If you’re new to Austin, you probably want to visit the iconic Austin landmarks that make the city so unique. So once you’ve set up your Austin apartment, go check out the entertainment scene and discover your personal favorites. Austin has a great entertainment scene that’s perfect for showing off your new city to out-of-towners. Whether you prefer a night at the theater or a heavy metal concert at an outdoor venue, there are plenty of entertainment venues to appeal to everyone. Here are 4 Austin classics to jump start your exploration of Austin entertainment.
The Paramount Theatre
Established in 1915, the then-called Majestic Theatre opened in Downtown Austin as a vaudeville theatre house. After almost 100 years of service to the Austin area, the Paramount Theatre remains a staple of the Austin entertainment scene. From national touring theatre companies to screenings of classic movies to self-produced comedy shows like Greater Tuna, the Paramount plays host to a variety of shows year-round.
Stubb’s Bar-B-Q
As the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World,” an Austin list wouldn’t be complete without music venues. Down on 8th and Red River, Stubb’s Bar-B-Q aptly boasts the tagline “Live Music, Cold Beer, and Great Food”. Not just any run-of-the-mill barbeque joint in Texas, the Stubb’s outdoor music amphitheater has hosted famous musical acts including Willie Nelson, Snoop Dogg, and Metallica. Established in the 1990s, Stubb’s has become a favorite among many Austinites and out-of-towners alike.
Violet Crown Cinema
Locally-owned and -operated, the Violet Crown Cinema is dedicated to screening quality documentary, independent, international, and studio films. As a quintessential local “weird” Austin place, the Violet Crown Cinema offers a full alcohol and snack bar that features plenty of local brews and health-conscious options. Even if you don’t see a movie, you can still hang out and cool down at the bar and café.
Esther’s Follies
A captivating mix of classic vaudeville and modern comedy, the Esther’s Follies comedy troupe show has been running in Austin 30+ years for a reason. Located in the heart of Sixth Street Historic District in Downtown Austin, this premier comedy and musical revue features musical numbers, magic illusions, and political and social satire comedy, which often plays off of current events.
If you’re looking for other entertainment and restaurant hotspots in Austin, see the map below for more suggestions. Don’t see your favorite venue? Share it with us on Facebook and Twitter!