In a city where it feels like summer for nine months of the year, you’ll want to catch every possible breeze. There are plenty of rooftop bars in Austin where you can enjoy a cold cocktail under the evening sky, or perhaps even take a dip in a pool and listen to live music. Enjoy the ever-changing skyline that is Austin from each of these seven elevated oases.
Browse the Mexican art at Techo Mezcaleria & Agave Bar
Bar, Mexican, $$$
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Techo Mezcaleria & Agave Bar | @ Techo Mezcaleria & Agave Bar
The only rooftop bar in Austin’s Cherrywood neighborhood, Techo is aptly named because it literally means “roof” in Spanish. This tiny bar only holds about two dozen people and often has a line, but the drinks are worth the wait. It helps that the bar is located right on top of Mi Madre’s restaurant, so you can grab a taco while you wait to indulge in your mezcal creation. We wouldn’t fault you for waiting around inside, either. The space is beautifully decorated with an unusual conglomeration of Mexican art, picturesque wrought metal chairs and other curiosities.
Take a dip in the pool at Azul Rooftop Pool Bar + Lounge
Hotel
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Azul Rooftop Bar | @ Errich Petersen
When visiting the Azul Rooftop Pool Bar + Lounge at Austin’s downtown Westin hotel, you can swim while taking in breathtaking views of the city. Open year-round, this rooftop bar and pool offers guests and the public relaxation and drinks, as well as views of Austin sites. Check out the Azul Rooftop page for public pool hours, and consider enjoying a sunset or two, rooftop-style.
The theme is mustaches, not bicycles, at this Texas establishment. If you don’t have a mustache, you can buy a handlebar-style knockoff for $1 and put it on your glass or your face! The rooftop is decorated with twinkle lights and a few green plants and trees, creating an intimate ambiance. Both the upstairs and downstairs bars have fun games to keep patrons entertained. Downstairs, play a game of pool, darts or pinball. On the second floor, there’s a seesaw, rocking horses, cornhole and a giant Jenga set. There’s also a lot of DJs and live music performances, so you can sing and dance to your favorite hit songs. Stop by on Sundays for all-day happy hour.
El Alma has been named one of Austin’s Best Mexican Restaurants. If you love margaritas, then head to this spot. Try one of their many taco options, the Duck Enmoladas or the Shrimp and Crab Relleno. Everything on the menu tastes great and is made with fresh ingredients and tasty sauces. Just make sure to arrive early so that you get a seat on the outdoor, rooftop patio.
Inside the Hotel Van Zandt is a swanky bar filled with creative food and drinks that are sure to liven up any evening. Although named after a guinea fowl who used to roam the neighborhood streets, this rooftop bar doesn’t have a country style. Modern flair is everywhere, including the drink options, and you can enjoy your cocktail poolside. So this weekend, take a dip while you sip. Unfortunately, the pool is for guests only, so maybe split a night out with a couple of friends? Alternatively, you can simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the nightly live music.
With its LED walls, plush rooftop area, sultry servers, and an ever-present high energy, Summit Rooftop Lounge is the perfect place to impress someone or host a bachelor party. Enjoy bottle service with amazing views of downtown Austin, dance to live DJ sets from local and touring acts, or host a luxurious private event. There are lots of great bars in downtown Austin if you’re looking to experience the cities amazing nightlife.
