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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Cool live music in Downtown Austin

Live music that feels genuinely current and interesting without the pretension of a scene-heavy club.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
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Updated May 2026
01

Intimate jazz club with cozy atmosphere and excellent acoustics designed for clear stage views and sound. Lighting highlights performances with perfect spotlighting and the venue features a 9-foot Steinway D piano. The space offers a relaxed vibe where music and ambiance blend seamlessly.

Intimate size creates a close connection with the music. The room offers excellent sound quality that keeps live bands clear and balanced without being too loud.

An underground venue with a cool atmosphere and a small quartet playing tunes creates a fun and lively vibe.

People are saying

"The jazz musicians here are amazing, especially the house band."

"I experienced the best live music in town here."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the club's popularity.

2

Valet parking is available for $15.

3

Expect a two-drink minimum during shows.

02
Elephant Room image 1
Live music bar

Small basement bar with stone walls and a cellar setting creates a classic, intimate vibe. Smooth, live jazz music fills the space with chill energy, attracting those who prefer sitting and enjoying quality performances. Unique house brine for dirty martinis stands out among the drink offerings.

Live jazz plays late into the night in a basement setting with low-level lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere. The music is the main focus, accompanied by attentive bartenders and a chill vibe.

A cool jazz club vibe fills the basement space with great live music and a smoke-free atmosphere. Band members often engage directly with the crowd, adding to the very cool ambience.

People are saying

"The jazz musicianship here is amazing."

"It's a cool spot for live jazz music in a basement gem."

"It's a cool jazz club with a moody, underground vibe."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover fee at Elephant Room.

2

A $7 cover charge applies after 8pm.

3

No food is served; drinks only, but you can bring food in.

03
Friends Bar image 1
Live music bar

Live music fills a spacious bar with a stage and a courtyard featuring picnic tables. The atmosphere stays friendly and positive, drawing a crowd that enjoys dancing and people watching. Cold beer and cocktails complement the blues club vibe and no cover charge policy.

Live music features consistent performances by artists like Brad Steiger and Lew Apollo. The venue offers a dive bar vibe with a good pour on drinks, making it a solid spot to enjoy music on 6th street.

Live music creates a cool atmosphere here. Staff and service add to the laid-back vibe.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the bands here."

"This dive bar has amazing live music all day and night."

"I found the live music here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Live music runs from 12 pm to 2 am every day.

2

Friends Bar is dog friendly inside.

3

Food is available from a food truck at the back of the bar.

04
Half Step image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar with live jazz and blues music and a large outdoor space featuring wrap-around patios and plenty of seating. Atmosphere feels like a friendly living room gathering with a loud, energetic vibe and a small dance floor. Regulars enjoy well-crafted cocktails and local bands without cover charge.

Live music features jazz and blues performances with no cover charge. Shows run on Tuesday and Wednesday nights, showcasing talented bands and DJs with outdoor seating available.

A cool vibe fills the space with a large outdoor area and a patio that adds to the relaxed atmosphere. Live music plays in a cool venue setting that feels like a chill little pub.

People are saying

"I found the cocktails here to be amazing and perfectly crafted."

"I enjoyed the great live music and chill vibe."

"It's a cool spot with great live music."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday between 3 and 7 PM.

2

Live music happens on Tuesday nights from 9:30 to 11:30 PM.

3

There is no cover charge for live music events.

05
Edge Rooftop image 1

Rooftop bar offers panoramic city views and a spacious pool area with live music enhancing the atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed yet lively, suitable for both casual hangouts and special occasions. Guests enjoy seasonal cocktails and cozy touches like blankets during cooler evenings.

Live music plays regularly with a great view that enhances the experience. Performances are consistently excellent and enjoyable.

A wild rooftop offers a cool breeze and a cool view, especially on windy, stormy nights.

People are saying

"The servers at the Rooftop are so attentive and sweet."

"The service here is so welcoming and attentive."

"The live music here was genuinely nice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Sundays feature a special martini night with $10 drinks.

3

Tabs cannot be itemized and must be paid as one.

06
Mohawk Austin image 1
Live music venue

Venue features three levels of elevated viewing and a rustic building with tiered standing areas that ensure good sightlines. Atmosphere blends intimate vibes with excellent acoustics, creating a unique live music experience. Outdoor space offers multiple tiers and impressive views, enhancing the overall energy.

Outdoor setup offers a great view for live shows, even for shorter people. The venue has a fun layout that enhances the live music experience with a cool, small space and an awesome vibe.

Small venue with multiple spots to watch shows creates a unique experience. Staff are amazing and very cool, enhancing the vibe. Easy parking adds to the convenience during good weather shows.

People are saying

"The outdoor seating offers a lively atmosphere with great live music."

"I found Mohawk Austin to be a great venue for live music."

"I found the venue to be pretty cool, with multiple spots to watch shows."

Good to know

1

Concerts end by 10:30 PM due to noise curfew.

2

If under 21, entry is only allowed after 7 PM during Happy Hour.

3

Mohawk Austin is wheelchair accessible with no steps at the entrance.

07
Ellis image 1

Glass-enclosed bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating under a huge oak tree with lanterns and string lights. Atmosphere stays chilled and relaxing with live guitar music and elevator tunes setting a calm vibe. Outdoor patio serves as a people-watching spot with bar service inside and out.

Live guitar player and excellent live band perform regularly, creating a chill vibe. Music often fills the bar, especially on weekends, making it a solid spot to relax with a beer.

A bar with a fun vibe and a coffee truck nearby adds to the cool atmosphere. The spot works well for a few drinks and casual hangouts.

People are saying

"The staff during Happy Hour was wonderful and fun to talk to."

"The bar's happy hour is a great start for a night out."

"I found it to be a cool bar for a few drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 to 3pm with $7 mimosas and bloody Marys.

2

Happy hour offers $3 wine, making it a great deal.

3

The outdoor seating area is popular but can get crowded.

08
Shiner's Saloon image 1

Large space with a rooftop bar and live music creates a relaxed, lowkey vibe. Comfortable indoor seating contrasts with an outdoor patio featuring games and skyline views. Crowd enjoys strong beer selection and casual atmosphere ideal for unwinding.

Free live music plays regularly, creating a lively atmosphere. The rooftop bar offers a great spot to enjoy the sounds while a friendly bartender ensures good service.

Very cool vibe with a standout front door and sign. Outdoor music and a cool band playing during football add to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fantastic."

"The vibe here is so cool, a real retro dive bar feel."

"I loved the live music and vibes here."

Good to know

1

Expect busier crowds on weekends, especially during evening hours.

2

The kitchen stays open late, serving food until close to 1am.

3

Drink prices are generally fair, averaging around $11.50.

09
Speakeasy image 1
Lounge

Lounge combines live music with a historical atmosphere and spacious bar area featuring a performance stage. The vibe is cool and sophisticated, attracting an older crowd who enjoy drinking, dancing, and watching bands. Rooftop bar offers city views but can feel tight during events.

Multiple floors host live bands and a DJ on the rooftop, creating a layered music experience. The space suits rock enthusiasts and special events with great shows and a lively atmosphere.

A cool vibe fills the space with a sophisticated atmosphere and a historic setup. Live music and activities add to the energy, making it a standout spot to catch a band.

People are saying

"I found the shows and special events here to be really fun."

"The atmosphere here is pretty cool and sophisticated."

"I enjoyed the great live music here."

Good to know

1

The Spazmatics perform every Wednesday night with no cover charge.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere during 90's night events on Fridays.

3

No food is available on-site, so plan to eat before visiting.

10
Elysium image 1
Night club

Nightclub with a Goth/Emo setting and historic building vibe offers a large dance floor and phenomenal sound system. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming to alternative subcultures, with darkness, flashing lights, and smoke machines enhancing the mood. DJs mix classics and new music, creating a safe, fun space for dancing and live shows.

A lively spot for live shows and DJs, with a patio to relax and enjoy music. It offers a solid place to dance and catch performances despite the city's changing music scene.

Darkwave music events create a cool atmosphere with good drinks. The big restroom features art that adds to the vibe. DJs take song requests by writing them down, which is a neat touch.

People are saying

"This local spot is a safe space for freaks, queers, and weirdos."

"You can see so many incredible shows and live music here."

"Everyone I met was nice and made me feel welcome."

Good to know

1

Elysium hosts themed nights like 80s night every Sunday.

2

Expect a cash-only cover charge of $10 at the door.

3

ATM usage incurs a $5 fee, so bring cash for entry.

11
Seven Grand image 1

Spacious bar divided into three distinct areas including a main bar with pool tables and an outdoor patio for cigar smoking. Atmosphere is relaxed and classy, with a focus on an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection. Tacos and live music add to the varied experience across different sections.

Live music creates an upbeat atmosphere on Thursdays. The sound stays balanced and not too loud, making it easy to enjoy.

An incredible selection of whiskeys and beer sets the tone here. The cool outdoor patio with fans connects three bars, creating a chill vibe for friends and large groups.

People are saying

"I loved the huge whiskey selection from around the world."

"I found the whiskey selection to be huge and the bartenders knowledgeable."

"The live music here creates an upbeat atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Cigars can only be smoked outdoors.

2

Happy hour specials are available, offering great deals.

3

Seven Grand has a tequila bar and a rum bar.

12
Valhalla image 1

Metal-themed bar with live local bands and a lively rock vibe creates an energetic yet chill atmosphere. Small venue features arcade and pool games, fostering a social and welcoming environment. Decor reflects a strong personality, continuing a punk rock legacy.

Downstairs hosts live music alongside a bar for drinks. The venue offers a cool atmosphere for music events.

Vibes feel laid-back and authentic. It serves as a live music venue with a chill atmosphere.

People are saying

"This bar has a great, lively vibe."

"I found the atmosphere and vibes here to be really cool."

"I experienced badass live music here."

Good to know

1

Bring ear plugs for loud performances.

2

Valhalla has a restaurant upstairs for food orders.

3

There is plenty of seating available both upstairs and downstairs.

13
El Cockfight image 1

Multi-level bar with a rooftop patio offers live music and skyline views. Atmosphere stays relaxed and chill, with a mix of DJs downstairs and live bands upstairs. Tacos from a pop-up stand add a unique touch to the drink-focused setup.

Live music plays on weekends, filling the rooftop with rhythmic beats and creating a great vibe alongside a DJ downstairs. The music adds an extra layer of excitement to the space.

Low lighting and unique decorations create a cool, intimate feel. The rooftop adds a cool vibe, and the space combines that with friendly service.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel cared for."

"The rooftop has a really pretty, scenic ambiance."

"The vibe here is really cool, with low lighting and unique decorations."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with drinks under $10.

2

Live music is featured on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

The rooftop patio is a popular spot during happy hour.

14
Antone's Nightclub image 1
Live music venue

Historic live music venue offers an intimate atmosphere with classic blues energy and well-balanced sound system. Crowds pack the space enthusiastically, creating a vibrant and warm environment. Decor includes art and vintage posters, enhancing the nostalgic vibe.

The venue offers an excellent live music lineup featuring both local acts and national stars. It serves as a great spot for legit live music with a strong reputation in the scene.

A chill venue with a cool setup inside and a vibe full of good energy. It carries a lot of history and offers albums, books, and shirts.

People are saying

"I found it to be a great place for live music."

"It's a historic venue with a rich history that adds a special atmosphere."

"It's a cool place with lots of history and good vibes."

Good to know

1

There is a cover fee at the door for entry.

2

Parking is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

The bar automatically adds a 20% gratuity to all tabs.

15
Blind Pig Pub image 1

Two-story pub with a rooftop terrace and live music creates a lively, fun atmosphere. Sports fans gather around numerous screens at the long bar, while the open-air rooftop offers great views and space for dancing. Energy shifts between the cozy downstairs and vibrant upstairs areas.

Live bands perform on a balcony stage and a rooftop stage with open air. The music energizes the crowd and gets people dancing, creating a lively atmosphere.

Shows and a rooftop stand out here. The pub offers a cool atmosphere with music and games upstairs.

People are saying

"The live music here is great and gets everyone dancing."

"The rooftop has an incredible live band playing."

"I found the atmosphere here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Live music events occur on Sundays, featuring local bands.

2

The pub has a dress code requiring patrons to wear a shirt.

3

Only beer and mixed drinks are available; no wine served.

16
Space Fox Bar image 1

Small bar with outdoor seating and live music creates a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Crowd varies from lively during band performances to packed on busy nights. Known for being one of the least pretentious venues in its area, it draws people who enjoy music and sports in a casual setting.

Live music plays almost every night with great live band performances and solid DJs at night. Weekdays and weekends both feature enjoyable live music that creates a lively atmosphere.

The bar has a really cool vibe with friendly bartenders that add to the atmosphere. It feels like a great spot to hang out and relax.

People are saying

"I loved the live music, it was truly an enjoyable experience."

"The food here is fire, truly scrumptious."

"I found the bar to be a really cool place to hang out."

Good to know

1

Live music happens almost every night, with bands starting around 8:30 PM.

2

Happy hour features daily drink specials that are popular among patrons.

3

Expect live DJs at night on weekends, enhancing the nightlife experience.

17
Fairmont Austin image 1

Hotel offers stunning views and elegant decor with a rooftop pool and spacious gym. Atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxing, with quiet, cozy rooms and attentive service. Bar and lounge provide a sophisticated vibe with quality drinks and thoughtful touches.

Live music plays alongside a bar setting, creating a lively atmosphere. The spot also offers breakfast during these performances.

Pool area sets a cool vibe throughout. The Fairmont Gold reception on floor 35 and the bar add to the overall cool atmosphere.

People are saying

"The Hotel staff were so kind and always willing to help."

"I had a great time at the bar with live music."

"The staff here is so cool and really nice."

Good to know

1

Happy hour at the rooftop bar runs from 5PM to 6PM on Thursdays and Fridays.

2

Parking costs $50 per night for self-parking at the hotel.

3

WiFi is not included in the room rate and costs $15 per day.

18
The Driskill Bar image 1

Historic bar with unique decor and comfortable seating creates a lively atmosphere filled with live music. Crowds gather for drinks and socializing, especially on weekends. The setting blends western vibe with classic elegance, making it a standout spot for cocktails.

Live music plays on Thursday through Sunday, creating a classy atmosphere that suits drinks well. Arriving early or reserving seats helps secure a spot for the performances.

Historic architecture creates a cool vibe throughout the bar. The atmosphere feels authentic and adds to the overall chill experience.

People are saying

"The bar's atmosphere is spectacular and very cool."

"I enjoyed the live music here, especially the awesome and classy band."

"I found the atmosphere and the building to be very cool."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure seats for live music performances.

2

Live music occurs Thursday through Sunday, featuring different artists each night.

3

Happy hour is popular among hotel guests, making the bar crowded.

19
The Betty image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers an absolutely stunning interior with an electric energy fueled by top-tier DJs and an incredible sound system. The atmosphere blends classy, upscale vibes with a fabulous speakeasy mood. Guests enjoy amazing craft cocktails and lively dancing to house mixes spanning many genres.

Thursdays feature Steak Night with live music and cocktails. The space offers amazing live music regularly, creating a great atmosphere.

Glamorous and mysterious vibes create a pop-culture-cool atmosphere. The 25+ age limit adds a grown-up edge to the cocktail scene.

People are saying

"The staff here makes the nightlife feel so welcoming and attentive."

"The cocktails here are amazing and always on point."

"You have to check out the live music and Layton's incredible drink creations."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7 PM Wednesday to Friday, plus all day Tuesday.

2

Steak Night happens every Thursday with live music and prime cuts.

3

Dress code is enforced; avoid logoed t-shirts and casual wear.

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