10 Best Rooftop Bars in Austin

At 20 stories tall, Azul Rooftop claims the title of the highest rooftop bar in all of Austin. In other words, you’d be hard pressed to find better views of the city skyline – especially since this particular venue offers an up-close view of the iconic Frost Bank Tower.

But the views are just the beginning at Azul Rooftop! Take a dip in the pool, warm up by the fire pit, and sip on island-inspired cocktails – all while watching the golden glow of sunset or the sparkle of night stars.

As soon as you step into Zanzibar, you’ll be transported to another world. With thriving green plants, Caribbean-style dishes, and flower-topped drinks, you’ll feel like you’ve swapped the concrete landscape for a tropical paradise.

That said, you’ll always have one foot in Austin, thanks to the lovely views of the city skyline. From Zanzibar’s particular vantage point, you’ll be able to see everything from the Colorado River to downtown’s many elegant hotels. If you time it right, the view is even cast in the magic of a Texas sunset.

Located at the JW Marriott Austin, Edge Rooftop is an upscale bar and lounge with 360-degree views of the city – from the Capitol building to the Colorado River. As you take in the views, indulge in expertly crafted cocktails and gourmet bites for the perfect night.

Tip: For the best value for money, visit Edge Rooftop for happy hour. Running every Monday to Thursday from 6pm to 8pm, you’ll get $5 off speciality cocktails – while also getting to take in stunning sunset views.

Upstairs at Caroline advertises itself as an “urban backyard party,” and that’s a pretty accurate description. First, let’s talk about the food and drinks. With casual bites and sips like tacos, chips and dip, beers, and margaritas, you’ll feel right at home!

But no backyard party would be complete without a few games. Play a few rounds of cornhole, foosball, pool, and giant Jenga. And when you’re ready for a break, sit around the fire pit and share some stories with some newly made friends.

P6 is undoubtedly one of the quirkiest rooftop bars in Austin. Originally a rooftop car park, this venue was reinvented to become one of the trendiest venues in town!

While the views may have been overlooked when P6 was a car park, they’re now the highlight of the bar. You’ll inevitably find yourself staring at the jaw-dropping views of Lady Bird Lake and the rest of the South Austin skyline. And let’s not forget to mention P6’s mouthwatering Mediterranean tapas and artfully crafted cocktails.

Hoping for Mexican food and margaritas to go with your Austin city views? Look no further than El Alma Café y Cantina.

El Alma offers both indoor and outdoor seating options, and of the 2, the outdoor rooftop patio is definitely where you’ll want to go for sunshine and skylines. Once you’re seated, pair the panoramic views with flavourful tacos and tangy margaritas for a perfect night on the town. And for the best deal around, pop by between 3pm and 6pm for happy hour.

Between its city views, sparkling pool, light bites, and classic cocktails, there’s no better place to hang out in the Campus District than Otopia Rooftop Lounge. With great service and all-around good vibes, you can easily spend hours at this rooftop gem.

In the winter, Otopia Rooftop Lounge adds a special surprise for guests: picture-perfect igloos. Stay warm in your private winter oasis while sipping on delicious hot chocolate, playing a few fun board games, and taking in the Austin city views.

While many of the other rooftop spots in Austin are great for a well-crafted drink in an elegant atmosphere, the Coconut Club offers something a little different. The talented DJs, eye-catching lasers, and packed dance floor make the Coconut Club a fantastic place to dance the night away.

And that’s not all that the Coconut Club has to offer. If you stop by for brunch instead of evening drinks, you’ll not only get to savour delectable breakfast dishes, but you’ll also get to enjoy the company of some fabulous drag queens.

For the fanciest rooftop bar around head to Rules & Regs at the luxurious Fairmont Austin. Start your visit by taking in the jaw-dropping city views, then settle down for some high-class food and drink. Lobster tostadas and sparkling prosecco anyone?

If you want to experience Rules & Regs without the high price point, pop by during happy hour instead. On Thursdays through Sundays from 6pm to 8pm, this Austin rooftop bar serves up tasty, yet affordable Mexican-inspired bites and sips.

77 Degrees Rooftop in Rock Rose might be the liveliest rooftop bar of all. To start, they’ve got an impressive array of speciality cocktails, ranging from fun and fruity to strong and herbaceous. And those drinks just help to get the party started.

Once you’ve had a drink or 2, you’ll be ready to enjoy the other features of 77 Degrees Rooftop. Take in the fantastic Austin city views, check out the hookah lounge, or sway the night away on the dance floor.