Austin Nightlife
From Sixth Street to East Austin, ATX never sleeps. Explore the best bars, live music venues, and late-night spots in the Live Music Capital of the World.
Austin Nightlife Videos
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Austin nightlife like?
Austin nightlife is centered around several walkable districts. Sixth Street (Dirty 6th) is the most tourist-heavy with bar-hopping and cover bands. The Red River Cultural District has indie rock and alternative venues. Rainey Street has bungalow bars in converted houses. West 6th is more upscale with cocktail bars. East Austin has a more local feel with honky tonks and craft beer bars.
What are the best bars on Sixth Street in Austin?
Sixth Street has dozens of bars in close proximity. For live music, you'll find multiple venues with bands playing nightly. The street runs from Congress Avenue to Red River Street and is busiest on weekends. At the east end near Red River, the vibe transitions into the more music-focused Red River Cultural District with venues like Mohawk, Cheer Up Charlies, and Empire Control Room.
Is Austin nightlife safe?
Austin is generally a safe city for nightlife. Sixth Street is heavily policed on weekends and the entertainment districts are well lit and busy. As with any nightlife area, standard precautions apply — stay with your group, be aware of your surroundings, and use rideshare apps rather than driving after drinking. The Red River District and Rainey Street tend to have a slightly calmer atmosphere than Dirty 6th.