Austin Nightlife

Owned by the people behind the beloved Alamo Drafthouse chain and located in a former massage parlour, this exclusive bar is as tiny as it is popular. Appreciators of the fine cocktail will enjoy this reservation-only bar, but be forewarned: there is a two-drink minimum and the drinks are strong. Midnight Cowboy is a quiet spot amongst the madness of Sixth Street.

The bar-slash-music venue in the heart of the Red River Music District features a rotating door of local events and travelling shows. Owned by the same tribe that puts on the alternative music festival Fun Fun Fun Fest, Mohawk is a place to be seen and be heard.The venue typically has a cover and parking can get a little tricky; don't be opposed to showing up early for a good parking spot in front of the stage.

Located in the edgy East Sixth district, this watering hole is where cowboys and hipsters meet to listen to bluegrass, drink whiskey on tap and two-step. Though the place may smell a little funky from the horses they let through the front door, it's one of the few remaining "truly Austin" hangouts and the clientele often forgives the grimy appearance for its country charm.

A cherished Austin staple, this old-school homestead for country-line dancing still remains strong and tall though condos are sprucing up like weeds around it. Cowboys and cowgirls have been coming here to listen to the serenades of local and travelling country stars and to drink libations since 1964. Thought the landscape of South Austin is changing dramatically, one thing is for certain: the Broken Spoke always remains the same.

One of South Congress's greatest fixtures, the Continental Club is known for being the home of some of Austin's most revered musicians, as well as hosting the occasional secret show from new resident Robert Plant. With its neon sign, vintage decor and good ol' rock n' roll music, patrons feel as though they walked into a bygone era, and in a way they have. The Continental Club remains one of Austin's oldest music clubs.

Austin features several gay bars and clubs, but Oilcan Harry's is arguably the most popular hangout for gays and straights alike. Featuring three bars and an outdoor deck, this hotspot also boasts drag events, guest speakers and fundraisers. Don't be surprised if a friend or two of RuPaul's drops by for a visit and make sure to get dressed up before you head over. Dressing over-the-top is the MO of Oilcan Harry's.

Home to the famous Austin City Limits tv show, this newly-built, 2,750-person capacity theatre replaced the original stage that was located at the UT campus. The Moody Theater allows music lovers to purchase tickets to see some of their favourite big-name acts, but be forewarned: if they're doing a tv show taping, you still can't buy tickets as the audience is exclusively selected.

Antone's packed its bags from its Downtown address and moved to East Riverside. News on the street is that it's moving back to Downtown next year. Nonetheless, this music club has been a popular joint to catch live music since 1975. Music promoter and club owner Clifford Antone made Antone's a household name by featuring blues acts such as B.B. King, Buddy Guy and former local resident Stevie Ray Vaughan.

Once located in Downtown's Red River Music District, this famous music venue now rests on East Riverside where it can accommodate plenty of music fans. Featuring both local and touring acts, Emo's is popular venue during city-wide events such as SXSW and ACL.

Located in far west Austin, One World Theater was constructed to highlight music from different cultures. It routinely showcases various local and travelling musicians and performers.

Opened in 1915, The Paramount Theater remains Austin's most majestic theater. Featuring an array of music acts, movies, lives shows and more, everyone from Woody Allen to Willie Nelson have performed in the ornate halls of this classic beauty. The Paramount is also utilized during film festivals such as SXSW and the Austin Film Festival. Trying walking down Congress Avenue and not be blown away by the impressive presence of this theater.

Named after Austin-born Hollywood actor Zachary Scott, this newly remodeled 420-seat theater features a stellar view of Lady Bird Lake, classrooms and multiple theaters that showcase travelling and local plays. If you're itching to catch a Broadway show, the Zach Theater is your best bet. The theater also offers camp and plays for children and families year-round.

Home to the Austin Symphony Orchestra, Austin Lyric Opera and Ballet Austin, this cultural centre showcases several theatres, halls, outdoor parks, lounges and terraces. Due to its breathtaking views of Lady Bird Lake and the Downtown skyline. Austinites surround the Long Center to listen to the Austin Symphony Orchestra perform the 1812 Overture during the 4 July fireworks display.