Band.
Mohawk. Credit to Chad Wadsworth.
16. Mohawk
Mohawk quickly established itself as a cornerstone of Austin's Red River Cultural District after opening in 2006. This multi-level venue with indoor and outdoor stages hosts an eclectic mix of indie rock, hip-hop, metal, and electronic music, reflecting Austin's diverse musical tastes.
Who to Watch
The venue regularly features Austin artists like Nané and The Bright Light Social Hour, and provides emerging musicians with performance opportunities and mentorship.
17. Little Longhorn Saloon
This authentic honky-tonk gained worldwide fame for its Sunday Chicken Sh** Bingo tradition, but the Little Longhorn Saloon's true legacy is its unwavering support for traditional country music. Formerly known as Ginny's Little Longhorn, this intimate North Austin venue maintains its dedication to Western swing, honky-tonk, and rockabilly.
Who to Watch
Little Longhorn Saloon hosts regular performances from Austin country artists like Fingerpistol. Their shows with Weldon Henson have become a staple for dancers.
Little Longhorn Saloon has served as the center of Austin’s honky-tonk country music scene for more than four decades. At least 10 bands perform each week, and there’s never a cover charge. Don't know how to two-step? Take a free lesson on select nights.
18. Donn's Depot
Housed in a former train depot with actual train cars incorporated into the structure, Donn's has been a West Austin institution since 1972. This piano bar and dance hall, helmed by pianist Donn Adelman, maintains a loyal following thanks to its authentic atmosphere and quality live music.
Who to Watch
Donn's Depot features regular performances from owner Donn Adelman and his Monday night band. The venue's Thursday nights with Murphy's Inlaws has been running forever.
19. Mean Eyed Cat
This Johnny Cash-themed bar, built in a former chainsaw repair shop, pays homage to the Man in Black while hosting a diverse range of local musicians. Since opening in 2004, the Mean Eyed Cat has maintained its quirky character even as the surrounding neighborhood has transformed.
Who to Watch
Mean Eyed Cat hosts regular performances from Austin musicians like Kevin McKinney. Catch regular performances of Johnny Cash covers alongside their original music.
20. Broken Spoke
Rounding out our tour of Austin's musical landmarks is the legendary Broken Spoke, a true Texas dance hall that has remained virtually unchanged since opening in 1964. The "last of the true Texas dance halls" has hosted country legends from Bob Wills to George Strait, while maintaining its authentic honky-tonk atmosphere even as the city has grown around it.
Who to Watch
The Broken Spoke features regular performances from Austin western swing bands like Alvin Crow and Dale Watson. Their legendary dance lessons continue to introduce newcomers to Texas two-stepping traditions six nights a week.
For more Austin live music venues and concerts, explore our venue guide and events calendar. Tour iconic and historic spaces around the city with a guided downtown walking tour hosted by the Austin Visitor Center.