Austin's Best Hotel Bars

Hotel bars offer a space for both travelers and locals to unwind, partake in a specialty cocktail or craft beer, and get ready for whatever comes next. Whether you’re looking for a tried-and-true Texas institution or a perfect sunset getaway, this list gives you a taste of some Austin-favorite hotel bars.

Photo By: Nick Simonite

Hotel San Jose Courtyard Bar

Hidden behind an ivy-covered stone wall, this courtyard bar at the Hotel San Jose feels like stepping off into another world. With bustling South Congress Avenue just outside the walls of the hotel, the bar offers a relaxed escape for locals and visitors alike. The lounge serves up a selection of beer, wine, cocktails and light fare daily. Be sure to check out their selection of Texas beers!

WATERTRADE 

The Japanese-style cocktail bar is tucked inside the South Congress Hotel. The bar boasts an extensive selection of whiskeys, sake, and craft cocktails. Attached to the Japanese restaurant OTOKO, guests have access to a limited menu with specialty fare and bar bites. Watertrade is open to the public for walk-in bar seating Tuesday-Saturday from 5-11pm. 

Geraldine’s

Tucked within Hotel Van Zandt in Downtown Austin, this charming hotel restaurant and bar offers a Texas-style menu and handcrafted cocktails along with daily live music. The cozy venue offers a stunning view overlooking Lady Bird Lake, making it a hotspot for locals and visitors alike. With menu items such as buttermilk biscuits, blackened Texas redfish and fried green tomatoes, the unique space infuses Southern-inspired culture into every sip and bite on the menu. 

P6 Bar

If you’re looking for an indoor and outdoor bar experience, look no further than P6 at The Line Austin. With stellar views of Lady Bird Lake, the rooftop terrace offers a unique viewing spot of the bats underneath the South Congress Bridge. The intimate outdoor space is perfectly Instagram-worthy, especially during a breathtaking sunset sky. Serving up small plates and seasonal cocktails, the bar offers happy hour specials weekdays from 4-6pm.

Otopia Rooftop Lounge

Looking for a getaway close to campus? The Otis Hotel’s rooftop lounge provides incredible views of the Austin skyline. The 11th floor terrace contains a breathtaking rooftop pool along with a spacious bar area. Enjoy all-day happy hour on Monday and other drink and food specials throughout the week. Remember to arrive early to enjoy the sunset!

The Driskill Bar

On the corner of 6th and Brazos, the historic Driskill Hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring Austin’s lively nightlife scene. The Driskill Bar serves up southern-inspired cocktails and live music seven nights a week. With leather couches and rustic cowhide decor lining every inch of the space, there’s no mistaking that this is a Texas institution. 

The Quill Room

Open for reservations from the general public, The Quill Room at Proper Hotel provides a welcoming yet eclectic feel for both guests and visitors. A French-inspired menu accompanies specialty cocktails amid hints of warm neon. Live music featuring acoustic sets and jam sessions occurs multiple times weekly, so make sure to check their calendar for more details.

Live Oak

Catch a sunset on a spacious deck or enjoy a drink at the indoor lounge in the heart of Downtown Austin. Live Oak at The Four Seasons combines Texas-inspired fare and creative cocktails for a memorable experience. Watch live music Wednesday-Saturday, and take in outstanding views of Lady Bird Lake with a drink in hand.