19 Austin Event Venues Your Attendees Will Love
Planning an event in Austin? Check out these top 20 event venues in iconic Austin, TX, and be prepared to wow the crowd.
Austin has been having a moment for a while now. What started as a small outpost for Spanish colonists in the 1700s has blossomed into Texas’ fourth most populous city and one of the fastest-growing cities in the USA. It’s also recently been recognized as a top city to live in and a top city for job-seekers.
As the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin offers a vibrant metro area with a lot of remarkable event venues. In this article, we’ll look at the top 20 Austin event venues, including historical locations, popular restaurants, museums, and a whole lot more.
1. The Paramount Theatre in Austin, TX
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 1,200
More info: www.austintheatre.org/private-events
Let’s start with a bonafide classic. The Paramount Theatre is Austin’s first performing arts theater, having been originally built in 1915. Back then, the Paramount hosted vaudeville performances before changing with the times and transforming into a “movie palace” a few years later. Films are still showcased at the Theatre to this day, but it’s also available for private events ranging from fundraiser galas to concert performances to corporate meetings. No matter what kind of event you have planned, you’ll love Paramount’s historic architecture, full bar, modern technology enhancements, and access to a professional event specialist who will help you craft an unforgettable gathering for your guests.
2. Speakeasy Austin
Location: Warehouse District
Capacity: 1,000
More info: speakeasyaustin.com/private-events
Speakeasy harkens back to Prohibition days when alcoholic beverages were outlawed, bootlegging businesses thrived, and illegal speakeasies operated in the shadows. The venue is composed of four distinct spaces. There’s the Music Lounge, a comfortable room with retro stylings, hardwood finishes, and a performance stage; the Bowling Mezzanine, which features two vintage bowling lanes; the intimate Kaberet Room with a bar, second stage, pool table, and 1920s era furniture; and Terrace59, a beautiful rooftop setting that overlooks downtown Austin. Choose any of these swanky venues for your next event or book all of them at once, Either way, you’ll get access to an experienced event planning team, free internet, A/V equipment, and custom catering options.
3. Smash ATX
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 350
More info: SmashATX.com
Smash ATX brings together sports, design, nightlife, cocktails, food, and unmatched entertainment … with ping pong! Smash ATX welcomes all ping pong players too. Never played pong? You’re invited. Pong master? Head on over. Once the location of an iconic Austin blues bar, Smash ATX accommodates large and small gatherings alike, featuring a separated dining room, 10 ping pong tables, big-screen TVs, and a full bar with modern twists on beloved classics. Located in a relaxed urban setting, Smash ATX is your destination for grabbing a quick bite for lunch or bringing the whole crew for an evening of dining, imbibing, and dominating pong.
4. Atelier 1205
Location: East Cesar Chavez
Capacity: 150
More info: atelier1205.com
Atelier 1205 is an art gallery with “an inviting front porch overlooking a generous patio” that doubles as a stellar event venue. The gallery, which is housed in a 100-year-old bungalow that still features its original wood ceilings, showcases an impressive array of curated exhibits. It also has on-site parking (a rarity in the East Cesar Chavez neighborhood of Austin) and the ability to host live music. All in all, Atelier 1205 is one of the more charming Austin event spaces and sure to satisfy the guests of any business or personal gathering.
5. UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum
Source: The Austinot
Location: Zilker
Capacity: 600
More info: umlaufsculpture.org/venue
UMLAUF Sculpture Garden and Museum offers unparalleled natural beauty to events of all kinds. Planning to marry the love of your life? Do so beneath a stunning wooden arbor, amongst the winding pathways, tranquil ponds, and celebrated bronze statues that make up UMLAUF’s four-acre estate. Looking to host something a little more business-oriented? The Crenshaw Room, with its large windows and gorgeous nature views, is perfect for staff retreats, training seminars, and general corporate meetings. The Crenshaw Room also features an LCD flat panel display, wireless internet access, a private restroom, and free parking. Any event, personal or corporate, is welcome at UMLAUF.
6. Waller Creek Boathouse
Location: Rainey Street Historic District
Capacity: 500
More info: wallercreekboathouse.org
There are plenty of event venues in Austin, but few of them offer the same combination of classy atmosphere, beautiful surroundings, and fun activities that Waller Creek Boathouse does. The venue is situated next to Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin and features a patio overlooking the water. Event guests also can rent kayaks and stand-up paddleboards or learn how to row during one of the Boathouse’s indoor rowing classes. Whether you plan to host a corporate luncheon or a bachelorette party, Waller Creek Boathouse has the space, atmosphere, activities, catering options, and events team to make it a success.
7. Vintage Villas
Location: Lake Travis
Capacity: 299
More info: vintagevillas.com
Vintage Villas has been offering luxurious corporate experiences since 1996. The venue’s location on Lake Travis will give your guests amazing sunset views as they enjoy expertly prepared dishes from the Villas’ renowned kitchen. When it’s time to get down to business, choose to host your event in one of three spaces: the Colorado Room, a 750 square foot space that’s ideal for business strategy sessions; the Travis Room, which can hold up to 80 people and offers inspiring second-story views of the lake; and The Event Center, a 4,800 square foot space with access to a lakeside patio and enough room for nearly 300 people. For sophisticated and elegant events, book Vintage Villas.
8. Oasis Texas Brewing Co.
Source: Lake Travis
Location: Comanche Canyon Ranch
Capacity:Â Sitting: 300 | Standing: 500
More info: otxbc.com/bookings
This one-of-a-kind brewery, restaurant, and taproom is located on the banks of Lake Travis and offers incredible views of the setting sun. At Oasis, the beer is always cold, the food is always delicious, and the atmosphere is always inviting. What more could you ask for? Choosing the right event venue is never easy — unless you’re planning an event in Austin and Oasis Texas Brewing Co. is available. Bring your business meeting or personal shindig and enjoy everything that Oasis has to offer. You’ll be glad you did!
9. Stunt Ranch
Location: Austin, TX
Capacity: 1,000
More info: stuntranch.com
Stunt Ranch isn’t an events venue, it’s an experience. Seriously! The 22-acre center is home to a paintball course, rock climbing wall, multiple zip lines, a swimming pool, pistol range, and more. It also has a training program that teaches participants how to perform Hollywood-style stunts (hence the name Stunt Ranch). They know what they’re doing too. Major film and television studios like the History Channel, A&E, and the Discovery Channel are listed as production clients. Because of all this, Stunt Ranch is the perfect venue for private parties and corporate team-building exercises. If you’re planning something along these lines, take a good hard look at the Ranch.
10. Prohibition Creamery
Source: Eater Austin
Location: East Cesar Chavez
Capacity: 80
More info: prohibitioncreamery.com
Another Prohibition-themed venue? Yes, isn’t it great! Prohibition Creamery is known for combining its owner’s two favorite indulgences: ice cream and alcohol, which means the tasty offerings at this restaurant venue have attitude. Treat your guests to boozy ice cream — something they’ve probably never had before — handcrafted milkshakes, signature sundaes, and more. Whether you book the private dining room with original, 1920’s wood floors and custom brass countertops, the breezy outdoor patio, or the whole kit and caboodle, you and your guests will be able to enjoy a memorable evening filled with one of a kind desserts.
11. Vuka at North Loop
Location: Brentwood
Capacity: Sitting: 250 | Standing: 380
More info: vuka.co/event-space/vuka-at-north-loop/
Located in the Brentwood neighborhood of North Austin, this former Texas State Trooper Recreation Center has been transformed into a magnificent event space with impressive 25-foot floor-to-ceiling windows, a gourmet chef’s kitchen, and (most importantly!) an indoor couch swing. Yes, please! Vuka at North Loop also features free parking, numerous breakout rooms, and a stage. For business gatherings, such as small conferences and training seminars, or personal get-togethers like wedding receptions, Vuka North Loop won’t disappoint.
12. Fair Market Austin
Source: Visit Austin
Location: East Cesar Chavez
Capacity: N/A
More info: fairmarketaustin.com
Fair Market has been known to host business conferences, concerts, weddings, and a whole host of other corporate and personal soirees. Located in Austin’s beloved eastside neighborhood, this indoor and outdoor space features an iconic Quonset hut warehouse with vaulted ceilings and exposed steel and a well-manicured lawn for rental. It’s an inspiring space that should be on the venue shortlist for your next event.
13. Stubb’s Bar-B-Q
Source: The Business Journals
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 250
More info: stubbsausstin.com
Austin, above all else, is known for two things: amazing live music and some of the best darn BBQ in the world. We’re happy to report that Stubb’s Bar-B-Q delivers both of these Austin mainstays to near perfection. An amazing musician is booked at Stubb’s almost every night of the week it seems. And the food? Mouthwatering. When it comes to your event, choose between five unique spaces depending on the size of your party and its needs:
- The Waller Creek Amphitheater
- Liberty Lunch
- The Downstairs Bar
- The Upstairs Patio
- The Upstairs Bar
Can’t decide? Get in touch with the experienced Stubb’s events team and they’ll help you plan a gathering to remember.
14. The Bullock Museum
Source: The Bullock Museum
Location: Museum District
Capacity: 1,200
More info: thestoryoftexas.com/about/facility-rentals
The Bullock Museum, named after Bob Bullock, the state of Texas’ 38th Lieutenant Governor, has been educating folks on Texas history since it first opened in 2001. More than 9 million people have enjoyed its interactive exhibits since then. You and your guests can enjoy them too! It doesn’t matter if you’re hosting a wedding reception, film screening, fundraiser gala, business conference, or personal party, the Bullock Museum can host it in any of its nine spaces, one of which is an IMAX theater. Choose the Bullock Museum and you’ll also get access to an expert events team, on-site catering options, free WiFi, on-site parking, and so much more.
15. The Library Bar
Source: Yelp
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 397
More info: thelibraryaustin.com
Here’s a wild idea: host your next event at the Library. No, not that Library; the Library Bar in downtown Austin. This Sixth Street venue is in the heart of the action and has two levels of space, each with its full-service bar, and three VIP booths — perfect for private gatherings. Birthday bashes and graduation celebrations are ideal fits for the Library, as are bachelorette parties and game-day get-togethers. If you’re looking to host a good time, host it at The Library.
16. The Belmont Austin
Source: The Belmont
Location: Downtown
Capacity:Â 1,000
More info: thelibraryaustin.com
The Belmont is known as “Austin’s swankiest downtown lounge.” It features two levels worth of intimate space, complete with three full bars and a performance-ready stage; a beautiful open-air, ivy-covered courtyard; and a fantastic rooftop terrace that offers great views of the city skyline. The Belmont also has an unmatched vibe about it that’s both chic and comfortable. Rest assured that your next company holiday party or employee appreciation dinner, charity gala, or celebratory shindig will be memorable if you host it here.
17. W Austin Hotel
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 400
More info: marriott.com/hotels/travel/auswh-w-austin
The W Austin Hotel claims that it’s “as much a scene as it is a place to stay.” Bold words, but we have to say, the W Austin lives up to them. This Marriott hotel is seven venues in one, totaling over 21,000 square feet of event-ready space. Event hosts will also be pleased to learn that the W Austin Hotel offers free WiFi, state-of-the-art A/V equipment, multiple HD screens, and specialized lighting systems. But that’s not all. Book your event at this venue and you’ll also enjoy access to a team of event professionals who will help you design the perfect menu for your gathering, pick the right entertainment options, and set the proper mood.
18. Villa Antonia
Source: Pinterest
Location: Jonestown
Capacity: 300
More info: villaantonia.com
If you’re willing to take a quick drive out to Jonesville, Villa Antonia doesn’t disappoint. Nestled amid the rolling hills outside Austin, Villa Antonia is a stunning wedding and events venue that features old-world elegance and unparalleled natural beauty. But Villa Antonia is more than a beautiful location. The venue’s experienced events team, catering options, and security detail make planning get-togethers there convenient as well. Whether you host your nuptials on one of the Villa’s terraces, renew your vows beneath its stone gazebo, or plan your next business move in one of its many indoor spaces, you’ll undoubtedly love your time at Villa Antonia.
19. Austin Convention Center
Source: The Business Journals
Location: Downtown
Capacity: 7,980
More info: austinconventioncenter.com
If your event strategy calls for a lot of space and nearly unlimited potential resources, you should consider booking the Austin Convention Center. The venue has been outfitted with the latest technology including digital signage, A/V equipment, and free WiFi. It also offers an in-house catering team, experienced security detail, and expert event coordinators to event hosts. From mega-conferences to international trade shows to concerts, Austin Convention Center will deliver with flying colors. But just because you aren’t hosting the biggest event of the year doesn’t mean you can’t book this venue. The Center has 54 intimate meeting rooms that can be rented as well.
Wrapping Up: How To Choose the Perfect Austin Event Venue
Austin is an electric town with more quality venues than any single list could contain. But the 19 highlighted here represent the best of the best. Make sure to check each venue’s website for any changes or updates before booking a space for your next corporate or private event.
If you enjoyed this post, you might also enjoy one of the following:
- 20 Dallas Event Venues
- 20 Boston Event Venues
- 31 San Francisco Event Venues
- 42 New York City Event Venues
- 20 Houston Event Venues
And remember, the venue you select is important. But there are a thousand other details that must be considered when hosting events. Invest in event management software to help you keep track of them all and make the event planning process stress-free and enjoyable.
Editor’s Note:Â This blog article was originally published in November 2019 and has been updated for relevance, closures, and rebrands.
