Austin is one of the fastest growing cities in America, learn how to navigate its immensely popular nightlife as told by genuine Austinites.
“Up and coming,” a phrase widely overused, but nonetheless completely accurate in its description of cities like that of Texas’s capital: Austin. The southern city has seen rapid growth in merely a few years. According to KVUE abc, most recent census data revealed that Austin has had a 3% increase in population from 2020, making it once again the “fastest growing big metropolitan city in the country.” The city is also well-known for its diverse population and cultural fusion, bringing a distinctive experience to all who venture there.
This unique aspect also applies to Austin’s famously known nightlife and bar scene. Austin holds something for spring breakers, workaholics, cowboys, and everyone in between, regardless of who you are. I spoke with a few Austin locals to get the inside scoop of the best areas in town to check out. Here’s a quick overview of the best bars and areas in Austin to visit, depending on the crowd you run with and the experience you desire to retrieve from this iconic city.
No matter what kind of party animal you identify as, Austin nightlife has something to offer. Use this guide as your crash course into the Austin, Texas party scene, taught by the experts (a.k.a. the locals.)
Rainey Street
If you are looking to experience a one-of-a-kind, authentically weird Austin vibe, check out Rainey Street. Unique in its architectural setup as it was originally solely residential, Rainey Street consists of bungalow-style bars and restaurants equipped with backyards, string lights, decks, and loud music. Find a public parking in the lots at either end of the street or if luck allows, parallel park on the side of the street itself. Some notable bars to check out on Rainey include: Icenhauer’s (which features great live music,) Lustre Pearl, Bangers, Reina, and Umbar.
6th Street
One of the most famous areas in Austin to party, 6th street is for anyone looking to bar hop, Texas-style. The street is split into multiple sections, the most outstanding being West 6th, which features classier bars, including: Green Light social, Parlor and Yard, Buford’s, and Dogwood. Equally great but in different ways, Old 6th – locally known as Dirty 6th – is another section of 6th Street, holding a somewhat opposing experience. Perfect for cow folk, freshly 21-year-olds, or anyone just looking to have a good old “divey” time. Standout bars in the Dirty 6th include: San Jac Saloon, Blind Pig, Maggie Mae’s, and Peter Dueling’s Piano Bar.
The Domain
If you’re a classic city slicker who loves to eat, drink and shop all in one spot; The Domain may be the place for you. Similar in layout to an outlet with the added benefit of beautifully landscaped skyscrapers, The Domain features just about any store you can think of, any type of food you may crave, and plenty of bars to hop for a fun night out. Find convenient parking in several on-site garages and tons of Ubers if you find yourself having a little too much fun. Some notable bars to check out are: Lavaca Street Bar, Jack and Ginger’s, The Brass Tap, and Wonder Bar.
Special thanks to Danny, John, and Matt (the Austinites) for helping me curate this guide.
