Let’s be real—finding the best happy hour in Austin is basically a local sport. With so many bars, patios, and funky vibes going on in this city, narrowing down the spots with killer drink deals and chill energy isn’t always easy. That’s why we did the work for you (hello, research = bar hopping) and pulled together the ultimate guide to help you score cheap drinks, savor strong pours, and soak up the best vibes the 512 has to offer.
Whether you're new in town or just want to switch up your go-to weekday watering hole, these spots deliver the goods. And by goods, we mean discounted cocktails, cheap beer, and solid happy hour energy. Let’s get into it.
The Best Happy Hour in Austin: Top Spots for Cheap Drinks & Chill Vibes
Sour Duck Market
- Neighborhood: East Austin
- Happy Hour: Tuesday–Sunday, 3–5 PM
- Specials: $2 off draft beer, $5 wines, $7 cocktails
This all-day eatery with a spacious patio hits all the right notes for happy hour enthusiasts. Think chill picnic vibes, vegan-friendly snacks, and a legit drink list that'll cure any midweek slump. Perfect for unwinding after work or starting your night right.
Better Half Coffee & Cocktails
- Neighborhood: Clarksville/6th & Lamar
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 PM
- Specials: $5 frozen cocktails, $6 wine, $2 Lone Stars
From early-morning lattes to late-night cocktails, Better Half does it all. Their happy hour is one of the strongest in town with super Instagrammable drinks, shareable plates, and a spacious patio that's dog-friendly (because, Austin). Definitely one of the best bars in Austin to kick back and sip something cold.
The Lucky Duck
- Neighborhood: East 6th
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–7 PM
- Specials: $4 drafts, $6 specialty cocktails, $6 bites
If you’re hunting for solid Austin drink specials in a lowkey but lively setting, Lucky Duck has your back. Live music often kicks in later, and the back patio has giant Jenga, string lights, and a whole vibe. It’s equal parts casual hang and pre-game central.
Nickel City
- Neighborhood: East Austin
- Happy Hour: Daily from 2–6 PM
- Specials: $2.50 Lone Stars & High Lifes, $5 cocktails
A local legend for good reason. Dive bar energy meets high-quality cocktails, plus a food truck out back slinging sliders and tots. It’s affordable, unpretentious, and dangerously easy to spend all evening here.
TLC Austin
- Neighborhood: Lamar Union Plaza/South Austin
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 3–6 PM
- Specials: $5 cocktails, $1 gulf oysters, $3 beers
Oysters and cocktails? Yes, please. TLC serves laid-back Southern coastal vibes, and their giant patio is always a good time. This is a hidden gem when it comes to that sweet spot where quality meets budget-friendly boozing.
Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden
- Neighborhood: Rainey Street
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 4–6 PM
- Specials: $1 off draft beers, $5 schnapps shots, $2 off select sausages
Banger’s might be known for brats and beer, but their happy hour is actually solid. Tons of seating, well-curated draft list, and a real beer garden feel with live music most nights. One of the best bars in Austin if you're looking for a high-energy start to your evening.
Parlor Room
- Neighborhood: South Congress
- Happy Hour: Daily until 8 PM
- Specials: $5 wells, $3 beers, $6 cocktails
This spot gives major local’s-only vibes with one of the longest happy hours in the city. It’s got vintage decor and an indoor/outdoor layout that screams “hang out here until last call.” Bonus: the bartenders know their stuff and won't judge your weird drink orders.
Drink.Well
- Neighborhood: North Loop
- Happy Hour: Tuesday–Friday, 4:30–6 PM
- Specials: $5 beers, $7 wines, rotating cocktail deals
One of Austin’s best cocktail bars without the stuffy attitude. Drink.Well serves creative and expertly-crafted cocktails with happy hour pricing that makes trying something new way less intimidating. Definitely worth a trip if you want quality without the chaos.
Half Step
- Neighborhood: Rainey Street
- Happy Hour: Monday–Friday, 5–7 PM
- Specials: $6 classics like Daiquiris & Margaritas
One of the cooler cocktail bars on Rainey without being, well, annoying about it. Half Step brings both craftsmanship and comfort, making it an easy pick for weeknight hangs or warming up before going full tilt for the night.
The Water Trough
- Neighborhood: North Burnet
- Happy Hour: Daily, 4–6 PM
- Specials: $4 Texas drafts, $5 mules, $6 house wine
Hidden inside the Lone Star Court hotel, this rustic-luxe bar offers surprisingly good deals and a super relaxed vibe. It’s not on most people’s radar, which is exactly why you’ll love it. Grab a swing seat outside and chill with a local beer in hand.
Show Up in Style: What to Wear When Hitting Austin Happy Hour
Heading out for drinks in Austin usually means cutoffs, cute tops, or casual layers depending on the weather. If you’re trying to level up your happy hour fit, check out some of our favorite bar-ready picks to rock the vibe:
- Just Chillin Hoodie – Ideal for patio weather and late-night hangs
- Shoot Your Shot Tee – Because tequila confidence is real
- It’s Beer O’Clock Tee – An iconic pick for brewery hopping
- Spritz & Giggles Tee – Light, punchy, and made for day drinks
- High Proof Tee – Serve bold looks while sipping bold drinks
FAQ: Best Happy Hour in Austin
What is the best time to go to happy hour in Austin?
Most happy hours in Austin run from around 3 PM to 6 PM on weekdays, with some stretching to 7 or 8 PM. Arrive early to beat the crowds, especially downtown and on Rainey Street.
Are there any happy hours on weekends in Austin?
Yep! A few spots like Nickel City and The Water Trough offer daily happy hour, including weekends. But for the best deals and availability, weekdays still bring the strongest game.
Can I find happy hour deals that include food?
Absolutely. Places like TLC Austin and The Lucky Duck serve up food specials alongside drink deals, like $1 oysters or discounted sliders. Perfect for snacking while sipping.
Planning your next Austin adventure? Whether you're bar crawling on East 6th, chilling on a South Austin patio, or just looking for an excuse to avoid overpriced drinks, these happy hour gems have you covered. And if you’re from Austin, grab your Bar Life Austin hoodie today and rep your city in style.
