Staff Pick's: Denton, TX
Music Roadtrip
Certified: 🌟 Certified
Description: Denton feels like a town built on riffs and daydreams. With two universities fueling its creativity and a downtown square that comes alive as the sun drops, this little North Texas city has grown into one of the state’s most vibrant, open-hearted music hubs. This route follows the pulse of Denton—quirky, DIY, and always ready for another set. Start at Discover Denton, the friendly tourism center on the Square where locals can tip you off to tonight’s shows, hidden hangouts, and the best spots to catch Denton’s signature mix of jazz, indie, and roots. Just across the way, dive into Recycled Books Records CDs, a beloved purple landmark whose creaking floors, endless stacks, and deep vinyl bins make it a pilgrimage site for collectors and curious wanderers alike. As the night warms up, wander to Andy’s Bar, a two-story downtown classic where the drinks are cold, the stage is cozy, and the lineup ranges from punk to soul to late-night DJ sets. From there, walk a few blocks to Dan’s Silverleaf, a local institution known for its stellar sound, friendly crowd, and the kind of intimate shows that remind you why small venues matter. Wrap up at Harvest House, an open-air hangout lined with craft beer taps, fire pits, food trucks, and one of the best outdoor stages in North Texas. On a good night—and Denton has a lot of good nights—the whole place feels like a backyard party hosted by the entire town.