Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Austin, TX

North America

United States

# Skyline Theater At the Long Center – Outdoor concert venue with stunning skyline views in Austin, TX

Skyline Theater At the Long Center is a premier outdoor concert venue located in Austin, TX, known for its breathtaking views of the Austin skyline. Opened in 2016, this venue has quickly become a favorite among music lovers, offering a unique blend of live performances, food trucks, and a vibrant atmosphere. With a capacity that allows for an intimate experience while still accommodating larger crowds, Skyline Theater has hosted a variety of artists and events, making it a staple in the local music scene. Review highlights emphasize its excellent acoustics, well-organized events, and the convenience of indoor facilities, making it a must-visit for concert-goers.

## History
### The story of Skyline Theater At the Long Center
Skyline Theater At the Long Center was established with the vision of creating a premier outdoor venue that would enhance Austin's vibrant cultural landscape. The Long Center for the Performing Arts, where the theater is located, has long been a hub for artistic expression, and the addition of Skyline Theater aimed to provide a unique space for live music that capitalizes on the city's beautiful weather and stunning skyline.

### Milestones and growth
- **2016**: Skyline Theater opened its doors, quickly gaining popularity for outdoor concerts.
- **2017**: The venue hosted a variety of artists, solidifying its reputation in the local music scene.
- **2019**: Introduced food truck partnerships, enhancing the concert experience with diverse dining options.
- **2021**: Expanded event offerings to include pre-concert boat cruises and VIP experiences.

### Cultural and local influence
Skyline Theater has significantly influenced Austin's cultural scene by providing a space for both local and national artists to perform. Its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of genres has attracted a wide audience, fostering a sense of community among music lovers. The venue's location also allows for easy access to other cultural landmarks in Austin, further enriching the local arts scene.

### Continuing the tradition
As Skyline Theater continues to thrive, it remains dedicated to its founding vision of enhancing the cultural fabric of Austin. The venue regularly updates its offerings, ensuring that it stays relevant and appealing to both new and returning visitors. By maintaining high standards for sound quality and audience experience, Skyline Theater is poised to remain a beloved destination for years to come.

## Community
### Community involvement
Skyline Theater actively engages with the local community by hosting events that cater to diverse audiences. The venue collaborates with local businesses, particularly food trucks, to provide a variety of dining options during events. This partnership not only supports local entrepreneurs but also enriches the concert experience for attendees.

### Community notion about the place
The community views Skyline Theater as a valuable addition to Austin's entertainment landscape. Many locals appreciate the venue's commitment to providing a high-quality concert experience, complete with excellent acoustics and a welcoming atmosphere. Reviews frequently highlight the venue's accessibility and the friendly staff, contributing to a positive perception among residents.

### Events and gatherings
Skyline Theater hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts, community gatherings, and special themed nights. These events often feature local artists, fostering a sense of community and encouraging local talent. The venue's outdoor setting allows for unique experiences, such as picnics on the lawn and pre-show gatherings, making it a popular spot for socializing.

## Offerings
### What Skyline Theater At the Long Center offers
Skyline Theater offers a comprehensive concert experience, combining live music with a variety of amenities designed to enhance the enjoyment of attendees. From food options to seating arrangements, every detail is considered to ensure a memorable outing.

### Dining and food experience
The venue features a selection of food trucks that provide a diverse range of culinary options, allowing concert-goers to enjoy a meal while they listen to their favorite artists. This setup not only supports local food vendors but also adds to the festive atmosphere of the events. Attendees can find everything from casual snacks to more substantial meals, catering to different tastes and preferences.

### Events and packages
Skyline Theater offers various event packages, including VIP experiences that provide exclusive access to certain areas of the venue. Concert-goers can purchase Picnic Passes, allowing them to bring in food and enjoy a picnic-style experience on the lawn. The venue also organizes pre-concert boat cruises, adding a unique twist to the concert experience.

### Facilities and features
- Indoor restrooms with air conditioning
- Spacious grassy areas for seating
- Accessible parking garage nearby
- Multiple bars serving a variety of beverages
- Excellent sound system for clear audio

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Skyline Theater highlight both its strengths and areas for improvement. Many concert-goers praise the venue's acoustics, cleanliness, and overall organization, while some mention the challenges posed by the outdoor setting, particularly during hot weather.

### Compliments and strengths
- **Acoustics**: Many attendees commend the sound quality, noting that the audio is clear from various locations within the venue.
- **Atmosphere**: The scenic views of the Austin skyline and the vibrant ambiance contribute to a memorable concert experience.
- **Organization**: Reviewers appreciate the efficient entry process and the helpful staff, which enhances the overall experience.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
Some reviews point out that the venue can get quite hot during summer events, suggesting that attendees come prepared with shade options. Additionally, while parking is generally convenient, some visitors recommend arriving early to secure the best spots.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Skyline Theater At the Long Center stands out as a premier outdoor concert venue in Austin. With its excellent sound system, diverse food options, and stunning views, it has quickly become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. While there are minor drawbacks, such as heat during summer events, the positives far outweigh the negatives, making it a must-visit destination for music lovers.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Skyline Theater At the Long Center is located at 701 W Riverside Dr, Austin, TX 78704. Nestled in the heart of Austin, the venue is easily accessible and surrounded by a variety of attractions. Visitors can explore the nearby Long Center for the Performing Arts, which hosts various cultural events and performances. The vibrant downtown area is just a short distance away, offering a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. The scenic Lady Bird Lake is also nearby, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation.

## FAQs
**What is the parking situation at Skyline Theater** Parking is available in a garage nearby for $8 per vehicle.
**Are food trucks available at the venue** Yes, there are food trucks offering a variety of dining options during events.
**Can I bring my own food and drinks** You can bring a sealed water bottle and a small cooler with food if you purchase a Picnic Pass.
**Is there seating available at the venue** Attendees can bring blankets or low chairs for seating on the grassy areas.
**What types of events are held at Skyline Theater** The venue hosts concerts, community gatherings, and special themed events throughout the year.

## Visit Skyline Theater At the Long Center Today
Skyline Theater At the Long Center offers an unparalleled outdoor concert experience in Austin, TX. With its stunning skyline views, diverse food options, and a commitment to community engagement, it has quickly become a beloved venue for music lovers. Whether you're attending a concert or simply enjoying the atmosphere, Skyline Theater promises a memorable outing. Don't miss out on the chance to experience this vibrant venue for yourself!

12d5b012-92d9-4222-8319-b35428c95484

What a fantastic venue!! Perfect. My fiancé and I saw the Dirty Heads + SOJA concert, compliments of Yelp and our CM, Luci--thanks a bunch! Both bands were phenomenal; similar in genre (reggae), but different in style. This outdoor venue is just large enough to have enough space to roam about in the grassy and cemented areas, but small enough to feel close to the concert, regardless of area selected (general, premier, or VIP). The acoustics and sound were good from any location. Food trucks were present, and there were plenty of tents to grab beer and other drinks from. Concert goers are also welcome to go inside of the Long Center to purchase drinks, use the facilities or just cool off. At night the venue is well lit with colorful uplighting, strobe lights and perimeter sidewalk lighting; not to mention, the venue has a great view of Austin's skyline-- great for photo-ops. All in all, we had a wonderful time jamming to the music from both bands, and truly enjoyed experiencing this outdoor music venue for the first time. We're ready for the next concert!

833e5a63-bcf7-4694-a6dc-8a92df32b981

Not to brag buuuuuuuuttttt can I tell you how much FUN I had yesterday at the Dirty Heads & SOJA concert!!!! Jamming to hip hop reggae w/ my Yelp peeps on a Friday was the perfect way to start my weekend and the Skyline Theater at the Long Center really is a great venue for concerts w/ the awesome Austin skyline view & the grassy areas for you to sit & enjoy the show & most importantly the restrooms are indoors where you can cool off in the AC before heading back outside to enjoy the concert! :) There were plenty of alcohol bars setup that sold the usual drinks for concert prices & they also had food trucks onsite to enjoy. Helpful tips: -you are allowed to bring a blanket(s) to sit on -1 closed water bottle is allowed per person to bring in -purses & bags are checked at the entrance gate..just a quick look nothing to crazy -there's a parking garage right behind the venue which charges $8 per car & you can leave & re-enter as long as you have your parking receipt Till we meet again Skyline Theater stay awesome! -Rebecca out

7eb06df5-be6d-480e-b09e-b2d852e66a6b

3 snaps up for this wonderful venue! Perfect for the Steve Miller Band! I checked on-line as soon as I was able to confirm I could make it to the event. Low-seats: check. Small umbrellas: check. Sealed water bottle: check (froze it so it would last a long time), bug spray: check (wasn't needed), hat as this is an outdoor venue: check. July is hot: check. Bandanna for sweat: check. Myself and another music lover, got to the event early for a good parking spot in the garage, then across the street we go for food. We slowly strolled back to the car to pick up the gear and then over to the General Admission line (which moved fast). The staff was great by giving people head's up before the screening, which was painless. We set up seats dead center, inches from the last line for seats as was actually in front of the VIP area. It had rained earlier, but no mud. Temperatures had dropped but the sun was still intense and still hot. With our hats, water and seats, we settled in. I am older than dirt but have always loved open air venues as you are not dealing with echoes and the sound is crisp and clear. But that is just my humble opinion and can change in an instant when a rain storm hits. Then out comes Big Head Todd & the Monsters! The outdoor sound system was working perfectly (this can make or break a concert). They ended their set a-Rockin! Out comes the Steve Miller Band and the place jumped to their feet. Again, the sound was perfect. Then joining Steve, the incredible harmonica player James Cotton. This I had known in advance from the event website, but then out comes Jimmie Vaughan to join them! And then the earth shook with the blues. James Cotton was not only absolutely magnificent on the blues harmonica, but it was his 80th birthday! When Jimmie and James left, Steve himself helped Cotton off the stage. A real gentleman! And then it went on and on, each song built on each other and there was no wasted time. I took tons of pictures! Wonderful.

1971471f-b057-4016-a9be-e5fc77d72fbc

How about an uncrowded outdoor concert venue with a gorgeous view of the Austin downtown horizon? Would you like a full bar, air-conditioned restrooms, and an assortment of food trucks to go with that? Let's also throw in a pleasantly sloped grass surface with decent lines of sight for everyone and an easy in/out parking garage within a few steps. That's what we just got with the Summer 2016 opening of Skyline Theater at the Long Center. When I say, "Woohoo! As good as it gets!" (5 stars) for Skyline, know that I'm rating in the context of other outdoor concert venues in Austin. Skyline is no cushy Cynthia Woods Pavillion (you lucky The Woodlands people!), but for our little city, it's a big step up from what we've had. I've seen 2 shows there so far (Steve Miller Band and Culture Club) and had a blast both times. Yes, it is HOT out there before the sun goes down, but if you dress appropriately and take advantage of the indoor A/C when you need it, you'll be fine. The sun gets down behind the stage around 7:30ish and comfort level increases considerably. Due to the noise ordinance, the show will be over by 10pm. Protips: 1. You can pay $10 in advance online (they do sell out) for a Picnic Pass, which allows up to 4 ticket holders to enter 1 hour early and bring in a small soft sided cooler with food (no bevs except sealed water, 1 per person). 2. You can bring in low (9 inches or less) beach chairs or the soft foldable stadium chairs, or buy/rent one for $10 ($5 refund upon return). 3. Topo Chico is a sponsor this year, offering free samples & swag giveaways. 4. Enter the Palmer Auditorium garage from Barton Springs for the quickest entry. Bring $8 cash, as CC transactions can be problematic and time-consuming. Run like the wind to your car during the last song and you'll be on your way home and in bed by 10:30pm. 5. If you have more $$ to spend and wanna roll like a boss, you might like to take advantage of the pre-concert boat cruise on Lady Bird Lake, the PreFunk & Parking Pass, or the VIP experience with access to the Skyline Club (shaded outdoor balcony with stage view).

0fea1bc8-4bff-40e3-a764-40d173d4633b

This was my second time at skyline theater. I enjoyed both shows I saw here which is a bonus. I would recommend reviewing their FAQs on the website before showing up to an event. This will let you know what you can and can't bring. You are allowed to bring in a sealed water bottle which is helpful when it is over 100 degrees outside. The bathrooms are clean and decent. They have plenty of alcohol options to include beer, cider and full bar. Also there is an ATM on site to get cash with a current $4.95 service charge.

20d64576-6291-438f-8215-1dcda912270d

Love, LOVE this venue! Been twice now and there's nothing like enjoying a show on the grass with the Austin skyline behind the stage. Last year we saw Yacht Rock Revue here and it was PERFECT. Wore my semi-sailor outfit and had a real relaxing evening listening to Steely Dan and Christopher Cross. This time, we rocked out to Styx and Boston. There are multiple ways to enjoy this venue, with pre-show parties and boat cruises offered. We just got GA tickets for relatively cheap and plopped ourselves on a blanket on the grass (they only allow blankets and LOW chairs). As mentioned, they do have food trucks and bars on site. Unfortunately, for this show, they moved the start time up from 8:30 to 7:00 with gates opened at 6:00, or Prime Sweat Hour. You will sweat your tits off out there, at least until the sun drops behind the stage and then you'll sweat them off dancing to the awesome music. I did like the personal follow up though from the Long Center when they switched times. I got a phone call from a real person ( I had also seen the update on FB) that explained the time change and the parking possibilities. Skyline Theater has booked some amazing acts, including Culture Club and Steve Miller. Bring yo blanket and yo tit towel and go enjoy it!

a05d127e-face-4937-b492-9f23187c1a67

I got the pleasure of seeing my dad's "least favorite band," Boston, at the brand spankin' new, Statesman Skyline Theater. Although I didn't know many of the songs, I have More Than A Feelin' that this venue is going to take off. There are many things to love about this spot and instead of writing a bunch of paragraphs on each one, I'm going to list them all. + The View - a great view of the DT skyline and aptly named, too + Food Trucks - They have food trucks on sight, so you can have a picnic! + It's Spacious - There is plenty of space to spread a blanket if you don't want to stand + The Sound - It sounds soo good and you're never too far from the stage to hear perfectly + The Location - It's the Long Center, which is super central and has tons of parking + The Parking - yeah I mentioned it before but it's only $8/car and you can pay with a CC! The only bad things to note are the lack of shade (Austin is HOT) and the price of beer at $7/16 oz. Not too bad and I wish you could BYOB, but I can live with both. This is a great spot to add to your favorite outdoor venue list. It's also a great use of space, since the long center is an awesome location.

5dbf9c66-2593-4425-82bb-fd1cb52e4602

Great music venue! Went here to see the Goo Goo Dolls and Collective Soul concert last night. One of the better outdoor venues I have been too. Everything about this show was well organized and made the experience enjoyably relaxing. First, the parking at the Long Center garage was only $8. That is great for event prices, and a short walk to the venue. The General Admission lines were never clogged and moved along effortlessly. The also had a lot of staff on hand to answer questions and point you in the right direction. We were able to pick a spot out on the clean grass and lay our blanket down and sit back and enjoy the show. They didn't overcrowd the area with people so there was plenty of room for everyone. The bathrooms were inside and flushed (AWESOME!!), and the food truck selection was good and plentiful. Really didn't have any lines to ever wait in. The best part of this venue is the beautiful view of the city. Also, they have a phenomenal sound system. Overall a great venue and a wonderful show.

1d46fa65-ef06-4689-8ee5-010cf46aaec9

The good: Can't express how much I loved this venue but I'll try! Just what Austin needed, an outdoor venue for ticketed shows. The Bad: it could get pretty hot obviously. Come prepared! They have food and drinks but bring some shade if you go early. Parking was about $8 so not bad

dd5b5da1-5831-4244-8132-914852ded36e

I like the Skyline Theater a lot, but have a few minor quibbles. Given the competition in and around town, though, it's easily one of the better venues of its size and type. Been to ST once now to see the Steve Miller Band for a Yelp event. The current seating arrangement is a fairly long but somewhat narrow strip of lawn facing downhill toward the stage. The sightlines are good, as is the wonderful view of the Downtown skyline (hence the name) by sunset, but three issues here: one, the massive sound stage in the middle of the lawn means that that everyone has to sit to one side of it or the other to see the stage. Since this limits the available breadth of seating, lawn spots back up farther and farther away from the stage quickly; two, the border fence on the west could probably be moved to allow for more seating without creating extreme angles to see the acts; three, splurging for a pavilion somewhere to provide a shaded area/rain shelter might have been a good idea. But ticketing and admission are easy (blankets and chairs are allowed, as is pump bug spray, but aerosol cans are not), there are plenty of very good food trucks with modest-to-no markups over their ordinary prices, and beer and cocktails are actually affordable (or affordable by the dreadful standards of event pricing, anyway). There are many bars with short wait times (for bigger events, they serve within the Long Center itself as well) and roving, cash-only beer carts. Skyline is accessible by a half-dozen buses, there's abundant car parking very near the venue itself for $8, there are multiple bike racks (!) for those inclined, and bathroom access is pretty good. It's a great Downtown resource to see smaller national acts in Austin, without the hassle and parking expense of the 360 Amphitheater or the god-awful Cedar Park Center.

Experience the vibrant Skyline Theater at the Long Center in Austin, TX. Enjoy top-notch performances in a stunning venue. Book your unforgettable night now.

Skyline Theater at the Long Center in Austin, TX

Austin

Skyline Theater At the Long Center

Texas

Discover the Skyline Theater at the Long Center in Austin, TX. Enjoy live performances, stunning views, and vibrant arts scene. Book your experience now!

Experience Skyline Theater at the Long Center, Austin, TX - Iconic Cultural Venue

Learn about Skyline Theater at the Long Center in Austin, TX. A hub for arts, theater, and entertainment. Explore our history and upcoming events today!

About Skyline Theater at the Long Center, Austin, TX - Premier Cultural Destination

Opening hours for Skyline Theater at the Long Center, Austin, TX. Find opening hours for Skyline Theater at the Long Center, Austin, TX on 701 W Riverside Dr.

Skyline Theater At the Long Center Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Skyline Theater At the Long Center

A Christmas Affair

Bolivar Cigar Lounge

Bennu Coffee