• September 8, 2023
  • Lauren Critzer
  • 0

Live Music Venues in Austin: A Local Guide

As an Austin local and a music lover myself, I’ve selected the cream of Austin’s music scene to create this handy ‘Live Music Guide’. Sit tight and join me as I play the arpeggios, taking you through some of Austin’s music scenes much loved by locals.

1. Emo’s Emo’s

Located on East Riverside, Emo’s is a true Austin gem. Known as the original ‘Austin City Limits’, this place has been hosting music events since 1992! They have a large room that holds up to 1700 people, and believe me, the energy here is pure magic!

Genre: Diverse range – from Indie to Rap

Highlights: Highly engaged crowd, spacious venue, loved by locals

2. Mohawk Mohawk

Visit Mohawk, and you get to walk around multiple floors with indoor and outdoor stages. Whether you enjoy open-air gigs or prefer cozy indoors, this place has it all. It’s an ‘Austin Must-Visit,’ said any local music lover ever.

Genre: All kinds – Rock, Indie, Electronic, Punk, and more

Highlights: Multiple stages, captivating atmosphere, idiosyncratic weekly events

3. The White Horse The White Horse

Vibrant, energetic, and pulsating with live country music, The White Horse is where Austin’s heart beats. Situated on the energetic East 6th street, it’s a destination for dance lovers who enjoy country, honky-tonk, and Tex-Mex tunes.

Genre: Country, Honky Tonk, Tex-Mex

Highlights: Live music daily, offers dance lessons, popular among locals

4. The Saxon Pub The Saxon Pub

A South Lamar staple, The Saxon Pub has welcomed music lovers since 1990. It’s cozy, intimate, and perfect for enthusiasts who prefer a more relaxed environment.

Genre: Americana, Folk, Country

Highlights: Warm ambiance, friendly staff, great acoustics

5. ACL Live at The Moody Theater ACL Live

Home to the legendary Austin City Limits television show, ACL Live is a state-of-the-art 2,750-person capacity venue in the heart of downtown Austin.

Genre: Eclectic mix – from Pop to Country and Classical

Highlights: Excellent acoustics, spacious seating, iconic venue

To truly experience Austin’s eclectic music scene, don’t miss out on these exceptional live music venues. Put on your dancing shoes, tune in your ears, and immerse yourself into Austin’s heart-pounding live music experiences. They are as diverse as Austin itself, accommodating every music taste and mood.

I hope this ‘Live Music Guide to Austin’ helps ignite your passion for Austin’s rich local music scene. It’s a medley of notes and rhythms, vibrant and pulsating with endless energy, just like this delightful city itself. Whether you’re a determined music explorer or a casual traveler keen on vibing with local scenes, this guide ensures you don’t miss out on the melody that Austin resonates.

So, what are you waiting for? Let music be your journey in this charming Texan city! Go ahead, breathe in Austin’s local tunes, dance to the rhythm, and let the music guide you!

Stay tuned, and keep grooving to the Austin beat!


P.S.: Remember to double-check venue websites or call ahead of time for the most up-to-date information on upcoming shows or events. It’s always better to be in the know before stepping out to embrace the music!

Lauren Critzer

I was born in Charlottesville, Virginia and after college, I moved to San Francisco to explore new opportunities and broaden my horizons. I fell in love with the city's vibrant culture and unique atmosphere, but eventually, I moved again, this time to Austin, Texas.

As much as I loved living in different parts of the country, having a baby boy brought me back to my hometown in Charlottesville, where I now live with my husband, our little one, and two furry friends. I enjoy going to wineries, taking my pups everywhere, and spending quality time with my family.

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