Lex's Guide to Queer Austin Nightlife | LGBTQ+ Bars and Clubs

Best LGBTQ+ Bars in Austin: Your Guide to a Good Time

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene and friendly liberal atmosphere, and that extends to its thriving LGBTQ+ community. With a diverse range of lesbian and gay bars and nightclubs, there's something for everyone in this queer-friendly city. Whether you're looking for a dance club to let loose, a bar to enjoy a drink with friends, or a lounge for a more relaxed evening, you'll find it all in Austin, TX.

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The top LGBTQ+ bars in Austin:

1. Cheer Up Charlies

Address: 900 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

This iconic bar on Red River is a staple in the Austin gay scene. Known for its lively atmosphere, drag shows, and themed events, Cheer Up Charlies is a must-visit for any LGBTQ+ local or visitor. They have happy hour specials and a delicious food truck parked outside. Open daily from 4pm to 2am.

2. Highland Lounge

Address: 404 Colorado St, Austin, TX 78701

If you’re looking for a laid-back yet lively queer spot in Austin, Highland Lounge is a must visit. This welcoming bar is a favorite among queer women, offering a cozy vibe with a bit of everything. From drag shows and karaoke to weekly dance parties, there’s always something fun happening. Friday nights are especially popular for their Lesbian Dance Party, where the music is great and the crowd is even better. Whether you’re there to hit the dance floor, grab a drink, or just meet a new queer cutie, Highland Lounge is a perfect hangout spot.

3. Iron Bear

Address: 121 E 8th St, Austin, TX 78701

Located in Downtown Austin on Colorado Street, Iron Bear is a popular gay bar with a more relaxed vibe. They offer a great selection of beer and cocktails and have a spacious patio perfect for people-watching. Plus, their themed event nights and drag shows add an extra flare to the fun. Open daily from 2pm to 2am.

4. Barbarella

Address: 615 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

This bar off of 4th St is a favorite among the LGBTQ+ community for its dance floor and impeccable late-night vibes. Self-described as "the best dance club for people who don't like to dance", Barbarella often hosts DJs and live music, making it a great spot to dance the night away or sit on the patio for cheap drinks. Every Tuesday of the week Barbarella hosts TUEZGAYZ, a local LGBTQ+ tradition, where they blast the best gay anthems all night long. Open Thursday-Saturday from 9pm to 2am.

5. The Coconut Club

Address: 1510 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

This club on River St is a popular gay dance club with a vibrant atmosphere. The Coconut Club offers a variety of themed events throughout the week, including drag shows and fetish nights. Open daily from 8pm to 2am.

6. Red River St Karaoke at Swan Dive

Address: 615 Red River St, Austin, TX 78701

If you're in Austin, you have to hit up Red River St Karaoke at Swan Dive. It’s an absolute blast with super chill, queer-friendly vibes, and a crowd that’s all about having fun. Red River St hosts karaoke is on Thursdays, and you’ll hear everything from pop to rock, with plenty of drag queens getting in on the action. The drinks are great, the energy is high, and it’s the perfect spot to meet new queer friends or just let loose and people watch. Trust me, you’ll love it.

7. Oilcan Harry's

Address: 211 W 4th St, Austin, TX 78701

This bar on Colorado St is a classic gay bar with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. Oilcan Harry's is known for its fun drag shows and large patio, making it a great place to hangout with friends or meet new queer people. Open daily from 2pm to 2am.

8. The Grotto

Address: 1711 S 1st St, Austin, TX 78704

This bar on 4th Street is known for its relaxed vibe and delicious kombucha on tap. The Grotto is the perfect spot for those who want to chill out while enjoying great drinks. Open daily from 4pm to 2am.

Tips for Visiting LGBTQ+ Bars in Austin:

• Check the bar websites for happy hour specials and upcoming events. Use the Lex app, the best place to find LGBTQ+ events happening near you and new queer friends to bring along!
• Comfort is key in Austin, as dancing can be expected.
• Embrace the queer culture and have a good time!

In summary:

Austin's LGBTQ+ scene is a vibrant tapestry woven with diverse experiences and chill vibes. From the iconic Cheer Up Charlies on Red River with its drag shows and themed events, to the relaxed vibes of Iron Bear on Colorado St, there's a bar, or dance floor, for every mood.

Dance the night away at Barbarella on 4th St, a popular gay club with a pulsating dance floor and late-night entertainment. For a more intimate setting, head to The Grotto on 4th Street, known for its welcoming vibes and delicious kombucha on tap.

Don't miss Oilcan Harry's on Colorado Street, a classic gay bar with a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. This bar has been a staple in the Austin gay scene for years, offering a haven for the entire LGBTQ+ community.

Beyond the bars in Austin, Austin boasts one of the most thriving queer cultures in Texas. Explore the vibrant LGBTQ+ community by attending local events, supporting queer-owned businesses, and embracing the city's inclusive spirit. Use Lex, the LGBTQ+ app, to find local events, connect with the LGBTQ+ community, and discover the best places to go in Austin.

Experience the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene in Austin for yourself and discover why this city is a beloved destination for the queer community.

Find your perfect plans on Lex

There’s always something queer happening on Lex. Download Lex and filter your feed by Events to see everything happening in your area. Nothing speaking to you? Take charge and make your own! Create an Event and get friends (read some tips on finding new queer friends here) together to check out a queer bar in your city. Queer cuties in your neighborhood are right at your fingertips - go meet them!

Looking for something a little less nightlife-related? We’ve got tips for sober activities, too. And check out our other city guides here.

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