Your guide to the best Austin gay bars, LGBT venues and events
Texas, United States
Well-known for being a blue dot in America’s most famously red state, Austin’s spirit (trendy, progressive, and surprisingly outdoorsy) makes it the best kind of anomaly.
Explore the progress of LGBTQ+ rights across the world all in an easy to read charts, graphs, and tables. From public sentiment to protections find it all here so you know when holding hands gets you a look or a sentence.
Visit EqualdexIn the heart of Texas, Austin is more than just the state capital; it’s the self-proclaimed “Live Music Capital of the World.” Start your journey in the vibrant streets of downtown, where the sounds of guitars strumming and drums beating fill the air from Sixth Street to Rainey Street. Here, every bar and restaurant has a stage, and every stage tells a story. But the musical pilgrimage doesn’t end there. Make sure to catch a show at the legendary Austin City Limits Live at The Moody Theater—where careers are made, and legends come to play.
For those who prefer tuning into history over tunes, the Texas State Capitol provides a majestic architectural experience, standing taller than the U.S. Capitol. Take a guided tour and soak in the rich Texan history, from its grand rotunda to the whispering echoes in its halls. Just a stone's throw away, the Bullock Texas State History Museum narrates the state’s saga with artifacts and exhibits that are as bold as Texas itself.
The LGBTQ+ scene has made the entire city its home, but you’ll find especially friendly scenes in the downtown Warehouse District, as well as the neighborhoods of South Congress, Travis Heights, and East Austin. A strong student presence also lends itself to a welcome sense of open-mindedness throughout ATX. Cheer Up Charlies, Elysium, and The Iron Bear are LGBTQ+ hotspots to check out while in town.
Austin’s urban allure is perfectly balanced by its natural splendor. The city is a playground for outdoor enthusiasts—whether it’s hiking, biking, or simply basking in the sun. Zilker Metropolitan Park is the city’s green jewel, offering 351 acres of recreational space. Here, you can plunge into the refreshing waters of Barton Springs Pool, a spring-fed oasis that maintains a cool temperature of about 68 degrees year-round.
For a more secluded nature experience, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, a serene expanse dedicated to preserving native Texas plants. Meander through the gardens and trails adorned with wildflowers that burst into vibrant colors, particularly in the spring. It's a pollinator's paradise and a haven for those seeking tranquility.
No visit to Austin would be complete without exploring its quirky and ever-evolving food scene. The city takes its barbecue seriously, and no palate can escape the smoky allure of Franklin Barbecue—be prepared to stand in line, but remember, good things come to those who wait. For a twist on the traditional, visit The Picnic, where food trucks serve everything from gourmet donuts to vegan delights, ensuring there’s something to tickle every taste bud.
As the sun sets over the Colorado River, take a stroll down to the Congress Avenue Bridge to witness one of Austin’s most peculiar and spectacular sights—the evening bat flight. From spring through fall, hundreds of thousands of Mexican free-tailed bats emerge at dusk in a cloud of winged wonder, drawing spectators from around the globe.
For events in Austin, August is a popular time for Austin Pride celebrations, and if you happen to be in town for Labor Day Weekend, don’t miss Splash Days, a weekend-long gay dance party benefiting the local LGBTQ+ community.
Austin's charm lies in its ability to be many things to many people. It’s a city where cowboy boots meet tech startups, where the hills are alive with the sound of music, and where every street corner has something to explore. Whether you’re paddling on Lady Bird Lake, savoring a craft beer in East Austin, or exploring the eclectic shops on South Congress, Austin invites you to embrace its unique rhythm and find your magical beat. Once you’ve paid the city a visit, you’ll be on board with calling it the best party place in Texas—and will fully support the homegrown rallying cry to “Keep Austin Weird.”
View the index of more than just the best LGBTQ events + gay bars in Austin, Texas, United States
Join our list and get more!
We'll send you upcoming events, free city guides, offers from partners, first access to new features and more.
Sign up now