The video above takes you on a walking tour of the Drag in Austin, Texas — the strip along Guadalupe Street that runs right next to the University of Texas campus. Filmed between the end of spring semester and the start of summer, the area is quieter than usual, which makes it easier to actually take in the mix of old-school local spots, food trucks, murals, and newer chain stores that line the street. The walk also passes by the famous "Hi, How Are You" mural painted by Daniel Johnston, which has been preserved even though the building it was on has been demolished.
What Live Music Venues Are Near the Drag in Austin?
The Drag and the surrounding UT campus area have some genuinely important music venues with deep histories. If you're looking for places where real careers were built, this is a good place to start.
- Hole in the Wall — A staple on Guadalupe Street since 1974, with a recognizable sign right on the strip. Doug Sahm was a regular, and artists like Shakey Graves, Bob Schneider, and Gary Clark Jr. all cut their teeth here. The list of legendary stories tied to this room is long.
- Cactus Cafe — Located inside the Student Union on the UT campus, this is a small, intimate listening room that has meant a lot to generations of songwriters, performers, and audiences. It's the kind of place where friendships and songs get started.
- Industry — Over on East 6th Street, this is where David Bridwell was headed to play a gig after his walk along the Drag. It's a fun, casual spot to play and hang out, with a nice outdoor setup on breezy Austin days.
Food and Landmarks Worth Stopping For
Beyond the music, the Drag has solid food options and a few landmarks that are worth your time. Torchy's Tacos and a cluster of food trucks are easy to find along the strip. Kirby Lane is a popular spot with locals and students alike. But the real standout is Dirty Martin's Place, open since 1926. It's known for burgers and milkshakes, and the name "Dirty's" comes from the fact that the floor used to be actual dirt. The staff has always been a big part of what makes the place feel special — outgoing, a little eccentric, and genuinely welcoming. When this spot first opened, the area was considered far north of Austin, so it's a real piece of the city's history still standing.
Exploring Austin Beyond the Usual Spots
The Drag is one of those Austin, Texas neighborhoods that doesn't always make the tourist shortlist, but it connects a lot of what makes the city interesting — campus culture, local food history, street art, and music rooms that helped shape careers. David Bridwell covers spots like this across Texas, from big cities to small towns, and this walk is a good example of how much you can find just by slowing down on a single strip of sidewalk.