When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Factory on 5th
Why Factory on 5th is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Factory on 5th is a unique creative space located in a distinctive pink Quonset hut warehouse built in 1948 at 3409 E 5th Street, Austin. This venue thrives as a multifaceted hub for art, performance, workshops, and community events that foster connections between creatives and the local community. Its rustic industrial charm paired with a lively atmosphere makes it a compelling destination to meet friends, engage with local art, and experience live music and performances. Highlights include art studios, rehearsal stages, and film production spaces that fuel creativity continuously. Additionally, Factory on 5th hosts an impressive residency program and special projects like HARMANY and Wild She Dances, emphasizing its commitment to supporting diverse artistic expressions. Visitors can enjoy amenities such as Factory Works Coffee and Taquería Fénix onsite, making it convenient to linger over drinks or authentic Mexican food while soaking up the vibrant cultural energy. The venue also offers complimentary wine, water, and Lonestar beer during events, enhancing the communal experience. With free street parking around the block, it’s both accessible and welcoming for social gatherings, creative workshops, and performances.
Here's what people think of Factory on 5th
As of recent, Factory on 5th holds a 4.7-star rating based on 23 reviews.
Reviews highlight Factory on 5th as a beloved creative sanctuary with an impressive 4.7 rating from 23 reviews, reflecting strong overall satisfaction. Many patrons praise its atmosphere as inspiring and lively, often commenting on the charm of the historic pink Quonset hut and the eclectic array of artistic events. Positive feedback repeatedly mentions the welcoming community vibe, excellent live performances, and the quality of workshops and residencies. The availability of food and beverages on-site, such as coffee and tacos, also enhances the visitor experience. On the other hand, some less positive reviews note occasional issues with parking availability and event overcrowding, which can detract from comfort during busy times. A few users mention that some workshops could benefit from better organization or more varied scheduling, but these critiques are in the minority. Overall, the reviews portray Factory on 5th as a vibrant, creative, and well-loved venue that nurtures local arts and community connection, making it an excellent destination for meeting friends and engaging with Austin’s artistic spirit.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
jonhenry joosten
ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN THE BEST SPACE IN AUSTIN TEXAS! rent this space for your event and you wont be disappointed. as a show promoter in the Austin area and a artist who has performed at many venues all throughout Texas i can confidently say that this space excels every single expectation and more. the space itself is constantly upgrading and changing for the better, AC, lights, sound, bar, seating during the day, the list goes on. the owners are so understanding and easy going and 9 times out of 10 want to bring your vision to life just as much as you do and if they cant they will bend over backwards to make sure your achieve your vision. Ive hosted different shows with many moving parts and artists I've contracted from out of state/security/ DJ's etc. Every time i come back to the space they are upgrading/ making it better. They have installed new tetra lights that seem to be wired to a controller as well as talks of rebuilding the stage and new doors coming soon??? The two owners are so kind and caring from helping all my vendors with table set up, offering a easy load in and load out time, simple contracts and trustful people. The taco truck out front is unbelievable and the people who work the truck are so kind.
Elise Krentzel
Apparently they hold many events here, but I only go here for the Filigree Theatre’s performances which I love. I’ve noticed that there are updates to the theater and I wonder if it’s because of Phil’s fundraising efforts? There is now an a neon open sign.
A B
Do not rent this venue for events. The owner is extremely unprofessional and exhibited disturbing behavior. I was the DJ for an event and had a contract with my client, who rented the venue. After the event, while I was packing up my equipment (which can easily take up to an hour), the owner began threatening me — saying I had only 10 minutes to finish or he would lock the doors and turn off the lights. He actually did turn off the lights while I was still working, leaving me in the dark and making it dangerous to move expensive equipment. He kept coming in every couple of minutes to intimidate me and even threatened to call the police (which he never did — I did). Luckily, a friend happened to stop by and helped me pack quickly under stressful and unsafe conditions. In over 30 years working in the event industry, I’ve never experienced anything like this. Every venue owner knows that vendors need at least an hour to break down and load out equipment. This man acted erratically, even suggesting we leave thousands of dollars in gear overnight — which felt like a setup to steal it. His behavior was aggressive, unprofessional, and truly frightening. ⚠️ Be very careful if you choose this place. Make sure you have a contract that clearly allows vendors at least one hour before and after the event. I would not recommend this venue to anyone.
Matt S
Great little spot to check out some art from many Austin based artists. Something available to buy at every pricepoint. It’s a quick walk around the corner from Wanderlust Wine. It’s great to see more cool stuff like this on the East Side.
Lisa Zinna
Wow! This gallery has the loveliest selection of art and gifts! I recently bought a succulent that I LOVE. All of the art is colorful, bright, and modern. It's located in a storefront of the apartment complex on 7th St. If you park around the corner on Shady Lane there are two great places to hang out: Wanderlust Wine and Hi Sign Brewing. It's really becoming a new hot spot.
jonhenry joosten
ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN THE BEST SPACE IN AUSTIN TEXAS! rent this space for your event and you wont be disappointed. as a show promoter in the Austin area and a artist who has performed at many venues all throughout Texas i can confidently say that this space excels every single expectation and more. the space itself is constantly upgrading and changing for the better, AC, lights, sound, bar, seating during the day, the list goes on. the owners are so understanding and easy going and 9 times out of 10 want to bring your vision to life just as much as you do and if they cant they will bend over backwards to make sure your achieve your vision. Ive hosted different shows with many moving parts and artists I've contracted from out of state/security/ DJ's etc. Every time i come back to the space they are upgrading/ making it better. They have installed new tetra lights that seem to be wired to a controller as well as talks of rebuilding the stage and new doors coming soon??? The two owners are so kind and caring from helping all my vendors with table set up, offering a easy load in and load out time, simple contracts and trustful people. The taco truck out front is unbelievable and the people who work the truck are so kind.
Elise Krentzel
Apparently they hold many events here, but I only go here for the Filigree Theatre’s performances which I love. I’ve noticed that there are updates to the theater and I wonder if it’s because of Phil’s fundraising efforts? There is now an a neon open sign.
A B
Do not rent this venue for events. The owner is extremely unprofessional and exhibited disturbing behavior. I was the DJ for an event and had a contract with my client, who rented the venue. After the event, while I was packing up my equipment (which can easily take up to an hour), the owner began threatening me — saying I had only 10 minutes to finish or he would lock the doors and turn off the lights. He actually did turn off the lights while I was still working, leaving me in the dark and making it dangerous to move expensive equipment. He kept coming in every couple of minutes to intimidate me and even threatened to call the police (which he never did — I did). Luckily, a friend happened to stop by and helped me pack quickly under stressful and unsafe conditions. In over 30 years working in the event industry, I’ve never experienced anything like this. Every venue owner knows that vendors need at least an hour to break down and load out equipment. This man acted erratically, even suggesting we leave thousands of dollars in gear overnight — which felt like a setup to steal it. His behavior was aggressive, unprofessional, and truly frightening. ⚠️ Be very careful if you choose this place. Make sure you have a contract that clearly allows vendors at least one hour before and after the event. I would not recommend this venue to anyone.
Matt S
Great little spot to check out some art from many Austin based artists. Something available to buy at every pricepoint. It’s a quick walk around the corner from Wanderlust Wine. It’s great to see more cool stuff like this on the East Side.
Lisa Zinna
Wow! This gallery has the loveliest selection of art and gifts! I recently bought a succulent that I LOVE. All of the art is colorful, bright, and modern. It's located in a storefront of the apartment complex on 7th St. If you park around the corner on Shady Lane there are two great places to hang out: Wanderlust Wine and Hi Sign Brewing. It's really becoming a new hot spot.
jonhenry joosten
ABSOLUTELY HANDS DOWN THE BEST SPACE IN AUSTIN TEXAS! rent this space for your event and you wont be disappointed. as a show promoter in the Austin area and a artist who has performed at many venues all throughout Texas i can confidently say that this space excels every single expectation and more. the space itself is constantly upgrading and changing for the better, AC, lights, sound, bar, seating during the day, the list goes on. the owners are so understanding and easy going and 9 times out of 10 want to bring your vision to life just as much as you do and if they cant they will bend over backwards to make sure your achieve your vision. Ive hosted different shows with many moving parts and artists I've contracted from out of state/security/ DJ's etc. Every time i come back to the space they are upgrading/ making it better. They have installed new tetra lights that seem to be wired to a controller as well as talks of rebuilding the stage and new doors coming soon??? The two owners are so kind and caring from helping all my vendors with table set up, offering a easy load in and load out time, simple contracts and trustful people. The taco truck out front is unbelievable and the people who work the truck are so kind.
Elise Krentzel
Apparently they hold many events here, but I only go here for the Filigree Theatre’s performances which I love. I’ve noticed that there are updates to the theater and I wonder if it’s because of Phil’s fundraising efforts? There is now an a neon open sign.
A B
Do not rent this venue for events. The owner is extremely unprofessional and exhibited disturbing behavior. I was the DJ for an event and had a contract with my client, who rented the venue. After the event, while I was packing up my equipment (which can easily take up to an hour), the owner began threatening me — saying I had only 10 minutes to finish or he would lock the doors and turn off the lights. He actually did turn off the lights while I was still working, leaving me in the dark and making it dangerous to move expensive equipment. He kept coming in every couple of minutes to intimidate me and even threatened to call the police (which he never did — I did). Luckily, a friend happened to stop by and helped me pack quickly under stressful and unsafe conditions. In over 30 years working in the event industry, I’ve never experienced anything like this. Every venue owner knows that vendors need at least an hour to break down and load out equipment. This man acted erratically, even suggesting we leave thousands of dollars in gear overnight — which felt like a setup to steal it. His behavior was aggressive, unprofessional, and truly frightening. ⚠️ Be very careful if you choose this place. Make sure you have a contract that clearly allows vendors at least one hour before and after the event. I would not recommend this venue to anyone.
Matt S
Great little spot to check out some art from many Austin based artists. Something available to buy at every pricepoint. It’s a quick walk around the corner from Wanderlust Wine. It’s great to see more cool stuff like this on the East Side.
Lisa Zinna
Wow! This gallery has the loveliest selection of art and gifts! I recently bought a succulent that I LOVE. All of the art is colorful, bright, and modern. It's located in a storefront of the apartment complex on 7th St. If you park around the corner on Shady Lane there are two great places to hang out: Wanderlust Wine and Hi Sign Brewing. It's really becoming a new hot spot.
How to reach Factory on 5th
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Website: None
Why Factory on 5th may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Factory on 5th with your friends?
Factory on 5th is a unique cultural hub that offers an immersive and vibrant atmosphere ideal for gathering with friends or family. It is not just a venue but an underground cultural arts center that pulsates with creative energy through its weekly art workshops, live music events, theater performances, and dance sessions. This diversity of activities makes it a dynamic space where groups with varying interests can find something enjoyable to experience together. Whether your group is composed of art enthusiasts, music lovers, or just people looking for a relaxed yet stimulating environment, Factory on 5th delivers on all fronts. Moreover, the presence of a taqueria food truck adds a gastronomic delight to your visit, providing flavorful bites that complement the creative vibe of the venue. For those seeking a place that fosters community connection and cultural engagement, Factory on 5th offers an authentic Austin experience worth sharing. Its welcoming setting encourages social interaction and group participation, making it perfect for friend meetups or family gatherings where you can rally around shared interests within a culturally rich, lively environment.
What activities does Factory on 5th offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Factory on 5th hosts a wide array of activities designed to cater to groups looking for both entertainment and cultural enrichment. One of its primary draws is the weekly art workshops—these sessions invite attendees to engage hands-on with various artistic mediums, encouraging creativity and collaborative interaction. These workshops are not only educational but also fun and inclusive, providing an opportunity for friends or family members to bond over shared artistic expression. The venue also regularly features live music events, which showcase local bands and performers across diverse genres. Real-time music enhances the social experience, allowing groups to enjoy the vibrant Austin music scene and create memorable moments together. For groups interested in performing arts, the theater and dance events offer compelling productions and interactive experiences that bring the community closer. These multifaceted offerings appeal to different tastes and enable visitors to customize their outing, making Factory on 5th a versatile and engaging space perfect for social meetups.
Why is Factory on 5th an ideal venue for hosting social events with groups?
Factory on 5th’s environment promotes a sense of community and shared celebration that is especially conducive to group gatherings. The underground arts center setting gives it a quirky, artistic charm that differs greatly from typical event locations, providing a backdrop that is both inspiring and intimate. The venue’s layout and programming support interaction, with spaces designed to accommodate groups comfortably while they explore creative activities or enjoy performances. Additionally, the presence of a taqueria food truck on-site conveniently satisfies appetites with fresh, flavorful offerings, which eliminates the hassle of external catering or dining arrangements. This combination of food, culture, and entertainment makes planning social events here straightforward and attractive. Groups can attend workshops, then relax with food and music, creating a seamless and enjoyable flow throughout the visit. All of these factors underscore why Factory on 5th is a prime choice for hosting meetups that are both culturally enriching and socially satisfying.
How accessible and welcoming is Factory on 5th for diverse groups?
Factory on 5th takes pride in being an inclusive space that welcomes people of all backgrounds, interests, and ages. Its programming is designed to attract a wide demographic—from seasoned art lovers and musicians to newcomers eager to explore creative disciplines. The venue’s underground and cultural arts center vibe appeals especially to those who appreciate authentic, grassroots cultural experiences rather than commercialized entertainment. Accessibility is considered through the open, communal nature of workshops and events, which encourage participation regardless of skill level. This accessibility fosters a welcoming atmosphere where diverse groups can feel comfortable, whether attending a dance show, participating in an arts workshop, or simply enjoying live music with friends. Such inclusiveness enhances the social dynamic, making Factory on 5th a community-centered venue where everyone can find their place, further adding to its appeal as a meetup location.
What should groups know before visiting Factory on 5th?
While Factory on 5th stands out as a vibrant community arts venue, potential visitors should be aware of some operational nuances. Reports from event vendors indicate that coordination around event setup and breakdown times can be sensitive, underscoring the importance of clear communication when planning large events or meetups. Groups planning private rentals or extensive setups should ensure contracts explicitly allow sufficient time for vendor arrivals and departures to avoid logistical conflicts. Despite this, the day-to-day public events such as workshops and performances typically run smoothly and offer enriching experiences without these complications. Visitors can expect a unique and engaging environment rich with art, music, and food, but it’s wise to check event schedules and policies ahead of time. Being informed helps ensure that your group's visit is enjoyable, productive, and free from unnecessary stress.
How does Factory on 5th reflect the spirit of Austin’s cultural scene?
Factory on 5th embodies Austin’s renowned cultural identity through its dedication to supporting local artists, performers, and community engagement. Austin is celebrated for its live music, artistic innovation, and welcoming vibe, and this venue distills those elements into a single dynamic location. The diverse programming—from art workshops to live music events—showcases local talent and encourages audience participation, reinforcing Austin’s reputation as a hub for creativity and community support. Its underground nature complements the city’s penchant for alternative and grassroots cultural expressions, providing a space where emerging artists and performers can thrive alongside more established acts. By presenting an array of artistic disciplines in one location, Factory on 5th acts as a microcosm of Austin’s eclectic and vibrant arts scene. Friends and family who gather here are not just attending an event; they are immersing themselves in a cultural movement that defines the city.
What kind of food options does Factory on 5th provide for groups?
One standout feature that enhances the social experience at Factory on 5th is its partnership with a taqueria food truck located on-site. This food offering is especially appealing to groups because it provides quick, tasty, and authentic Mexican-inspired dishes that suit casual, communal dining. The presence of the food truck allows groups to enjoy flavorful meals without needing to leave the venue, maintaining the flow of activities and socializing. Food trucks generally offer a variety of menus accommodating different taste preferences, which means your group can easily find something everyone enjoys. The casual nature of dining at a food truck supports the venue’s relaxed and artsy atmosphere, encouraging mingling and informal conversation around the food. This practical and delightful food option complements the arts and cultural programming perfectly, making Factory on 5th a one-stop location for fun, food, and friendship.
Why do visitors rate Factory on 5th highly despite some critical reviews?
Factory on 5th holds a strong positive rating of 4.7 based on 23 reviews, reflecting a general satisfaction from attendees who appreciate its cultural offerings and community spirit. Enthusiastic reviews praise the venue’s vibrant programming, the opportunity to engage in creative workshops, and the welcoming atmosphere that fosters social connection. These attributes create positive, memorable experiences for groups and individuals alike. While some operational complaints exist—mostly related to specific rental or vendor management issues—they do not significantly detract from the overall visitor experience of public events. The high rating suggests that for most visitors, the benefits of Factory on 5th’s culture-rich environment outweigh occasional logistical shortcomings. As with many niche venues, experiences can vary based on the nature of the visit, but the prevailing sentiment positions Factory on 5th as a worthwhile destination for group engagement and cultural participation.
How can groups make the most out of their visit to Factory on 5th?
To maximize the experience at Factory on 5th, groups should plan their visit around scheduled events that match their interests. Checking the venue’s calendar ahead of time ensures your group can attend specific workshops, live performances, or theater events that excite everyone. Arriving early or staying for multiple activities can enrich the visit by allowing time to participate actively in art workshops and enjoy live music or dance shows. Groups should also take advantage of the on-site taqueria food truck to create a casual dining opportunity that keeps energy high and spirits lifted. Bringing everyone into the communal spirit by encouraging participation in workshops or dance can transform a simple meetup into a memorable, shared cultural event. Lastly, communicating with the venue about any special requests or needs can smooth logistics and enhance your group's overall comfort and enjoyment.
By rallying at Factory on 5th, groups tap into a unique cultural venue that celebrates creativity, community, and shared experiences—a perfect setting for reconnecting with friends and family in the heart of Austin’s thriving arts scene.