7 Best Bars in Downtown with Sixth Street and Rainey Street, Austin

The old-fashioned bar and lounge on the Driskill's mezzanine level is where history is made, from heavy-hitting modern political deals sealed with a handshake to storied LBJ lore like when he proposed to Lady Bird here. Rich fabrics, dark wood, and cowhide aplenty give this bar a warm and cozy appeal. Patrons can enjoy live music every weekend paired with stiff cocktails in a truly elegant Texas setting.

Jazz fanatics love to hold court at this basement locale, named one of the top 10 jazz venues in the country by famed trumpeter Wynton Marsalis. A respected (and locally loved) venue established in 1991, the Elephant is one of the reasons Austin still earns its keep as the "Live Music Capital of the World," with acclaimed local and traveling talent performing onstage every night of the week.

There's really only one place in downtown Austin known for its rip-roaring comedy shows. Esther's has kept Austin rolling with laughter for more than 25 years. Reservations for their popular, award-winning variety shows are required. 

Located on the same block as the Driskill, the "invitation only" part of this hidden speakeasy's description makes it seem like an impenetrable members-only club. In fact, patrons only need to download their app to book a (required) reservation for the night and enter their provided secret code at the alley gate. We won't spoil what greets you once you've crossed the threshold of this stylish secret lair, but the showstopping basement bar is one of the best (and most exclusive) destinations in town for a craft cocktail. Seasonal and weekly menus rotate around abstract themes that will spark the imagination of seasoned connoisseurs. Their sister bar, In Plain Sight, located just above on the ground floor, is another vibey spot for a nightcap.

This multilevel, indoor-outdoor Red River establishment is consistently a frontrunner for "best live music venue" in local Austin polls. With a cool, indoor stage and a killer outdoor stage and sprawling rooftop deck and bar, these guys know how to throw a party. Expect serious jams and strong pours seven nights a week. This is a popular spot for large touring acts throughout the year and during SXSW, the venue hosts multiple days of official, unofficial, and free showcases with lines wrapping around the door for certain acts.

Spot the red gate at the corner of a faux-fern–wrapped parking garage to access this jewel box of a bar. Climb the spiral staircase to the "hidden," highly acclaimed, second-story speakeasy, outfitted with plush blue banquettes, baroque wallpaper, and a wood-box back bar framed in blue and brown subway tiles. Classic cocktails made with large-format Clinebell ice are the specialty here, and bartenders like to get creative with their trove of vintage recipes. Cheese, charcuterie, and other light fare are served until midnight. Walk-ins are welcome all night, every night, but reservations are recommended for groups of four or more. Arrive early to avoid crowds on weekends.

One of the city's most highly touted venues, Stubb's features live music booked by the same folks who produce many of Austin's top shows, including the ACL Festival. This Red River hot spot attracts incredible local and touring artists. The massive outdoor venue, one of the biggest downtown, boasts an impressive monthly calendar of performances from internationally known acts. It's one of the hottest tickets in town for exclusive SXSW shows and ACL after-parties. Additionally, their popular Gospel Brunch, showcasing rotating live gospel acts, is hosted every Sunday.