Gay clubs austin tx

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Rain is one of the most popular and mainstream gay venues downtown, welcoming a mixed crowd of patrons.

gay clubs austin tx

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 8 LGBTQ+ Bars in Austin

1.

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. However, for those who prefer to keep their garms on, The Iron Bear also hosts excellent drag shows, competitions, and brunches alongside Musical Mondays (another one that needs no explanation) when the happy hour is all night long.

Friday nights are especially popular for their Lesbian Dance Party, where the music is great and the crowd is even better. Neon Grotto also hosts excellent drag shows, karaoke fight club, and viewing parties of RuPaul’s Drag Race.

The home of the hirsute Iron Bear is Austin’s bear bar with nightly events geared towards those looking to leave their shirts at home.

The Coconut Club offers a variety of themed events throughout the week, including drag shows and fetish nights. Mainstays like Oilcan Harry’s, Rain on 4th, and the Coconut Club, are spilling in glitter, boys, and eyelashes like never before, and you know these queens will keep going till the cranes come in. Tip: don’t miss Time Out’s Future Seeker, Arinna Heys, who regularly takes to the mainstage.

If you’re a size queen, stop by Highland Lounge.

Think again, my friend.

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Thanks for subscribing! 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.

Take charge and make your own! Explore the vibrant LGBTQ+ community by attending local events, supporting queer-owned businesses, and embracing the city's inclusive spirit. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

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Been there, done that?

VIP bottle service is available to make the occasions extra special. 

When you’re done with downtown, follow the eagle up north, The Austin Eagle, that is. (The bars keep having ‘farewell parties’, but they’re like Cher tours and they keep coming back.)

The good news is that relocation is in the works, so they needn’t head to the breweries yet (phew).

Trust me, you’ll love it.

7. There are actually six bars in total, so you need not worry about being caught in line all night, and if you are, then the go-go boys will surely keep everyone entertained. 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.

They have happy hour specials and a delicious food truck parked outside. Founded by Tamara Hoover and booker Maggie Lea, Cheer Ups is part of the Red River Cultural District. Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Best gay bars in Austin

Cheer Up Charlie’s has been an integral part of LGBTQ+ and music scenes in Austin since opening in 2010.

Open daily from 4pm to 2am.

Tips for Visiting LGBTQ+ Bars in Austin

- Check the bar websites for happy hour specials and upcoming events. Here are the top choices, read more about these bars or click below to see listings of all gay venues in this city.

Austin Gay Bars

Recommended gay friendly hotels in Austin

GayMapper brings you a curated selection of accommodation gay destinations around the world, which are in preferred locations and are welcoming to LGBTQ+ travellers.