Experience Austin's Vibrant LGBTQ+ Nightlife Scene

Austin is the soul of Texas, and we earn the title of Live Music Capital of the World® by showcasing bands seven nights a week in hundreds of venues across the city. We are home to world-class festivals such as Austin City Limits Music Festival, South by Southwest® and Carnaval Brasileiro, where we deliver the best in music, dance and culture.

Find some of the best LGBTQ-friendly bars, clubs and spots for live music, dancing, DJs and drag shows.

Black and white photo of musician Caleb De Casper in drag performing on stage with band at Empire Control RoomEmpire Control Room & Garage. Credit Cody Ross Cowan.

MUSIC

C-BOY’S HEART AND SOUL
Listen to classic soul and R&B music at this juke-joint with a spacious back patio. Insider Tip: Get cozy in their upstairs lounge styled after a ‘50s era Japanese GI bar.

CHEER UP CHARLIES
Listen to live music, dance under a parachute and drink kombucha from the tap at this LGBTQ-owned indoor/outdoor venue. Be sure to try the vegan Bac’n Cheeze Burger from onsite food truck Arlo’s.

EMPIRE CONTROL ROOM
Self-described as a “modern music space and watering hole” Empire is a great setting for local live music of all genres.

FLAMINGO CANTINA
Home to what they call “good vibes music,” you can see live reggae, ska, Latin and worldbeat music as well as rock, hip-hop, alternative and more.

THE WHITE HORSE
Listen to live country music while you learn to two-step with free dance lessons every Friday and Saturday night at this progressive honky tonk.

FAMILY-FRIENDLY LIVE MUSIC
The kids can experience the Live Music Capital of the World®, too! Take the whole family to all-ages venues like Radio Coffee & Beer or events like the Zilker Summer Musical in Zilker Park each summer. You can even find kids shows at Cherrywood Coffeehouse on Sunday mornings.

Check out our venue guide for a full list of places to see live music while you're in town.

SXSW music showcase with band on stage at night at Spider House Cafe and Ballroom
Courtesy of  The Ballroom at Spider House.

NIGHTLIFE

BARBARELLA
Known by locals as “Barbs,” this dance club holds themed parties most nights and stays open until 3 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Insider Tip: Don’t miss TuezGayz - a local LGBTQ tradition that takes place every Tuesday with happy hour until 11 p.m. and dance videos until 2:30 a.m.

COCONUT CLUB
This tropical-themed dance club and lounge is sure you to have you dancing the night away on their breezy rooftop.

IRON BEAR
Have as relaxed or wild of a night as you want at Iron Bear. Grab a beer and make new friends or dance the night away to hits from the DJ. Check their site for regular special events like karaoke every Wednesday night.

LUSTRE PEARL
Known for tall boys, cocktails and hula hoops, visiting this Rainey Street bar with its huge backyard is like hanging out at a fancy home in the country.

NEON GROTTO
Don your brightest apparel to fit right in at this neon night club. Enjoy stunning rooftop views, regular drag shows and top-notch DJs spinning into the night.

THE BALLROOM AT SPIDERHOUSE
It’s a bar. It’s a patio café. It’s a music venue and an eclectic art installation. This quirky locale captures the essence of Austin with its laid back environment, specialty cocktails and artisan-inspired menu.

SWAN DIVE
This live music venue is connected to Barbarella through a not-so-secret passageway in the back and hosts everything from live indie rock to burlesque shows.

Drag queen performing on stage with DJ behind her.Courtesy of Visit Austin.

DRAG

ELYSIUM NIGHTCLUB
You’re always in for a treat at Elysium. This warehouse nightclub has been hosting Austin’s alternative nightlife since 2001 and is home to a number of drag shows.

HALCYON
Every Saturday, Halcyon hosts show-stopping performances at their weekly drag brunch. Two free mimosas come with every reservation. Bring cash to show your favorite performers some love!

HIGHLAND LOUNGE
Hosting regular drag shows, DJs, ladies’ nights and themed events, Highland brings sophisticated, craft cocktails and a whole lot of party to downtown Austin.

JO'S
Stop by Jo’s Coffee on Second Street on the last Thursday of every month for Drag Queen Bingo featuring, you guessed it, bingo and a drag performance.

RAIN
A staple of the Warehouse District, hosting live entertainment every night of the week. Regular events include Drag class, Martini Mondays, First Aid and Super Bash.

STILL AUSTIN WHISKEY CO.
Hang out in Still Austin's cocktail garden the last Sunday of each month for a lively drag brunch. Grab food from The Bearded Baking Company and specialty cocktails from the tasting room.

For more live music venues and nightlife explore the Austin Insider Blog and our Events Calendar.