Music City Spotlight Austin - The Live Music Capital of the World

The Live Music Capital of the World

If there’s one city that lives and breathes music, it’s Austin, Texas. Nicknamed the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin is home to over 250 live music venues, legendary festivals, and a thriving music scene that covers every genre imaginable. Whether you’re a country fan, a blues aficionado, or a rock enthusiast, Austin has a stage—and a sound—for you.

Iconic Music Venues in Austin

• Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater
  One of the most famous venues in the city, this spot hosts live recordings for the long-running Austin City Limits TV show. It’s the perfect place to catch a world-class act in an intimate setting.
• The Continental Club
  A must-visit for blues, rock, and country lovers, this historic venue has hosted legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan and Joe Ely. It still keeps the Austin music spirit alive every night.
• Antone’s Nightclub
  Dubbed the “Home of the Blues,” Antone’s helped launch the careers of many blues greats, including the legendary Stevie Ray Vaughan. Today, it remains a cornerstone of Austin’s live music culture.
• The White Horse
  Looking for a honky-tonk experience? The White Horse serves up cold beer, live country and blues, and a two-steppin’ dance floor that’ll make you feel like a true Texan.

Austin’s Legendary Festivals

• South by Southwest (SXSW)
  Every March, SXSW transforms Austin into a global music hub, bringing together artists from around the world. It’s a mix of industry showcases, surprise performances, and groundbreaking music discoveries.
• Austin City Limits Music Festival (ACL)
  Held in Zilker Park every October, ACL is one of the biggest music festivals in the U.S., drawing acts like Paul McCartney, Billie Eilish, and Red Hot Chili Peppers.
• Blues on the Green
  A free summer concert series that brings the best local and national talent to Zilker Park. Pack a picnic and enjoy live music under the Texas sky.

Famous Artists from Austin

• Willie Nelson
  The country legend is practically the face of Austin music, and you’ll find his influence everywhere, from murals to festival stages.
• Stevie Ray Vaughan
  The blues-rock guitar god made Austin his home and helped put the city’s blues scene on the map.
• Gary Clark Jr.
  One of today’s most electrifying blues-rock musicians, carrying on Austin’s rich musical tradition.
• Spoon
  Indie rock darlings who have helped define the alternative music scene in Austin and beyond.

Stay Close to the Music

Austin’s music scene is best experienced up close, and staying near the city’s top venues means you won’t miss a beat. From boutique hotels near 6th Street to luxury stays downtown, find the perfect place to rest after a night of unforgettable music.

Find the best hotels near Austin’s music venues

Your Austin Music Playlist

Want to bring the Austin music vibe wherever you go? Check out our specially curated Austin Music Playlist on Spotify! Featuring legendary artists like Willie Nelson, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Gary Clark Jr., along with rising local talent, this playlist captures the spirit of the Live Music Capital of the World.

Austin: A Must-Visit for Music Lovers

Whether you're exploring historic venues, dancing at a festival, or just wandering the city’s vibrant streets, Austin offers a one-of-a-kind music experience. There’s a reason why musicians and fans alike flock to this city—it’s where music truly comes alive.