Top 5 Rainey Street Must Stops

Written by: Enjoli Henderson

 

As Austin moves deeper into spring, there’s a noticeable shift in the city’s energy. Longer days, warmer weather, and a renewed sense of momentum. Nowhere is this more evident than on Rainey Street, one of downtown’s most dynamic and ever-evolving neighborhoods.

Known for its unique mix of historic charm and modern development, Rainey Street continues to grow as a hub for dining, nightlife, and elevated experiences in the heart of the city. This month’s Urbanspace Top 5 highlights fresh openings, elevated dining, and a bit of outdoor magic, because if there’s ever a time to enjoy Austin, it’s now.

 

The Modern Bar

                           

A new addition to the Urbanspace portfolio, Modern Bar is currently in its soft opening phase, with its grand opening set for later this month. Rooted in ritual and elevated by innovation, the space is designed to redefine the modern hospitality experience.

With a focus on intentional design, elevated service, and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, Modern Bar brings a refined yet approachable energy to Austin’s nightlife.

As it continues to evolve through its soft opening, Modern Bar is already setting the tone for what’s to come: a new standard for elevated, experiential hospitality.

 

Music on The Trail

                           

Photo Credit: The Trail Conservancy

A true Austin staple, Music on the Trail brings the city’s creative energy outdoors with a free, weekly live music series along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail. Hosted at the Rainey Street Trailhead Lawn, the event runs on Wednesday evenings from 6:00–7:30 PM and offers a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere right by the water.

 

Emmer & Rye

 

Photo Credit: Nicolai McCrary/EATX

Located right on Rainey, Emmer & Rye stands out as one of Austin’s most acclaimed dining experiences. Known for its seasonal menu and innovative approach to food, it has earned recognition in the Michelin Guide, including a Green Star for sustainability and a Bib Gourmand designation. It’s the perfect place to go when you want something thoughtful, refined, and truly special, without leaving the Rainey area.

 

Kinsho

 

A standout addition to Rainey Street, Kinsho is the first dedicated sushi restaurant in the area and it brings a high-end, refined dining experience to a street known more for nightlife. The space leans into a sleek, modern aesthetic while offering a menu that feels both thoughtful and elevated.

This isn’t your typical Rainey stop, it’s a place to slow down, enjoy high-quality sushi, and experience something more intentional in the middle of a lively district. Kinsho adds a new layer to Rainey’s identity, blending upscale dining with the energy of one of Austin’s most popular destinations.

 

Clive Bar

 

Photo Credit: Clive Bar

 

Just steps away from the heart of Rainey, Clive Bar offers a slightly more lowkey but equally stylish experience. With craft cocktails and a cozy yet vibrant atmosphere, it’s ideal for an easy night out that still feels elevated. It’s the kind of place where you can settle in, catch up with friends, and enjoy the energy without the overwhelming crowds.

Conclusion

This April, Austin is all about balance, new spaces, elevated experiences, and a return to the outdoors. Whether you’re sipping something new, discovering a hidden gem, or spending time under the sun, this city has a way of making every moment feel like the one you’re supposed to be in.

Sips and Sights with the Long Center Collective at The Modern Austin Residences

Written by: Enjoli Henderson

 

On February 18th, The Long Center Collective hosted an unforgettable evening inside the penthouse at The Modern, bringing together community members for a night of live music, connection, and elevated Austin energy.

                          

Photo credit: Dusana Risovic

Set against the backdrop of sweeping city views, the event featured intimate performances by singer/songwriters Carrie Rodriguez and Luke Jacobs. Their storytelling created a warm, immersive atmosphere that perfectly matched the setting; sophisticated, yet inviting.

In addition to the evening’s live performances, guests enjoyed a curated cocktail experience by the soon-to-open Modern Bar. The thoughtfully crafted drinks added an elevated touch to the night, offering a preview of what’s to come when the bar officially opens later this month. Events like this highlight the power of bringing people together through the arts, especially in uniquely Austin spaces that feel both personal and inspiring.

 

  Photo Credit: Dusana Risovic

The Long Center Collective is an exclusive membership program for the Long Center for the Performing Arts. Members, known as Collectors, gain behind-the-scenes access to Austin’s vibrant arts scene, including artists, performances, and members-only events like this one. Designed for those who want to give back while deepening their connection to the arts, the Collective offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Learn more about becoming a member HERE.

Join today and experience the Spring Garden Party: Where Art Takes Root on May 7 at Barton Springs Nursery. This exclusive, collectors-only event brings together artists Amy Hovis and Emily Eisenhart to explore where artistic vision meets the natural world.

Your Ultimate Guide to March Events in Austin

Written by: Enjoli Henderson

 

Austin is heating up this March. Music, festivals, and a little bit of adrenaline await. With mild days, cool nights, and that perfect springtime breeze, it’s the ideal time to get out and explore the city. Ready to experience Austin like never before? March has something for everyone, if you know where to look.

 

SXSW 2026: Downtown is the Playground

                           

Photo Credit: SXSW

Big changes are coming to SXSW this year! With the Austin Convention Center offline for renovations, the festival is spreading out across downtown, turning the city itself into your SXSW playground. Organizers are setting up three themed “Clubhouses” as home bases for different parts of the festival. These Clubhouses will serve as spots to grab your bearings, meet other festival-goers, and recharge before diving back into the action.

And this year, it’s all happening in one jam-packed week: March 12–18. Every panel, film screening, music showcase, and tech demo will run concurrently throughout the week, giving downtown a nonstop, city-wide creative energy you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned SXSWer, this year is all about exploring, discovering, and experiencing Austin like never before.

 

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day

                           

Photo Credit: Jack and Ginger’s Irish Pub

Join the festive, free celebration on Rainey Street at Crazy Conchaz, featuring live music, green beer specials, and a lively holiday vibe from 2pm until 2 am on Tuesday, March 17th. 

For those who want to make the most of the holiday, the  Austin Official St. Patricks Day Bar Crawl starts at Coyote Ugly Saloon and includes several downtown bars. There are versions of the crawl on both March 14th and March 17th, so you can join the fun whenever it fits your schedule.

 

Rodeo Austin & Fair

 

Photo Credit: Rodeo Austin

Y’all, it’s Rodeo Austin season! From March 13-28, the city comes alive with a mix of classic Texas charm and big city excitement. Whether you are rolling in with the family, heading out with friends, or just want to soak in some Texas Culture, Rodeo Austin has something for everyone! 

Pro tip: Plan ahead for your favorite shows and rides as this is one of Austin’s most popular spring events, so tickets fill up fast!

 

Grand Prix of the Americas

 

Photo Credit: Gold & Goose

Start your engines, Austin because MotoGP is back at the Circuit of the Americas! From March 27-29, the world’s top motorcycle racers hit the track for a weekend of high octane action, adrenaline, and speed that you can feel from the stands.

Even if you’re not a hardcore racing fan, the festival-like atmosphere makes it a fun outing. Think food trucks, fan zones and live music. Book your tickets early, plan your parking or shuttle options, and get ready for a full throttle Austin experience you won’t forget.

 

Ways Austin is Supporting the Community

 

Photo Credit: Brandon Bell

 

In light of the tragic mass shooting on West Sixth Street, several local businesses and community initiatives are stepping up to support victims, families, and healing efforts in Austin. These efforts are part of how the city has rallied together following the incident that left multiple people injured and claimed several lives. 

• Juliet Italian Kitchen,Barton Springs location, will donate $1 from every item sold during brunch (11AM-3PM) Saturday March 14th and Sunday March 15th.  
• We Are Blood – a local blood bank has asked donors who are O positive and O negative to give blood to help victims who were injured during the shooting.

 

Conclusion

Austin’s March lineup is too good to sit out. The city is alive with energy, adventure, and community this month. March in Austin is more than events; it’s an invitation to get out, explore, and truly experience everything this city has to offer.