How to Enjoy Live Country at The Broken Spoke Two-Step

The Broken Spoke in Austin, Texas, is more than just a dance hall—it’s a living monument to authentic Texas country music, two-step culture, and the enduring spirit of live country entertainment. Since opening its doors in 1964, this unassuming venue on South Lamar Boulevard has become a pilgrimage site for music lovers, dancers, and historians alike. Unlike polished, commercialized country shows found in mainstream venues, The Broken Spoke offers raw, unfiltered live country music performed by veteran musicians who’ve spent decades honing their craft on dusty dance floors. To enjoy live country at The Broken Spoke Two-Step is to step back in time, to feel the rhythm of steel guitars and fiddles echoing through wooden floors worn smooth by generations of dancers. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to fully immerse yourself in this iconic experience—from what to expect before you arrive, to how to dance, where to sit, and how to connect with the culture that makes this place legendary.

Step-by-Step Guide

Plan Your Visit in Advance

While The Broken Spoke doesn’t require tickets for most nights, planning ahead is essential to ensure you get the most out of your experience. The venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and popular nights—especially Friday and Saturday—can draw crowds well before doors open. Check the official website or call ahead to confirm the weekly schedule. Live music typically begins around 8:00 PM, but the dance floor often fills by 7:00 PM. Arriving between 6:30 and 7:00 PM gives you the best chance to secure a good spot near the dance floor and avoid the longest lines.

Also, verify if there’s a special guest or anniversary show happening. The Broken Spoke frequently hosts legendary artists like Freddy Fender, Willie Nelson (who has performed here in the past), and regional favorites such as the Lost Gonzo Band. These events may have limited seating or higher attendance, so arriving early is even more critical.

Understand the Venue Layout

The Broken Spoke is a single-room venue with a classic country dance hall design. The center is dominated by a large, polished wooden dance floor surrounded by wooden booths, bar seating, and picnic-style tables. The stage is at one end, flanked by a full band setup with fiddles, steel guitars, drums, and upright basses. The bar runs along the back wall, offering a selection of Texas-brewed beers, whiskey, and simple mixed drinks. There’s no stage lighting beyond what’s needed for performance—no pyrotechnics, no LED screens, no smoke machines. The ambiance is intentionally rustic.

For optimal enjoyment, position yourself near the dance floor but not directly in front of the stage. This allows you to see the musicians clearly while also observing the dancers. Many regulars sit in the booths along the side walls, where they can watch both the music and the dancing without being in the way. Avoid standing directly in front of the band unless you’re there to dance—this obstructs the view for others and disrupts the intimate flow of the space.

Learn the Two-Step Before You Go

Two-step is the heartbeat of The Broken Spoke. Unlike line dancing or modern country club routines, Texas two-step is a smooth, gliding partner dance with a basic 1-2, 3-4 count. It’s danced to 4/4 time country music and involves a forward-backward motion with a side step. While you don’t need to be an expert, knowing the basics will allow you to participate, not just observe.

Before your visit, watch short YouTube tutorials on “Texas two-step basics.” Focus on learning the lead-follow rhythm: the leader steps forward with the left foot on count 1, right foot on count 2, then side step left on 3 and closes right on 4. The follower mirrors this pattern backward. Practice this slowly with a friend or in front of a mirror. Even if you’re not dancing with a partner, learning the rhythm helps you feel the music more deeply and understand why the crowd moves the way they do.

Respect the Dance Floor Etiquette

The dance floor at The Broken Spoke is sacred ground. It’s not a place for showboating, selfies, or overly complicated moves. Dancers glide in a counterclockwise circle, maintaining a steady flow. If you’re new, watch for a few minutes before joining. Look for open spaces between couples and wait for a natural opening. When you enter, keep your steps small and controlled. Avoid sudden stops or wide turns—this disrupts the rhythm and can cause collisions.

If you’re dancing with someone, make eye contact and smile. A simple nod or “Mind if I join?” is enough to invite someone to dance. If you’re not dancing, don’t stand in the middle of the floor. Move to the sides or step back. The community here is welcoming, but it values respect for tradition and space.

Engage with the Musicians and Staff

One of the most unique aspects of The Broken Spoke is the accessibility of the performers. After a set, many musicians will walk over to the bar, chat with patrons, or even take requests. Don’t be afraid to compliment them—many have played here for 30+ years and rarely hear genuine appreciation outside the venue. A simple “That fiddle solo was beautiful” can mean the world to them.

Staff members, many of whom have worked here for decades, are a goldmine of stories. Ask the bartender about the history of the venue, the famous visitors, or the original owner, Anile “Babe” and Mary Spoke. They’ll often share anecdotes you won’t find online—like how Willie Nelson once played a set for free after a long drive from Nashville, or how the floor was refinished using wood salvaged from an old Texas ranch house.

Order Like a Local

The bar menu is intentionally simple: domestic and local beers, whiskey, tequila, and soft drinks. No cocktails with fancy names or artisanal syrups. The most popular order is a cold Lone Star or Shiner Bock served in a plastic cup. If you’re feeling bold, try a shot of Texas whiskey with a beer back—a traditional country pairing. Avoid ordering large drinks or multiple cocktails; the focus here is on the music and the dance, not the alcohol.

Snacks are minimal—peanuts in the shell, maybe some pretzels. Don’t expect food trucks or full menus. The lack of overpriced concessions is part of the charm. Bring cash. While some credit card readers may be available, many transactions are still handled in cash, and the atmosphere is more authentic when you pay the old-fashioned way.

Stay for the Whole Night

Most nights feature two sets: the first from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM, and a second from 10:30 PM to midnight. The energy often builds after the first break. The crowd thins slightly, but those who stay are the true believers. The second set usually features more upbeat numbers, and the dancing becomes more spirited. Many regulars say the magic happens after 11:00 PM, when the band is loose, the crowd is warmed up, and the music feels like it’s flowing from the floor itself.

Don’t rush out. Stick around for the final song. It’s common for the band to play “Take Me Back to Tulsa” or “Waltz Across Texas” as the last number. The entire room often joins in, clapping and singing along. This is the moment that defines The Broken Spoke—not the music alone, but the collective experience of hundreds of people, young and old, united by rhythm and tradition.

Best Practices

Dress for Comfort, Not for Show

There’s no dress code at The Broken Spoke, but dressing appropriately enhances your experience. Avoid high heels, tight jeans, or overly formal attire. Most regulars wear cowboy boots, jeans, flannel shirts, or simple boots with a clean pair of slacks. Boots are ideal—they grip the wooden floor better and allow for smoother movement. If you don’t own boots, wear flat-soled shoes with minimal tread. Sneakers with rubber soles can be slippery.

Women often wear sundresses or skirts with leggings, while men opt for button-downs or simple T-shirts. The goal is to be comfortable enough to dance for hours without restriction. Remember: this isn’t a nightclub. You’re not here to be seen—you’re here to feel.

Arrive Early, Stay Late

Arriving early isn’t just about securing a seat—it’s about absorbing the atmosphere. The lights dim slowly as the sun sets outside. The scent of aged wood, spilled beer, and faint cologne fills the air. You’ll hear the band tuning up, the clink of bottles, the low murmur of conversation. This pre-show ritual is part of the experience. Stay late to witness the quiet end of the night: the last dancers leaving, the band packing up, the owner sweeping the floor alone. These moments are rarely photographed but deeply cherished by those who’ve been there.

Learn the Music

Understanding the songs being played deepens your connection to the experience. The Broken Spoke plays a mix of classic Texas country, Western swing, and honky-tonk standards. Artists like Ernest Tubb, George Jones, Lefty Frizzell, Ray Price, and Hank Williams Sr. are staples. Modern acts like Randy Rogers, Wade Bowen, and Cory Morrow are also common.

Before your visit, create a playlist of 20–30 classic Texas country songs. Listen to them on repeat. Learn the lyrics, the tempo, the emotional tone. When you hear “He Stopped Loving Her Today” live, you’ll feel it differently if you’ve sung it in your car a dozen times. This isn’t about showing off your knowledge—it’s about letting the music move you on a deeper level.

Observe the Generations

One of the most beautiful aspects of The Broken Spoke is the intergenerational mix. You’ll see teenagers learning two-step from their grandparents. You’ll see Vietnam veterans dancing with their wives, 60-year-olds who’ve been coming since the 1970s, and young urbanites from East Austin who discovered the place on Instagram. Watch how the older dancers move with precision and grace, while the younger ones experiment with flair. Notice how everyone respects the rhythm, regardless of skill level.

This is a living archive of American culture. The music, the dance, the clothing, the language—it’s all preserved here, not in a museum, but in real time. Your role isn’t to judge or compare. It’s to witness and honor it.

Bring Cash and a Small Bag

ATMs are not available on-site. Bring enough cash for drinks, tips, and maybe a T-shirt from the small merch table near the exit. Most items cost $10–$20. A small crossbody bag or waist pack is ideal. Avoid large purses or backpacks—they’re impractical on the dance floor and can get in the way.

Turn Off Your Phone

While it’s tempting to record the music or take photos, resist the urge. The Broken Spoke is not a concert hall—it’s a community space. Recording disrupts the intimacy. Many patrons have never been recorded before and feel uncomfortable. If you must document your visit, take one or two quiet photos from the sidelines, and never use flash. Better yet, put your phone away and let the moment sink in. You’ll remember it more vividly without the screen between you and the music.

Tip the Band and Staff

Unlike commercial venues, The Broken Spoke doesn’t charge cover fees on most nights. Musicians are paid through tips and door donations. Place cash in the tip jar near the stage or hand it directly to a band member after a set. Even $5 per person adds up and makes a real difference. Bartenders and staff work long hours in a physically demanding environment. A $2–$5 tip per drink is customary and appreciated.

Tools and Resources

Official Website and Social Media

The Broken Spoke maintains a simple but informative website: thebrokenspoke.com. Here you’ll find the weekly schedule, upcoming events, and occasional photo galleries. Their Facebook page is updated daily with live updates, set times, and announcements. Follow them to get real-time information on special guests, weather-related closures, or surprise performances.

YouTube Channels for Music Preparation

To get in the right headspace, explore these channels:

• Texas Country Music TV – Live performances from Texas honky-tonks, including The Broken Spoke.
• Willie Nelson Archive – Rare footage of Willie playing at small venues like this.
• Two-Step Dance Academy – Beginner tutorials with clear breakdowns of steps and timing.

Books for Cultural Context

Deepen your understanding with these essential reads:

• “Texas Country Music: A History” by Michael L. Cooper – Chronicles the evolution of Texas country from the 1920s to today.
• “The Dance Hall Days: A Texas Two-Step Memoir” by Mary Jo Pfeiffer – A personal account of growing up in a dance hall family.
• “Austin Music: The Roots of the City” by Bill Bentley – Explores how venues like The Broken Spoke shaped Austin’s identity.

Local Music Stores and Lessons

If you’re in Austin, visit Country Music Capital on South Congress for boots, hats, and fiddle lessons. They offer beginner two-step classes on Tuesday nights for $15. These are not performance-oriented—they’re about learning the culture, not the choreography. Many instructors are former Broken Spoke dancers.

Podcasts to Listen To

Before your trip, listen to these episodes:

• “The Texas Music Scene” – Episode 47: “The Last Honky-Tonk” – A deep dive into The Broken Spoke’s survival against commercialization.
• “American Routes” – “Country Music’s Soul” – Features interviews with musicians who played at The Broken Spoke.

Maps and Navigation

The venue is located at 1207 S Lamar Blvd, Austin, TX 78704. Use Google Maps for driving directions, but be aware that parking is limited. Street parking is available but fills up quickly. Consider rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. The venue is easily accessible from downtown Austin, and the drive along Lamar Boulevard at night is part of the journey—flashing neon signs, vintage motels, and the distant hum of the city fading into the twang of a steel guitar.

Real Examples

Example 1: The First-Time Visitor

Jessica, a 28-year-old graphic designer from Chicago, visited The Broken Spoke on a whim during a solo trip to Austin. She’d never danced two-step before. She arrived at 6:45 PM, bought a Lone Star, and sat in a booth near the back. She watched as a group of elderly couples glided across the floor with effortless grace. After the first set, a man in a faded cowboy hat approached her and asked, “You gonna dance?” She said no. He smiled and said, “That’s okay. Just watch. You’ll learn by osmosis.”

She stayed for both sets. She didn’t dance until the final song, when the band played “The Yellow Rose of Texas.” A woman in her 70s pulled her gently onto the floor. “You’ve got rhythm,” she said. Jessica didn’t know the steps, but she matched the tempo. They danced for three songs. When it ended, the woman hugged her and whispered, “Welcome home.” Jessica returned the next week.

Example 2: The Musician’s Return

Carlos, a 65-year-old former fiddler who played at The Broken Spoke in the 1980s, hadn’t returned in 20 years. He moved to Colorado, raised a family, and retired. One night, he drove back to Austin just to see the place. He arrived at 7:30 PM. The band was playing “Crazy Arms.” He stood in the back, tears in his eyes. After the set, he walked up to the lead fiddler and said, “You play like my old friend, Bobby Ray.” The fiddler looked up, stunned. “You’re Carlos from ’83?”

They spent the next hour talking. The band invited him to play a song. He picked up a fiddle they kept in the corner—still in tune after all these years. He played “San Antonio Rose” as the room fell silent. No one clapped until the last note. Then, the entire hall rose to their feet. He didn’t perform again. He just sat down, smiled, and said, “I’m glad I came back.”

Example 3: The Couple Who Found Love

Mark and Lisa met at The Broken Spoke in 2019. He was there for his bachelor party. She was there with her sister. He asked her to dance. She said no. He asked again. She said yes. They danced all night. He didn’t know how to two-step. She didn’t know his name. But they moved together like they’d danced for years. They exchanged numbers. They came back the next week. They got married two years later. Their wedding playlist? Every song played at The Broken Spoke that night.

Example 4: The Tourist Who Didn’t Get It

A group of international tourists arrived in cowboy hats and boots, thinking it was a themed bar. They took selfies on the dance floor, danced with their phones out, and loudly complained when the bartender didn’t serve cocktails. They left after 45 minutes, saying, “It’s just a dusty old place.” The owner, James Spoke (son of the founder), watched them go and said quietly to the bartender, “Some people come to see a museum. Others come to live in one.”

FAQs

Do I need to pay to get into The Broken Spoke?

No, there is no cover charge on most nights. Donations are accepted at the door and go directly to the band. Some special events or holiday shows may have a small fee, but these are clearly advertised in advance.

Is The Broken Spoke open every night?

Most nights are open, but not all. The venue is typically closed on Mondays and Tuesdays. Wednesday and Thursday nights feature live music, but the crowd is smaller. Friday and Saturday are the busiest. Always check the official website or call ahead to confirm.

Can I bring my own alcohol?

No. The Broken Spoke is a licensed establishment, and outside alcohol is not permitted. This is for safety, legal compliance, and to preserve the integrity of the venue’s traditions.

Is there seating available?

Yes, but seating is limited. There are wooden booths along the walls, picnic tables, and bar stools. Seating is first-come, first-served. If you want to sit, arrive early.

Can I dance alone?

You can. Many people do. But the spirit of The Broken Spoke is communal. Dancing with others—even strangers—is part of the experience. You’ll be welcomed.

Are children allowed?

Yes. Families often bring children. The atmosphere is family-friendly, but keep in mind it’s a bar environment. Young children should be supervised, and loud behavior is discouraged.

Is there a dress code?

No official dress code exists, but dressing appropriately shows respect. Cowboy boots, jeans, and clean, comfortable clothing are the norm. Avoid flip-flops, athletic wear, or overly flashy outfits.

Can I take photos or videos?

You may take quiet, non-flash photos from the sidelines. Do not record the entire performance. Avoid using your phone while dancing. The experience is meant to be lived, not documented.

How long do the shows last?

Typically, two sets: 8:00 PM–10:00 PM and 10:30 PM–12:00 AM. The music may extend slightly depending on the crowd and band.

Is The Broken Spoke wheelchair accessible?

Yes. The venue has a ramp at the entrance and accessible restrooms. The dance floor is level and wide enough for mobility devices. Staff are happy to assist if needed.

Conclusion

To enjoy live country at The Broken Spoke Two-Step is not to attend a concert. It is to participate in a tradition that has survived the rise of pop-country, the decline of honky-tonks, and the relentless march of modernity. This is a place where music isn’t performed for an audience—it’s shared with a community. Where the rhythm of the dance floor is the heartbeat of the room. Where a simple two-step, danced in silence with a stranger, can become a moment of profound human connection.

You don’t need to know how to dance. You don’t need to own a cowboy hat. You don’t even need to love country music. All you need is an open heart and a willingness to be present. To sit quietly. To listen. To move when the music calls. To let the wooden floor, the steel guitar, and the voices of generations carry you.

The Broken Spoke isn’t preserved in amber. It breathes. It changes. But its soul remains untouched. And if you go with the right intention, you’ll leave not just with memories—but with a deeper understanding of what American music, and American community, truly sound like.

Go. Listen. Dance. Remember.