Broken Spoke
Iconic Austin dance hall since 1964, offering live country music, two-step lessons, and a taste of old Texas charm.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dance lessons & live music
Broken Spoke
Best Time
Dance lessons & live music
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Austin dance hall since 1964, offering live country music, two-step lessons, and a taste of old Texas charm.
"A must-visit honky tonk dance hall! Take the two step dance lessons! Sooo much fun with Terry the instructor."
🎯 Cash for Lessons!
Dance lessons are $10 cash only. Arrive early to secure your spot!
🚗 Parking Across the Street
The lot fills fast. Use the garage across the street for easier parking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Two-Step Dance Lessons
Main Dance Floor
Learn the iconic Texas two-step from energetic instructors. A fun, immersive way to kick off your honky-tonk experience!
Live Country Music
Main Stage
Experience legendary live performances that keep the spirit of classic country music alive. Get ready to dance!
Historic Atmosphere
Throughout the Venue
Step back in time in this iconic 1964 dance hall, a true cultural landmark of Austin.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Cash is King for Dance Lessons
Embrace the Old Austin Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Cash for Lessons!
Dance lessons are $10 cash only. Arrive early to secure your spot! +1
🚗 Parking Across the Street
The lot fills fast. Use the garage across the street for easier parking.
🍻 Open a Tab
Consider opening a tab for drinks to track consumption easily.
🕺 Learn the Two-Step
Even if you're a beginner, the lessons are fun and a great way to start the night.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Cash for Lessons!
Dance lessons are $10 cash only. Arrive early to secure your spot! +1
🚗 Parking Across the Street
The lot fills fast. Use the garage across the street for easier parking.
🍻 Open a Tab
Consider opening a tab for drinks to track consumption easily.
🕺 Learn the Two-Step
Even if you're a beginner, the lessons are fun and a great way to start the night.
🎶 Enjoy the Music
The live bands play a mix of classic country and slower tunes perfect for dancing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the Broken Spoke's authentic 'Old Austin' charm, lively atmosphere, and fun dance lessons. It's a beloved spot for experiencing live country music and traditional Texas two-stepping. While the bathrooms and parking can be minor inconveniences, the overall experience is highly recommended for its cultural significance and entertainment value.
"Such a fun place! We did the 8-9pm dance lessons with Terry and she was absolutely amazing, such a funny character, guarantee you’ll have a great time. I would recommend going a little earlier than 7:45 to make sure you get a spot in the lesson, and beware that they only take cash!!! After the dance lessons we stayed and got to listen and dance to live music which made this a 10/10 experience!"
Victoria Spencer
"It is definitely unique, I enjoyed the music, the crowd it was amazing. If you are above 6 feet tall, be careful the ceiling is bit uneven just like floor. If you are consuming alcohol, I suggest you open a tab. Very unsolicited way of tracking your consumption. I have to say my experience with their was not a good one."
Orlando Rios
"Broken Spoke is a classic Austin dance house with a heavy emphasis on classic. The inside is very historical and somehow shares the same feeling as a dive bar but not as divey. It definitely feels like there’s a lot of culture and history once you step in there. Dancing lessons were $10 and worth it to learn Intro to Two Stepping. The instructor was funny and it was a great way to kick off the evening. Drinks were cheap and the lines move fast (tip: the bar has a front and sides where you can get a drink faster). Drinks were a bit strong but hey, it’s Texas. The dancehall isn’t too crowded and was very much enjoyable with everyone just being happy and dancing. The live music was phenomenal playing a mix of classic country and slow music tunes. The only downside of the evening was the very strange and uncomfortable bathrooms which do rob you a bit of privacy but that doesn’t seem like something too concerning when you are where you are. At the end of the day, Broken Spoke is such a fantastic example of Old Austin’s culture and is a great experience to partake in. We highly recommend it for anyone wanting to two and step and get a little wobbly while doing so. Please note it’s impossible to park in the lot, so expect to find parking elsewhere."
Amber Lee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Broken Spoke is located in Austin, Texas. While parking at the venue can be challenging, there's a convenient parking garage directly across the street offering ample space.
Yes, there is parking, but it's often full. Many visitors recommend using the parking garage located across the street for a more reliable parking option.
Driving and parking in the garage across the street is a common method. Depending on your location in Austin, ride-sharing services are also a good option to avoid parking hassles.
While not explicitly mentioned in social media, biking is a popular activity in Austin. If you bike, consider securing your bicycle appropriately.
Information on public transport routes is not readily available, but ride-sharing services are a popular alternative for getting to and from the venue.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Dance lessons at the Broken Spoke cost $10 per person and are strictly cash-only. It's advisable to arrive a little before the lesson starts to ensure you get a spot. +1
Tickets for general entry are not typically mentioned as a requirement, but dance lessons are a separate, cash-only fee. It's best to check their official channels for any specific event ticketing.
The Broken Spoke offers dance lessons from Wednesday to Saturday, typically from 8 PM to 9 PM, followed by live music. Specific hours can vary, so checking their schedule is recommended.
As a bar and dance hall, it's generally assumed to be 21+ for alcohol consumption. Specific age policies for entry might apply, especially during certain events.
Given the cash-only nature of the dance lessons, refunds are unlikely. It's best to commit to attending if you pay the cash fee.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Broken Spoke offers a genuine 'Old Austin' charm with a historical dance hall vibe. It's known for its lively atmosphere, classic country music, and friendly crowd eager to dance.
You can expect live performances of classic country music, honky-tonk, and tunes perfect for two-stepping. Artists like Dale Watson have performed here, honoring Austin's musical heritage.
Some reviews mention that the bathrooms at the Broken Spoke may offer limited privacy, which can be a bit unusual for some visitors.
While it can get busy, especially during dance lessons, the dancehall is generally not overly crowded, allowing for enjoyable dancing.
Seating is available, but the focus is on the dance floor. If you're tall, be mindful of the ceiling height, which can be uneven.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Broken Spoke is known for classic Texas fare, including chicken-fried steak. They also serve beer and other drinks.
Specific vegetarian options are not highlighted in reviews, but the focus is on traditional Texas bar food. It's best to inquire upon arrival.
You can expect a selection of beers and other alcoholic beverages. Some reviews note that the drinks can be quite strong.
There is no strict dress code mentioned, but casual, comfortable attire suitable for dancing is recommended. Think cowboy boots and jeans!
Outside food is generally not permitted at venues like the Broken Spoke. They offer their own food and drink options.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed, and many visitors capture the lively atmosphere. However, be respectful of other patrons and performers.
Capture the historic interior, the bustling dance floor, and the live musicians on stage. The overall vintage vibe makes for great shots. 
Video recording is usually permitted, but be mindful of any specific venue policies or artist requests regarding filming during performances.
Drone photography is highly unlikely to be permitted inside or around the venue due to safety and privacy concerns.
Popular hashtags include #BrokenSpokeAustin, #AustinDanceHall, #TexasCountry, #TwoStep, and #HonkyTonk.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
Parking across the street is also a more economical option than trying to find street parking or paying for valet at other venues.
💑 Couples
The historic setting and the lively yet intimate feel of the dance hall make it a perfect spot for a date night. It offers a genuine taste of Texas culture that's both entertaining and memorable.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Legacy of the Broken Spoke
+1 The venue is dedicated to preserving the authentic spirit of old Austin, offering a genuine honky-tonk experience that transports visitors back in time. Its status as a historic landmark ensures its preservation for future generations. Visitors often describe the interior as having a unique historical feel, reminiscent of a dive bar but with a cleaner, more welcoming ambiance. This atmosphere, combined with the live music and dancing, creates an immersive experience that celebrates Texas heritage. The commitment to maintaining this classic vibe is a key reason for its enduring popularity.
The legacy of James White is honored through events and the continued operation of the dance hall, ensuring that the spirit of the Broken Spoke lives on. It remains a vibrant hub for country music and traditional Texas dance.
Mastering the Two-Step at the Broken Spoke
It's crucial to remember that these lessons are cash-only and cost $10 per person. Many visitors recommend arriving a little early, around 7:45 PM, to ensure you get a spot, as they can fill up quickly. While the instructors provide guidance, they may not offer extensive one-on-one help if you're struggling, so paying attention is key.
Once you've learned the basics, the dance floor opens up for live music, allowing you to practice your new skills. The atmosphere is generally very welcoming, with everyone focused on enjoying the music and the dance. It's a quintessential Austin experience that many recommend for anyone looking to immerse themselves in local culture.
Navigating the Broken Spoke Experience
Parking can be a challenge, as the venue's lot often fills up quickly. A practical solution is to utilize the parking garage located directly across the street, which offers a more reliable option for visitors.
Despite these minor considerations, the Broken Spoke is celebrated for its live music, cheap drinks, and the opportunity to dance the night away. It's a place where you can truly feel the spirit of old Austin and enjoy a memorable night out.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit