East Austin is a vibrant and creative neighborhood that really comes alive with energy after dark. When you’re looking forward to a night out complete with music, dancing, and craft cocktails, East Austin nightlife offers endless ways to explore! Here, we’re highlighting the best things to do in East Austin, from breweries and bars to live music and delicious late-night eats.
East Austin Nightlife: Where the Evening Begins
For many visitors to East Austin, the area is extra memorable thanks to its unique blend of modern creativity and historic charm. Here, eclectic late-night venues sit on streets dotted with colorful murals. The vibe is decidedly laid-back in the daytime, but full of possibility after the sun goes down. As the sun sets, restaurant patios in East Austin begin to fill with patrons, and music drifts through open doors. The area quickly transforms into a place where guests want to linger longer than they originally planned!
The Neighborhood’s Must‑Visit Hotspots
There’s no shortage of East Austin things to do to add to your itinerary when you head this way after sunset. The area is filled with unique spots that set the tone for an evening of fun filled with drinks, friends, and music. We highly recommend taking time to check out:
- Plaza Saltillo—walkable hub in East Austin known for its restaurants, breweries, and outdoor seating options
- East 6th Street District—popular for cozy lounges, eclectic mix of bars, and high-energy music venues
- Springdale General—more modern complex with art studios, cafes, and fewer evening events for a more tranquil take on a night out
- Chicon & 12th Street Corridor—one-stop destination for wine lounges, creative spaces, and cocktail bars in East Austin
Travelers who book their East Austin vacation rental through Renters Club will enjoy being close to the action, no matter which area of East Austin you can’t wait to check out first.
Explore Bars, Breweries, and Cocktails
There are great drinks in Austin just about everywhere you roam, but East Austin has a unique way of inspiring the taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for a mezcal cocktail, a glass of wine, or a crisp local beer, you’ll find a spot here that fits your style.
Local Favorites for Craft Drinks
If you’re looking for a local stop in East Austin for craft drinks with friends, you’re in luck. There are many destinations in this area that highlight creativity and flavor in tandem. Whisler’s is a fan-favorite cocktail lounge in East Austin that features impressive drinks and a patio where live music is performed in the evening. It’s typical for patrons to get the dancing going early here as they enjoy their beverage of choice off one of the four award-winning seasonal cocktail menus crafted here each year!
- Address: 1816 E 6th Street, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Phone: 512-480-0781
- Cocktail Menu
You’ll also want to make your way over to Shangri-La at least once during your stay. This laid-back dive bar is loved for its spacious patio, bold drink selections, and iconically friendly crowd. Shangri-La functions as a dual bar and beer garden that also hosts a dog-friendly outdoor lounge area. The jukebox tunes that play each evening on-site only add to the fun ambiance you’ll find when you arrive.
- Address: 1016 E 6th Street, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Hours: 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM Monday through Thursday
- 2:00 PM to 2:00 AM Friday through Sunday
- Events
Live Music, Dining, and Entertainment
East Austin is a part of the city that’s deeply connected to musical culture. Here, visitors can find a variety of outdoor stages, intimate venues, and eateries that host live performances throughout the week.
Venues Showcasing Austin’s Music Scene
If live music is what you’re after, East Austin nightlife has you covered. This is a place where DJs, jazz musicians, indie bands, and acoustic talent regularly take to the stage. At Renters Club, we have homes near live music venues to enjoy, like The White Horse. This local honky-tonk is a great place to listen to live country music when you’re in the mood to dance. There’s outdoor seating, an on-site taco truck, and a wide variety of cocktails to sip as you enjoy the show. Reservations aren’t accepted, so be sure to arrive early to get a great place.
- Address: 500 Comal Street, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Hours: 3:00 PM to 2:00 AM daily
- Musical Lineup
When you’re in the mood for an indie show, make your way to Hotel Vegas. This is a popular East Austin music venue that hosts two full stages, a bar, food trucks on-site, and a spacious patio. It’s a great destination for making the most of themed nights and indie band performances that will introduce you to new Austin grooves with every set.
- Address: 1502 E 6th Street, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Tickets
- Calendar of Events
Late‑Night Eats Near the Action
Your East Austin night out isn’t complete without some great food included. Fortunately, this area of town never fails to impress on that front. You’ll find everything from food trucks and cafes to upscale dining with late-night options on the menu. If you’re craving a New York-style slice, head over to Sammataro Pizza. It’s a great place to find yourself when you have a post-bar appetite to attend to and are looking for a classic, supreme, or vodka pie to satisfy.
- Address: 2907 E. 12th Street, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Hours: 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM Monday through Thursday
- 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM Friday
- 12:00 PM to 10:00 PM Saturday
- 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM Sunday
- Menu
When your plans have you out in East Austin until the small hours of the morning, Industry is the place to be. This late-night eatery serves everything from bowls and burgers to tacos, breakfast fare, and brisket! From the cocktails and wine listings to the ice cold beer on the menu, you’ll find everything you need and more to keep the party going.
- Address: 1211 E 5th Street #150, Austin, Texas, 78702
- Hours: 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM Monday
- 9:00 AM to 1:00 AM Tuesday through Thursday
- 9:00 AM to 2:00 AM Friday
- 10:00 AM to 2:00 AM Saturday
- 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM Sunday
- Menu
Book Your Stay Near East Austin Nightlife Today
If you want to experience the best of East Austin like a local, staying nearby is the best way to make the most of everything the neighborhood has to offer. At Renters Club, we provide our guests with access to comfortable and stylish rentals that come with easy access to great restaurants, bars, music venues, and more. When you book your stay through us, you’ll enjoy:
- Modern amenities
- Stylish interiors
- Plenty of space to relax, roam, and recharge
- Walkable locations
- Home-away-from-home options for solo travelers, couples, small groups, and families
Take some time today to browse our collection of vacation rentals in Austin to find the accommodations you love. Don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions you have along the way, or for help with booking your stay. We’re here to make sure your next trip to Austin is one-of-a-kind and fully tailored to your travel style.
