Content Produced in Partnership with Fairmont Hotels & Resorts
A lot of words probably come to mind when you think of Austin — weird, music, tacos, BBQ, and dive bars — are just a few we can think of. It’s one of the rare cities that genuinely has pockets for everyone, no matter their walk of life. Its food and drink scene is no exception to that rule. Craft brews, world-class cocktail lounges, arcade bars and live music venues: Name a bar experience and you're more than likely to find it in Austin. These are just a few places that are sure to fit any mood — or moods — while you're there.
Rainey Street
Converted houses serve as bars and restaurants in a spot that is uniquely Austin, making Rainey Street one of the most beloved strips in all of the 512. If you’re in the mood for an upscale cocktail in a casual setting, dip into Half Step. You can find all the classics like a Manhattan, martini, or daiquiri, but for a true experience try the Bartender’s Choice. Just pick your spirit and let the able hands behind the bar take you on a drink adventure.
6th Street
Perhaps the most well-known spot in the Austin bar scene, 6th Street is ATX’s answer to Bourbon Street. For a more relaxed experience on 6th, Easy Tiger is your answer. The bakery-restaurant-beer garden has indoor and outdoor seating options that pair nicely with the bar’s classic cocktails and icy draft beer selection. Be sure to play a little ping pong outside with nice views of Waller Creek running beside the patio.
LGBTQ
For LGBTQ bars, your best bet is on 4th Street, where you’ll find bars like Rain, Oilcan Harry’s and Highland Lounge. At all these locations you can get classic drinks and beers. The Iron Bear on 8th and Cheer Up Charlie’s on Red River are also options if you’re looking for an LGBTQ option and you’re in the mood for a little walk. Try the Banana Hammock at Cheer Ups — pineapple, banana juice, coconut milk, and rum — sweet and delicious.
Red River
Along with Cheer Up Charlie’s on Red River, you’ll find a plethora of bars, restaurants and music venues. Fulton is a great spot to get a feel of Austin’s music history — and to hear some live music. Located in the lobby of the Fairmont Hotel on Red River, Fulton has a large oak tree in the center and is sure to give you an experience like none other. Be sure to try some of the high-end bar bites to go with your Austin draft, Texas wine or Central Texas distilled spirit.
City Views
There are plenty of bars with both open and closed areas and city views, but it doesn’t get better than Rules & Regs on the 7th floor of the the Fairmont Austin. A 360-degree view of the city, stunning pool (for guests and cabana reservations) and indoor and outdoor areas are awaiting you in this hip spot. Don't forget: A Lick ice cream sandwich or Mexican Popsicle pairs nicely with all the drinks served at the bar — and they taste even better while you’re lounging poolside.
How To Do It
The Fairmont Austin is more than just a great place to grab a drink. As the newest and largest property in the Fairmont Hotels & Resorts line, it's also Austin's newest rising star. Conveniently located in downtown Austin in the Central Business District, the Fairmont Austin is just blocks away from some of the hottest and trendiest music venues and restaurants in the city. Even better, it features some of the city's up-and-coming attractions, too. Ready to experience a few #FairmontMoments? Click here to start planning your vacation. We'll toast to that.