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
@cactuscafeatxGame day at the Cactus! 🤘🏈
Join us Saturday, Sept. 5, at 2:30 p.m. to watch the Texas Longhorns take on the Texas State Bobcats. Catch the action with fellow Longhorns, enjoy drink specials and soak up the campus game-day energy right here at the Cactus Cafe.
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@cactuscafeatxEast meets West at the Cactus Cafe. 🎶
Experience Jazzmyn live Saturday, Sept. 5, at 7:30 p.m. This innovative ensemble blends the elegance of Chinese classical music with the energy of jazz fusion, weaving traditional instruments and melodies with jazz harmonies and rhythms.
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@cactuscafeatxAustin roots meet New York City grit. 🎶
Don’t miss Ricky Stein featuring Alex Saxon live at the Cactus Cafe on Friday, Sept. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Expect sharp songwriting, Texas country sounds and stories stretching from West Texas to South Brooklyn.
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@cactuscafeatxEnjoy an evening of live music at the Cactus Cafe. Admission is free! 🎶
Catch Max Twaddle and Anna La Mare live Thursday, Sept. 3, at 7:30 p.m.
Experience great live music in one of Austin’s most iconic listening rooms. Free show. All are welcome!
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@cactuscafeatxAn intimate night of indie folk and storytelling is coming to the Cactus Cafe.
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@cactuscafeatxThis week at the Cactus! From spinning vinyl to live music, football and more, we’ve got a full week ahead.
💿 Monday: Vinyl Night
🎤 Tuesday: Open Mic Night
🎶 Wednesday: JOURNEYGLO
🎸 Thursday: FREE SHOW: Max Twaddle & Anna La MareInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxDrop the needle on a new Monday tradition at the Cactus! 💿
Join us Aug. 31 from 4-9 p.m. for our inaugural Vinyl Night. Bring your own vinyl, grab a seat and share your favorite records with us.
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@cactuscafeatxThe Cactus Cafe will be closed Friday, Aug. 28, for a private event.
We’ll see you Saturday for Doak Hensley featuring Rachel Rose at 7:30 p.m.!Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxSpend your Saturday night at the Cactus Cafe with Doak Hensley ft. Rachel Rose on August 29 at 7:30 PM!