WAREHOUSE DISTRICT. One of Austin's premiere venues for national touring acts was completely demolished in May, 2007, and reopened in November, 2007, completely expanded and reborn. What was once a 2,500-seat venue now holds up to 4400 attendees. Full bars, a terrace, and space for more events and exclusive seating have been incorporated into the better-than-ever hall. Past performers have included the likes of Bruce Springsteen, Sarah McLachlan, and the Neville Brothers. AMH has also hosted the Austin Music Awards and events during the South by Southwest Music Festival.

BARTON SPRINGS DISTRICT. The former Palmer Center is undergoing a massive transformation into a state-of-the-art performing arts facility, scheduled to reopen in the spring of 2008 as the Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts. The community arts center will include several performance venues and will be home to the Austin Symphony, Ballet Austin, Austin Lyric Opera, and a host of smaller arts organizations.

CONGRESS AVENUE. The historic State and Paramount Theaters merged in 2000, forming the Austin Theatre Alliance. The Paramount shows films in addition to staging plays and concerts, while the State features drama, dance, comedy, and music productions. Both venues have interesting histories and beautiful period details that can be best appreciated by attending a performance.

WEST AUSTIN. Since its inception in 1993, this open-air venue has been a favorite with Austinites. The beautiful setting, complete with live oaks, hosts seated events as well as more casual affairs where you can bring your blanket and curl up under the glorious Texas sky. Superstars like Lyle Lovett, Bonnie Raitt, and The Gypsy Kings have graced the stage. Since the venue holds only 2400 people, tickets sell out fast ­ unless you've got top-secret connections, make plans far in advance.

UPTOWN / ARTS DISTRICT. This enterprise is more than just an art gallery; Women & Their Work Arts is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting female artists in visual art, dance, music, theater, literature, and film. Paintings, photography, sculpture, and fine crafts are exhibited. The place also hosts dance, music, and theater performances and features a gift shop.