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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown Austin's best

Performing arts

Made for those who structure their evenings around the theater and live performance.

Based on 739 Opinions
+736
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Updated April 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 offers impressive woodwork and a candlelit ambiance that creates a peaceful, intimate setting. Talented musicians deliver powerful, healing energy with classic tunes, making performances both skillful and amusing. Venue blends romantic atmosphere with a cozy, organized layout.

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 venue has a gorgeous, intimate ambiance."

"The candlelight concerts here are a breathtaking performing arts 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
Parker Jazz Club image 1

Intimate jazz club offers cozy atmosphere and excellent acoustics for clear sound and stage views. Live shows feature a skilled performer on five brass instruments and singing, creating a great night out vibe with perfect spotlighting and a 9-foot Steinway D piano.

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."

"The cocktails here are very fine, complementing the outstanding live jazz."

"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.

03
Austin Scottish Rite Theater image 1

Historic theater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics that bring performances close. Leather chairs and tapestries add old-world charm. Shows range from musicals to plays, creating a magical atmosphere for a charming night out.

An older but well kept theater offers a beautiful and magical setting with leather overstuffed chairs and tapestries. Performances range from musicals to plays, creating a charming and elegant atmosphere that enhances the night out.

People are saying

"This historic theater has such beautiful architecture for live performances."

"Parking is limited, so you should get there early."

"It's so Kid Friendly; my child loved the camp content."

Good to know

1

The theater allows ghost and paranormal investigations through The Original Austin Ghost Tours every month.

2

Parking is limited with around 50 spots, so arrive early or consider ridesharing.

3

The theater has good spacing between rows, making it accessible for all.

04
Elephant Room image 1
Live music bar

Small basement bar with stone walls offers an intimate vibe. Smooth, live jazz and Big Brass Band shows create a chill, musical atmosphere. Unique house brine for dirty martinis makes drinks stand out.

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."

"It's a cozy basement spot with an intimate, speakeasy vibe."

"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
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.

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.

06
State Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Intimate venue with old school charm and excellent acoustics hosts concerts, films, and talks. Cozy atmosphere with comfortable stadium seating makes every event special. Clean, well-organized space supports diverse performing arts experiences.

Old school charm defines the clean, neat theater that hosts a variety of events from book talks to early movie screenings. It serves as a cool, important space for both theaters and concert halls.

People are saying

"This theater is a great, clean space for talks and events."

"It's a cool theater with an old school charm."

"The bathrooms here are spotless and clean."

Good to know

1

The venue requires a clear bag for entry and prohibits drinks or food inside.

2

Parking is available in nearby garages or via valet at local hotels.

3

Expect sold-out shows, so buy tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.

07
The Hideout Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Small theater offers intimate seating for close-up improv shows with strong audience participation. Passionate artists lead improv classes here. Attached coffee shop serves food and drinks, adding a casual, welcoming vibe.

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."

"It's so fun and interactive, the kids get to perform on stage!"

"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.

08
Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live & 3TEN ACL Live) image 1

Cone-shaped seating ensures excellent stage visibility and amazing sound quality. Intimate and cozy atmosphere suits diverse musical genres and comedy and theater. Multiple bars on all levels offer easy access to drinks.

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.

09
The Paramount Theatre image 1
Performing arts theater

Historic theater shines with vintage charm and excellent acoustics. Comfortable seating suits theater and comedy shows. Multiple bars add a social vibe alongside live performances.

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 an amazing venue for live music with incredible character."

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.

10
Antone's Nightclub image 1
Live music venue

Historic venue pulses with classic blues energy and an intimate atmosphere. Live bands deliver energetic shows that pack the space with enthusiastic crowds. Walls adorned with vintage posters add to the nostalgic vibe.

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."

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

"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.

11
Fallout Theater image 1
Comedy club

Small comedy club offers improvised performances that engage audiences in a fun, experimental vibe. Lounge invites guests to browse vintage vinyl and enjoy free arcade games, creating a casual, community space.

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."

"The bar has a cool vibe and I always had a great time."

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.

12
3Ten Austin City Limits image 1
Live music venue

Small live music venue fits about 350 guests with intimate setting and excellent acoustics. Indoor space opens to an open-air patio letting guests enjoy performances outside. Ushers help guests get close-up views while a lively dance floor and large bar keep the crowd safe and fun.

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."

"It's a great venue for seeing bands in a more 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.

13
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.

People are saying

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

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

"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.

14
Comedy Mothership image 1

Two small rooms offer a tight atmosphere with world-famous talent performing nightly. Phone-free policy locks devices, keeping focus sharp. Comedy shows blend theater-quality acts with a close, personal vibe.

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 atmosphere and vibes here are really cool."

"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.

15
Esther's Follies image 1
Comedy club

Comedy club offers interactive performances with a lively party vibe and strong audience participation. Shows feature impeccable comedic timing and outstanding musical numbers blending skits and songs. Venue's eclectic decor captures an old Austin spirit.

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.

16
Bullock Museum IMAX Theatre image 1

IMAX theater offers an immersive movie experience with a huge high-resolution screen and incredible sound system. Seating is spacious but dated, ensuring great views from every seat. Lobby features a cafe and concession stand for snacks and drinks.

Huge theater with a massive screen offers an immersive IMAX experience. Renovated seats feel unchanged, and the theater focuses on true IMAX showings, though non-IMAX movies lack the full format.

People are saying

"The IMAX Theater screen and sound were incredible."

"You can learn a lot about Texas history at these historical sites."

"I enjoyed the vicarious experience of the performing arts here."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $15 for IMAX movie screenings.

2

Free parking is available under the building after 5pm.

3

Arrive early for popular screenings to secure good seats.

17
Valhalla image 1

Metal-themed bar pulses with live local bands and a lively rock vibe. Small venue offers arcade and pool games, blending music with fun. Decor shows a punk rock legacy, creating a social, energetic space.

Live music features prominently with multiple bands performing regularly. The venue includes paid games alongside the performances.

People are saying

"This bar has a great, lively vibe."

"The downstairs has a bar with live music and a great vibe."

"The Italian food's garlic toast was so good."

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.

18
Moody Amphitheater image 1
Amphitheater

Outdoor amphitheater shines with great acoustics and comfortable seating. Crowds enjoy live music in a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by greenery. Open-air setting offers excellent sightlines for a natural experience under the stars.

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."

"You should get there early for parking, or it's tight."

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

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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