The video at the top of this page walks through ten different spots worth checking out if you're searching for things to do in South Austin, specifically when live music is what you're after. South Austin has its own personality — a little more laid-back, a little more neighborhood-oriented — and the venues down here reflect that. David Bridwell covers a solid mix of honky tonks, outdoor hangouts, jazz clubs, and listening rooms, all south of the river.
What are the best live music venues in South Austin?
Here's the full rundown of the ten spots featured in the video, each with its own flavor:
- Sagebrush — A big dance floor and stage hosting multiple artists on weekends, leaning into country and roots music. The night featured in the video had The Weary Boys, an Austin band known as the Bad Boys of Bluegrass with over 20 years of international touring.
- Continental Club — One of the most iconic music venues on South Congress. The video catches a Bob Dylan 85th birthday tribute hosted by Bill Kerchin, who has deep roots in the Austin scene and personally saw Dylan go electric at Newport.
- C-Boy's Heart & Soul — A classic venue on South Congress just a short walk from the Continental Club. Kelly Miku was playing, a local artist with decades of experience and strong Memphis influences, backed by a full band with harmonies.
- Little Darlin' — A neighborhood watering hole with craft beer, bistro food, and a big yard with games. The live music here branches out from traditional country and roots — the video features touring artist Ted Leo.
- Far Out Lounge — An outdoor venue with food trucks, two bars, picnic tables, and a stage. Music runs many nights a week across a range of genres. Late Apes, an Austin rock band blending alternative, stoner, and classic rock, were playing on an early weekday.
- Cosmic Pickle — Specialty coffee, local beers, craft cocktails, and food trucks in a garden setting with occasional live music. The Texases were performing, calling themselves the world's greatest country band playing hits from the '90s on back.
- Armadillo Den — Located further south along Manchaca Road, offering live music every night in a backyard party atmosphere. Lonesome Dave Fisher was playing rockabilly and honky tonk, Texas style.
- Monk's Jazz Club — A newer addition to South Austin, this cozy room features live jazz and other genres in an intimate listening room format. Thomas Wenglinski Quintet was performing contemporary jazz.
- Sound Space at Quack's — A listening room and full bar hosting concerts, open mics, trivia, and karaoke. By day it's a coffee shop. The video captures a songwriter sessions night hosted by Ashley Monal, featuring Ashley Hana Finley and Andrew Blandon.
- Saxon Pub — One of the most historic listening rooms in all of Austin, with live music seven nights a week and multiple artists each night. Tables, drinks, and a hot dog truck outside on most nights. David Trible, a songwriter from Fort Worth, was playing.
Getting the most out of South Austin's music scene
A lot of these venues are clustered along or near South Congress, which makes it easy to hit a few in one night. If you head further south on Manchaca Road, you'll find spots like Armadillo Den that have more of a sprawling backyard feel. The listening rooms — Monk's, Saxon Pub, Sound Space — are better for sitting down and actually paying attention to the music, while places like Sagebrush and Far Out Lounge are more about the full hangout experience. Most of these spots have shows multiple nights a week, so check their schedules before heading out.