Top 5 Austin Hangouts to Avoid SXSW Crowds

Free shows? Check. Great bands? Check. SXSW brings a lot of really great events, shows and people to our little live music capital of the world, however, silence doesn’t exactly come with the package. Because of that, we thought we’d put together a survival guide for our fellow creatives needing a bit of R&R away from the SXSW crowds.

Hopfields

Campus

Considering this bar is within walking distance of the University of Texas at Austin campus, this super low-key bar has tons of seating, craft beer and french-inspired bites.

The Hideout Theatre and Coffee Shop

Downtown

This little hole in the wall right off of Congress Avenue has been our refuge from crowds, our coffee stop, our brainstorming hub and our duck-out-from-the-storm haven. If you need a quick bite, a good cup of joe or to see a play in their historic theater, this is your place.

Mugshots

Downtown

This dark, unassuming stop is one of our favorite SXSW escapes. At this place you can find a spot to shoot some pool, have a happy hour, and generally chill out.

Jester King Brewery

Dripping Springs

Just outside of Austin in Dripping Springs, Jester King Brewery is one of our favorite spots with tons of open space, beautiful scenery and incredible pizza.

Takoba

East Side

This is by far one of our favorite brunch spots, with mimosas at $1.50/glass and plenty of outdoor seating, bring your dog, grab some breakfast tacos and kick back.

You can also view a few of our favorite bands on the recently published Masonry Playlist and check out their showtimes in the upcoming weeks!