Top 10 Multi-Purpose Venues
1. ACL Live at the Moody Theater
One of the 512’s newest venues, ACL Live, is in the center of Austin’s downtown scene and directly connected to one of it’s nicest hotels, The W. The 2,700 apacity venue hosts world-renowned acts including John Legend, Willie Nelson, Vampire Weekend, B.B.King, Ghostland Observatory, and STS9. In addition to concerts, ACL Live hosts private live music tapings for the award-winning Austin City Limits television show and stand-up comedy acts throughout the year. Built in 2011, ACL Live’s layout creates an incredible acoustic environment
coupled with fantastic seating arrangements, so there’s no such thing as a bad view of the stage.
Perhaps one of Austin’s most historical live entertainment venues and well-known BBQ joints, Stubb’s is located in the heart of Downtown and only blocks from the infamous 6th Street. As an outdoor amphitheater, Stubb’s offers a vibrant atmosphere, especially during the Spring and Fall and solid acoustics. Stubb’s first opened in 1968 in Lubbock, TX and since moving to Austin continues to host a wide array of live productions including Spoon, Stephen Marley, Chromeo, Steve Aoki, Flogging Molly, and Black Sabbath. In keeping with Southern tradition, Stubbs also hosts a Gospel Brunch every Sunday. Dinner before any show is easy to coordinate with friends since you can simple jump inside and grab a famous pulled pork sandwich, some smoked brisket or a rack of ribs.
3. The Mohawk
Built in 2006, The Mohawk sits almost right across the street from Stubb’s. With 3 bars, 2 stages, and a merch area, The Mohawk has laid claim to everything from The World Beard and Moustache Championships to Anarchy Wrestling, weddings and live concerts, private parties and anything in between. Open daily from 8pm-2am with with a selection of 10 drafts,more than 100 local crafts and small batch spirits, the intimate setting that is The Mohawk sits atop my list.
4. Emo’s Austin
Formerly named The Back Room, Emo’s East originated in the Punk Rock District of Austin’s downtown scene. With a capacity of 1,700 people, Emo’s reminds me of a warehouse turned live music venue with state of the art Sound/Stage/Lighting and acoustic environment. Emo’s has seen the likes of The Glitch Mob, Flux Pavilion, Rusko, My Morning Jacket, and Pendulum.
With three distinct studio spaces and capacity of over 150 in the main stage area, Arlyn Studios is the perfect, one-of-a-kind combination for both recording as an artist and live performances. This ambience creates a perfect aura, and it’s no wonder why they are an annual venue selection for SXSW. Having worked with the staff, Lisa Fletcher and her crew are incredible. Seeing a show or lineup here is a must!
Perhaps the most historical and intimate Jazz, Blues, Rock, and Country venue, The Continental Club opened its doors in 1955. It started out as a swanky supper club, then became Austin’s first burlesque club and later became a working man’s blue collar bar on South Congress, opening as early as 7am every day. With acts like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Bill Carter, Robert Plant, Wanda Jackson, and The True Believers, The Continental Club is a quintessential must visit for the local Austinite and the esteemed visitor.
7. Brazos Hall
I like Brazos Hall for its ability to conform to any event. The open layout and customizable design leaves it optimal for events like the Annual Jameson Anniversary Party. With a capacity of 450 standing, 250 sitting, and a location in the heart of Downtown just blocks from 6th Street, Brazos Hall’s upscale construction is perfect for anything from concerts and parties to wedding receptions and annual events.
8. The Parish
Spoon, Shakey Graves, The Moontower Comedy Festival, PBS Showcases, and the CMA Songwriters Series have all called this sixth street venue home. It touts itself as being one of the best indoor live music venues in Austin. Although it has recently changed ownership, making history by being one of the first venues ever sold on eBay, I have been told that it now, more than ever, is a venue to see. With a capacity of just over 425, The Parish is both intimate and vibrant. Oh, and by the way….walk outside and there is sixth street!
Vuka Lounge is a collaborative work space that offers equipment rentals and an open floor plan that can also be converted into a plethora of options for entertaining. Like Brazos Hall, Vuka Lounge has the ability to retain Alcohol Sponsors vs TABC Licensed Venues, a huge positive for renting the venue for corporate events. Vuka also has an outdoor space that is optimal for the good weather months and also increases the capacity over 250 people. Catherine Kuchar and her staff are phenomenal as well! Tell them I sent you.
10. Scratchouse
Almost embarrassed to say it, but I just recently visited what used to be the old Beauty Ballroom only a few weeks back. I was there for a local showcase hosted by Cameron Turney, an incredible promoter and the head of Mixi Shows. The show was a local showcase called The Come Up Pt 2 which featured D.R.O.I.D, Jaehross, Junior Flexwell, and Dre Prince. The venue is a great combination of indoor/outdoor feels with solid acoustics and an open layout. I was surprised by the ambiance of what is virtually a club located right near 6th street. Its intimate setting is perfect for local talent.