Austin's bar scene is as diverse as the city itself. You can sip craft cocktails in a converted Rainey Street bungalow, drink cheap beer on a Sixth Street patio, or enjoy a glass of wine on a Hill Country terrace. Here are the bars that define Austin nightlife.
#1
Rainey Street District
$$Best for: Quintessential Austin bar experience
Converted bungalow bars with patios, food trucks, and a unique atmosphere.
- Bungalow bars with patios
- Food trucks
- Walkable district
#2
Roosevelt Room
$$$Best for: Cocktail enthusiasts
Craft cocktails made by award-winning mixologists in a refined setting.
- World-class cocktails
- Elegant atmosphere
- Downtown
#3
White Horse
$Best for: Authentic Texas honky-tonk
East Austin honky-tonk with two-stepping, live country music, and cold beer.
- Live country music
- Two-step dancing
- East Austin character
#4
Whisler's
$$Best for: Creative cocktails
East Austin cocktail bar with a mezcal-focused upstairs lounge.
- Craft cocktails
- Mezcaleria upstairs
- Cool atmosphere
Tips for Your Visit
- Rainey Street is best Thursday-Saturday
- Sixth Street gets rowdy late—go early for a better experience
- Many bars have great happy hour specials 4-6 PM
Last updated: 2025-01