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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 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
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@cactuscafeatx🎷 Experience an evening of bold, genre-crossing jazz with Ben Goodman Presents: Of Towns and Cities on Thursday, July 9 at 7:30 p.m.
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@cactuscafeatx🤫 Some secrets are worth keeping... until showtime.
Join us Wednesday, July 8 at 7:30 p.m. for Secret Service, a mystery songwriter showcase featuring four Austin artists whose identities won’t be revealed until the music begins.
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@cactuscafeatxJoin us at the Cactus for another week of incredible live music.
Tues: Open Mic Night
Wed: Secret Service Showcase
Thur: Ben Goodman
Fri: Michael Prysock
Sat: Guy Forsyth
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@cactuscafeatxDon’t miss @inara_george tonight at the Cactus Cafe! Tickets available on our website at the link in bio. 🌵
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@cactuscafeatxTwo Austin bands. One incredible lineup. 🎸
Catch Llano, an Austin-based post-punk group, and Pipe, a psychedelic rock band, live at Cactus Cafe on Friday, July 3 at 7:30 p.m. Experience an evening of bold sounds in one of Austin’s most intimate listening rooms.
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@cactuscafeatxLooking for the perfect way to spend the week before the holiday weekend? Cactus Cafe has you covered with an incredible lineup of live music and community all week long!
Tues: Open Mic Night
Wed: Inara George
Thur: Magnolia Brothers
Fri: Llano ft. Pipe
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@cactuscafeatxExperience an evening of rich harmonies and Americana at Cactus Cafe with The Magnolia Brothers on Thursday, July 2 at 7:30 p.m. 🎶
Known for their signature vocal harmonies, the Texas-born and Nashville-based duo blends original songs with fresh takes on beloved covers.
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@cactuscafeatxTOMORROW NIGHT! Other Voices: A Tribute to the Songs of Nanci Griffith returns to the Cactus Cafe for its 7th annual celebration on Saturday, June 27, at 7:30 p.m.
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@cactuscafeatxTexas native and Grammy-winning artist David Garza returns to the Cactus Cafe on Friday, June 26, for two special shows at 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m.