One part vaudeville and one part stinging political/social satire, this place has been amusing and delighting its guests, as well as the pedestrians who pass by its front-stage windows and observe its goings-on, since the late 1970s. A troupe of multi-talented performers write, act, sing and dance their way across a broad and constantly updated comedic map that pokes fun at our elected officials, celebrity icons, and regular citizens. It is not all for laughs, though; a magical act comes on a couple of times per show to startle and captivate your senses. This is a true downtown institution.
This venue, south of the river, is a throwback to the 1950s. Roots rock and country reign supreme in this bar, where one can often find men in leather jackets and classic Cadillacs out front. With live music nightly, tributes to Elvis, and celebrations of Hank William's birthday, this place is great for dancing, drinking and kicking back on the high stools. Happy hours feature some of Austin's favorite songwriters. The venue has broadened its range of live music to include occasional indie rock.
Less than a century ago this bridge served as the gateway to Austin. Originally this was a wooden pedestrian bridge, on which travelers used to pay a toll of a nickel to cross the Colorado River — and an extra nickel for their horse! In 1902, the bridge was washed away in a flood and replaced with a new bridge designed to handle automobile traffic. Since that time, the bridge has maintained its status as a substantial through way for the people of Austin. One of the most amazing sights in Austin takes place every dusk from March to early November, when 1.5 million Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from their roosts under the bridge.
With a collection of more than 17,000 works of art, this is one of the most visited museums in the city and also the largest University art-space in the country. It is located in the University of Texas campus and houses a large variety of Latin American art, American art and European work. With an atrium that extends 70 feet (21.3 meters) above the stone floors, this museum offers a unique, natural space. Temporary exhibits are constantly changing, with fresh work being showcased regularly. This research-based museum also offers lectures by artists, museum curators and art historians from across the country.
At Harry Ransom Center you will enjoy viewing the first successful permanent photograph ever taken, alongside one of only remaining Gutenberg Bibles, created in 1456. Also showcased here are rare compositions and manuscripts by Galileo, Beethoven, Hemingway, and more. You will find a wonderful collection of theater arts pieces and a book library with over 800,000 priceless manuscripts. Take advantage of the free admission and experience many of the University's unique treasures. Rotating exhibitions and workshops also allow visitors to interact with artists, actors, and writers.
Centrally located in downtown Austin, this museum features works that have a connection to Mexico and Latin America. Exhibits range from art to theater. The permanent collection includes artifacts and photographs relating to Mexican-American culture. Recent exhibits include photographs from the 1910 Mexican Revolution and other works by Mexican artists. Guest artists and performers tackle contemporary issues such as ethnicity, religion and politics. A small gift shop carrying books, artwork and handmade imports is located near the entrance.
One part vaudeville and one part stinging political/social satire, this place has been amusing and delighting its guests, as well as the pedestrians who pass by its front-stage windows and observe its goings-on, since the late 1970s. A troupe of multi-talented performers write, act, sing and dance their way across a broad and constantly updated comedic map that pokes fun at our elected officials, celebrity icons, and regular citizens. It is not all for laughs, though; a magical act comes on a couple of times per show to startle and captivate your senses. This is a true downtown institution.
Blue Rock Studio is a modern concert venue that doubles up as a recording studio. Designed by architect Lou Kimball and Michael Cronin, an acoustic designer, this space meets the sound and technical specifications requisite of a concert hall. The live performances are staged in the events room and the likes of Chris Smither, Iris Dement, John Gorka, Willy Porter, Ellis Paul and David Wilcox have performed here in the past. And, if you do not wish to drive home after a late-night concert, Blue Rock offers comfortable accommodations complete with a kitchen, pool, fireplace and an enviable DVD collection. For more details, check website or call ahead.
At Harry Ransom Center you will enjoy viewing the first successful permanent photograph ever taken, alongside one of only remaining Gutenberg Bibles, created in 1456. Also showcased here are rare compositions and manuscripts by Galileo, Beethoven, Hemingway, and more. You will find a wonderful collection of theater arts pieces and a book library with over 800,000 priceless manuscripts. Take advantage of the free admission and experience many of the University's unique treasures. Rotating exhibitions and workshops also allow visitors to interact with artists, actors, and writers.
Big Medium is a non-profit community initiative that aims to promote local artistic talent, and provide budding artists with studio space and exhibition opportunities. In addition, the organization also provides tours of its spaces and the paintings within it. This East Austin location is their headquarters, while they also have another studio in West Austin. This location consists of five buildings, where one can find art from a number of artists such as Chun Hui Pak, Dave Kucko, Melissa Borrell, Terri McGee, Hollis Hammonds, Andrew Saldana and many others. Call ahead before visiting.
For cruising around on Town Lake, the best way to go is on a Capital Cruise. Have dinner with friends or just your date, while watching the beauty of Austin's downtown from the peaceful water. Sightseeing tours are available along with canoes and kayaks; or you can take out paddle boats for an outdoor activity with the family. So whether it is a romantic evening for two or a day on the lake with kids, this service can meet your needs. Furthermore, the Hyatt caters for these cruises and serves wonders like shrimp pasta, beef or chicken fajitas, to name a few. They will work with your company or group to customize a menu if you desire.
(512) Brewing Company is a microbrewery that creates small batches of delicious beer inspired by Belgian and Old English flavors. These bold-tasting brews are crafted mainly with local or organic ingredients, including local water that's rich in minerals. With sustainability at the forefront, this brewery favors a traditional beer-making style with stringent quality control procedures to ensure that the beers produced here are superior. Thus, come here to indulge in some favorites like Pecan Porter, 512 Wit, and IPA. Further, reserve a spot to tour this brewery to learn more about the beer-making process.