The Continental Club
"The granddaddy of all music venues," this South Congress club hosts everything from country, rock 'n roll, to R&B and jazz. The 50s' style decor enhances this spot's cool, historic ambience.
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You’re here for: a piece of Austin history.
The Continental Club has served as the centerpiece of South Congress since the mid-1950s, and is truly one of the OG Austin spots for live music. Over the years, Continental has seen several iterations, moving from a dinner club to a blues bar to a rock club, and now stands as a historical landmark and a go-to spot for roots rock, Texas country, and more. And, if you’re after a more low-key vibe for your night, you can head right up to the Continental Gallery, a speakeasy-ish sidekick to the main club that offers intimate shows in a living room–esque environment.
This legendary venue has seen some truly remarkable sets such as Robert Plant, Doug Sahm, Wanda Jackson, and The Replacements, just to name a few. The history of Austin’s Continental Club goes back more than 60 years, and owner Steve Wertheimer (who also opened C-Boy’s Heart & Soul) restyled the club in the 1980’s, expanding its live music offerings to include punk, blues, jazz, and more. A night at The Continental is an event, so wear your nice shoes, but make sure you can groove in them. If the energy is right, the dance floor will become a swirl of bodies. It’s definitely a destination heavily frequented by tourists, but more than worth a visit—after all, you never know who will stop by.
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