Austin might be the hippie capital of Texas, but it’s still in Texas. Meaning that most of us have a pair of cowboy boots tucked away in our closets…and some of us even know how to use them. J For those of you looking to do some two-stepping in Austin, you have quite a few options. These great country western bars will be sure to show you a good time:
1. Rebel’s Saloon
This honkytonk labels itself the only place in downtown Austin to two-step, and they’re just about right. Open Thursday-Saturday, the bar offers live music and free dance lessons for those of you needing a few pointers. A large dance floor ensures there is plenty of space to move. And another Texas tradition is tucked away in the corner…one of two mechanical bulls in town.
2. The White Horse
The hipster hangout of country western bars, this East Side locale is as unique as Austin. Branded as a western bar, they feature live music every night and dance lessons to boot. Although you never know quite what you’re going to get. Aside from the traditional Texas two-step, patrons can learn Cajun dance, swing, and so much more. This dive bar is dark and grungy, exactly the way we like them on the East Side, and will get very crowded on a weekend night.
3. Ginny’s Little Longhorn Saloon
Well worth the trek to North Burnet, this small, cozy venue offers live country music six days a week (closed Mondays). The dance floor is small, so you might have to fight for space, but the music is worth it. Sundays highlight a unique Austin experience, Chicken Shit Bingo, starting at 4pm. Buy a lottery ticket and wait for the chicken to, uh, relieve itself on your chosen number. Winner takes home cold hard cash!
4. The Broken Spoke
The daddy of ‘em all, The Broken Spoke has been serving Austin’s musically inclined for over 50 years. Its South Austin location is now surrounded by an apartment complex, ruining the vibe a bit, but the inside remains true to its roots. The Broken Spoke is open every day but Monday and offers dance lessons Thursday – Saturday at 8:30pm. Check out the side room filled with memorabilia: some famous folks have danced on these floors. We also recommend having one of their famed chicken fried steaks.
5. Donn’s Depot
Housed in an old Missouri-Pacific train depot, this joint keeps the music coming every night but Sunday. Many of the seats are real train cars, and the kicker is the lady’s restroom. Located in a real caboose, the restroom features an elevated window…we guess so you can keep an eye on your sweetie when he thinks you’re not watching??? The vibe here is extremely low key. You will find everyone from students to retirees dancing on the two dance floors. Drink prices are reasonable and the music is always good.
See these places and more on a Live Music Crawl by Twisted Texas Tour! Contact 512-99-8687 for more information.