Best Country Music Bars in Texas

Some of the most excellent country musicians started out by performing in Texas country music bars. Check out some of our favorites here!

1. The Continental Club

Calling itself the “granddaddy of live music venues," this Austin juke joint has received worldwide recognition as the premiere club for live music in Austin since 1955 and Houston since 2000. It’s a hot spot for those who want to listen to great music. And there’s no better place for musicians to jam.

3. Southern Junction Live

This place really does have it all: two-for-one steaks (every Wednesday), all-you-can-eat ribs and dance lessons (every Thursday), and live performances by prominent up-and-coming bluegrass musicians (all the time!). Located in Royse City, Southern Junction is a truly immersive country experience. For over 25 years, it’s been bringing in legends like Merle Haggard, Randy Rogers, Mark Chesnutt, Josh Abbott, and more. There’s a huge dance floor, a full bar, and “enough room for a party as big as Dallas."

3. Adair’s Saloon

Adair’s Saloon books live entertainment pretty much every night. Graffiti lining the walls of this modern-day Dallas speakeasy creates a lived-in vibe, full of fun memories had by its patrons. At Adair’s, they call it art. Markers are served with the meal, so you can “leave your mark” on the tables before you leave, and there’s a photo collection of performers who have walked through those doors — like the blown-up picture of Elvis Presley taken back in 1955. The Chicks, Jack Ingram, and others performed on Adair’s stage before they made it big. “The best upcoming bands tool their craft on Adair’s stage seven nights a week,” said Adair’s owners. “And when the band’s not playing, regulars demand that ‘someone play the damn jukebox!’ until the sounds of legends like Bob Wills or Hank Williams or Dallas’ upcoming artists fill the room.”

4. 11th St Cowboy Bar

All are welcome at one of Texas’ finest live music bars, 11th St Cowboy Bar. According to the owners, It’s a “world-famous destination for all brands of folks, from cowboys to cowgirls, bikers to business women. They come for the good brew, top-tier live Country Western and Country Swing and Dance music, and of course, the good times that only the Biggest Little Bar in Texas can provide.” Located in Bandera, Texas, 11th Street Cowboy Bar is an old building with a porch out front and a dance floor out back, where a bandstand featuring top Texas talent plays every week. The bar often has pickers and jam sessions, so “bring your guitar and join in on the fun!”

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