If you plan to visit the capital of Texas, Austin, but you are not familiar with the “Sixth Street Entertainment District,” then you are definitely missing the actual essence of Austin’s beauty-its legendary music, vibrant nightlife, mix of foods & drinks, boutique shops, historic culture, and Architecture. You know, Sixth Street Austin presents every color of Austin lifestyle with a small district plan, yet leaves a great impact that does not fade easily. Actually, this place is something for everyone who is looking for a romantic cafe surrounded by legendary music, a lively dance floor with cocktails in a lounge, or a beautiful restaurant and local shops for dining and shopping with family.
In this blog, we will guide you with information regarding Sixth Street Entertainment District, including accessibility, parking, history, location, things to do, nearby attractions, time to visit, nearby stay & food options, and some valuable tips. So you will be preparing yourself in advance with your interest.
Historic Sixth Street, Austin
It was first designed in 1839 for a business center to fill the daily needs of Austin locals. Many shops, warehouses, banks, and other commercial startups were gradually shaping it into one of the biggest commercial hubs of the capital city. And it became famous by the name from the first “Pecan Street” to “Sixth Street Historic District”. But the biggest changes came with the revolution of early 20th-century modern architecture.
At that time, Most of the buildings were built in Victorian style, which converted Simple Street into a beautiful entertainment destination. In fact, many buildings hold their beautiful architecture till now. But when the Victorian era was flowing, all the road front and street shops had transformed themselves into cafes, music venues, clubs, restaurants, and bars. The area was used by a lot of people during the day as a trade market and at night, completely different, as an entertainment corridor.
Today, historic Sixth Street in Austin has become one of the most beloved and busiest places in the city’s downtown area. But people usually love it for the taste of music in a vibrant style, from street music to opening doors for local singers. For example, you can enjoy their diverse range of music performances, including rock, blues, country, jazz, indie, and alternative genres.
How to Get to Sixth Street?
Sixth Street Entertainment District rests in a premium area known as the heart of Downtown Austin, Texas. So it becomes easy for visitors to access the street from any direction and by using any transportation. Sixth Street is split into three iconic areas- Dirty Sixth, East Sixth, and West Sixth- and every area is blended with clubs, cafes, rooftop lounges, restaurants, museums, music venues, and office buildings. And one of the best benefits of this central location is that it is close to top Austin attractions such as Lady Bird Lake, Texas State Capitol, Rainey Street Historic District, Congress Avenue Bridge, and the Warehouse District.
Tips: If you want to take a tour of the Top Austin Attractions with family or a group, BUSXOXO offers an Austin Charter Bus Rental Service for a comfortable travel experience.
Accessibility
Since it is located in the downtown of the city, it is highly accessible by trains, buses, airplanes, rideshares, and personal vehicles.
Capital MetroRail and Bus
Although the Red Line rail network is considered near many neighborhoods like Downtown Station in the District. But bus facilities ensure many stops within the District at a lower price and without the hassle of parking.
Rideshare and Taxi
This is a good option during traffic and especially when the night shows have large crowds parking. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are available 24/7 h for safe traveling around the Downtown area. It will easily pick you up from your location and drop you wherever you want to go in the City.
By Air: Austin–Bergstrom International Airport
Austin city has its international airport, “Austin–Bergstrom International Airport,“ which is only 8 to 10 miles away from Downtown. Visiting requires only a 15 to 45 min drive, which is dependent on what you get for traveling- rideshare, taxis, airport shuttles, and public transportation.
Self-Driving & Parking
The Sixth Street Entertainment District can be easily connected by many routes. These are three highway routes mainly used and very straightforward for reaching Six Street, including MoPac Expressway, Interstate 35, and U.S. Highway 183. But during weekend nights (typically Thursday–Saturday from around 10 PM) and major events, the street is closed entirely to vehicles due to the concern of traffic issues. So remember it by the time you park a few blocks back and use it to walk in the street.
Best Parking Near Sixth Street, Austin
There is information about downtown Austin parking near Sixth Street that you can use for vehicle rest.
Street Parking
Most of the streets in the downtown allow visitors to park their vehicles, but meter charges are required according to hours. Moreover, after 6 PM, some of the downtown areas offer free parking except for special events and seasons.
Note: When you plan your day for Sixth Street, Austin. These websites will navigate to more current parking information. The next one is an interactive parking map by the City of Austin for permit information about reserved slots, special events, and any construction.
Cheap Parking Near Sixth Street, Austin
| Parking Names | Address | Distance | Operating Hours | Price Rate |
| Iron Works BBQ Lot | 100 Red River St. | 0.7 mi away | 9 PM to 6 AM | $3 for 2 Hours |
| Alto Garage | 924 E. 7th St. | 0.4 miles away | 24 hours in service | $4 for 12 Hours$8 for 24 Hours$12 for 36 Hours |
| Seaholm Garage (Zone) | 211 Walter Seaholm Dr. | 0.9 miles away | Start from 4 AM and available for 24 Hours | $4 for 3 Hours$8 for 6 Hours$12 for 24 Hours |
| Kline Lot | 1109 E. 6th St. | 0.5 miles away | 24/7 in service. | $5 for 2 Hours$10 for 4 Hours$15 for 6 Hours |
Note: For further changes, always keep checking their sites.
Top Things to Do in Sixth Street, Austin
Here are a couple of things that you can do in the Sixth Street Entertainment District:
Live Music Venues and Bar-Hopping
Start your trip to the “Live Music Capital of the World” by walking around the streets to experience different categories of music with a glass of wine. This place is strewn with a lot of music venues and clubs. Weekend crowds plus music make the atmosphere more special than on usual days. In addition to this, every venue reveals a unique performance of music from Rock to Country to Jazz. For the best music experience, visit these places: Friends Bar, San Jac Saloon, The Belmont, and Maggie Mae’s. These venues are popular for night crowds, music genres, stages, and concerts. Also, if you would like to enjoy bar hopping, then come between 6 to 7 PM and start from West Sixth.
Enjoy Great Food
Apart from dazzling nightlife, it also introduced different kinds of cultural tastes. If you really want to taste dishes, then plan your trip between 5 to 7 PM and enjoy a seated dinner & bar in popular cafes and restaurants. These are the most beloved and popular dishes that you can have: Texas Smoked Brisket, Gourmet Burgers, Tex-Mex Fajitas, Tacos, Wood-Fired Pizza, Seafood, Chicken-Fried Steaks, and more. Despite this, there is a great craze of eating at the night Street Truck food stalls which offer a variety of International street food such as tacos, barbecue, and gourmet desserts.
Street Performers & Festivals
This buzzy place is an opportunity for everyone to show their talent aloud in front of global visitors. Whether a musician who plays well with music in a genre, or a solo singer, a brand performer to attract a crowd, a magician, a live statue, a dancer, or a showcase painter. This historic street is for both performer or audiences. Apart from that, this place hosts various engaging festivals which are famous all over the world, including SXSW and Pecan Street Festival. SXSW is known as South by Southwest. It is organized every March to entertain visitors with pop-up concerts, art installations, and film events. On the other hand, Pecan Street Festivals witness the creativity of many artisans, craft vendors, live music, street performers, and local food vendors.
Daytime for the Historic Architecture
Where Sixth Street Austin nightlife is impressive for entertainment, there are fresh Day makes more sense to stroll back in time. Some of the historic buildings are preserved in the National Register of Historic Places, which keeps them secure and intact. Currently, it is used for cafes, restaurants, shops, and clubs. The day offers a quiet and relaxing time to experience the story of this old commercial success through the eyes. While you can do a lot of photography in front of Victorian arc backgrounds and take deep observation of creative arts till the 1800s. Also, here you will find many operating shops of Texas Souvenirs, handmade crafts, musical instruments, western and Austin wear, and art pieces.
Things to Do Near Sixth Street Entertainment District
If you have already explored the Sixth Street Entertainment District, or you want more nearby places. Therefore, you can definitely go to these places below with your family and friends.
Congress Avenue Bridge (Bat Watching)
The tour of the Congress Avenue Bridge is really interesting for visitors, especially those who are arriving there for the first time. This bridge is a shelter of approx 1.5 million urban bats, and in the world record, it is the biggest Urban bat Colony. The bridge offers a majestic view when thousands of bats pour out to search for insects. Or other activities you can do, such as lakeside trails and boat tours.
Texas State Capitol
If you are interested in seeing the legislative hall of Texas. So you can reach the Texas State Capitol’s small drive from the Sixth Street Entertainment District. This place is a very remarkable landmark in Austin, which towers 308 feet above the ground. Visitors can see here the outside maintained ground, impressive rotunda, and legislative chamber by self or guide tour too.
Rainey Street District
One more place in Austin, even near Sixth Street, gives the same vibe and performing trend for visitor entertainment. Yes, we are talking about the Rainey Street Historic District. This place has a collection bar, restaurants, and a cafe in historic bungalow houses. And this Street offers a more serene and relaxed atmosphere while you experience dining, craft cocktails, and live music.
Quick Comparison: Choose the Right Austin Attraction
| Basics | Congress Avenue Bridge | Texas State Capitol | Rainey Street District |
| Location | This bridge is located over Lady Bird Lake, 100 S.Congress Ave, Austin, Texas. | 1100 Congress Ave., Downtown Austin, Texas. | It is established in the southeast corner of Downtown, Austin, Texas |
| Distance(From Sixth Street, Austin) | 0.7 – 0.9 miles south. | Roughly 0.5 miles north. | Approximately 1 mile southeast. |
| Ticket | Free for public viewing; however, the boat and kayak tour is paid. | Free for both the self and the guided tour. | Free to explore, payment is required only for orders. |
| Best Time( Day & Month) | 30 to 45 min before sunset, in between (March to October). | Morning, 9 to 11 AM, especially on weekdays. | 6 to 7 PM, Tues & Weds are less crowded. Best season- Spring & Fall. |
| Main Attraction | Free-tailed bats, Sunset view, Lakeside Trails, boat/kayak tour, and bridge access. | Grand rotunda, House & Senate chambers, live oak trees, and Monument- filled grounds. | Lively nightlife, Food trucks, bar-hopping, music views, and fine dining. |
| Ideal For | Nature and wildlife lovers. | History and architecture lovers. | Young adults and nightlife lovers. |
Hotels Near Sixth Street, Austin, Texas
Whether you are going through from here or searching for hotels for a long stay or even need a sufficient place for a night, these provided hotels will give you desirable facilities at a reasonable price.
Hyatt Place Austin Downtown
This hotel holds great value because of its premium location just a few blocks from Sixth Street. With convenient features like a rooftop swimming pool, 24/7 fitness centers, and spacious rooms with complimentary breakfast, it makes for a comfortable option for stay. It typically charges around $120–$180 per night, the pricing may vary, so verify the current pricing, which you can find on their official website: www.hyatt.com/.
CitizenM Austin Downtown
CitizenM Austin Downtown is perfect for both business work and a night stay in the heart of downtown Austin. Inside the Amenities they featured an outdoor swimming pool, a spacious area for business activities with a 24-hour desk. Additionally, visitors can stay in a comfortable room, and each room has an iPad and an interactive flat TV. Some rooms offer a city skyline view. The hotel arranges a buffet breakfast and a lounge for visitors. Check their website, www.marriott.com/ for great deals at the right time.
Hotel Indigo Austin Downtown – University by IHG
This hotel is a great option on a reasonable budget, yet it offers luxurious facilities only half a km from the city center. Including selected rooms with city view, the property provides ample private parking, outdoor swimming pool, GYM, restaurants, and bars. And also in the room, visitors will get a private fridge & coffee machine with a relaxing bed for sleep.
Best Bars on Sixth Street, Austin
Sixth Street Austin is widely famous for serving wines in unique ways, which you too can enjoy.
Dive Bars
- Friends Bar: Every night, music, local bands, affordable drinks, and a casual atmosphere.
- The Dizzy Roster: Indoor dance floor, open-air balcony with Sixth Street view, full bar service, and most adults’ first choice.
- Dirty Bill’s: Multiple TVs for sports fans, a wide range of bar, an outdoor patio for public gathering, and a DJ floor with party music.
Rooftop Bars
- Poeta Rooftop Bar: Offers Italian-style romantic dinner and sunset cocktails, an urban setting surrounded by lush greenery and a view of Austin’s tallest skylines.
- Upstairs at Caroline: It provides a casual setting with a backyard picnic table and lounge. Best for sports fun, friends enjoy, casual eating, and diverse drinks.
- The Rooftop on 6th: A lively atmosphere with rooftop view, loud DJ dance hits and music, Reservation of a private table for special events, and Full bar service.
Notes: They do not allow permission to consume alcohol for those younger than 21 years. Thus, you must carry the government-issued photo ID that helps you during the check at the entrance.
Best Time to Visit Sixth Street, Austin
Everyone has their own perspective on a tour, including aspects like crowd, weather, festivals, and others. You can find your own ideal by checking out the provided information.
Peaceful Day vs Peak Day
| Peaceful Days (Monday to Wednesday) | Peak Days (Thursday to Sunday) |
| Props: Peaceful days are good for many reasons, like you will not face hassle for parking, queue, and seat reservation. Thus, you can take a relaxing walk in between less crowds and enjoy venues at possibly lower rates. | Props: If you are looking for the real vibe of the Sixth Street experience, the weekend nights are worth it. During weekends, the area is bustling with fewer vehicle disturbances and with a large social buzz. Apart from that, all over the area blends with food trucks, more street performers, and all the venues are fully active with music blasts. |
| Cons: However, you also have fewer options for entertainment, like fewer live music performances and street performances. Additionally, the atmosphere seems less energetic. | Cons: But some issues you would face, like being hard to move because of the large crowd, require a long wait in the queue, troubling for parking and venues that demand a high price with limited seating possibilities. |
Plan Your Visit According to Seasons
You can also reach this place according to distinct weather considerations.
Fall (Sept to Nov) & Spring (March to May)
These are both the most suitable seasons for outdoor trips. During spring & fall, people can take a whole day comfortable walk and enjoy a pleasant atmosphere that complements their journey. Both seasons are good for bar hopping and exploring the overall entertainment zone at their own pace.
Summer (June to August)
The summer time is probably not good for a day visit because on sunny days the temperature reaches intense heat, most of the time during the day, humid around 95-100°F. Whereas at night seems a little bit cool and windy, you can try bar hopping while having a drink with friends.
Winter (December to February)
Those who like less crowds and a chilly environment from indoor to experience warm dinners and heated wine nights. Winter is the best option for them, but remember it’s not as energetic to enjoy outdoor entertainment options.
Note: Sixth Street’s popular festivals unpredictably change their dates because of the crowd and other reasons. So to stay aware and be ready check their upcoming events calendar on their official website.
Sixth Street Austin Visitor Tips
If you have not gone before, these valuable tips will definitely help you a lot.
- Always try to come early in the evening, around 6 to 7 PM, to beat the crowd and occupy tables and parking spots.
- Carry your Identification Card, such as passport, state ID, or driver’s license. Because most of the bars ask for your ID at the door for security purposes.
- Basic accessories are really essential, like Cash, a Card, a phone charger, Comfortable shoes, and a valid photo ID.
- Try to avoid expensive jewelry and flashy items. Furthermore, avoid driving if you are totally drunk, as it may be risky for your life and the lives of others.
- Wear loose, light, and relaxed clothes for smooth movement and comfortable Seating/Walking.
- Use rideshare and public transport on weekend nights to save your parking hassles and time.
Conclusion
We hope that this guided blog will help you know all the information about the Sixth Street Entertainment District. This place in the heart of Downtown has been a witness to commercial success and great Nightlife with music genres, bar-hopping, late-night dinner, and global brand shopping. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip on Sixth Street, Austin, with family and friends to enjoy the actual culture of the Texas capital, which includes some of the best places in Texas.