The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Bachelor(ette) Party in Austin

In a city known for its electric bars and restaurants, legendary live music venues and quirky local attractions, it’s no surprise that Austin has become a top bachelor and bachelorette party destination. With so much to see and do, the only challenge you’ll run into is figuring out where to start.

To help with your planning, here’s our list of must-do’s, designed to help you plan a memorable celebration in a city that likes to keep it weird.

6th Street Entertainment District

Austin’s famous 6th Street is known for its line up of bars and rowdy atmosphere, but it’s also home to great shops, galleries, live music venues and restaurants. Austin is known as the “Live Music Capital of The World,” and nowhere in the city is that more evident than 6th Street.

Top picks include Maggie Mae’s, Easy Tiger, The Gatsby and Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. Before a night of bar hopping, start with dinner at nearby Caroline, located at Aloft Austin Downtown.

Then head upstairs for signature cocktails at Upstairs at Caroline—featuring picnic tables, fire pits and corn hole, it showcases Austin’s signature“backyard” culture and provides the perfect setting to celebrate with a large group.

Party Barge on The Lake

Two words—booze and cruise. If your perfect afternoon includes either or both, then a day spent boating, swimming and sunbathing on Lake Austin or Lake Travis is a must. Many pontoon boats come with their own captains and can seat up to 15, and for larger events party cruises are available.

Party Poolside

Party like a VIP and live it up poolside with a private cabana for you and your crew at Azul, located at The Westin Austin Downtown. As the highest rooftop bar and lounge in the city, you can enjoy unsurpassed views of Austin.

Festivals Galore

What better way to experience Austin and celebrate your bachelor/bachelorette weekend than with a front row seat to some of the biggest festivals in the country—including SXSW and Austin City Limits Music Festival.

Even if you miss the festival, you can enjoy live music at Austin City Limits Live at Moody Theater, one of the most iconic music venues in Austin. Book your stay at the W Austin and enjoy easy access to ACL, which is located next door.

Food & Drink Tours

Austin may be known for its barbecue and breweries, but there’s plenty that will surprise you about this one-of-a-kind culinary scene. Whether you prefer to do a wine tasting or check off as many food trucks as possible, guided tours from Access ATX and other operators provide an efficient way to explore the city.