It's no secret that Austin is home to some of the most top-notch gay bars. From glam-loaded drag shows to nightly entertainment, there’s a lot that the LQBTQ community can explore and enjoy. 

However, with so many options, how do you find out which are the best-rated gay bars in Austin? That's where the 512 area city guide comes in. We’ve curated a small list of LGBTQ-friendly venues in Austin where you can find a flamboyant atmosphere, creatively-crafted cocktails, and a diverse crowd to meet and mingle with.  

Related Read: Happy Hour Bars in Austin

Oilcan Harrys
Bar & Restaurant $
211 W 4th St, Austin TX, 78701
It is one of the oldest gay bars in Austin - and our top recommendation.
Oilcan Harry's come up with karaoke, drag king or queen shows, bingo, and other off-the-wall entertainment. Here you can always expect to have a good time dancing the night away!
Cheer Up Charlies
Bar $
900 Red River, Austin TX, 78701
A colorful bar with happy face emojis and rainbow neon all around! With live music, DJs, and drag performances, it becomes hard to not feel jolly in this amazing LGBT-friendly bar.
Moreover, for you to party hard without guilt, they have a vegan truck at the backside that offers vegan food and drinks.
Coconut Club
Bar $$
310b Colorado Street, Austin TX, 78701
With the loud and proud dance floor of Colorado Street, this gay-friendly bar in Downtown Austin brings a buoyant festivity of the tropics. The Coconut Club offers various activities like trivia nights, karaoke nights, and even tournaments that are open to all ages!
They serve Piña coladas and Gatorade-based cocktails that make you feel at home.
Bar $
611 Red River St, Austin TX, 78701
This multi-floor nightclub is known for its unique theme parties. This bar is perfect for dancing, mingling, and having a good time. We vote it a good pick if you want to catch up with friends after work or enjoy live performances from local artists. So make sure to stop by when you're in the mood for some good drinks and dancing with your gay pals.
Rain on 4th
Bar $
217 W 4th St, Austin TX, 78701
This LGBTQ bar is popular among locals as well as the visiting crowds of Austin.
You can look for go-go boys and local drag queens like Vylette and Nadine Hughes in the bar. Visit for a heavy dose of Gaga and Guetta!
The Iron Bear
Bar & Restaurant $
301 W 6th St, Austin TX, 78701
Providing a relaxing atmosphere, this bear-owned and operated bar welcomes all body types and genders equally. Visit them for dinner and enjoy following drag performances, trivia nights, and fun shows to have a great time!