by Ariawna C. Talton

Whether you want to relax to a slow rhythm or move to a pulsating funk, Austin’s nightlife scene definitely has you covered. From the famous Sixth Street area to the northern sector of the city, Austin has plenty of options for one to chase a night full of entertainment.

Many people automatically link Austin’s nightlife scene to the multiplicity of students that roam the city on any given night, but the city has so much entertainment to offer that no particular group is ever left out. In fact, it’s not unusual to find a University of Texas undergrad enjoying the sounds of a live band alongside an Austin CEO.

Although Sixth Street has become synonymous with Austin nightlife, there are many other areas with a happening scene. Sherlock’s Baker Street Pub and Grill is an all-encompassing restaurant. Here you can satisfy lunch, dinner, and late-night cravings while enjoying the nightly live music performances. There are also big screens and billiard games to enjoy. Visit some well-attended bars and restaurants in North Austin, as well as south near Oak Hill, for a taste of suburban and locally owned nightlife.

The ever-developing, hip SoCo district just south of the downtown area offers a line of shops, clubs and exciting restaurants. The musical offerings here tend to be more on the Texas country side, and a handful of alternative rock bands are on hand.

What’s all the partying without a little shopping? Austin’s 2nd Street Retail District features boutiques, a day spa, a wine bar and quaint coffee shops – all within walking distance of the many nearby nightlife hotspots.

New York City may be the city that never sleeps, but Austin could very well hold claim to a similar title: “the city that never ceases to fascinate.” Sixth Street is full of historic buildings and lofts that date back as far as the late 1800s and early 1900s. On any given night, you can enjoy the unique structure of Austin’s prized downtown area.

Austin’s downtown entertainment district consists of seven blocks stretching from East Sixth Street to Congress Avenue, and then to Interstate 35. Here you can find a plethora of bars, cafés, and upscale restaurants. You can even visit one of the many tattoo parlors, if your heart so desires. There are so many interesting aspects of nightlife within walking distance of one another, and you won’t want to skip any of them.

Austin’s Warehouse District, popular among the more mature clientele, is linked on the north and south by West Sixth Street and includes many chic restaurants that are sure to please your taste buds between all of the entertainment. Republic Square is located between the Warehouse District and the lively Sixth Street and offers unique scenery of live oak trees.

Speakeasy is a spot that differs from the traditions of most clubs because of its alleyway entrance, reminiscent of speakeasies during Prohibition. Kick back in the mezzanine area, where antique couches, a bar, a pool table, and televisions overlook the dance floor. One of the supreme views of downtown Austin can be enjoyed from the beautiful rooftop terrace. Enjoy the sounds of live Austin bands nightly on any of the club’s three levels.  

Cuba Libre offers night-goers a taste of La Havana, its old Latin styles fusing with a Caribbean vibe. Here you can enjoy spectacular dishes straight from the Caribbean grill. Take pleasure in the tunes of a live D.J. as you indulge in some great eating!

During Mardi Gras, you’re sure to experience excitement on Sixth Street and in the Warehouse District. Thousands from around the city and even beyond the state flock to the multiple-day event. Drinks, festive beads, and good times greet partygoers in every direction. This is an event that Austin residents and students look forward to every year.

Never before have you been in a city with such lively outdoor venues; or a city with the creative genius to successfully boast sounds of jazz, blues, rock, hip-hop, and country in the same locale. Nightlife in Austin is a grand experience because you can go from club to club, bar to bar, and restaurant  to restaurant without having to get in your car or hop in a taxi. Whether you’re dressed to impress or seeking a casual crowd to join, you can arrive on the scene comfortably by foot.

Austin nightlife can easily become a lifestyle! There is fun to be had by all, and the options are endless. Park your car, or hop on one of the many shuttles, and enjoy the sights and sounds of an ever-growing city that welcomes the opportunity to entertain.