How to Find Gay and Lesbian Bars in Austin
Austin is a liberal bastion in the middle of a red state, so it goes without saying that it has a thriving gay community. And part of that includes gay and lesbian bars. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Go to what is probably the most famous gay bar in Austin, and indeed in the United States, Oil Can Harry's. If you like to dance, are attractive, have finished college and actually have a paying job, this is the place to go. It's located in the Warehouse District, which caters to a more grown-up crowd than Sixth Street.
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Find Charlie's, the oldest gay bar in town, located within walking distance of the UT campus (and the State Capitol, for that matter). It's your bar of choice if you're not up for the attitude of Oil Can Harry's or the chic of Rain on 4th. Though it has a reputation for lousy male dancers and a touch of sleaze, it's the place to go for drag queens and a racially-diverse crowd. Though once known for its old-timer patrons, it's developed a following among students.
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Head to 'Bout Time in North Austin if you're not into glamor, techno and youngsters. This is a neighborhood dive bar with an older clientele. Trannies, people of color--you name it--they're welcome here.
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See and be seen at Rain on 4th, if you're young, pretty, metrosexual (Is that word even used anymore?) and have lots of disposable income. It's a mixture of dance club and lounge.
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Mosey on over to Rainbow Cattle Company if you're partial to steers and queers. This gay dance club plays both kinds of music--country and western.
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Check out The Cockpit on Chavez if you want to stay downtown but steer clear of the Warehouse District. It bills itself as an "alternative" club. Girls are welcome and the DJs come highly praised.
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Try the Midtowne Spa next to Highland Mall if you're looking for something other than drinks and dancing with your shirt off. It's a men-only bath house with saunas, gym and private rooms. A safe sex policy is enforced.
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Tips & Warnings
For more information on Austin's LGBT community, check out LOBO and Book Woman bookstores.
Currently there are no clubs in Austin that cater predominantly to lesbians.
