ABOUT THE PLACE

Okay, I'm probably going to get in trouble for giving 6th Street a low rating, but quite honestly I don't find the place appealing anymore. I abhor smoke, and I no longer find the humor in getting blitzed, so the idea of becoming a sardine in a smoke filled club, shouting at the top of my voice to talk to anyone, and spending my hard earned money on overpriced booze just isn't my idea of a good Friday night.

6th Street is known for it's great live music. Some of it is very good, but when you live in the Live Music Capitol of the World you have to realize that statistically speaking, most of it is going to be garage-band crap, so choose your acts carefully. If you want a great Blues performance, go to Antone's.

The one redeeming value I find in 6th street (and the surrounding 4th and 5th streets) is that the area has a lot of excellent restaurants. Finding a parking spot anywhere near one of these restaurants is almost impossible, and valet parking rates have gotten ridiculous over the years. There used to be a free public parking garage over by the Austin Music Hall, but now they're charging to park there (bastards).

There is one gem of an institution on 6th Street, however. Esther's Follies has been around forever, and this is one of the best live comedy acts you'll find anywhere! If you go to 6th Street then make it a point to get tickets to one of these shows. This is hands-down the best night-time entertainment in all of Austin!