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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Closed | ||||
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
@cactuscafeatxAnother great week of live music is on the way to the Cactus Cafe, featuring everything from Austin’s next great voices to an evening celebrating the art of songwriting.
Tues July 28: Open Mic Night
Wed July 29: Darlin’
Fri July 31: Elena DiazInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxThanks to @dickieleeerwin, @youhavewingsatx, and @pipetron1111 for an awesome night of music at the Cactus. And a big thanks to those who came out.
See you next time 🌵
#UTEvents #LiveMusic #AustinMusic #UTAustin #MeetMeAtTheCactusInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxA dreamy evening with @inara_george at the Cactus
#TexasMusic #LiveMusic #AustinMusic#Do512 #MeetMeAtTheCactusInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxThis week at the Cactus Cafe, experience five nights of epic live music.
Reserve your seats and join us for another incredible week of live music at the Cactus Cafe.
#UTEvents #LiveMusic #AustinMusic #UTAustin #MeetMeAtTheCactus
Tuesday July 21Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxTravel to Havana through song with Elena Diaz’s Global Songbook: Cuba—Songs from Havana’s Golden Age on Friday, July 31 at 7:30 PM at the Cactus Cafe.
Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxCatch rising country duo Darlin’ live at the Cactus Cafe on Wednesday, July 29 at 7:30 PM.
Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxSeven acclaimed Texas songwriters. One amazing night.
Celebrate the art of storytelling at the Semiquincentennial 7 Songwriter Salon on Saturday, July 25 at 7 PM at the Cactus.
Featuring:
- Philip Gibbs
- HalleyAnna Finlay
- Brandon HudgeonsInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxLooking for live music next week? Join us for a FREE show at the Cactus Cafe on Friday, July 24 at 7:30 PM featuring Smidgen with special guest Jenna Greene.
Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxGet ready for a night of high-energy Americana, bluegrass and roots rock when Texas String Assembly featuring Lia Graham comes to the Cactus Cafe on Thursday, July 23 at 7:30 PM.