Austin, Texas, isn’t just famous for its live music scene; it also boasts a vibrant nightlife that caters to all tastes. From stylish rooftop bars with skyline views to craft breweries serving local brews and high-energy dance clubs, Austin’s nightlife offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to sip on a craft cocktail, dance the night away, or enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with friends, this guide will take you through the best spots to visit for an unforgettable night out in Austin.
Explore Austin’s Nightlife: 10 Best Bars and Clubs to Visit
1. The Roosevelt Room
Located in the heart of downtown, The Roosevelt Room is a must-visit for anyone exploring Austin’s nightlife. Known for its extensive cocktail menu and chic, industrial vibe, this bar offers an impressive selection of classic and contemporary drinks. The talented bartenders craft each cocktail with precision, making it a perfect spot for cocktail connoisseurs.
- Vibe: Sophisticated, upscale.
- Highlights: Extensive cocktail menu, skilled bartenders.
- Pacaya Night Out: Use Pacaya to organize a group visit to The Roosevelt Room and enjoy a night of expertly crafted cocktails.
2. The White Horse
For a more laid-back and authentic Austin experience, head to The White Horse, one of the city’s most beloved honky-tonk bars. This East Austin staple features live country, blues, and Americana music every night, along with a large dance floor where you can show off your two-stepping skills. It’s a quintessential part of Austin’s nightlife for those looking to embrace the city’s roots.
- Vibe: Casual, lively, honky-tonk.
- Highlights: Live music, dance floor, free two-step lessons.
- Dance the Night Away: Join a Pacaya group outing to The White Horse and enjoy live music and dancing with fellow Austin nightlife enthusiasts.
3. The Rooftop on 6th
No guide to Austin’s nightlife would be complete without mentioning a rooftop bar, and The Rooftop on 6th is one of the best. Offering stunning views of the downtown skyline, this bar provides a perfect blend of laid-back vibes and lively atmosphere. Enjoy a cold drink while taking in the view, or head to the dance floor when the DJ starts spinning.
- Vibe: Lively, scenic, energetic.
- Highlights: Rooftop views, DJ nights, dance floor.
- Pacaya Skyline Views: Use Pacaya to gather a group for a rooftop night out, enjoying the best views of Austin’s skyline at The Rooftop on 6th.
4. The Driskill Bar
Located in the historic Driskill Hotel, The Driskill Bar is a classic destination in Austin’s nightlife scene. This elegant, old-world bar exudes Texas charm with its leather seating, cowhide accents, and a menu featuring a wide selection of whiskies and craft cocktails. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a sophisticated drink in a cozy, intimate setting.
- Vibe: Classic, elegant, cozy.
- Highlights: Historic setting, extensive whiskey selection, live piano music.
- Classic Night Out: Plan a sophisticated night out through Pacaya, starting with cocktails at The Driskill Bar.
5. Whisler’s
Situated in East Austin, Whisler’s is a hip cocktail bar known for its eclectic decor, creative drinks, and vibrant atmosphere. The bar offers a rotating menu of craft cocktails, each made with house-infused spirits and fresh ingredients. Whisler’s also features a mezcal bar upstairs, where you can sample a curated selection of mezcal in a cozy, intimate space.
- Vibe: Trendy, eclectic, intimate.
- Highlights: Craft cocktails, mezcal bar, outdoor patio.
- Cocktail Exploration: Join a Pacaya group outing to Whisler’s for a night of craft cocktail exploration and mezcal tasting.
6. Cheer Up Charlies
Known for its inclusive and welcoming atmosphere, Cheer Up Charlies is a unique and colorful bar that adds a fun twist to Austin’s nightlife. With an outdoor stage, vegan food options, and a diverse lineup of live music and DJs, it’s a go-to spot for those looking for a more eclectic night out. The bar’s signature kombucha cocktails are a must-try.
- Vibe: Inclusive, eclectic, lively.
- Highlights: Live music, kombucha cocktails, outdoor stage.
- Pacaya Social Night: Use Pacaya to plan a night out at Cheer Up Charlies, enjoying the lively atmosphere with new friends.
7. Craft Pride
If you’re a craft beer enthusiast, Craft Pride is the ultimate destination in Austin’s nightlife scene. Located on Rainey Street, this bar exclusively serves Texas craft beers, offering a rotating selection of more than 50 taps. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the options, ensuring you find the perfect brew to suit your taste.
- Vibe: Casual, beer-centric, friendly.
- Highlights: Texas craft beers, knowledgeable staff, cozy patio.
- Craft Beer Crawl: Organize a craft beer crawl with Pacaya, starting at Craft Pride and exploring Austin’s best beer spots.
8. Eberly
Eberly is a stylish spot that seamlessly blends a dining experience with a sophisticated bar scene. The Cedar Tavern bar, a restored New York City gem, is the centerpiece of this space, offering an impressive list of cocktails and wines. The beautiful decor and elegant atmosphere make Eberly a standout in Austin’s nightlife, perfect for those looking for a more refined night out.
- Vibe: Sophisticated, elegant, trendy.
- Highlights: Cedar Tavern bar, craft cocktails, stylish decor.
- Elegant Evening: Use Pacaya to plan an elegant evening out at Eberly, combining a great meal with a night of stylish cocktails.
9. Barbarella
For those who want to dance the night away, Barbarella is a must-visit spot in Austin’s nightlife. This downtown dance club is known for its themed dance nights, including 80s night and New Noise, offering a fun and energetic atmosphere where you can let loose on the dance floor. The club features multiple rooms with different music styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
- Vibe: Energetic, fun, eclectic.
- Highlights: Themed dance nights, multiple rooms, lively dance floor.
- Dance Party: Join a Pacaya group for a night of dancing at Barbarella, enjoying the club’s diverse music and high-energy vibe.
10. Midnight Cowboy
For a truly unique experience in Austin’s nightlife, visit Midnight Cowboy, a hidden speakeasy located on Sixth Street. This reservation-only bar offers an intimate and exclusive setting where skilled bartenders craft exquisite cocktails. The dimly lit, vintage decor adds to the speakeasy ambiance, making it a perfect spot for a more private and sophisticated night out.
- Vibe: Intimate, exclusive, vintage.
- Highlights: Speakeasy vibe, craft cocktails, reservation-only.
- Secret Speakeasy Night: Use Pacaya to plan a secret speakeasy night with friends, starting with a visit to Midnight Cowboy.
Whether you’re in the mood for a sophisticated cocktail, a night of dancing, or a casual drink with a view, Austin’s nightlife has something to offer every kind of night owl. With a wide variety of bars and clubs, from rooftop bars and craft breweries to honky-tonks and speakeasies, there’s no shortage of places to explore. Use Pacaya to plan your night out, join group outings, and discover the best of Austin’s nightlife scene. Download the app today and get ready to experience the vibrant nightlife of Austin, Texas!
