Rainey Street

Get to Know Rainey Street's Restaurants, Bars & Things to Do

Renovated houses turned into bungalow bars reign supreme on Rainey, the increasingly popular tucked-away street. Day or night, you’ll find relaxed bar-goers strolling from bar to food trailer to bar again, often with their dogs in tow looking for a kicked back sip and a bite.

Nightlife & Live Music

Populated on all days that end in “Y” for back patio bar performances, SXSW Conference & Festivals steps up the tempo on Rainey Street and takes over the road with hot ticket music acts and celeb spotting moments every March. Fans of mixology, be sure to stop into Half Step for a drink and a longing glance at their Clinebell ice machine. Inspired by the Carribean and Latin America, Idle Hands will transport you to a tropical escape. Swing in the sunshine in a hammock on Lucille's patio or grab a friend for some bar games at Lustre Pearl. Clive Bar's swanky vibe and big wooden deck make it the perfect spot for a date night or a group outing. Visit the smallest bar you may ever see at Little Brother Bar, with just four bar stools. Stick around to watch vintage VHS tapes and soak up the nostalgia.

Dining

Begin with brunch at Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden, a rowdy affair with 100+ beers on draft and a dog-friendly patio. Or toast Geraldine’s at Hotel Van Zandt, featuring champagne and New American dishes. Hailed by Bon Appétit as one of the best restaurants in the country, Emmer & Rye is at the top of its game with creative dishes, thoughtful cocktails and an American take on dim sum. Known for their "TexAsian Grub," Anthem is the spot for anything from brunch feasting to fueling those late night cravings. Traveling with a group? Get the PuPu Party Platter for four with brisket rangoons, shishito pepper queso, honey sriracha popcorn chicken and more. For a late night treat (or any time of day or night), donuts are the right choice. Find the sweetest versions at Little Lucy’s Mini Donuts.

Arts

Austin's diverse culture is not just contained in a museum but sprinkled throughout the entire city. The mission of the Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center (MACC) is the preservation and promotion of Latin culture. Entrance is free, and you can while away the hours at the two on-site museums, participate in an educational program, or attend a cultural event or performance. Just outside, you'll find the Trail of Tejano Legends statues which recognize local Latin musicians that helped shape Austin's music scene in the '40s and '50s. Then, join the Tejano Walking Trail which guides visitors through the heart of the East Cesar Chavez and Holly neighborhoods, historically Hispanic residential areas. The Tejano Walking Trail covers an expansive part of American history in a loop of just under 5 miles.

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