Explore One of Austin's Walkable LGBTQ-Friendly Neighborhoods

We like to say that the whole city of Austin feels like a gayborhood, but if you're looking for a walkable neighborhood with the largest number of LGBTQ+ nightclubs, patio bars and basement lounges then Downtown Austin's Warehouse District is the place to go. There’s something happening all day and all night in this city center.

Interior of DuMonts Down Low basement bar with dark couches and whiskey barrels in Austin Texas
DuMont's Down Low. Credit Mario Andrade Photography.

Fourth Street

Coconut Club
This tropical-themed bar is also known as one of the dance parties in town. The rooftop nightclub hosts local DJs six nights a week and tunes range from disco funk to Afro to electric and everything in between.

Cuatro Gato
Sister bar to Coconut Club, Cuatro Gato serves up Latin sounds along with a bevvy of beer, mezcal, wine and cocktails from South of the border. "Coffee shop by day, perreo by night," keep an eye on their Instagram for themed nights, drag shows and other special events.

Dumont's Down Low
For a calmer scene, check out DuMont's Down Low. The warm and inviting basement, covered with whisky barrels from local distillers and exposed brick of the century old building, creates the perfect atmosphere for a cocktail from the carefully-curated menu.

Highland
A popular gay lounge and dance club, this venue features guest DJs, dance competitions and themed events like drag queen bingo. Drag. Queen. Bingo!

The Iron Bear
The only bear bar in town doesn’t care if you’re a bear; cubs, otters, wolves, and everyone else is welcome here, too. Insider Tip: Go on Sunday for a free karaoke party.

Neon Grotto
Dance the night away at Neon Grotto, a connecting bar to Coconut Club. This neon-themed nightclub has great rooftop views, regular drag shows and DJs spinning late into the night.

Oilcan Harry's (OCH)
Stop by OCH, the oldest gay bar in town, for weekly drag shows, late-night dancing and stiff drinks served by a super friendly bar staff. Into sports? The back bar at OCH has been turned into a sports bar called Score.

Rain on Fourth
Just two doors down from OCH, you’ll find this quintessential gay club. We’re talking DJs blasting pop remixes, a light-up dance floor and weekly amateur strip-off competitions.

The Contemporary Austin Jones Center With Liberty And Justice For All exterior displayThe Contemporary Austin Jones Center. Courtesy of The Contemporary Austin.

Congress Avenue

The Contemporary Austin - Jones Center
Visit this 5,000-square-foot museum to see multidisciplinary exhibitions of contemporary art from all over the world.

Paramount Theatre
This beautiful theater is more than 100 years old and hosts film screenings, live music and other performances.

The pool at W Austin hotel at twilightWET Deck. Courtesy of W Austin.

2nd Street

2nd Street Shopping
Austin-owned boutiques, award-winning restaurants and exciting entertainment make the vibrant 2nd Street District a top destination in Downtown Austin. Shop a variety of styles from dozens of boutiques like League of Rebels tailored menswear and music-inspired apparel at Austin Rocks.

Jo's Coffee
The Jo's in the 2nd Street District serves full breakfast, lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch along with Jo's Coffee all day long. Come down for the weekly Sinner's Brunch on Sundays, or two-for-one burgers on Tuesdays (3 p.m. to close).

Violet Crown Cinema
Local arthouse cinema Violet Crown is a beloved date night destination. The intimate theater shows independent, documentary and international films and offers a full menu of upgraded snacks to share.

AWAY Austin Spa & WET Deck
The stunning W Austin hotel's AWAY Spa is a great place to re-charge and detox after a night out in Downtown Austin. Treat yourself to a massage, facial or salon service. Afterwards, reserve a cabana at the WET Deck, the hotel's 4th floor pool deck. The WET Deck hosts Sunday funday events with DJs, food and drink specials and more.

Find out more about Downtown Austin in our Entertainment Districts section.