If you've been to Moody Center, you already know the arena is outstanding. And we aren't the only ones who think so: Moody Center was just awarded Venue of the Year by the Academy of Country Music. Now, you can get a VIP tour of the space and go behind the scenes to learn about their stunning design, brilliant artwork, and experience the venue like a rock star.
Now through mid-August, you can purchase a venue tour where you'll see all the murals on the main concourse, tour the back of house area, step inside their secret speakeasy, and more.
It all starts with a walking tour of the Tempo Art exhibition. The interactive, self guided tour allows visitors to stroll through the past, present, and future of music and creative arts in Austin. The artwork illustrates the rich legacy of Austin's culture that is constantly changing and morphing with the city itself.
Highlights of the exhibit include "The Ambassador of Weird" by Will Hatch Crosby. This human-like creature faces the venue's east side and greets guests with the phrase “Hola Friend.” Inspired by Daniel Johnston and his "Hi, How Are You" mural, the artist intends for his work to serve as a cultural bridge between the Spanish-speaking and English-speaking communities of Austin.
"The Ambassador of Weird" by Will Hatch Crosby.Photo by Dani Dudek, SpilltheATX.com
There's also a Willie Nelson-inspired piece called "Pretty Much Yeah," by Bradford “Bradlio1” Maxfield and Christin “Saeka” Keeley. Capturing one of the most iconic, seen, heard, and felt souls that Austin will ever know, the artists created a high-end design incorporating realism, right down to the 512 ring on the subject's left hand.
"Pretty Much Yeah" by Bradford “Bradlio1” Maxfield and Christin “Saeka” Keeley.Photo by Dani Dudek, SpilltheATX.com
"On the Range" celebrates the legacy of Texas legend Bevo. The artist DAAS created the larger-than-life mascot of the University of Texas at Austin, surrounding him with native Texas wildflowers, the UT Tower, and a yellow rose.
"On The Range" by DAASPhoto by Dani Dudek, SpilltheATX.com
Following a walk around the concourse, which includes over a dozen works of art, guests make their way downstairs to go behind the scenes. This is where you'll see the load-in area, catering space, and a secret speakeasy that's usually only accessible to artists and guests with special access.
The entrance to the speakeasy is located downstairs at Moody Center.Photo by Dani Dudek, SpilltheATX.com
The unremarkable door is simply labeled "storage." But, when the door is opened, you'll step into a swanky lounge complete with neon lights, artwork of Willie Nelson and Dolly Parton, and lockers filled with the alcohol choices of the highest level VIPS, like Matthew McConaughey.
Stepping inside the secret speakeasy at Moody Center.Photo by Dani Dudek, SpilltheATX.co
After an hour or so of wandering and learning about everything the arena has to offer, the adventure is capped off with a top notch culinary experience.
Tickets are available on select days only and are on sale now. Prices start at $25. Proceeds from every ticket sold will directly benefit Red River Rising, Moody Center’s community initiative that focuses on providing economic opportunity for local musicians and combating homelessness in Austin.
