The Absolute Best College Bars in Austin [Updated 2024]

But before we dive into the lighthearted fun and unforgettable nights, let me assure you that I have meticulously reviewed a whopping eight establishments to bring you the crème de la crème of Austin's bar scene. From dimly lit dives to trendy rooftop hangouts, these college bars have it all.

So, whether you're a student looking for the perfect spot to unwind or a visitor seeking an authentic Austin experience, sit back, relax, and let me take you on a boozy tour of the best college bars this city has to offer!

Buckshot

Highlights
Chill atmosphere
Live music
Reasonably priced drinks
Friendly and helpful staff
Drink specials throughout the week

As soon as I stepped foot into Buckshot, I was greeted by a chill atmosphere that instantly put me at ease. The crowd was filled with energetic and friendly college students, creating an inviting ambiance that made me feel right at home.

One thing that immediately caught my attention was the live music. The talented local bands created an electric atmosphere that had everyone dancing and singing along. It was clear that Buckshot is a popular hangout for music lovers and college students alike.

Let's not forget about the drinks! Buckshot offers a wide variety of reasonably priced drinks that cater to all tastes. From craft beers to signature cocktails, their drink menu has something for everyone. Plus, they have drink specials throughout the week, making it even more affordable for us budget-conscious college students.

The staff at Buckshot were exceptional. They were not only friendly, but also incredibly helpful. Whether it was recommending a drink or simply engaging in conversation, they made sure to create a memorable experience for each patron.

Overall, Buckshot proved to be a top contender for the best college bars in Austin. With its chill atmosphere, fantastic live music, reasonably priced drinks, and friendly staff, it checks all the boxes. If you're looking for a fun and lively spot to hang out with friends or catch some live music, Buckshot is definitely worth a visit.

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The Dizzy Rooster

Highlights
Homeless lady claims to be owner's wife
Pink haired girl does flips and tricks
Guy with cut off has excellent humor
Coldest AC on the street
Great drinks

Walking into The Dizzy Rooster, I was immediately greeted by a lively and energetic atmosphere. It didn't take long for the bar to live up to its reputation as one of the best college bars in Austin.

First and foremost, let's talk about the characters I encountered. As I found a seat at the bar, a homeless lady confidently approached and introduced herself as the owner's wife. While I'm not entirely convinced on the truth of that claim, her presence added a unique flair to the atmosphere.

But the real showstopper was the pink haired girl by the pool table. Not only did she perform impressive flips and tricks, but she did so with such grace and skill that it was impossible to take my eyes off her. It was like watching a live circus act!

Speaking of entertaining personalities, the guy with the cut off t-shirt had wit sharper than a freshly poured beer. His jokes and one-liners provided hilarious moments throughout the night, keeping everyone laughing.

Now, let's talk about the physical aspects of The Dizzy Rooster. Despite the Texas heat, this place boasted the coldest AC on the street. It was a refreshing escape from the sweltering temperatures outside, making it the perfect place to cool off and enjoy a cold beverage.

And speaking of beverages, the drinks at The Dizzy Rooster were top-notch. From classic cocktails to innovative creations, their bartenders knew their craft. Each sip was a delightful blend of flavors, making it impossible to resist ordering another round.

Overall, The Dizzy Rooster is a vibrant and entertaining college bar. With its lively atmosphere, memorable characters, refreshing AC, and fantastic drinks, it's easy to see why it's a favorite hangout spot for college students in Austin. Cheers to The Dizzy Rooster for delivering a memorable experience!

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Posse East

Highlights
Friendly staff
Historic atmosphere
Good food and drinks

Posse East is a hidden gem among college bars in Austin. As soon as I walked through the door, I was greeted by a friendly staff that made me feel right at home. The atmosphere of this place is rich with history, and it's evident in every corner. The walls are adorned with vintage photos and memorabilia, taking you on a trip down memory lane.

But let's talk about the most important aspect of any college bar - the drinks! Posse East does not disappoint. Whether you want to kick back with a classic beer or try one of their signature cocktails, they have something for everyone. I highly recommend their margarita - it had just the right amount of tang and tequila kick.

Now, let's move on to the food. Posse East offers a menu that is sure to satisfy any hunger pangs. From juicy burgers to mouthwatering nachos, their selection is both extensive and delicious. And the best part? The portions are generous and perfect for sharing with your college buddies.

In terms of pricing, Posse East won't break the bank. It offers affordable options for college students on a budget, ensuring that you can enjoy a night out without worrying about your wallet.

Overall, Posse East is a must-visit college bar in Austin. Its friendly staff, historic atmosphere, and tasty food and drinks make it the perfect spot to unwind after a long day of classes. So gather your friends and head over to Posse East for a night you won't forget. Cheers!

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Cain & Abel's

Highlights
Close to campus
$8 Texas teas
Good food
Friendly bartenders
Stellar atmosphere

Let me start off by saying that Cain & Abel's is the epitome of a classic college bar. Conveniently located close to campus, it's a favorite hangout spot for students looking to unwind after a long day of lectures and exams.

One of the biggest draws of Cain & Abel's is their legendary $8 Texas teas. These potent drinks are a staple for those looking to have a great time without breaking the bank. Trust me, a couple of these and you'll be feeling good for the rest of the night.

But Cain & Abel's is not just about the drinks. The food here is surprisingly delicious. From juicy burgers to mouthwatering nachos, their menu is perfect for satisfying those late-night cravings or grabbing a bite before a big game.

The friendly bartenders at Cain & Abel's are always ready to whip up your favorite cocktail and engage in lively conversations. They create a warm and welcoming atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere.

Speaking of atmosphere, Cain & Abel's has it in spades. The vibrant patio area is the perfect spot for hanging out with friends, and the lively interior is adorned with college memorabilia, giving it an authentic college bar feel.

All in all, Cain & Abel's is a must-visit for any college student in Austin. With its close proximity to campus, unbeatable drink prices, great food, and friendly staff, it's no wonder this place is a hit among the college crowd. So grab your friends, head on over, and get ready for a night to remember.

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Yellow Jacket Social Club

Highlights
Quintessential East ATX vibe
Excellent food
Great patio seating
Laidback hangout bar
True east side gem

Walking into Yellow Jacket Social Club, I instantly felt the quintessential East ATX vibe that every college student looks for in a bar. The atmosphere was laidback and effortlessly cool, making it the perfect spot for a casual night out with friends.

One of the highlights of Yellow Jacket Social Club is its excellent food. The kitchen is known for serving up delicious dishes that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you're craving a juicy burger or a vegan-friendly option, they have you covered. The menu is diverse and offers something for everyone.

The bar also boasts a great patio seating area, perfect for those warm Austin evenings. The outdoor space is spacious and inviting, offering a relaxed ambiance that students desire after a long day of classes.

What sets Yellow Jacket Social Club apart from other bars in the area is its status as a true east side gem. Located away from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin, it provides a unique and authentic experience for college students looking for a break from the typical college bar scene.

Overall, Yellow Jacket Social Club is a laidback hangout bar that captures the essence of college life in Austin. With its East ATX charm, excellent food, and inviting patio, it's no wonder why this bar is a favorite among college students. So, the next time you're in town, be sure to check out Yellow Jacket Social Club for a memorable night out.

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Cheers Shot Bar

Highlights
Great music and drinks
Friendly bartender
Wide shot selection
Helpful bartender
Smoking area available

Walking into Cheers Shot Bar, I was immediately greeted by the energetic tunes coming from the DJ booth. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement, and I knew I was in for a good time.

The bar itself was lively, filled with college students having a great time. As I approached the counter, I was met with a smile from the friendly bartender. He was quick to take my order and even recommended some of the bar's most popular shots.

Speaking of shots, Cheers Shot Bar boasts an impressive array of options. Whether you're a fan of classic shots or looking for something a little more adventurous, they have you covered. From the famous Kamikaze to unique concoctions like the PB&J shot, there's something for everyone.

What really impressed me was the helpful bartender. Not only did he provide excellent service, but he also took the time to engage with customers and make sure everyone was having a good time. He knew how to mix up a mean drink and create a fun experience for all.

For those who enjoy a smoke with their drink, Cheers Shot Bar even has a smoking area available. This allows smokers to enjoy their break without having to leave the lively ambiance of the bar.

Overall, Cheers Shot Bar is a must-visit for college students looking for a great time. With great music, a wide shot selection, and a friendly and helpful bartender, it's no wonder this place is a hit among the college crowd. So grab your friends, head on over, and raise your glasses to a night you won't forget. Cheers!

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Midnight Cowboy

Highlights
Semi-private spot
Low key vibes
Knowledgeable staff
Custom made drinks
Private small rooms

Walking into Midnight Cowboy, I immediately felt like I had entered a hidden gem of the Austin nightlife scene. Tucked away behind an unassuming door, the bar boasts a semi-private spot that feels like a secret society for college students looking for a unique drinking experience.

The low key vibes of Midnight Cowboy are perfect for those nights when you want to escape the crowded, noisy bars and just unwind with friends. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with dim lighting and comfortable seating, giving it a speakeasy feel that transports you back to the Prohibition era.

One of the highlights of my visit was the staff at Midnight Cowboy. They were not only friendly and welcoming, but also extremely knowledgeable about their craft. The bartenders were artists in their own right, skillfully creating custom made drinks tailored to each guest's preferences. It was like having a personal mixologist at your service.

What sets Midnight Cowboy apart from other college bars in Austin are the private small rooms available for reservation. These cozy nooks provide a more intimate experience for groups, where you can hang out with friends and enjoy your custom crafted beverages without any distraction. It's a great option for celebrating a special occasion or just having a more private gathering.

Overall, Midnight Cowboy impressed me with its unique atmosphere, skillful staff, and customizable drinks. If you're looking for a bar that offers a break from the typical college bar scene, I highly recommend giving Midnight Cowboy a visit. Just remember to make a reservation, as this hidden gem can fill up quickly.

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The Library Bar

Highlights
Unique vibe
Great venue
Fantastic service

The first thing that caught my attention about The Library Bar was its unique vibe. Stepping inside, I immediately felt like I was transported into a classic library from a vintage movie. The walls were lined with bookshelves, and cozy reading nooks were scattered throughout the venue. It had a quirky and fun atmosphere, perfect for college students looking to unwind.

The venue itself was great. I loved the layout of the bar, with multiple seating areas to accommodate both large groups and intimate gatherings. There were plenty of tables available, and the bar area was well-stocked with a variety of drinks to suit all tastes. The dim lighting added to the cozy ambiance, making it an inviting spot to relax after a long day of classes or exams.

Now, let's talk about the service - it was fantastic. The staff at The Library Bar were not only friendly and attentive, but they also exhibited a genuine enthusiasm for their craft. From recommending their signature cocktails to ensuring that everyone had a drink in hand, their hospitality was top-notch. I appreciated their knowledge of the menu and their willingness to make custom drink orders. It truly made the experience memorable.

Overall, The Library Bar is a top contender when it comes to college bars in Austin. Its unique vibe, great venue, and fantastic service set it apart from the rest. So if you're looking for a playful yet professional place to enjoy a night out, grab a book-themed cocktail and head on over to The Library Bar.

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