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
@cactuscafeatxTwo bold voices. Songs with something to say. Stories worth hearing.
Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Jennifer Knapp and powerhouse drag performer and musician Flamy Grant bring their Songs and Stories Tour to the Cactus Cafe on Saturday, Oct. 17, at 7:30 p.m.
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@cactuscafeatxAn evening of music, memories and cinematic reflections at the Cactus Cafe.
Catch Tenlons Fort’s “Don’t Be Scared,” a tribute to Daniel Johnston and other cinematic reflections, on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 7:30 p.m., featuring Tenlons Fort, Joey Reyes, Jonathan Horne and Bill Baird.Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxRock ’n’ roll, punkabilly, blues and country meet at the Cactus. 🎸
Catch Zoë Pete Ford live on Friday, Oct. 16, at 7:30 p.m. With a car, a guitar and a sound rooted in American music, Zoë brings her songs from the open road to our listening room.
Get your tickets now!Instagram Post
@cactuscafeatxThis week at the Cactus !
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@cactuscafeatxIt’s 9 am and OU still… 😊 come watch the Sooners go Boom! Support them Horns out at the Cactus!
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@cactuscafeatxThe Cactus welcomed @ori__moore, @_gaby_alvarado_ with @hillcountrytwostep and lit up dance floor with two-step tunes and a western swing.
Check out more events on our website at the link in bio!
#UTEvents #LiveMusic #AustinMusic #UTAustin #MeetMeAtTheCactusInstagram Post
@cactuscafeatxA bluegrass legacy lives on at the Cactus.
On Saturday, Oct. 10, at 7:30 p.m., Nathan Stanley presents a heartfelt tribute to his grandfather, Dr. Ralph Stanley, celebrating the songs, stories and Appalachian roots of a bluegrass legend.
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@cactuscafeatxA voice that quiets the room. A sound that bridges India and Texas.
Catch Adi Rao and Friends: Friday Night Listening Session at the Cactus Cafe on Friday, Oct. 9, at 7:30 p.m.
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@cactuscafeatxIndie rock meets psychedelic funk at the Cactus.
Catch Ferris on Thursday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m. for original songs, extended improvisation and a night of high-energy live music.