So you're in Austin, ready to dive into one of the wildest nights of your life—and you're thinking, where do I even start? Welcome to the ultimate bar crawl Austin Texas style. This city doesn't play when it comes to good drinks, great vibes, and unforgettable nights. Whether you're a local or just rollin' through, we’re breaking down the best bars in Austin that’ll turn your night into a full-blown experience.
Ready to Crawl: The Best Bar Stops in Austin
You don’t walk into a bar crawl unprepared. For this mission, we’ve rounded up hot spots where the drinks are strong, the crowds are lively, and the energy is unmatched. Here's our handpicked crawl-through lineup of Austin nightlife greatness, with everything from funky dive bars to rooftop cocktails and legendary tequila pours.
1. Parlor Room
Location: 4301 Guadalupe St. | Hours: Mon–Sun 2PM–2AM
Two words: vintage vibes. This former hair salon turned neighborhood bar serves up retro flair and killer cocktails. Start your night here with a Mezcal Margarita and get the perfect buzz going surrounded by velvet couches and old-school tunes.
2. Whisler’s
Location: 1816 E 6th St. | Hours: Mon–Fri 4PM–12AM, Sat–Sun 1PM–12AM
If you want craft cocktails with legit flair, Whisler’s on the East Side is pure gold. Grab a smoky Oaxacan Old Fashioned, then swing upstairs to the hidden Mezcalería. It’s romantic, mysterious, and the mezcal flights are fire.
3. Lulu’s
Location: 1502 E 6th St. | Hours: Tues–Sun 4PM–2AM
Lulu’s brings the charm with twinkle lights, breezy patio seating, and frozen cocktails that feel like summer vacation in a cup. Pro tip: their Lavender Paloma tastes like magic and pairs incredibly well with the late-evening Austin air.
4. Lucy’s Fried Chicken (South Congress)
Location: 2218 College Ave. | Hours: Daily 11AM–10PM
Need a food stop to recharge during the crawl? Lucy's is ALL about Southern comfort—with a full bar. Pair their killer fried chicken with a Bloody Mary or beer, take a breath, and regroup before hitting your next bar stop.
5. Mayur’s
Location: 5000 Burnet Rd. | Hours: Mon–Sat 4PM–1AM
A new player in town but already a crowd favorite. Mayur’s mixes Indian street food with can't-miss mixology. Order the Spicy Tamarind Mule and thank us later.
6. Nickel City
Location: 1133 E 11th St. | Hours: Mon–Sun 2PM–2AM
Cheap drinks. Unapologetic dive bar attitude. Killer tater tots from the Delray Cafe food truck parked out back. Nickel City feels like your friend’s badass basement but with stronger drinks and other people who vibe the same way you do.
7. Half Step
Location: 75 Rainey St. | Hours: Daily 5PM–2AM
Tucked away on Rainey Street, Half Step is where bartenders mean business. The drinks are top-tier, and the bartenders know their stuff. Hit the porch with a crafted daiquiri and catch your breath under the string lights.
8. Cheer Up Charlies
Location: 900 Red River St. | Hours: Daily 4PM–2AM
This is where dancing meets rainbow fairy cave energy. Queer-friendly, music-heavy, and packed with kombucha cocktails that sneak up on you. If your crawl needs a dance break, this is the place to be.
9. The White Horse
Location: 500 Comal St. | Hours: Daily 3PM–2AM
We’re talking live country music, cheap whiskey, and two-stepping on a wooden floor. When your bar crawl calls for dancing boots and barroom charm, The White Horse steps up to the plate—and then makes you get down.
10. The Cat’s Pajamas
Location: 610 Nueces St. | Hours: Mon–Sat 4PM–2AM
Sleek, sultry, and sitting pretty in downtown Austin—The Cat’s Pajamas is where you toast the night in style. Think low lighting, well-dressed locals, and martinis made with precision. Perfect final stop for an upscale vibe to cap the crawl.
What to Wear for a Legendary Night Out
Austin nights flip quick—from sweaty patios to rooftop lounges and dive bars, you’ll want a look that’s comfy and cool without trying too hard. We’ve rounded up a handful of go-to fits to keep you bar crawl ready:
- It’s Beer O’Clock Tee – Perfect for day-to-night transitions and declaring your mission early.
- Spritz & Giggles Tee – Fun, flirty, and full-on weekend energy.
- Twist & Sip Hoodie – For when the breeze hits and your buzz kicks in just right.
- The Pineapple Bull Tee – Texas flavor with standout graphics.
- Love Language Hoodie – Because yours is drink specials and dance floors.
Tips for Planning Your Bar Crawl Like a Pro
- Group It Right: Keep your crew between 4–8 people for max movement and vibes.
- Hydration Station: Alternate drinks with water (your tomorrow self will thank you).
- Snack Stops: Don't sleep on food—build in bites at Lucy’s or food trucks near Whisler's.
- Start Early: Beat the line rush and get happy hour deals starting around 4 or 5PM.
- Use Rideshare Apps: Parking is a pain. Uber is your bestie tonight.
Final Word
Austin knows how to party, and bar hopping here is its own brand of nightlife magic. With this lineup of legendary cocktail spots, dancing dives, and boozy patios, your bar crawl Austin Texas adventure is guaranteed to go off. Just remember to pace yourself—and wear shoes you trust when it’s time to dance on sticky bar floors.
If you’re from Austin, grab your Bar Life Austin hoodie today and rep your city in style.
FAQ: Bar Crawl Austin Texas
What’s the best area for a bar crawl in Austin?
East 6th Street and Rainey Street are hands-down the go-to areas. They’re packed with bars close together, have unique vibes, and make hopping easy.
Do bars in Austin have dress codes?
Most spots are super chill—especially dives and East Side bars. Some higher-end places might expect a stylish casual fit, but nothing too formal.
What time do bars close in Austin?
Most bars in Austin stay open until 2AM every night of the week. Just make sure to get there by midnight if you want to avoid long lines.
