About Barracuda
Barracuda was a beloved live music club in downtown Austin, Texas, located at 611 East 7th Street in the city’s Red River Cultural District. It opened in late 2015 in the former Red 7 venue space and was independently owned by local music promoters (including the owners of Hotel Vegas). The club could hold roughly 600 people (about four times the size of Hotel Vegas) and featured a classic indoor stage plus a large covered patio stage in back. Interior walls were trimmed in wood paneling and even a ram’s-head décor piece hung over the stage, giving the room an intimate yet “old-school concert hall” feel. A central bar and high tables ran along the side, and picnic benches on the patio offered outdoor seating. Barracuda quickly earned a reputation on the Austin scene for excellent sound and a classic rock-and-roll vibe, blending elements of the Bottle Nevada and Hi-Tone clubs (two influential venues mentioned by the owners at opening) (www.austinchronicle.com ). It became known affectionately as “Barry’s” by the local crowd.
Over its five years of operation, Barracuda stood out by booking a wide variety of rock, punk, indie, hardcore and even country-inflected shows. It was a key stop during Austin’s festival seasons (SXSW, Levitation psych fest, Austin TerrorFest/Oblivion Access metal fest, and the annual local “Free Week” festival), as well as a popular home for Austin’s own bands and touring indie dances. Famous local acts like Spoon and Roky Erickson performed there, and the venue hosted everything from pop-punk tours to folk and experimental artists. Fans remember it as one of the most community-focused venues: it hosted benefit shows, all-ages matinees (when COVID hadn’t struck), and had a laid-back bar atmosphere after the bands quit playing. Unfortunately, Barracuda closed permanently in June 2020 due to the COVID shutdown and financial strains (www.austinchronicle.com ). The owners thanked their staff and patrons with a farewell event (#Barrys4ever), and though the space is now home to a new comedy club called The Creek and The Cave (opened in 2023), Barracuda’s legacy remains a high point in Austin’s live-music history.
Events and Programming
When it was open, Barracuda’s calendar was packed with live shows most nights of the week. Typical events included mid-sized touring bands (punk, rock, emo, metal, hardcore, experimental, indie, etc.), comedy and variety acts, and even record-release parties or DJ nights on slower evenings. Many local Austin bands either launched their tours or homecoming gigs at Barracuda. The programming leaned toward alternative and underground music: for example, Barracuda often hosted acts like Hot Water Music, Knuckle Puck, Indigo De Souza, Conan Neutron, and local favorites from the Austin scene. The club also served as a stage for city festival bills, from the hometown music Flash Free Week to the national catchment Levitation. Some shows were all-ages, but most evening concerts were 21+.
Kickoff times varied, but on a typical night the first band started in the late evening, with doors around 30–60 minutes earlier. Cover charges ranged from about $10 for smaller local shows to $20–$30 for more well-known touring acts. Tickets were often tiered by age (teens vs adults) but usually a single GA price. For popular shows (especially on weekends or during SXSW) it was common for Barracuda to sell out. In those cases, fans would rsvp or buy online weeks in advance. Since the venue had no fixed seating, it filled up quickly, and people took front spots by lining up early. Current planning-wise, note that Barracuda itself is permanently closed, so there are no active events at 611 E 7th under that name. Any shows once booked there were either canceled or rescheduled at other nearby clubs. For ongoing events at that address, look to The Creek and The Cave (a different venue now operating in the same building).
Tickets and Booking
When Barracuda was active, tickets for its shows could be obtained either online or at the door. The venue did not maintain a traditional box-office window open daily, so ticket sales were usually handled through event promoters or online platforms. Fans would typically buy tickets a few weeks ahead via the venue’s (or promoter’s) website, or find a link on social media/event listings. A limited number of tickets at each show were saved for door sales if the show wasn’t sold out, with doors opening roughly one hour before showtime. There was no seating chart or reserved seating to select – everything was general admission. Pricing was straightforward: most single-price general-admission tickets were in the \$10–\$30 range, with higher prices only for marquee events. Occasionally presales were offered through fan clubs or venue mailing lists. In summary, to attend a Barracuda show you just needed to grab a GA ticket in advance (or early on the night of), then arrive before doors to claim a good spot. Since the venue closed in mid-2020, these ticket arrangements are no longer active, but the same approach (online booking or door sales) applies to any current shows at other Austin venues.
Seating and Layout
Barracuda’s interior was essentially one large standing-room concert hall. The stage was at the far end of the building (having been rotated 90° from the old setup), and fans spread out across the open floor in front of it. There was no fixed seating on the main floor, so everyone stood – some along walls, some on a slightly elevated side bar area with stools, and most right up against the stage if they arrived early. Behind the main crowd space, there was a long central bar on one side and a mix of high-top tables. That means the “best seats” for sound and view were simply the front choice spots on the floor near the stage. However, Brian Tweedy (one of the owners) designed the club so that if the floor was packed, people could spill out to the back patio for additional viewing or socializing! (www.austinchronicle.com ).
The back patio was a major feature. It had its own small stage/performance area and a few picnic-style benches. Many concertgoers used the patio to catch some air or wind down between sets. It was common to alternate between the indoor room (closer to the PA speakers, more energy) and the outdoor patio (airier, laid-back). In terms of acoustics, sound techs noted Barracuda was tuned for rock shows, so vocals and guitars came through cleanly in the crowd. There was no balcony or upper level for extra seating – the second floor was used as offices and green rooms. So in summary: everything was general admission and “first-come, first-served.” Arriving early for a show guaranteed a spot near the front; if it filled up, moving to the outdoor patio with its benches was a convenient backup. Sightlines were generally good unless you were far back, so most fans preferred to hang around the stage area. The venue did have a few beams, so very far sides could be partially obstructed, but center floor was clear. (At its height, the capacity was over 600 total across both indoor and outdoor areas.)
Getting There and Parking
Barracuda’s exact location was 611 E 7th St, Austin 78701, on the north side of 7th Street at the corner with Red River Street. This is a few blocks east of Interstate-35 and just a block south of the University of Texas campus. Because it sat in the Red River Cultural District, it was surrounded by other clubs, restaurants and historic storefronts. Getting there by car was straightforward from downtown or I-35: drivers would take East 7th Street eastbound and turn left on Red River (or vice versa). If you drive, note that street parking on East 7th is metered and very limited. Meter-enforced street spots are typically 2-hour maximum (8am–6pm), so they often fill up quickly. For evening shows, many people used small paid lots nearby: for example, the Miller on 7th parking lot (1000 E 7th) and the Assembly Hall Alley lot (1121 E 7th) offer self-park for roughly \$10–15 for a night. Another option is the St. David’s Episcopal Church garage at 710 Trinity St (cross street just west of Red River) for event parking. Always plan extra time, as heavy show crowds can create traffic on 7th Street. Rideshare pick-up/drop-off is convenient right on East 7th; just tell your driver to stop in front of 611 E 7th (on the south side of the street) or near the nearest snack carts.
Public transportation options are plentiful. The area is served by multiple CapMetro bus routes. For example, Route #4 (East 8th/Trinity) stops at Red River & 8th, and Route #10 (UT Shuttle/35) runs along 7th Street with a stop at Red River. Other buses like #7, #837 (night service), and the local #803/804 also pass within a few blocks. If you’re coming from downtown or the west side, take a bus to 7th Street & Trinity or 8th & Red River, and it’s a short walk. The nearest MetroRail station is the Downtown Station (near Congress Ave & 4th St), about a 3–4 block walk. Austin’s bicycle-share and scooter-share services cover this spot as well. In summary, Barracuda was very accessible: ample buses, easy rideshare access, and a few nearby garages or meters for cars. (Always check the latest CapMetro schedules, as weekend and late-night routes can vary.)
Inside the Venue
Upon entry, Barracuda felt like a classic rock club. Guests queued just outside the single front door on E 7th, where staff scanned tickets and checked IDs (for 21+ shows). Passing through the entrance, you’d immediately see the main performance stage across the room. The first thing noticeable inside was a shiny wood-front bar along the left wall, offering a full menu of beers, cocktails and mixers. During shows the bar stayed open for happy-hours or full service, and there was often a free water cooler or fountain available near the restrooms – patrons reported that clean drinking water was provided at no charge. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) were at the back of the main floor; the Chronicle noted the formerly “biohazard” bathrooms were upgraded to a clean, usable space (www.austinchronicle.com ).
Barracuda did not have any indoor dining – outside food delivery was not offered. Instead, the crowd typically ate offsite (see Nearby section below). Inside, the decor was low-key: dim lights between band sets, with the focus on stage lighting during performances. No elaborate pre-set entertainment or multimedia was used. Merchandise tables for touring bands often appeared at the sides of the stage during events. As for rules: no outside drinks or coolers were allowed. Large backpacks were discouraged (staff would ask guests to leave prams or cases outside). Cameras: small point-and-shoot or phone cameras were fine, but professional DSLRs with detachable lenses or video cameras were not permitted under the club’s policy. The crowd was advised to turn off camera flashes to avoid distracting performers.
If you were waiting, the wide entry hallway and patio doors often stayed open in good weather, making the space feel breezy. The main floor could get crowded and warm, especially on hot summer nights, so fans did use the back patio for some air. Smoking was not allowed indoors (per Texas law), so any smokers headed to the patio section during intermissions. The venue did not have assigned coat check; in winter some attendees would hand jackets to bartenders or leave them on the patio benches. In terms of service, bartenders were reported to be friendly and efficient, and the venue accepted credit cards at the bar (though it was wise to carry cash for small vendors or parking). Overall, inside Barracuda the atmosphere was casual and energetic: one might see people in jeans and band t-shirts, and feel free to dance or crowd-surf (security monitored safety during lively sets). The vibe was definitely local and unpretentious, so even first-time visitors usually felt at home among the community of music fans.
Nearby Amenities
Food trucks and casual eats: Right outside Barracuda on East 7th was a well-known Food Truck Court. Options included Ditty Dog (gourmet hot dogs and sausages), Rodgers Boyz BBQ (Texas-style barbecue), Shawarma Point (Mediterranean wraps and gyros), and Simply WOW Grill (upscale grilled cheese sandwiches), among others. These trucks open until late, so fans often grabbed a quick bite there before or after shows. A few blocks south on 6th Street, the popular Stubbs Bar-B-Q offers more substantial Texas BBQ and has its own live music stage. Also nearby is Cheer Up Charlie’s (900 Red River) – a funky bar/restaurant with tacos and veggie-friendly dishes.Bars and nightlife: The entire block of Red River Street is lined with bars and music venues, so pre- or post-show drinks are easy to find. Cheer Up Charlie’s just north is famous for craft cocktails and drag shows. The ABGB brewpub (with pizza) is just a 10-minute walk east on 5th Street. Down 6th Street toward Congress Avenue, you’ll enter Austin’s commercial lively zone, home to the Driskill Bar (in the historic Driskill Hotel) and many other pubs and clubs along Sixth Street. All of these are within a few blocks if you’re looking to continue the night after Barracuda.Hotels: There aren’t hotels on the same block as Barracuda, but several lodging options are within walking distance. About 10–15 minutes west, downtown hotels like the Hampton Inn Austin-Downtown/Convention Center (4th & San Jacinto), JW Marriott/Austin (2nd & Congress), and The Driskill (6th & Congress) are easily reachable on foot. A few boutique options like the East Austin Hotel (5th & Neches) or the AC Hotel on Congress are a similar distance. Austin also has many Airbnbs and guesthouses in the East Austin neighborhood bordering Red River. In general, any downtown Austin hotel or Airbnb in the vicinity will be a short drive or reasonable walk from 7th & Red River. If you need rides, Uber/Lyft drivers can typically pick up just outside the venue on East 7th, or a block north on Red River.Arrival tips: On busy nights it’s wise to arrive an hour or two before showtime to allow time for parking and lines. If you plan to eat nearby, note that some food spots stop serving well before midnight, so lunch/dinner earlier is recommended. After shows end (usually before 1am), the area is still active but quieter than Sixth Street, and pick-ups for rideshares can be found along 7th Street. Late-night pedestrians are fewer toward downtown than on Sixth, so use well-lit streets and crowds of people when leaving. The Red River Cultural District is generally considered safe and lively until late thanks to the restaurant and venue cluster, but as always use standard city-night precautions (buddy up, watch your belongings, etc).
What Makes This Venue Special
Barracuda stood out in Austin’s music scene because it combined the intimacy of a homegrown club with the capability of a bigger concert hall. Its design – wood interiors, pin-up benches, and a sprawling back patio – was quite unlike the newer boxy multi-stage complexes. Fans often say Barracuda “felt like a classic Texas concert hall,” thanks to the attentive sound system and club layout that reminded the owners of the 1970s. In practice, that meant bands could sound punchy and fans could linger comfortably between songs. It bridged a gap in Austin by delivering both local talent showcases and nationally touring indie acts under one roof, at a scale that many other venues couldn’t accommodate.
Historically, Barracuda filled an important role on the Red River strip. When the venerable Red 7 closed in 2015, there was a real fear Austin’s music corridor would be hollowed out by high rents. Barracuda’s owners explicitly set out to revive that neighborhood with a refreshed space (www.austinchronicle.com ). Over its run, it became a “last refuge” of sorts for original local music on that stretch of town. This mission fostered a tight-knit vibe: many of the city’s musicians and fans treated Barry’s as “our club.” Celebratory moments — from free holiday parties to benefit concerts supporting Austin artists — gave Barracuda a community feel that even mainstream venues lacked. The outpouring of support when it closed (local band Spoon tweeted their love, fans used #Barrys4ever) shows that the venue had become part of Austin lore. In short, what made Barracuda special was its authentic character: a hardworking, locally-run music hall that put the fans and artists first, right in the heart of the Live Music Capital.
Visitor Tips and Information
Here are some practical tips to enhance the experience (or at least understand what Barracuda was like): Guests were advised to arrive at least 30–60 minutes before showtime to get through the door and pick a spot. Shows tended to start in the mid-evening (often 8–10pm), but check the event info since times vary. There was no strict dress code – people dressed casually (jeans, band T-shirts, etc.) and comfort was key. Since Barracuda was standing-room, wearing closed-toe shoes and light clothing was smart (the club could get hot and active). Be aware that this was primarily a concert venue, so don’t expect table service or food menus. Bring only what you can comfortably carry: large backpacks or coolers were not allowed, and belongings were your own responsibility in the crowd.
On safety and policy: Barracuda was mainly a 21+ venue, so ID was required at the door if your event was age-restricted. Some weekend afternoon or special events were all-ages (with tickets labeled accordingly). The venue enforced no outside food or drink (Texas law prohibits bringing alcohol on premises). A small camera or phone for photos was okay – many fans snapped pics from the audience – but tripods or professional cameras were not allowed, and photo flash was discouraged. There was no formal coat check; visitors either hung jackets on chairs or left them with friends. The venue did offer free water (usually via a cooler or fountain), so you could refill your bottle between bands. Restrooms were on-site and accessible from the main floor level.
In terms of accessibility, Barracuda was somewhat limited. The main floor and staging were all on one level, so no stairs once inside. However, the front entrance had a few steps, and there was no elevator or ramp to the patio (there was a small step up). Patrons with mobility concerns should call ahead or check in with staff; any available accommodations (like a folding ramp) were not guaranteed. The venue did not advertise a separate ADA seating area on the floor. Wheelchair users were technically permitted but with some limitations – for example, the bathroom stalls were known to be narrow, and the outdoor area was uneven. It’s best to confirm accessibility needs with the event organizer in advance.
Finally, it helps to know the neighborhood terminology: locals call this part of town the Red River District, and it’s a hub of original-music venues. “Barry’s” fans sometimes lined up at the box-office street warning even though Barracuda didn’t have a numbered seating chart – just trust the posted times. Because crowds spill onto the street, ride-share pickup/drop-off works best on East 7th (right by the entrance) or a block north on Red River. If you’re going late, note that most downtown buses stop running around midnight, so plan a car ride out if needed. By and large, the best visitor tip is: be an early bird, pack light, and get ready to mingle with friendly locals. The community around Barracuda was known for warmth and mutual respect, so saying “hi” at the bar or patio bench often led to great conversations or sharing show recs.
What was the address of Barracuda?
Barracuda was located at 611 East 7th Street in Austin, Texas (Zip 78701), on the north side of E 7th just west of Red River Street. This places it in the Red River Cultural District of downtown Austin.
What was Barracuda’s capacity?
Barracuda held roughly 600 people at full capacity (combined indoor and outdoor areas). It was general admission only, so it could cram in about four times the number of people than the smaller Hotel Vegas club.
What types of performances did Barracuda host?
Barracuda was primarily a live music venue. It hosted dozens of rock, punk, indie, metal, hardcore and alt shows each year. Many local Austin bands played Barracuda, and it was also a stop on national indie tours. Occasionally it also hosted comedy nights or special events tied to festivals like SXSW, Levitation or Austin’s Free Week.
How much did tickets usually cost at Barracuda?
Ticket prices at Barracuda varied by show, but a typical mid-range concert ran roughly $15–$25. Smaller local band nights might cost closer to $10, while big touring acts or festival shows could be $25 or more. There was usually a single general-admission price, with maybe a small extra for age (e.g. slightly higher for those over 21).
Where could I buy tickets for Barracuda concerts?
Barracuda did not have a dedicated box office window on weekdays. Generally, fans bought tickets online in advance (through the venue’s website or a promoter’s site). A few tickets were usually held at the door for each show, but the safe strategy was to purchase through the official online link. On show nights, door sales opened about 30–60 minutes before the performance if tickets remained. (Since Barracuda closed in 2020, those booking channels are no longer active, but the principle is the same at any current venue you visit.)
Did Barracuda have assigned seats or general admission?
All shows at Barracuda were general admission only. There were no reserved or numbered seats. Everyone stood on the main floor (or sat at outdoor picnic tables on the patio). The best “seats” were simply wherever you could stand near the stage.
Where are the best spots to stand or sit in Barracuda?
For the best view and sound, most fans tried to stand near the center of the indoor floor, close to the stage. If that area filled up, the covered patio in back offered benches and a different vantage (also good for catching fresh air). There was no poor seat really – anywhere on the floor had a reasonable sightline, but center front was ideal for energy and volume. The side near the bar offered a little elevated view, and the patio was nice for a break between sets.
Are there parking options near Barracuda, and what do they cost?
Parking on East 7th is limited. Metered street parking is available (typically 2-hour meters during daytime hours). Nearby paid lots include the Miller on 7th lot (1000 E 7th, unreserved, about $10 for an event) and Assembly Hall Alley (1121 E 7th, about $10–$15). The St. David’s Church garage at 710 Trinity St is another paid option. Rates change, but budget around $10–$20 for evening event parking. Because spots can fill up, many attendees preferred ride-shares; drop-offs on 7th St near Red River were common.
What public transportation serves the Barracuda/Red River area?
The Red River strip is well-served by CapMetro buses. For example, Route 4 (East 8th/Trinity) stops at 7th & Red River, and Route 10 (UT Shuttle/7th St) runs along 7th with a stop at Red River. Routes 7 and 801 also run nearby on 6th/8th. The nearest MetroRail station is Downtown Station (3–4 blocks west on 4th & Trinity). If driving isn’t ideal, a bus or rideshare drop-off on 7th St by Red River is an easy way to get here.
What is the age policy at Barracuda? (All ages or 21+?)
Most evening shows at Barracuda were for 21+ only, due to the bar license. Some special shows (often Sunday matinees or charity events) were designated all-ages, but these were clearly advertised. If an all-ages event was on, kids were allowed with a ticket, and anyone buying alcohol still needed valid ID. It was safest to assume 21+ unless the event specifically said “all ages.”
Is there a dress code at Barracuda?
Barracuda had a very casual atmosphere (think most rock clubs). There was no formal dress code or uniform. Concert-goers typically wore jeans, t-shirts, hoodies, etc. The only notes were to wear comfortable shoes (standing for hours) and dress for the weather: the building could get warm during full-capacity gigs. Costumes or fancy dress weren’t required or banned, but most people kept it simple.
What items (bags, cameras, outside food/drink) are allowed at Barracuda?
Large backpacks or coolers were not allowed inside; if you carried one, you’d likely be asked to check it outside. Small purses or fanny packs were usually fine. Outside food and drink were prohibited (Texas law enforced no outside alcohol). You were required to buy any beverages inside. As for cameras: cell phones and small point-and-shoot cameras were permitted, but professional cameras with detachable lenses or video cameras were generally not allowed. Flash photography was discouraged once the music started. Security at the door did a quick check, so keep belongings minimal.
Does Barracuda have a coat check or cloakroom?
Barracuda did not have an official coat check service. On cold nights, some staff might offer to help hang up a few jackets behind the bar, but it was not guaranteed. Patrons often kept their coats with friends or on the outdoor benches when using the patio. In general, plan to keep your outerwear under your control or carry a small bag in the crowd rather than expecting a checkroom.
Is Barracuda wheelchair accessible?
Barracuda had a mostly level main-floor layout, but it did have a few small steps at the entrance and to reach the outdoor patio. There was no elevator (everything was on the ground level aside from that step). The single restrooms were not ADA-case compliant stalls. In practice, mobility-impaired patrons could enter and stand on the main floor, but accessibility was limited. Visitors with special needs should call ahead or email the event promoter to verify any accommodations (like a temporary ramp or seating spot). For most wheelchair users, it was challenging, especially since the space could get very crowded.
What restaurants or bars are near Barracuda for pre-show dining or drinks?
Just steps from Barracuda was a “Food Truck Court” with several popular trucks: Ditty Dog (gourmet hot dogs), Rodgers Boyz Barbecue, Shawarma Point (gyros and Middle Eastern wraps), and Simply WOW (grilled cheese & comfort food), all of which stay open until late. For sit-down dining, Stubbs Bar-B-Q (on East 6th St) is a short walk west. Cheer Up Charlie’s (900 Red River) is a nearby bar/restaurant offering tacos and drinks. The ABGB brewery (5th & Chicon) with pizza and beer is about a 10-minute walk. Downtown on 6th Street you’ll find many more bars and diners (like Easy Tiger or Casa de Luz). In short, there are plenty of casual Tex-Mex, BBQ and bar options near Barracuda, so plan your pre- or post-show meals in that local food scene.
Are there hotels close to Barracuda?
While no hotels sit on the same block, several are within walking distance. Downtown hotels like Hampton Inn on 4th Street, JW Marriott on Congress Avenue, and the historic Driskill (on 6th St) are a 10–15 minute walk or a quick ride away. The East Austin Hotel (5th & Neches) is about 8 blocks east. Many downtown or East Austin Airbnb rentals are also nearby. In general, any downtown lodging near Congress Avenue, 6th, or 7th St will put you a few blocks from Red River. After shows, you can either walk back (often via Congress) or catch a rideshare on 7th Street.
Why did Barracuda close permanently, and what happened to its location?
Barracuda closed in June 2020. The owners announced that with no gigs during the COVID shutdown, they couldn’t afford the high downtown rent and were forced to shut down (www.austinchronicle.com ). All future shows were canceled or moved elsewhere. The building sat vacant until 2023, when it reopened as a different venue. Today, 611 E. 7th St houses The Creek and The Cave, a dinner-show and comedy club that has no official connection to the old Barracuda. In short, “Barracuda Austin” no longer exists as a live music club – those plans ended in 2020, and the space has since been repurposed.
