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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Downtown Austin

Performing arts things to do

Immersing yourself in the performing arts brings a sense of wonder to the day.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
St. David's Episcopal Church image 1
St. David's Episcopal Church image 2
St. David's Episcopal Church image 3
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Historical church with impressive woodwork and candlelit ambiance creates an intimate, peaceful setting. Music performances feature talented musicians delivering powerful, healing energy. The venue combines romantic atmosphere with a cozy, organized layout.

Talented musicians create a fun, nostalgic atmosphere with engaging music. The setting offers a calming and enjoyable experience for group outings.

Candle light ambiance creates a breathtaking musical experience. Musicians play skillfully, adding amusement to the event with a mix of classic tunes.

People are saying

"I found the church's architecture and woodwork absolutely beautiful."

"The candlelight concerts here are a breathtaking performing arts experience."

"I found the venue beautiful and it was a fun experience."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $35, but back parking is available for $15.

2

Arrive early for open seating to secure a good spot.

3

Late arrivals are not allowed entry, even after the first song.

02
Pete's Dueling Piano Bar image 1

Piano bar with live dueling pianists creates a lively, engaging atmosphere where everyone sings and dances. Musicians are multi-talented and interactive, taking song requests and delivering legendary performances. Venue shows some wear but maintains a fun, energetic vibe throughout the night.

Dueling piano shows create a lively and interactive atmosphere. The experience stays consistently fun and entertaining, making it a standout spot for a night out.

People are saying

"The live music and crowd sing-alongs make for a super fun night."

"The piano bar performers were seriously talented and kept the energy high."

"The dueling piano players were so talented and took requests."

Good to know

1

There is a $15 cover charge per person.

2

Reservations are recommended for Saturday nights due to limited space.

3

Song requests cost between $1 to $100, played in order of the largest bill.

03
Parker Jazz Club image 1

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.

Live music creates a fun atmosphere with a house band and guest performers. The space stays clean and cool, making it a great spot to enjoy concerts.

Live shows feature a performer with excellent rapport and outstanding musical skills on at least five brass instruments plus singing. The jazz musical productions create a great night out atmosphere.

People are saying

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

"It's a fun place with amazing music and a great atmosphere."

"The jazz musical performances here are phenomenal and create an amazing night."

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.

04
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.

A speakeasy vibe sets a fun atmosphere with lively jazz performances like the Chase Baird Quartet. Cocktails add to the enjoyment, and seasonal tunes bring extra energy on some nights.

Musical talent stands out with nightly solid acts. The Big Brass Band performs every second Tuesday and delivers an amazing show.

People are saying

"The jazz musicianship here is amazing."

"You'll hear some incredibly talented jazz musicians playing live here."

"The jazz music here is amazing and the talent is very good."

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.

05
The Hideout Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small performing arts theater with intimate stadium-style seating creates a cozy, engaging atmosphere. Shows feature interactive improv comedy with strong audience participation, including kids. Attached coffee shop offers food, drinks, and late hours, enhancing the casual, welcoming vibe.

Creative shows combine comedy with a fun competition theme. Classes offer a great group atmosphere and lots of fun.

Improv theater classes start regularly with passionate artists leading them. The intimate seating lets you feel close to the action, and you can bring snacks and drinks from the coffee shop into the space.

People are saying

"The Improv shows here were amazing and had the whole room laughing."

"The shows here are hilarious and you might even get to perform!"

"You can express yourself in improv theater classes and find a supportive community."

Good to know

1

The theatre operates on a pay-what-you-can system for some shows.

2

Family interactive improv shows are held every Sunday at 4pm.

3

Seating is first come, first serve; arrive at least 10 minutes early.

06
Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live) image 1

Cone-shaped seating offers excellent stage visibility and almost zero bad seats. The venue feels intimate and cozy with amazing sound quality due to its design and recording use. Multiple bars on all levels provide easy access to drinks throughout the space.

Concerts and comedy shows offer live entertainment with a lively atmosphere. Exhibits showcase artists in the Hall of Fame, adding a nostalgic touch. Floor level general admission provides an up-close experience.

The venue offers an intimate feeling with excellent sound quality and no bad seats. It hosts a diverse range of musical genres along with comedy and theater, making it a cultural hub for live performances.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue with no bad seats in the house."

"The tours were so fun and educational, especially with Ozzie!"

"You can see the stage clearly from any seat at this performing arts venue."

Good to know

1

You should be ready to pay $65 for parking nearby.

2

There is no parking available at the venue; consider street parking or garages.

3

A clear bag is required to go through security.

07
The Paramount Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics and vintage charm. Multiple bars create a social atmosphere alongside live music and performances. Seating is adequate but navigating steps may be challenging depending on location.

Shows deliver 90 minutes of fun, magic, laughter, and surprises for all ages. The crowd stays friendly and enthusiastic, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Gorgeous, well-preserved historic architecture creates a charming atmosphere. Comfortable seating supports a variety of performances including theater, film festivals, and stand-up comedy.

People are saying

"It's a beautiful old theater, a historic time capsule."

"It's a gorgeous, intimate venue that feels small."

"It's a fun, historic time capsule that transports you to yesteryear."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult to find, so arrive early for events.

2

Discount parking is available across the street from the venue.

3

No cash is accepted at the bar area; credit cards only.

08
Fallout Theater image 1
Comedy club

Small, intimate comedy club with an underground bomb-shelter vibe and unpretentious atmosphere. Shows feature improvised performances that engage the audience and encourage risk-taking. Lounge offers vintage vinyl browsing and free arcade games, creating a casual, community-focused space.

Shows like 'Whose Slide is it Anyway' and 'F* This Week' offer unique, experimental, and cathartic experiences. Events such as 'Come @me'** engage audiences with real, empathetic, and clever interactions.

Improvised performances create a unique live entertainment experience that feels local and scrappy. Shows invite active engagement and the space fosters a fun, experimental, and personal atmosphere.

People are saying

"The shows here feel exciting, fresh, and truly unique."

"It's a fun, experimental space for performing arts and training."

"It's a fun place with experimental and personal shows."

Good to know

1

Tickets are affordable, making it easy to enjoy multiple shows.

2

Street parking is readily available within a block or two of the theater.

3

The theater hosts a variety of shows, including improv, stand-up, and sketch comedy.

09
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.

Live performances by bands like Soul Man Sam create a fun vibe that appeals even to those not into the genre. Ample public parking nearby makes it easy to join in the fun.

Live music features prominently with bands and solo artists performing regularly. The venue hosts energetic shows that draw in crowds for memorable performances.

People are saying

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

"I always had a fun time with the fantastic band."

"I saw amazing performers play here."

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.

10
3Ten Austin City Limits image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue designed for about 350 people offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics. Indoor space flows into an open-air patio, allowing guests to see and hear performances while seated outside. Crowd is safe and fun, with a lively dance floor and a large bar on the side.

Indoor and outdoor spaces offer varied fun activities. The crowd stays safe and enjoyable to be around.

A smaller venue inside a larger theater offers an intimate setting for live music. Ushers guide guests to the front rows, allowing close-up views of the performance.

People are saying

"It's a great intimate venue with excellent acoustics."

"You can sit on the patio and still see and hear the band."

"You should check out the bands playing in this intimate setting."

Good to know

1

Bar prices are high, with beers costing $12-14 and cocktails $14-20.

2

Seating is limited; arrive early for a chance at a chair.

3

Expect a full dance floor by 8:30 p.m. during popular shows.

11
Esther's Follies image 1
Comedy club

Comedy club blends interactive performances with a unique window setup that incorporates street scenes into the show. Atmosphere feels chaotic and glittery, with a lively, party vibe and strong audience participation. Small venue captures an old Austin spirit with eclectic decor and a fun, creative energy.

Energetic and engaging performances keep the audience entertained from start to finish. Shows feature creative, witty, and bold humor that reflects a unique and fun culture.

Performances feature impeccable comedic timing and outstanding musical numbers with strong vocal talent. Shows mix multiple skits and songs, mostly musical except for a magic act, though some political bits feel less genuine.

People are saying

"I had so much fun watching the show."

"It's a unique blend of magic, satire, and comedy that's hilarious."

"The comedy and musical performances here are hilarious and impressive."

Good to know

1

Tickets should be purchased in advance to secure a seat.

2

The show lasts approximately 2 hours, featuring a variety of acts.

3

Food and drinks are available, and you can bring them into the audience.

12
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 talented bands with engaging vocals that get everyone moving. The atmosphere includes fun patrons and a vibe that makes grabbing a drink enjoyable.

People are saying

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

"The live music here is really fun and energetic."

"The live music here is awesome, with talented musicians playing rock and blues."

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.

13
Comedy Mothership image 1

Two small, intimate rooms create a tight atmosphere with great sound and world-famous talent performing nightly. The venue enforces a phone-free environment by locking up devices to keep the focus on the show. Energy runs high, making it a standout spot for comedy.

Shows include about 10 comics with talented comedians. A welcoming atmosphere and fun crowd create an unforgettable experience.

A big room with great seating creates a close, personal vibe for comedy shows. Theater-quality acts perform in a smaller club setting, blending intimacy with professionalism.

People are saying

"This nightlife is the best comedy club experience I've ever had."

"The comedians here are hilarious and made for a fun night."

"You have to lock up your phone and smartwatch for the performing arts."

Good to know

1

Tickets for shows can be purchased online or at the door.

2

There is a two-drink minimum per person during shows.

3

Entry requires turning off all phones and smart devices.

14
Moody Amphitheater image 1
Amphitheater

Outdoor amphitheater offers open-air setting with great acoustics and excellent sightlines from most seats. Atmosphere stays peaceful and relaxed, enhanced by surrounding greenery. Crowds gather for live music, creating a natural and enjoyable experience under the stars.

Open-air setting creates a fun Austin vibe. Comfortable seating makes listening to great music enjoyable and the venue feels lively and fun during concerts.

Outdoor theater offers solid sound quality and comfortable seating. Venue suits live music with an appealing atmosphere.

People are saying

"You get a great view from anywhere in this venue."

"I loved the outdoor theater and its comfortable seats."

"I had lots of fun at this awesome venue."

Good to know

1

Bring a clear bag or small clutch to enter the venue.

2

Parking can be difficult; consider prepaying for a spot.

3

Ride shares should drop off on 12th street, not Trinity.

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