Top Texas Venues for Country Dancing: Honky-Tonks and Dance Halls

Texas is the epicenter of country dancing. Here are five iconic spots where the two-step never stops:

1. Billy Bob's Texas — Fort Worth

World's largest honky-tonk (127,000 sq ft). Live music nightly, massive dance floor, bull riding, indoor rodeo arena. Open since 1981. Legends (Haggard, Nelson, Strait) and rising stars play here.

2. The Broken Spoke — Austin

Opened 1964. "Last of the true Texas dance halls." Chicken-fried steak, cold beer, and authentic bands (Asleep at the Wheel, Dale Watson). James White still runs it. No frills, all soul.

3. Gruene Hall — New Braunfels

Oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas (1878). Historic building, outdoor garden, intimate shows (often surprise big names). Heart of the Hill Country.

4. Stubb's BBQ — Austin

Legendary BBQ joint + concert venue. Indoor/outdoor stages. Gospel brunch Sundays. Dancing encouraged. Lubbock-born Stubb Stubblefield's legacy.

5. The White Horse — Austin

East Austin honky-tonk, open 7 nights. Live bands, two-stepping, swing, honky-tonk. No cover most nights. Diverse, welcoming crowd.

Honorable Mentions

• Luckenbach Dance Hall (Fredericksburg) — Willie's outlaw country shrine.
• Floore's Country Store (Helotes) — Since 1942, near San Antonio.
• Armadillo Palace (Houston) — Modern honky-tonk with great food.

Wear boots, bring a partner (or make one there), and hit the floor.