Located in the heart of downtown Austin, Texas, The Moody Theater is a world-renowned live music venue that blends rich musical legacy with modern elegance. As the official home of Austin City Limits Live (ACL Live)—the longest-running music series in American television history—it’s where legends have performed, rising stars are discovered, and unforgettable shows happen every week.
Perfect for music lovers, couples, and downtown explorers, The Moody Theater offers an intimate yet high-tech concert experience with incredible acoustics, tiered seating, and a front-row feel from nearly every spot. Whether you’re catching a taping of ACL Live or attending a headline tour stop, the venue delivers more than just a concert—it delivers a deep, immersive connection to Austin’s live music soul.
Why Visit The Moody Theater?
The Moody Theater isn’t just another concert hall—it’s a living tribute to the soul of Texas music. As the home of Austin City Limits (ACL) Live, this venue has hosted everyone from Willie Nelson and Stevie Ray Vaughan to Kacey Musgraves, Foo Fighters, and Gary Clark Jr. The intimacy of the space, with just over 2,700 seats, creates a concert experience that’s both personal and electrifying—every note, every lyric, feels closer and more impactful.
Located in Austin’s vibrant 2nd Street District, the venue blends sleek, modern design with a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Music fans can enjoy state-of-the-art acoustics, a wide variety of seating options (from standing GA to VIP balcony suites), and easy access to downtown restaurants and hotels. It’s the perfect night out in the Live Music Capital of the World.
The best time to visit is during one of the ACL Live tapings or weekend concerts, especially spring through fall when the city buzzes with festivals and music events. The Moody Theater is ideal for couples, concertgoers, tourists, and lifelong fans looking to experience music history as it happens—live, loud, and local.
Top Things to Do at The Moody Theater
1. See a Live ACL Live Performance
The highlight of any visit is attending a live Austin City Limits taping or ACL Live concert, where artists across genres perform in an intimate, acoustically perfect setting. The energy is electric, the sound is pristine, and the lineup ranges from Grammy winners to global icons and emerging stars.
Entry Fee: Ticket prices range from $30 to $150+, depending on artist and seat tier
Best Time to Visit: Evenings; doors typically open at 6:30 PM, shows start at 8 PM
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Explore the Venue’s Music Memorabilia
Inside the theater’s lobby and mezzanine areas, you’ll find walls of memorabilia honoring past performers, legendary ACL tapings, and Austin music history. It’s a casual, self-guided mini-museum of live music, with signed guitars, photos, and vintage concert posters.
Entry Fee: Included with ticketed entry
Best Time to Visit: Arrive 30–45 minutes before your show for relaxed browsing
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Enjoy Drinks at the Moody Lounge
Located inside the venue, the Moody Lounge offers premium cocktails, local beers, and an upscale bar vibe before and during the show. It’s a great way to start the night or skip the long general drink lines. Some events also offer VIP lounge access with expedited entry and private seating.
Entry Fee: Drinks priced separately; lounge included with ticket
Best Time to Visit: Opens when doors open; busiest during intermission
For More Info: Visit Website
4. Catch a Free Tapings Lottery Show
For an unforgettable insider experience, apply for the Austin City Limits taping lottery. These shows are professionally filmed for the PBS series and offer a rare chance to see iconic artists in a more exclusive setting.
Entry Fee: Free if selected via online lottery
Best Time to Visit: Lottery announced a few days before taping
For More Info: Visit Website
5. Tour the Downtown Area Before or After the Show
The Moody Theater is in the heart of Austin’s 2nd Street District, surrounded by shops, dining, and nightlife. Arrive early for cocktails at a rooftop bar or stroll the nearby waterfront. After the show, head to Rainey Street or South Congress for a nightcap.
Entry Fee: Free to explore the area
Best Time to Visit: Evening before or after your ticketed show
For More Info: Visit Website
Best Time to Visit
The Moody Theater offers a premium live music experience year-round, but your ideal visit depends on who you want to see, what kind of show experience you’re after, and how much of downtown Austin you want to explore around it.
Spring (March–May)
Spring is a top season for visiting Austin and The Moody Theater. The weather is mild (70°F–85°F), and concert lineups often align with major festivals like SXSW and Austin Reggae Fest. Expect lively downtown energy, full venue calendars, and a mix of local and international acts on stage.
Summer (June–August)
Although Austin gets hot (mid-90s°F), summer nights at The Moody Theater are cool and air-conditioned. This is a great time to catch touring acts, including big-name artists escaping arena shows in favor of a more intimate venue. Expect weekend crowds and longer bar lines, but the atmosphere is electric.
Fall (September–November)
Fall brings ACL Fest energy and a surge of must-see performances. Many major artists swing through Austin during this window, and ACL Live tapings are in full swing. Evening temps drop to 60s–80s, and it’s a perfect time to pair a show with dinner, a rooftop bar, or a stay downtown.
Winter (December–February)
Winter is quieter but still active, especially around New Year’s Eve shows and special events. Cooler temps (40°F–65°F) make for cozy downtown strolls before or after your show. If you prefer smaller crowds and off-season hotel rates, this is your moment.
Weekdays vs. Weekends
Weekends bring the biggest names and full houses—great for high energy.
Weeknights often feature local or mid-tier touring acts, offering great music with easier parking and smaller crowds.
Directions and Parking Info
The Moody Theater is centrally located in Austin’s 2nd Street District, making it one of the most accessible live music venues in the city. Whether you’re coming from the airport, nearby neighborhoods, or another part of Texas, getting there is easy via car, rideshare, or public transportation.
Directions:
From Austin-Bergstrom International Airport: Take TX-71 W to I-35 N, exit Cesar Chavez St, and head west into downtown. Turn right on Lavaca St, then left onto Willie Nelson Blvd (W 2nd St).
Distance: 9 miles / approx. 20 minutesFrom I-35 (North or South): Exit Cesar Chavez St, head west toward Congress Ave, then turn onto Lavaca or Guadalupe toward 2nd Street.
Distance: 5–10 minutes from most downtown hotels or I-35 exitsBy Public Transit: Use Capital Metro Routes 1, 801, or 803 to stop at Lavaca/2nd Street. The venue is one block away.
Plan routes at capmetro.org
Parking Options:
W Hotel Valet (Connected to Theater)
Convenient but pricey—$25–$35 for event parking
Located at 200 Lavaca St, steps from the venue entrance
City Hall Garage
24-hour access, well-lit, and reliable
Located at 301 W 2nd St
Pricing: Approx. $10–$15 flat rate for evening events
Silicon Labs Parking Garage
Located at 400 W Cesar Chavez St (one block south)
Event rate around $10
Street Parking
Limited metered spots available around 2nd and Guadalupe—free after 6 PM most days
Read signs carefully for residential restrictions and no-parking zones
Rideshare & Drop-Off:
Designated rideshare pickup/drop-off zones are located along Lavaca and Guadalupe Streets
Input address: 310 W Willie Nelson Blvd, Austin, TX 78701
Entry Fees, Passes & Reservations
Attending a show at The Moody Theater is a ticketed experience, and pricing varies depending on the performer, seating selection, and event type. From general admission shows to VIP balcony suites, this venue offers something for every music lover and budget.
Ticket Pricing:
General Admission (standing or seated):
Typically ranges from $30 to $60 for mid-tier acts
Premium Reserved Seating:
Front-row, orchestra, or balcony seats can range from $75 to $150+
VIP Experiences:
Select shows offer VIP packages with early access, premium lounge seating, or meet-and-greet options for $200–$300+
ACL Tapings (Free Lottery):
The Austin City Limits TV tapings are not sold to the public. Instead, free tickets are distributed through an online lottery system hosted on acltv.com.
Winners receive instructions on arrival time and seating. These are extremely limited and high-demand, so apply early and check often.
Passes & Accepted Programs:
No state or federal passes (like Texas State Parks Pass or America the Beautiful) are accepted—this is a private venue.
Season ticket options or ACL Live memberships may be available for frequent concertgoers.
Reservations:
All seats for ACL Live shows require advance ticket purchase—there is no general admission entry without a ticket
Box office hours: Open at 10:00 AM on show days, and 90 minutes prior to showtime
Tickets are available via ACL Live’s official website, Ticketmaster, or directly at the venue’s box office
For More Info: Visit Website
Where to Stay Nearby
1. W Austin – Upscale Stay Connected to The Moody Theater
The W Austin is literally part of the same building as The Moody Theater, making it the most convenient lodging option for concertgoers. With sleek, modern rooms, a rooftop pool, a full-service spa, and a buzzing bar scene, it’s perfect for guests wanting a high-end downtown experience. Plus, many music fans stay here for backstage proximity and the chance to spot a performer in the lobby.
Address: 200 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 542-3600
Price Range: $300–$500 per night
Rating: 4.6 stars
Parking: Valet only, approx. $55 nightly
Accessibility: Fully ADA-compliant with elevator access and accessible rooms
For More Info: Visit Website
2. The LINE Austin – Trendy Riverfront Hotel with Style
Set at the intersection of Town Lake and downtown, The LINE Austin offers bold architecture, designer interiors, and one of the city’s most scenic pool decks. It’s just a short walk from The Moody Theater and perfect for couples or creatives looking to immerse themselves in the city’s modern art and food scene.
Address: 111 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 478-9611
Price Range: $250–$400 per night
Rating: 4.5 stars
Parking: Valet and limited self-parking available
Accessibility: ADA rooms and facilities available
For More Info: Visit Website
3. Hotel ZaZa Austin – Boutique Luxury with Rooftop Views
Just two blocks from the theater, Hotel ZaZa offers boutique glam, themed suites, and a rooftop bar with city views. It’s ideal for travelers looking for stylish accommodations with character. The hotel’s on-site restaurant and spa services make it a favorite for upscale weekends and concert stays.
Address: 400 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
Phone: (512) 542-9292
Price Range: $280–$450 per night
Rating: 4.7 stars
Parking: Valet parking available
Accessibility: ADA-accessible rooms and amenities
For More Info: Visit Website
Food & Drinks Nearby
1. Lamberts Downtown BBQ – Upscale Smokehouse Next Door
Located just steps from The Moody Theater, Lamberts offers a refined twist on Texas barbecue in a stylish, historic building. Enjoy slow-smoked brisket, brown sugar-glazed pork ribs, and creative sides like blue cheese coleslaw or roasted beet salad. With an upstairs bar and occasional live jazz, it’s perfect for pre-show dining or post-concert cocktails.
Address: 401 W 2nd St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: $18–$35 per entrée
Distance: 350 feet / 1-minute walk
For More Info: Visit Website
2. Fareground – Austin’s Downtown Food Hall
A local favorite for variety and atmosphere, Fareground features six curated eateries in one stylish food hall, including taco trucks, ramen, artisanal pizza, and more. With a full-service bar, indoor-outdoor seating, and happy hour deals, it’s ideal for groups or indecisive diners heading to a show.
Address: 111 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78701
Hours: Daily, 11 AM – 9 PM
Pricing: $10–$18 per dish
Distance: 0.3 mile / 5-minute walk
For More Info: Visit Website
3. TRACE – Sophisticated Dining at W Austin
Connected to The Moody Theater inside the W Austin, TRACE offers farm-to-table American fare with locally sourced ingredients and sleek modern decor. Dishes like wagyu beef burgers, grilled Texas redfish, and handcrafted cocktails make this a refined option for a romantic dinner or a pre-show splurge.
Address: 200 Lavaca St, Austin, TX 78701
Hours: Daily, 6:30 AM – 10 PM
Pricing: $22–$40 per entrée
Distance: 0 minutes—located within the same building
For More Info: Visit Website
Local Tips for Visiting
Arrive early for best seating and pre-show browsing – Doors typically open 90 minutes before showtime. Arriving early gives you time to explore memorabilia, grab a drink, and settle in without rush.
Check your ticket type – Some shows are general admission standing, others offer assigned seating or balcony VIP. Review your ticket ahead of time to avoid surprises.
Bag policy is enforced – Only small purses or clear bags are allowed. Leave backpacks and oversized bags at home or risk delays at security.
Wear layers – The venue is well air-conditioned, especially in summer. A light jacket or long sleeve is helpful if you tend to get chilly indoors.
Use the ACL Live mobile app or email ticketing – Digital tickets are standard; make sure your phone is charged and brightness is up for easy scanning.
Bar lines are longest during intermission – Beat the crowd by ordering drinks right after arrival or before the encore starts.
Accessible seating and elevators available – The venue is fully ADA-compliant. Request accessible seats in advance, and ask staff for elevator directions if needed.
Photography policies vary by artist – Most shows allow cell phone photos but restrict flash or professional cameras. Respect artist-specific rules.
Parking is easier on weeknights – Weekend downtown traffic can delay arrival. Plan ahead or opt for rideshare for Friday/Saturday shows.
Plan post-show eats or drinks nearby – Restaurants like Lamberts and TRACE stay open late and are walking distance from the venue exit.
What Else Is Nearby?
1. Lady Bird Lake Hike & Bike Trail – Scenic Downtown Escape
Just a few blocks south of The Moody Theater, Lady Bird Lake’s trail offers 10+ miles of paved paths with stunning city and waterfront views. Perfect for a morning walk before a show or a peaceful wind-down after a night of music. You’ll often spot joggers, cyclists, and paddlers along the way.
Distance: 0.4 mile / approx. 8-minute walk
2. ACL Live at the Moody Rooftop – Exclusive Views & Events
Occasionally open for VIP events and private concerts, the Moody Theater’s rooftop features panoramic views of downtown Austin and the Capitol dome. While not always open to the public, check the event calendar or inquire about ticketed rooftop shows or receptions that pair skyline beauty with live performances.
Distance: Within the same building
3. The Contemporary Austin – Jones Center
Just a 5-minute stroll north, this downtown art museum features rotating modern art exhibitions, rooftop installations, and immersive displays. It’s a great companion stop for visitors who want to explore Austin’s creative edge before or after a performance.
Distance: 0.3 mile / approx. 5-minute walk
Final Thoughts on Visiting The Moody Theater
Visiting The Moody Theater isn’t just about attending a concert—it’s about experiencing the heartbeat of Austin’s music scene in a space that blends legacy, innovation, and intimacy. From its deep roots as the home of Austin City Limits to its sleek, state-of-the-art acoustics and design, every show feels personal, immersive, and unforgettable. Whether you’re watching a rock legend, a country crooner, or a soulful indie act, the energy in this venue makes each note hit deeper.
As a destination on any Texas road trip, The Moody Theater delivers world-class entertainment in the heart of one of America’s most vibrant cities. Its location in the walkable 2nd Street District means you can pair the show with fine dining, boutique shopping, or a lakeside stroll. For music lovers, couples, and cultural explorers, it’s not just a venue—it’s a must-stop landmark. When the lights go down and the first chord rings out, you’ll understand why ACL Live at The Moody Theater is a place where music lives on long after the encore.
