Welcome to the heart of Texas, where the Formula 1 Grand Prix revs up Austin’s atmosphere this weekend! While you’re in town to witness
the thrilling races at the Circuit of the Americas, there’s so much more to
explore. Austin is known for its unique neighborhoods and diverse entertainment
options. In this guide, we’ll take you on a journey through East 6th Street,
Rainey Street, Downtown and keep it weird with 78704 neighborhood districts,
showcasing the best restaurants, bars, music venues, and even an opportunity
for some outdoor adventure on Lake Austin.
East 6th Street
East 6th Street is an iconic hub for live music and vibrant
nightlife. Over the years, it has evolved into a hotspot for locals and
visitors alike, offering a wide range of entertainment, from historic dive bars
to hip cocktail lounges.
Restaurants:
- Licha’s Cantina – Offering mouthwatering Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Website | Instagram
- The Hightower – A farm-to-table restaurant with creative dishes in a
trendy atmosphere. Website | Instagram - Takoba – Authentic Mexican fare with a fantastic outdoor patio perfect for
people-watching. Website | Instagram
Bars:
- The White Horse – A honky-tonk dive bar with live music and an authentic
Texas feel. Website | Instagram - Whisler’s– Craft cocktails in a hip atmosphere with an outdoor space for enjoying
Austin’s pleasant evenings. Website | Instagram - Shangri-La – A relaxed bar with an expansive outdoor patio, offering a diverse
selection of drinks. Website | Instagram
Live Music Venues:
- The Mohawk – A renowned live music venue with both indoor and outdoor
stages. Website | Instagram - Hotel Vegas – A laid-back spot for live music and a spacious patio to enjoy
the Austin breeze. Website | Instagram - Scoot Inn – One of the oldest live music venues in Austin, offering a unique
and historical experience. Website | Instagram
Rainey Street
Rainey Street is a trendy, bungalow-lined street that’s
become famous for its food trucks and craft beer offerings. It’s the perfect
place to unwind and soak in Austin’s unique atmosphere.
Restaurants:
- Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden – A sprawling beer garden with an
impressive selection of sausages. Website | Instagram - Emmer & Rye – A farm-to-table restaurant with an ever-evolving menu
based on seasonal ingredients. Website | Instagram - Craft Pride – A craft beer-focused bar with an extensive list of local Texas
brews. Website |Instagram
Bars:
- Lucille Patio Lounge – A relaxed and inviting bar with an excellent selection
of craft cocktails. Website | Instagram - Half Step – A cozy cocktail lounge offering meticulously crafted drinks in
a historic house. Website | Instagram - Container Bar – A unique bar made from shipping containers with a variety of
drinks and a lively atmosphere. Website | Instagram
Live Music Venues: (While Rainey Street isn’t known
for live music, you can catch performances at nearby venues like Antone’s or
The Continental Club.)
78704 Neighborhood District
The 78704 area, often called “SoCo” (South Congress) and “SoLa” (South Lamar) are trendy neighborhoods known for its
eclectic shops, food trucks, and a vibrant mix of local culture.
Restaurants:
- Perla’s Seafood & Oyster Bar – A coastal-inspired seafood restaurant with
a fantastic patio. Website | Instagram - Home Slice Pizza – Serving up authentic New York-style pizza in the heart
of Texas. Website | Instagram - Güero’s Taco Bar – A beloved Tex-Mex spot with a lively atmosphere and
fantastic margaritas. Website | Instagram
Live Music Venues:
1. The Continental Club – A legendary venue with a rich history of hosting blues, rock, and country acts. Website | Instagram
2. Saxon Pub – An iconic Austin spot where you can catch live music from local and national artists. Website | Instagram
3. The ABGB (Austin Beer Garden Brewing Company) – A brewpub with a great selection of craft beer and live music performances. Website | Instagram
Downtown Austin
Downtown Austin is the epicenter of the city’s energy, with a mix of historic and modern architecture,
entertainment, and culture.
Restaurants:
- La Condesa – Modern Mexican cuisine with an extensive tequila and mezcal
selection. Website | Instagram - Moonshine Patio Bar & Grill – A Southern-inspired restaurant with a relaxed
yet upscale atmosphere. Website | Instagram - Fareground
– A food hall featuring a variety of local culinary options in a bustling
downtown setting. Website | Instagram
Bars:
- The Roosevelt Room – An award-winning cocktail bar known for its inventive
libations. Website | Instagram - HandleBar
– A multi-level bar with a rooftop patio and a diverse selection of
drinks. Website | Instagram - The Driskill Bar – A historic and elegant bar located in the iconic
Driskill Hotel. Website | Instagram
Live Music Venues:
- ACL Live at The Moody Theater – A state-of-the-art venue known for hosting
major concerts and live recordings. Website | Instagram - The Continental Club – A legendary venue with a rich history of hosting
blues, rock, and country acts. Website | Instagram - The Parish – An intimate venue that showcases a diverse range of local and
touring bands. Website
| Instagram
Boating on Lake Austin
After exploring the best of Austin’s neighborhoods, take a
break with some outdoor adventure on Lake Austin. Whether it’s a morning
kayaking or an evening paddleboarding session, you can rent equipment from Wet’n’Wild
Rentals to enjoy the serene waters. Website | Instagram
Austin’s F1 weekend is not just about racing; it’s an
opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, cuisine, and
outdoor experiences. Enjoy your time in the Live Music Capital of the World!
Come book your next Austin adventure with SPRKhost Vacation Rentals at www.sprkhost.com or follow us on instagram @sprkhost_vacation.