top of page

Your SXSW 2025 Guide: Must-Visit Bars, Restaurants, and Event Venues in Downtown Austin

Writer: RestauRent BlogRestauRent Blog

Updated: Feb 15

Next month, Austin will once again transform into a global epicenter of creativity and innovation as South by Southwest (SXSW) returns. This iconic festival promises a dynamic mix of inspiration, networking, and unforgettable experiences.


From thought-provoking panels and exclusive film premieres to live performances by emerging musical talents, SXSW 2025 offers countless opportunities to spark your next big idea or connection.


Whether you're attending for work, play, or a mix of both, these must-visit bars and restaurants in downtown Austin are perfect for SXSW 2025 gatherings and celebrations.


Ā 

The Roosevelt Room

šŸ“307 W 5th St, Austin, TX 78701


Housed in a stunning 1929 railroad warehouse, The Roosevelt Room blends historic charm with contemporary style. Its two versatile spacesā€”the Main Level Dining Room and Mezzanineā€”are ideal for hosting unforgettable SXSW 2025 gatherings.

Roosevelt Room in ATX


Industry East Side

šŸ“1211 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78702


Industry Eastside offers something for every occasionā€”whether itā€™s a breakfast meeting, happy hour, or late-night hangout during SXSW 2025. With over 60 menu items and flexible indoor/outdoor spaces, itā€™s a crowd-pleaser.

Industry East Side ATX


Chalmers

šŸ“1700 E Cesar Chavez St, Austin, TX 78702


Chalmers is a casual East Austin venue that blends old Austin charm with modern comfort. Featuring a spacious backyard with fire pits and a live music stage, a cozy indoor area, and a covered patio with a walk-up bar, itā€™s perfect for SXSW 2025 gatherings. Enjoy Southwestern icehouse-inspired dishes and live music coordination to create the ultimate Austin experience.


Chalmers ATX


Retail Therapy

šŸ“120 E 7th St, Austin, TX 78660


Retail Therapy offers a one-of-a-kind venue that combines boutique sophistication with Austinā€™s local charm. Perfect for shopping parties, product launches, or intimate gatherings, this vibrant space features tastefully curated interiors and eclectic, locally sourced products. Its warm and inviting ambiance makes it an ideal choice for unforgettable SXSW 2025 events.

Retail Therapy ATX


Iron Cactus

šŸ“606 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78701


Iron Cactus blends Southwestern charm with culinary excellence, offering a vibrant setting in the heart of downtown Austin. Known for its handcrafted margaritas and modern takes on traditional Mexican cuisine, itā€™s a go-to spot for SXSW 2025 gatherings. With versatile event spaces, including private rooms and rooftop patios, Iron Cactus ensures every celebration is unforgettable.

Iron Cactus ATX


Friends Bar

šŸ“208 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701


Friends Bar delivers an authentic Austin vibe, perfect for SXSW 2025 private events. Located just steps from downtown hotels, this laid-back venue is known for its vibrant ambiance and live performances from Austinā€™s top blues and rock bands. Whether youā€™re planning an intimate gathering or a full buyout, Friends Bar guarantees an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit of Austin.

Friends Bar ATX


Lit Lounge

šŸ“215 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701


Lit Lounge brings an upscale vibe to the heart of Austinā€™s iconic 6th Street, making it a premier destination for SXSW 2025 nightlife. Known for its lively atmosphere, enticing drink specials, and DJ-curated beats, this sophisticated bar and nightclub sets the stage for unforgettable parties. Whether youā€™re dancing the night away or hosting a private event, Lit Lounge guarantees an electrifying experience.

Lit Lounge ATX


BBG's

šŸ“214 E 6th St, Austin, TX 78701


BBG's offers a vibrant and customizable space for SXSW 2025 events in the heart of historic 6th Street. Known for its local Austin beers, crafted cocktails, and lively sports bar atmosphere, BBGā€™s is perfect for celebrations of all kinds.

BBG's ATX


Red Headed Stepchild

šŸ“119 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701


Red Headed Stepchild is a hidden gem in downtown Austin, offering an intimate speakeasy atmosphere perfect for exclusive SXSW 2025 events. This cozy bar specializes in private rentals during key conference and festival dates, providing a unique and memorable setting for small gatherings.

Read Headed Stepchild ATX


El Cockfight

šŸ“121 E 5th St, Austin, TX 78701


El Cockfight is a vibrant 2-story bar in downtown Austinā€™s central business district, offering versatile spaces for SXSW 2025 gatherings. The first floor features a long bar, cozy booth seating, a small stage, and a private back room, while the expansive rooftop boasts an open-air patio with a second bar, perfect for enjoying Austinā€™s skyline.

El Cockfight ATX


Inn Cahoots

šŸ“1221 E. 6th St, Austin, TX 78702


Inn Cahoots offers an unbeatable mix of accommodations and event spaces for SXSW 2025. With five condo-style suites, a rooftop deck, and over 36,000 sq. ft of event space, itā€™s perfect for hosting large gatherings or staying close to the action.

Inn Cahoots ATX


Wanderlust Downtown

šŸ“610 N Interstate Hwy 35, Austin, TX 78701


Wanderlust Wine Co. is a must-see during SXSW 2025. As the worldā€™s largest self-pour winery, it offers wines from around the globe in a fun, eco-conscious setting just steps from the Austin Convention Center.

Wanderlust Downtown ATX


Swiftā€™s Attic

šŸ“315 Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704


Perched above the Elephant Room, Swiftā€™s Attic combines historic charm with modern design. Its intimate dining spaces and private event options make it a standout choice for SXSW 2025 celebrations.

Swift's Attic ATX



Ā 

Whether you're looking for intimate venues with cozy vibes or expansive spaces for lively gatherings, Austinā€™s downtown offers a wide variety of unique bars, restaurants, and event spaces to make your SXSW experience unforgettable. From rooftop patios with stunning city views to hidden speakeasies and vibrant music stages, these venues capture the essence of Austinā€™s dynamic culture and hospitality.


Start planning now to secure the perfect spot for your event or celebration, and make this yearā€™s SXSW your most memorable yet. For more venue recommendations and to book, explore RestauRentā€™sĀ website.



Tired of splitting up and taking multiple Ubers? Ride together in style withĀ Fetii, the group rideshare app that moves your whole crew in one 14-passenger sprinter van. Whether itā€™s a night out, a game day, or a special event, Fetii makes group transportation easy and fun.  Ā FIRST RIDE FREE!Ā Use codeĀ "RESTAURENT"Ā in the app for a complimentary ride on us.
Tired of splitting up and taking multiple Ubers? Ride together in style withĀ Fetii, the group rideshare app that moves your whole crew in one 14-passenger sprinter van. Whether itā€™s a night out, a game day, or a special event, Fetii makes group transportation easy and fun. Ā FIRST RIDE FREE!Ā Use codeĀ "RESTAURENT"Ā in the app for a complimentary ride on us.

ć‚³ćƒ”ćƒ³ćƒˆ


RestauRent.com is a premier event venue booking platform, helping users find and reserve the perfect space for parties

Book any restaurant for a private event. Event venues of all shapes and sizes, for all occasions!

© 2023 by RestauRent Blog. All rights reserved.

  • Instagram
  • LinkedIn
  • Pinterest
  • TikTok
  • Facebook

Join Our Newsletter

bottom of page