antone's nightclub
The 6th & present location of Antone’s is like a local crown jewel of accessibility. The venue is set up on one level so people with disabilities can easily move around during big shows & small shows alike. I have only experienced big shows at Antone’s, all I have to worry about is getting through the crowd of people to go up front to be able to see everything going on the stage. We have figured out how to get thru the crowd like Moses parting the Red Sea. The acoustics in the venue are great from any spot in the club.
Recently, I discovered that the venue also has one of the best bathroom experiences, with a private bathroom for the disabled community. There’s plenty of room for the wheelchair, there are bars (where they need to be) to transfer to the toilet and I can easily get under the sink & look into the mirror. I prefer the private bathrooms because it is better for me, without worrying about other people coming in and out.
To go backstage there is an elevator that will take you up to the second level where they have private parties. And getting to the backstage rooms is super easy. I first went to Antone’s, forth location back in ‘99, on 5th & Lavaca. I met Clifford Antone through a local musician friend of mine and we became friends. I couldn’t get backstage at that location because it was on the second floor and they didn’t have an elevator. It was important to go backstage with the Austin Daze, because that is where the interviews would take place. However, at the current location, their bar is very accessible for drinks & Cliffy Dogs, 1st floor, and 2nd floor.
We typically take the Cap Metro Access or Uber WAV (Wheelchair Accessible Vehicle) but Antone’s offers, Valet Parking, available nightly, next door to Antone’s at Eddie V’s restaurant for $12. We have not tried out this service yet. There is also self-parking, There are many nearby street parking options as well as several large public parking garages in the vicinity with handicapped parking spots.
Their staff is very friendly and accommodating. Antone’s hosted Night 1 of the STAND WITH RUSS BENEFIT to help me to raise money for my Permobile stand up power chair. We had a great turn out & I was able to fund my chair. Talented musicians showed up to support me: Marcus King, Carolyn Wonderland, Brownout, Money Chica, Guy Forsyth Band, Willie Pipkin & Friends and more special guests. The folks at the door and the security guards ask if they can help make your experience better. It’s really a great place & one of my favorite Austin venues.
Check out the venue for yourself!
Antone's Nightclub
305 E 5th St.
Austin, TX 78701
512) 814-0361
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