How to Find the Best Clubs in Austin

Part of Austin's allure is its laid-back lifestyle. People here are not afraid to let their hair down and party into the night. Here are some popular clubs for every kind of taste.

Instructions

1. If you're in a country music state of mind check out the Broken Spoke or Dallas Nightclub. The Spoke is an old-time Texas dance hall which has hosted the likes of Bob Wills, Willie Nelson and Ernest Tubb, not to mention Alvin Crow, Dale Watson and the Geezinslaws. If you're an urban cowboy and prefer your country music with some non-country music thrown into the mix, head to Dallas Nightclub. It's known for its drink specials, DJs and huge dance floor.

2. Does your idea of a good night out involve busting a gut with laughter over striking poses with scenesters? Then get thee to Esther's Follies or Cap City Comedy Club. Esther's, which has been open since the 1970s, offers comedy skits, magic acts and other sorts of neo-vaudeville acts. If straight-up comedy is more your speed, go north to Cap City. There you can see local and touring comedians and the "Funniest Person in Austin" contest. If you're really brave you can show off your comedic chops at the Sunday Open Microphone Night.

3. Prefer a lounge vibe? Jitterbug over to Speakeasy, which was born during the swing revival, yet retains its status as a hip evening spot with a great roof garden. If picking up a hookah--pipe, that is--is part of your evening's agenda, fly your magic carpet over to the Moroccan-themed Red Fez.

4. If you're gay or just gay-friendly, check out Oil Can Harry's or Charlie's. Oil Can's caters to the young and beautiful people who like to dance all night, while Charlie's attracts a greater range of ages, ethnicities and sexual variations.

5. Okay, we all know by know that Austin bills itself as the "Live Music Capitol of the World," but when you're spoiled for choice, where do you start looking for music venues? Well, if indie music's your thing, Emo's has for years been the premier venue. Aficionados of the blues flock to Antone's, where Stevie Ray Vaughan got his start. If your looking for smooth jazz in a nationally-recognized club, bebop over to the Elephant Room downtown, located in a basement on Congress Avenue. And if you find all these labels to be too much of a straight jacket, seek out the truly Austin rock/country/indie mix at the Hole in the Wall.