If you’re the kind of person who loves staying up late and exploring a city after dark, then you’ll love Austin, Texas.
The capital city of Texas is known for its live music and nightlife scene.
This vibrant, eclectic city has something to offer for everyone and there’s no shortage of things to do once the sun goes down.
Here’s an ultimate guide to Austin after dark!
Also Read: 25 Best Quotes about Austin, Texas
Best things to do in Austin at night
When the sun goes down, Austin comes alive!
The city’s reputation as a party college town, live music capital, and its slogan of ‘Keep Austin Weird’ all combine to make for a nightlife scene that’s like no other.
Here are just a few of the best things to do in Austin at night.
Listen to Live Music on Sixth Street
No trip to Austin is complete without spending at least one night on Sixth Street, the city’s famous live music hub.
This historic street is lined with bars, clubs, and music venues, and it’s the perfect place to start your evening.
Stretching six blocks from Congress Avenue to I-35, Sixth Street is home to more than 50 bars and clubs.
Most of these live music venues feature great music and performances by local bands 7 nights a week.
So whether you’re in the mood for country, rock, blues, or just a wild night out, Sixth Street is the place to be.
Just be sure to stay safe and watch your belongings while enjoying Austin nightlife, as Sixth Street can be a bit rowdy after dark.
Take a Ghost Tour of the Driskill Hotel
Nestled in the heart of downtown Austin, the Driskill Hotel has been a landmark of the city since its opening.
From the opulent lobby to the luxurious guest rooms, the Driskill Hotel still retains its old-world charm.
However, it also has a reputation for being haunted and if you’re up for something on the spooky side, then a ghost tour of the historic Driskill is a must.
The Haunted walking tour takes guests through some of the most haunted areas of the hotel and its history.
You can also learn about the Presidential Suite, where Lyndon B. Johnson and Lady Bird Johnson used to stay.
Plus, you’ll hear tales of outlaws, murders, and even other ghosts of Downtown Austin on the walking ghost tour!
The ghost tour gives you chills while also teaching you about Austin’s rich history.
Go bar hopping on Rainey Street
Looking for things to do on your next Saturday night?
Bar hopping on Rainey Street in Austin is the perfect way to spend an evening out with friends.
The street is lined with unique bars of all types, from laid-back dive bars to chic cocktail lounges.
No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find a bar that suits your fancy on Rainey Street.
And best of all, the bars are all within walking distance of each other, so you can easily hop from one to the next without having to worry about driving.
Start your evening at Container Bar, made entirely out of repurposed shipping containers, then head to Icenhauer’s for excellent cocktails in an old Victorian house.
End your night with some drinks on the patio at Half Step, one of Rainey Street’s most popular bars.
Take the skyline views from the boardwalk on Lady Bird Lake
If you’re not in the mood for a crazy night out, don’t worry—there are plenty of things to do.
Outdoor lover? Why not take a stroll around Lady Bird Lake?
The lake offers beautiful views of downtown Austin, and it’s especially lovely at night when the skyline is lit up.
The boardwalk trail is open up to midnight, though always be aware of your surroundings – especially if you’re by yourself.
Enjoy paddleboarding at night
If you’re looking for a unique way to experience the beauty of Austin at night, look no further than glow-in-the-dark paddle boarding.
This unique activity allows you to paddle on Lady Bird Lake at night while surrounded by a kaleidoscope of luminous colors on your paddleboard.
The experience is an unforgettable way to see the city at night.
You can paddle around the lake while enjoying the view of the city skyline.
Go for a night swim at Barton Springs Pool
One of the most romantic things to do in Austin!
Barton Springs is a three-acre pool that’s fed by underground springs.
It stays a refreshing 68 degrees year-round, so it’s the perfect place to take a dip on a hot summer night.
Sign up for an Austin Night bike tour
If you want to see Austin in a truly unique way, then sign up for an Austin night bike tour.
On this night tour, you’ll pedal your way through the city while enjoying the sights and sounds of Austin at night.
You’ll see landmarks such as the Texas State Capitol Building, Congress Avenue Bridge, and more.
You can also enjoy Bike and Brew tours – these tours run from Thursday night to Sunday night and are pretty popular.
Watch the bats at Congress Avenue Bridge
Every night at dusk, around 1 million bats come out from under the Congress Ave bridge to eat insects.
It’s an amazing sight to behold, and it’s free!
It is also one of the most popular fun night out ideas in Austin for the entire family.
Stroll through Zilker Park
Zilker Park is lovely during the day, but it’s even more magical at night.
The park is home to several different sculptures, as well as the Zilker Botanical Garden.
It’s also a great place to people watch or relax under the stars.
Zilker Park also makes for a great family night.
Rent a boat on Lake Travis
For the ultimate splurge experience, rent a boat on Lake Travis.
You can rent everything from pontoon boats to speedboats, and even a luxury double-decker boat or yacht.
You can even add on extras like jet skis or waterskiing equipment.
Time your rental for sunset and you’ll be in for a truly magical experience.
Spending a day (or night) out on the lake is the perfect way to relax and enjoy the beautiful Austin scenery.
Catch a Show at the Paramount Theatre
The Paramount Theatre is one of Austin’s most iconic landmarks.
It hosts a variety of performances and events each year ranging from musical performances to comedy shows to film screenings.
Located in Downtown Austin, the theatre is famous for its classical Revival style architecture.
It’s worth catching a show here if you’re looking for a classy evening out on the town.
Complete a mission at the Escape Game Austin
The Escape Game is a live-action escape room in which you and your team have one hour to complete a mission.
There are several different missions to choose from, each with its own unique storyline.
This is a great activity for groups of friends or family members looking for something fun and challenging to do together.
Play mini-golf at Peter Pan Mini-Golf
How about a round of mini golf on your next Friday night out on the town?
Peter Pan Mini Golf is a popular spot for Austinites of all ages.
The course is a fun experience for kids with its famous T-Rex, turtle, and Peter Pan sculptures.
It’s also a great place to people-watch as you tee off.
Enjoy the view from Mount Bonnell
Mount Bonnell is one of the highest points in Austin, and it offers stunning views of the city.
It’s a popular spot for sunset viewing, but it’s also beautiful at night.
The best way to get to the top is by hiking the trail – it’s a moderate hike, but it’s worth it for the views.
Also Read: Weekend in Austin Itinerary
No matter what your taste, Austin has something to offer after dark.
So next time you find yourself wondering what to do with your evening, refer back to this guide and try something new!
From live music to historical sites, there’s always something exciting happening in Austin TX at night.