The Absolute Best Country Bars in Austin [Updated 2024]

Yeehaw! Austin, Texas is known for its vibrant music scene, and there's no shortage of fantastic country bars to get your cowboy boots tapping.

I've personally visited and reviewed a total of 8 honky-tonks in this lively city, and let me tell you, they're as good as it gets. Whether you're a two-stepping pro or just looking for a good time with a cold beer in hand, this article is your ticket to the top spots where you can kick up your heels and enjoy some toe-tapping tunes.

So grab your hat, saddle up, and let's delve into the best country bars Austin has to offer!

The White Horse

Highlights
Live country music
Active dancing floor
Good draft beer selection

First things first, as soon as I walked through the doors of The White Horse, I could hear the twangy sounds of live country music filling the air. The establishment boasts a rotating lineup of talented musicians who really know how to get the crowd's boots tappin'.

The atmosphere at The White Horse is nothing short of lively. The spacious dance floor is always bustling with energetic, boot-scootin' patrons, proving that this is truly a place where people come to let loose and have a good time.

One of the highlights of my visit was the great selection of draft beers. They had a variety of local and craft brews that perfectly complemented the country vibe. Each sip made me feel like I was truly immersed in the heart of Texas.

The staff at The White Horse were not only friendly but also knowledgeable about the different types of music and dance styles. They were more than happy to suggest songs or even teach a few dance steps to those feeling a little shy.

Overall, my experience at The White Horse was nothing short of fantastic. It's a place that truly embodies the spirit of country music and embraces the sense of community that comes with it. Whether you're a seasoned country enthusiast or just looking for a fun night out, The White Horse is the perfect place to two-step your way into a memorable evening.

You might also want to check out the best bars in Austin.

San Jac Saloon

Highlights
Live music
Friendly staff
Good prices

Walking into San Jac Saloon, I immediately felt the infectious energy of a true country bar. The live music that filled the air was nothing short of fantastic. Whether it was a twangy guitar solo or a lively fiddle tune, the bands knew how to get the crowd on their feet and dancing. It was impossible not to tap my boots along to the rhythm.

I was pleasantly surprised to find the staff at San Jac Saloon to be incredibly friendly. They were quick to offer a warm smile and were always ready to lend a hand, whether it was suggesting their favorite drink or helping me find a spot to enjoy the music. It's these small touches that truly make a difference and add to the overall enjoyable experience.

As for the prices, they were more than fair. San Jac Saloon offers a great selection of affordable drinks that won't break the bank. It's refreshing to find a country bar that doesn't overcharge for a good time.

Overall, San Jac Saloon is a great addition to Austin's country bar scene. With its impressive live music, friendly staff, and good prices, it's easy to see why locals and visitors alike flock to this establishment. So put on your favorite pair of cowboy boots and head over to San Jac Saloon for a night of unforgettable country fun.

You might also want to check out the best happy hour in Austin.

Donn's Depot

Highlights
Classic old school
Friendly staff
Diverse crowd
Live band
Engaging talent

As soon as I stepped into Donn's Depot, I could tell that this was a classic old school country bar. The dimly lit room was adorned with vintage decor, giving it a cozy and nostalgic atmosphere. The friendly staff greeted me with a smile and were quick to recommend their signature cocktails.

One of the things that impressed me the most about Donn's Depot was the diverse crowd. It seemed like people from all walks of life came to enjoy the music and have a good time. From seasoned cowboys to young urbanites, the mix of patrons created a unique vibe that was both welcoming and exciting.

Speaking of music, Donn's Depot had a live band that brought the house down. The talented musicians effortlessly performed classic country hits that had everyone on their feet, dancing and singing along. The engaging talent of the band created an electric energy that filled the air.

The bar itself featured a spacious dance floor and plenty of seating options, allowing people to relax or show off their dance moves. The bartenders were not only efficient but also incredibly knowledgeable about their drinks, making sure that every customer had a delightful experience.

Overall, my visit to Donn's Depot was a delightful experience. The classic atmosphere, friendly staff, diverse crowd, and live music made it a standout in Austin's country bar scene. Whether you're a country music fanatic or simply looking for a good time, Donn's Depot is definitely worth a visit.

You might also want to check out the best bloody mary in Austin.

Midnight Cowboy

Highlights
Low key vibes
Knowledgeable staff
Custom made drinks
Private small rooms
Gem of a place

From the moment I stepped into Midnight Cowboy, I was immediately captivated by its low key vibes. This hidden gem of a place, nestled in downtown Austin, exudes a sense of exclusivity and charm that is hard to find elsewhere.

What sets Midnight Cowboy apart is their commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience. The knowledgeable staff is not only friendly and welcoming but is also well-versed in the art of mixology. They took the time to understand my preferences and crafted custom-made drinks that perfectly suited my taste buds. It was like having my own personal bartender!

One of the unique features of Midnight Cowboy is its private small rooms. These cozy and intimate spaces add an element of privacy to your experience, making it perfect for a date night or a gathering with close friends. The attention to detail in the room decor, coupled with the hushed ambiance, creates an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and inviting.

Midnight Cowboy truly embodies the spirit of country bars in Austin, offering a one-of-a-kind experience that you won't soon forget. If you're tired of the typical bar scene and are looking for something a little more special, then this is the place to be. Whether you're a country music enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates quality drinks and impeccable service, Midnight Cowboy is a must-visit.

So, grab your cowboy boots and head over to this hidden gem for an unforgettable night out. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!

You might also want to check out the best bars in East Austin.

Broken Spoke

Highlights
Great atmosphere
Amazing dance hall
Delicious food
Extensive memorabilia

I must say, stepping into Broken Spoke was like stepping into another time and place. The atmosphere was vibrant, with a touch of that classic Texan charm that makes you feel right at home. As soon as I walked in, the amazing dance hall caught my eye. The spacious wooden floor was filled with couples gracefully twirling and kicking up their boots to the lively country tunes. It was a sight to behold!

Now, let's talk food. Broken Spoke knows how to satisfy your taste buds. The menu offers a range of delicious options, from hearty Texas barbecue to mouthwatering chicken fried steak. Each bite was a reminder that I was in the heart of Texas, where food is taken seriously.

What sets Broken Spoke apart from the rest is their extensive collection of memorabilia. I couldn't help but spend some time admiring the walls adorned with autographed photos, cowboy hats, and even a collection of vintage cowboy boots. Each item had its own story, adding to the rich history and character of the bar.

In conclusion, Broken Spoke stood out to me as an exceptional country bar. With its great atmosphere, amazing dance hall, delicious food, and extensive memorabilia, it truly captures the essence of Austin's country scene. Whether you're a seasoned two-stepper or a newcomer to the world of country music, Broken Spoke guarantees an unforgettable night out. So gather your friends, put on your boots, and get ready to dance the night away!

You might also want to check out the best dive bars in Austin.

The Rustic Tap

Highlights
Old Austin vibe
Friendly staff
Live music
Giant beer pong
Plenty of parking

Walking into The Rustic Tap, I immediately felt like I had stepped back in time to the old Austin that everyone still pines for. The dimly lit bar radiated a cozy and relaxed vibe that perfectly complemented the country music playing softly in the background.

The staff was incredibly friendly and welcoming. They greeted me with warm smiles and directed me to a table near the stage where the live music was about to begin. The musicians were talented and had the crowd tapping their boots in no time.

What really set The Rustic Tap apart from other country bars in Austin was the giant beer pong setup. Yes, you read it right - giant beer pong! It was a whole new level of fun, as the oversized red cups and volleyballs bounced around the courtyard. I couldn't help but join in on the action, which led to some lively competition and laughs with new friends I made that night.

One of the biggest challenges in Austin is finding parking, but The Rustic Tap had plenty of it. There was ample space available nearby, which made the experience even more stress-free.

Overall, I had an absolute blast at The Rustic Tap. It's the perfect spot to immerse yourself in the country music scene and enjoy a night of fun and games. If you're looking for an authentic country bar experience with an old Austin vibe, friendly staff, live music, and a unique twist with giant beer pong, make sure to swing by The Rustic Tap.

You might also want to check out the best bars in South Austin.

Friends Bar

Highlights
Amazing blues bar
Great live music
Incredible vibe

Let me start off by saying, wow! Friends Bar truly blew me away with its incredible atmosphere and top-notch live music. As I stepped into the venue, I was immediately enveloped by the electric vibe that filled the air.

One of the highlights of Friends Bar is its focus on blues music. It’s not just a country bar—it's an amazing blues bar. The live music performances were exceptional, with talented musicians taking the stage and creating an unforgettable experience. The soulful tunes blended perfectly with the lively atmosphere, making it impossible to resist tapping your feet along to the rhythm.

The bar itself had a rustic charm, with its wooden decor and cozy seating areas. The staff were friendly and attentive, ensuring that every patron was well taken care of. Whether you were a regular or a first-time visitor, you were greeted with warmth and a smile.

Every moment spent at Friends Bar felt like a celebration of Texas's rich music culture. From the soulful sounds pouring from the stage to the laughter and camaraderie between friends, it was clear that this place truly embodied the spirit of Austin.

If you're looking for a country bar that goes beyond the usual and immerses you in a world of incredible blues music and an unforgettable vibe, then Friends Bar is the place to be. Trust me—this is one destination that you don't want to miss out on!

You might also want to check out the best bars in North Austin.

The Dizzy Rooster

Highlights:

• Homeless lady claims to be owner's wife
• Pink haired girl performs flips and tricks
• Guy with a cut off has excellent humor
• Coldest AC in the street
• Great drinks, would visit again

Let me start by saying that The Dizzy Rooster is not your ordinary country bar. The moment I stepped inside, I was greeted with a lively atmosphere and a unique cast of characters that made for an unforgettable night.

First, let me introduce you to the homeless lady who claimed to be the owner's wife. Now, I can't confirm the accuracy of her claim, but she certainly added an unexpected twist to the evening. Her presence lent a certain charm to the bar, reminding me that sometimes the most interesting things happen when you least expect them.

But the entertainment didn't stop there. A pink-haired girl took to the stage and dazzled the crowd with her impressive flips and tricks. It was like watching a circus act, except with a country twang. Her energy was infectious, and it got everyone on their feet, dancing and cheering along.

And let's not forget the guy with a cut-off shirt. With his hilarious banter and impeccable timing, he had the whole room in stitches. His sense of humor was on point, and it added a lightheartedness to the evening that was much appreciated.

On top of all the fantastic entertainment, The Dizzy Rooster boasts the coldest AC in the street. With Texas heat outside, it was a welcome relief. The cool air combined with the vibrant atmosphere made for a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

Finally, the drinks at The Dizzy Rooster were top-notch. Whether you prefer a classic whiskey or a refreshing cocktail, they had it all. The bartenders were friendly and attentive, ensuring that we never went thirsty.

All in all, The Dizzy Rooster is a must-visit country bar in Austin. It combines great entertainment, a lively atmosphere, and excellent drinks, making it the perfect spot for a night out. I, for one, will definitely be returning for another memorable evening.

You might also want to check out the best sports bars in Austin.