3 Best Nightlife in West Austin and Zilker Park, Austin

Touted as Austin's neighborhood beer joint, this place has a true dive-bar atmosphere, complete with ice-cold brews, pool tables, and a killer jukebox. While not directly in the downtown scene, this music-heavy bar usually hosts a mix of bands during SXSW.

A hole-in-the-wall heaven, Donn's dance floor has attracted fans of Texas two-step, waltz, polka, honky-tonk, and swing since 1972. Tucked in an old train car just west of downtown, the Christmas decor–laden interior of this aging Old Austin beauty is as charming as its weekly lineup of local musicians. Don't feel like dancing? Belly up to the bar for some cheap drinks and complimentary popcorn while you watch everyone else groove. 

Now overshadowed by a towering condo project, this little shack of a bar owes its name to the Man in Black. The dive is an Austin cult favorite, with worn barnwood walls covered with tattered Johnny Cash memorabilia, a shabby-chic patio with a random assortment of tables and chairs where patrons can enjoy a wide selection of beers, and freshly smoked Metcalf barbecue. This legendary dive bar also showcases a variety of Austin-esque acts during SXSW.