When most people think of party cities in the United States, metropolises like Las Vegas, New York and Miami are generally the first that come to mind. But Austin’s combination of bustling nightclubs, friendly pubs and new-age bars give the city a unique charm that makes every night out a fresh experience. There are plenty of gems that you can find simply by wandering the streets and following the music, but when it comes down to the best bars in Austin, Texas, these six stand out as some of the city’s finest nightlife venues:
Best Bars in Austin, TX
1. Isla
Photo: Yelp
If you like piña coladas and getting caught in the rain, then Isla may be the perfect place to start your night. The tropical-themed drinks are a taste of paradise after a hard day’s work. Isla is well known for its large bowl punch drinks and laid-back atmosphere.
2. Midnight Cowboy
Photo: Yelp
Midnight Cowboy combines a high-class feel with just enough Texas debauchery. Patrons have private red lights that they turn on to order drinks. Also, there are plenty of private rooms for friends and couples to enjoy a more personal nightlife experience. The vibe is personal, the drinks are strong and you’ll feel like a local in no time at all.
3. Half Step Bar
Photo: Yelp
If you order a screwdriver at the Half Step Bar, then you may get laughed out. With just about any type of alcohol you can think of, Half Step Bar is the place to show off your chops as a liquor connoisseur. If you don’t know much about alcoholic beverages, then just ask your bartender. The staff at Half Step Bar is famous for their artistic ability to mix Austin’s tastiest cocktails.
4. Zilker Brewing Co.
Photo: Yelp
Zilker Brewing Co. is a popular spot in the city center that appeals to almost anyone, making it the perfect venue for drinks with friends or co-workers. Beer lovers rejoice, because Zilker Brewing Co. is an Austin favorite for American- and Belgian-themed brews.
5. Drink.Well
Photo: Yelp
If you’re after a unique twist on classic drinks, then look no further than Drink.Well. The bartenders here have invented some of the tastiest alcohol concoctions ever mixed. If you’re new to the venue, be sure to try the “Twinkie,” and don’t be afraid to ask your bartender for recommendations. If you want to party on a budget, then Drink.Well’s specials will give you a taste of Austin’s finest cocktails at a reasonable price.
6. Whisler’s
Photo: Yelp
If you want to leave the classy venues behind and enjoy the thrill of a biker bar with a Hispanic feel, then Whislers is your place. One step in this joint will transport you back to 1970s Oaxaca. And don’t forget to start the night off with tequila shots at the internal bar, Mezcalería Tobalá. New York may be the city that never sleeps, but Austin has plenty of after-hours bars if you’re a late-night partier. The nightlife scene has plenty to offer the bar-crawler inside us all.
If you really want a unique on-the-town experience in Austin, then don’t be afraid to mingle with the locals. Austin is known as one of the friendliest cities in North America, and asking around is one of the ways to find the best bars in Austin, Texas for your tastes.
