An Austin tradition
An intimate listening room and bar since 1979, the Cactus has acquired a national reputation showcasing top local, regional, national and international music acts. Among them: Lyle Lovett, Robert Earl Keen, Lucinda Williams, Nanci Griffith, Alison Krauss, Jimmie Dale Gilmore, Townes Van Zandt, Bill Monroe, the Chicks, and the list goes on.
Billboard magazine has listed the Cactus as one of fifteen "solidly respected, savvy clubs" nationwide "from which careers can be cut, that work with proven names and new faces."
Upcoming Events
Today's Hours
Cactus Cafe
| Comment | Time slot | Day | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. | ||||
Hours vary based on the academic calendar, University holidays, and break periods. View weekly hours.
FAQs
How do I get to the Cactus Cafe?
The Cactus Cafe is easily accessible using Capital Metro north & southbound routes including the 1, 801, 803 and various others. Please consult their website for times, fares and stops.
If you are taking a cab or a ride-sharing service the closest & safest intersection to be dropped off is the east side of 24th & Guadalupe. That will leave you on the north side of the Union. Enter the Union and walk south and take a right at the Union Coffee House. The Cactus is in the southwest corner of the Texas Union.
Where can I park?
Parking on the University of Texas campus is restricted for those with a UT Parking Pass. When attending shows at the Cactus we suggest using one of the parking garages that are conveniently located across Guadalupe from the Cactus. These include the UT Co-op garage at 2214 San Antonio Street or the San Antonio garage at 2420 San Antonio Street. Please see posted signs for garage parking rates.
ADA accessible parking is available in front of Hogg Auditorium with proper permits only. There is a limited amount of metered parking on campus so please make sure to read all signs.
All other Campus Parking is permit-only (except in metered and designated areas). Additional street and metered parking is available on Guadalupe for a fee.
Can minors attend performances?
Yes! The Cactus is an All Ages venue, so bring the whole family!
Can I host an event at the Cactus?
Yes! Please contact us at cactuscafe@utexas.edu to check on availability for your upcoming event.
Does the Cactus Cafe serve food?
A variety of catering options are available for special events.
What is the camera, video recording policy?
You can use your phone or camera to take photos, but please NO FLASH photography, it is very disruptive to the artists. Filming for personal use or social media is generally acceptable, but it is up to the artist’s discretion. We are part of the University of Texas and we must adhere to their filming policy which you can find here.
Does the Cactus have an ATM?
Contact Us
- Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxSpend your Saturday night at the Cactus Cafe with Doak Hensley ft. Rachel Rose on August 29 at 7:30 PM!
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@cactuscafeatxTwo-step into Thursday night at the Cactus Cafe!
Join us Thursday, August 27 at 7 PM for a Beginner Two-Step Lesson with Gaby Alvarado, a recent UT grad and Austin native who loves sharing Texas dance culture with the community.
Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxWednesday Night Jazz returns to the Cactus Cafe!
Join Neil Blumofe on Wednesday, Aug. 26, at 7:30 p.m. for Miles Davis and the Art of the Hour and the Age, celebrating the music and extraordinary life of Miles Davis in honor of his centennial.
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@cactuscafeatxFall hours are here!
Starting August 25, we’ll be open Monday - Saturday, 2 PM - 11 PM.
We’re excited to welcome everyone back for a new semester!
#UTEvents #LiveMusic #AustinMusic #UTAustin #MeetMeAtTheCactusInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxThis week at the Cactus! Four nights of live music, dancing and good times are headed your way.
🎤 Tues: Open Mic Night
🎷 Wed: Jazz with Neil Blumofe
🤠 Thu: Beginning Two-Step Lessons followed by Ori Moore & The Lonesome Rangers
🎶 Sat: Doak Hensley ft. Rachel RoseInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxWe’ll be closed August 15 - 24 as we prepare for the start of the new semester. We’ll see you back on August 25!
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@cactuscafeatxWe’re closing out the final week of summer at the Union with three nights of live music before the fall semester kicks off! 🤘
TUESDAY — Open Mic
THURSDAY — Llano featuring Hillcountry
FRIDAY — Matthew Payne
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@cactuscafeatxUnfortunately, BELLES: Songs and Stories Tour at the Cactus Cafe, originally scheduled for Friday, Aug. 7, has been cancelled.
We apologize for the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Tickets will be refunded. Stay tuned for future events at the Cactus Cafe.Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxCactus Cafe favorite Matthew Payne returns to the stage on Friday, Aug. 14, at 7:30 p.m.