Business Details
46 Years
experience
Your Private Event Venue in Austin, TX
Shady Springs Party Barn has been a family-owned and operated event venue in Austin, Texas since 1980. Originally part of a WWII-era family farm, our 20-acre property features a hand-built dance hall, a Junior Olympic-sized swimming pool constructed by our founders, and expansive outdoor spaces shaded by giant pecan trees. We specialize in creating authentic, memorable experiences for private events, offering a unique blend of rustic charm and modern functionality.Our venue includes 5,000 square feet of covered space with picnic areas, sports facilities, and flexible layouts for weddings, corporate events, and celebrations. With over four decades of experience, we maintain a commitment to personalized service, preserving Austin's character while adapting to modern event needs. Our reputation for quality hospitality and distinctive atmosphere has been built entirely through word-of-mouth referrals.
Services
Event rentals
Swimming pool access
Dance hall facilities
Catering coordination
Seasonal availability
Details
- Year established: 1980
Highlights and features
- Family-owned since 1980 with deep Austin roots
- Unique combination of historic architecture and modern amenities
- Flexible 20-acre property accommodating diverse event needs
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Proven reputation through 40+ years of word-of-mouth referrals
Services
Event Rentals
Our 20-acre property offers flexible event spaces for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations. The venue includes covered picnic areas, dance halls, and outdoor sports facilities. Clients can customize layouts with tents, food trucks, and decorations while enjoying exclusive access to our historic grounds.
Swimming Pool Access
Enjoy our Junior Olympic-sized pool built in 1969 with a custom aeration system for cool water. Includes lifeguard service during events and two wading pools with fountain features. The pool area accommodates both active swimming and relaxed lounging with vintage concrete light poles providing evening illumination.
Dance Hall Facilities
The hand-built dance hall features a 30x60 foot main floor with stage, bar area, and 12x24 foot stage. Includes twinkle lighting, basic PA system with mic inputs, and multiple covered patios facing the pool area. Provides adaptable space for live music, dining, and dancing under our rustic cedar ceilings.
Catering Coordination
Our venue supports client-chosen caterers with ample space for food trucks and outdoor serving areas. The screened patio includes 15 picnic tables and additional seating capacity. Clients may bring their own vendors while benefiting from our established infrastructure for efficient food service operations.
Seasonal Availability
We operate from April 1 through December 31 annually with appointment-only tours. The property features seasonal landscaping that reaches peak beauty in spring and summer. Clients receive exclusive access during booked dates with flexible scheduling options across our 40-year operating history.
People
Fred Denson
Owner
Third-generation steward of the family property, Fred built the dance hall and pool in the 1960s. He maintains hands-on involvement in daily operations while preserving the venue's historic character through continuous improvements.
Lory Denson
Owner
Partnering with Fred since the venue's founding, Lory manages hospitality operations and client relations. Her leadership ensures consistent quality in service delivery while maintaining the property's authentic atmosphere through careful maintenance and seasonal programming.
Questions
What types of events can I host at Shady Springs?
We accommodate weddings, corporate events, family reunions, and private parties with flexible space configurations across our 20-acre property.
Is the venue available year-round?
We operate April 1 through December 31 annually with appointment-only tours during off-season months for future planning.
What amenities are included with rentals?
All rentals include pool access, sports facilities, covered seating for 150+, and basic audio equipment with advance notice.
Can we bring our own vendors?
Clients may choose preferred caterers and vendors while utilizing our established infrastructure for seamless event execution.
How far is the venue from downtown Austin?
Our secluded property sits just 15 minutes from downtown Austin with convenient access to major highways and local attractions.
Reviews (7)
Jaime Ramos
Jun 05, 2022
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Perfect little venue for medium size groups. Beach Volleyball, Horse Shoes, Swimming Pools, Dance Hall, Bar, Enclosed Dining Room, Shaded Park Benches, Large Parking Area, Large Perfectly Manicured Yard, Detached Men-Womrn-Family Restrooms.
Erin Elan
Jun 04, 2022
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What a lovely hidden gem. We were here for an event, and it was great. The grounds were immaculate, the pools were refreshing, and it was indeed shady enough to be pleasant all around.
Thomas Zuiss
Apr 09, 2022
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Never figured a place like this existed in the city. I didn't use many of the amenities, only the dining hall, but the pool looked inviting.
Delwin Goss
Apr 08, 2022
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What a wonderful country setting so close to the City. Big beautiful ancient pecan trees on a nice green pasture. Complete with a large barn like dining room and even a large dance floor. I've been to a number of company picnics and volunteer appreciation events. As nice and peaceful as it gets. I'd much rather be under those huge old pecan trees than in a gilded ballroom in a downtown hotel.
Jordan B.
Apr 03, 2022
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Lori and Fred are incredible! We hosted a large event, and everything went off without a hitch! They even helped out with directing the vendors/set up. Thank you for your hospitality, you gained a customer for life!
Wendy Ellis-Chavez
Mar 14, 2021
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Awesome space! Screened in pavillion with swimming pool, horseshoes, volleyball, etc. Pavillion is huge. ample space for dining and dancing (yes, there is a stage and dance floor). Would highly recommend!
Lulu Begonia
Mar 29, 2019
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Coolest venue for all types of parties! Lovely grounds, lush green lawn, plenty of shaded areas & picnic tables. 2 pools, Moonwalks, Barrel trains, ziplines, and professional performers and entertainment. Did I mention that the owners make the best brisket in town?! Book your next event here!
