Austin Nightlife — Best Bars, Live Music & Things To Do After Dark

Austin’s nightlife sprawls across multiple neighborhoods, each with a distinct vibe. 6th Street is the starting point, but Rainey Street, East Austin, and South Congress are where Austin actually hangs out. Live music is everywhere — venues range from packed honky-tonks to intimate dive bars to massive outdoor amphitheaters.

Best Live Music Venues

Continental Club (South Congress) — The institution. Live music every night — blues, funk, country, R&B. Packed on weekends. No cover charge during the day; evening shows typically $8-15. The back patio is legendary.