Parish

Located in an inconspicuous upstairs room just above Bat Bar and the Voodoo Doughnut storefront, the Parish is widely regarded as the city’s best venue for sound. While technically found amid the hustle and bustle of “Dirty” 6th Street, the 450-capacity top-floor feels like an intimate safe-haven (especially during the insanity of SXSW) with its cozy, wood-floor interior and tiny, just-below-waist-high stage that features all types of musicians. The only downside comes during sold-out shows—since it’s all general admission, you’ve gotta arrive early to snag the best sightlines.