When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Bouldin Acres
Why Bouldin Acres is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Bouldin Acres is a unique and vibrant social venue in Austin, Texas, offering a perfect blend of casual dining and an active outdoor experience that makes it an excellent place to meet up with friends. With two locations—one on South Lamar and the other on Braker Lane—it provides an inviting environment centered around pickleball courts, delicious food, and a lively beer garden ambiance. Patrons can enjoy a menu featuring tasty burgers, wings, tacos, and the standout brisket crunchwrap made with smoked brisket from their collaboration with CM Smokehouse, a local BBQ food truck. The setting emphasizes community and connection, encouraging visitors to socialize on the courts or relax while sampling a variety of craft beers on their dog-friendly patios. Open daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, Bouldin Acres caters to locals and visitors seeking a welcoming, fun, and memorable experience. The venue's focus on combining sport and great food with a relaxed atmosphere is what truly distinguishes it as a go-to spot to catch up with friends or celebrate special occasions in Austin.
Here's what people think of Bouldin Acres
As of recent, Bouldin Acres holds a 4.2-star rating based on 297 reviews.
Reviews of Bouldin Acres highlight a generally positive reception with users appreciating its vibrant atmosphere and unique combination of pickleball and a casual beer garden setting. Positive reviews frequently praise the engaging pickleball courts and laud the quality and creativity of the food offerings—especially the brisket crunchwrap, which many regard as a must-try. Visitors enjoy the laid-back vibe and how the venue fosters community connections, making it a fun social hub. The dog-friendly patio and well-curated beer selections are also commonly mentioned as attractive features. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to inconsistencies in service and occasional wait times that can detract from the overall experience. A few guests mention that the venue can get overcrowded during peak hours, which sometimes impacts comfort and accessibility to courts or seating. Despite these critiques, the majority of feedback remains favorable, emphasizing Bouldin Acres as a spirited and enjoyable spot. Ultimately, the reviews reveal a popular community destination that balances active recreation with delicious food and drinks, making it a distinctive and appealing place in Austin's food and entertainment scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Daniela mhardin
Great place! This Bouldin Acres location is very family friendly. They have a lot of food options, they have a kid friendly menu and are pet friendly as well. We saw lots of pups! Their beer options are great and they also have great seasonal cocktails. We took the kiddos with us and they had a great time too. Highly recommend for a nice evening night out with the fam.
YK Kim
Visited Boudin Acres on Memorial Day with some family members visiting from Seattle and our cat Benji came along (he goes everywhere with us 😼). One of the ladies on staff, wonderfully thoughtful, offered him some whipped cream (which they usually serve to dogs), but even Googled it first and came back a bit concerned, saying some cats are lactose intolerant. Not Benji though, because he’s got no lactose issues and is definitely the type who acts like food’s gonna run out any second😹 The food was great, the vibe was relaxed, and even with thunder and rain, the covered patio kept us comfy. Super pet-friendly😻😻😻, super memorable.
M K
I really like this place! One because it’s very close to my job, so easy to swing by after work. I’ve had a few cocktails here- a couple of them were too tart and tasted like lime juice. I did like the cherry limeade though ironically. I recently tried their wings and cheesecake. The wings were absolutely delicious. And I’m grateful they close their huge doors when it’s too hot, so it’s super comfortable inside. Nice place and good service!
achelle foster
I don't get the reviews that complain about prices.. I mean everything is more expensive these days.. prices are comparable anywhere you go, really, but the food/drinks we had were great! Anyway, last minute decision to visit this place because plans to tailgate for the UT game fell through.. I'm glad they did otherwise, we wouldn't have gone to this place! Service was ok, but what we really liked was the ordering process, specifically for drinks.. customization was great and can't complain about the added charges because you are getting what you really want/order! Also, food and drinks came quick! Waitress/es could be a little more friendly though.. Overall an awesome place to just chill, relax, watch games.. football season is upon us and we will be back; next time bringing the kiddos with us because there's a cool area for them too!
Chelsea Funk
Fantastic patio vibes with 2x pickleball courts and an excellent playscape for the kids! Drinks were a bit expensive for the quality, but I considered that we were paying a premium for the awesome location and vibe. Happy hour helped as well! Overall such a gem of a spot! Adding a photo of the playscape because none of the photos on other reviews showed it well. :)
Daniela mhardin
Great place! This Bouldin Acres location is very family friendly. They have a lot of food options, they have a kid friendly menu and are pet friendly as well. We saw lots of pups! Their beer options are great and they also have great seasonal cocktails. We took the kiddos with us and they had a great time too. Highly recommend for a nice evening night out with the fam.
YK Kim
Visited Boudin Acres on Memorial Day with some family members visiting from Seattle and our cat Benji came along (he goes everywhere with us 😼). One of the ladies on staff, wonderfully thoughtful, offered him some whipped cream (which they usually serve to dogs), but even Googled it first and came back a bit concerned, saying some cats are lactose intolerant. Not Benji though, because he’s got no lactose issues and is definitely the type who acts like food’s gonna run out any second😹 The food was great, the vibe was relaxed, and even with thunder and rain, the covered patio kept us comfy. Super pet-friendly😻😻😻, super memorable.
M K
I really like this place! One because it’s very close to my job, so easy to swing by after work. I’ve had a few cocktails here- a couple of them were too tart and tasted like lime juice. I did like the cherry limeade though ironically. I recently tried their wings and cheesecake. The wings were absolutely delicious. And I’m grateful they close their huge doors when it’s too hot, so it’s super comfortable inside. Nice place and good service!
achelle foster
I don't get the reviews that complain about prices.. I mean everything is more expensive these days.. prices are comparable anywhere you go, really, but the food/drinks we had were great! Anyway, last minute decision to visit this place because plans to tailgate for the UT game fell through.. I'm glad they did otherwise, we wouldn't have gone to this place! Service was ok, but what we really liked was the ordering process, specifically for drinks.. customization was great and can't complain about the added charges because you are getting what you really want/order! Also, food and drinks came quick! Waitress/es could be a little more friendly though.. Overall an awesome place to just chill, relax, watch games.. football season is upon us and we will be back; next time bringing the kiddos with us because there's a cool area for them too!
Chelsea Funk
Fantastic patio vibes with 2x pickleball courts and an excellent playscape for the kids! Drinks were a bit expensive for the quality, but I considered that we were paying a premium for the awesome location and vibe. Happy hour helped as well! Overall such a gem of a spot! Adding a photo of the playscape because none of the photos on other reviews showed it well. :)
Daniela mhardin
Great place! This Bouldin Acres location is very family friendly. They have a lot of food options, they have a kid friendly menu and are pet friendly as well. We saw lots of pups! Their beer options are great and they also have great seasonal cocktails. We took the kiddos with us and they had a great time too. Highly recommend for a nice evening night out with the fam.
YK Kim
Visited Boudin Acres on Memorial Day with some family members visiting from Seattle and our cat Benji came along (he goes everywhere with us 😼). One of the ladies on staff, wonderfully thoughtful, offered him some whipped cream (which they usually serve to dogs), but even Googled it first and came back a bit concerned, saying some cats are lactose intolerant. Not Benji though, because he’s got no lactose issues and is definitely the type who acts like food’s gonna run out any second😹 The food was great, the vibe was relaxed, and even with thunder and rain, the covered patio kept us comfy. Super pet-friendly😻😻😻, super memorable.
M K
I really like this place! One because it’s very close to my job, so easy to swing by after work. I’ve had a few cocktails here- a couple of them were too tart and tasted like lime juice. I did like the cherry limeade though ironically. I recently tried their wings and cheesecake. The wings were absolutely delicious. And I’m grateful they close their huge doors when it’s too hot, so it’s super comfortable inside. Nice place and good service!
achelle foster
I don't get the reviews that complain about prices.. I mean everything is more expensive these days.. prices are comparable anywhere you go, really, but the food/drinks we had were great! Anyway, last minute decision to visit this place because plans to tailgate for the UT game fell through.. I'm glad they did otherwise, we wouldn't have gone to this place! Service was ok, but what we really liked was the ordering process, specifically for drinks.. customization was great and can't complain about the added charges because you are getting what you really want/order! Also, food and drinks came quick! Waitress/es could be a little more friendly though.. Overall an awesome place to just chill, relax, watch games.. football season is upon us and we will be back; next time bringing the kiddos with us because there's a cool area for them too!
Chelsea Funk
Fantastic patio vibes with 2x pickleball courts and an excellent playscape for the kids! Drinks were a bit expensive for the quality, but I considered that we were paying a premium for the awesome location and vibe. Happy hour helped as well! Overall such a gem of a spot! Adding a photo of the playscape because none of the photos on other reviews showed it well. :)
How to reach Bouldin Acres
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Why rally at Bouldin Acres with your friends?
If you’re looking for the perfect spot to gather your friends or family in Austin, Bouldin Acres offers a uniquely vibrant and inviting atmosphere that makes any meetup special. Nestled on the historic intersection of Bouldin Creek and South Lamar Boulevard, this two-acre space effortlessly blends indoor and outdoor environments, creating the ideal setting for both relaxation and fun. The venue is renowned for its open, friendly vibe that welcomes everyone — from families with kids and pet owners to groups of friends looking to enjoy a lively night out. What makes Bouldin Acres especially appealing for group gatherings is the combination of great food, excellent drinks, and various recreational activities all in one place. Its large, spacious layout means you won’t feel cramped, even with a sizable group, allowing plenty of room to socialize comfortably.
Moreover, the venue prides itself on being inclusive and accessible, with a dog-friendly patio that invites your furry companions to join in on the fun. Whether you want to cheer on a sports game on their TVs, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, or savor delicious meals prepared by food trucks, Bouldin Acres offers a dynamic environment that caters to a broad range of interests. Its ambiance promotes connection and enjoyment, making it a natural rallying point for friends seeking more than just a dinner spot — at Bouldin Acres, your meetup turns into a memorable experience in Austin’s thriving social scene.
What activities does Bouldin Acres offer that make it perfect for group meetups?
Bouldin Acres is not just a restaurant and drinkery; it is an all-encompassing social hub designed with activities that elevate the group meetup experience. One of its standout features is the availability of pickleball courts, a fast-growing and highly social sport that’s perfect for groups of varying skill levels. Because pickleball is easy to pick up and highly engaging, it draws people together for lighthearted competition and casual fun, making it a fantastic way to break the ice or spark friendly rivalries among friends. The courts are maintained to a high standard and located on site, so you never need to leave the venue for a game. This makes Bouldin Acres a rare combination of a restaurant, bar, and sports venue all rolled into one.
Beyond pickleball, the sprawling outdoor space along Bouldin Creek offers plenty of shaded and sunny areas for lounging, mingling, or hosting small private gatherings. There is also a playground nearby, making the location family-friendly and perfect for meetups that include children. Whether you want to play, relax, or just chat, the combination of open green spaces and well-designed indoor areas ensures groups have flexible options for how they spend their time. Plus, multiple TVs scattered throughout the venue allow everyone to catch live sports or entertainment together, enhancing the communal feel and sparking conversations.
The venue also hosts regular events, from casual Wednesdays with special promotions to evenings featuring local music or trivia, providing ongoing opportunities for entertainment and interaction. If you are planning a larger event or reunion, Bouldin Acres offers event venue spaces with a capacity of up to 1,000 people, making it suitable for celebrations large and small. All these activities and amenities combine to create a lively, engaging environment that fosters connection — making it unbeatable for group meetups in Austin.
Why is Bouldin Acres ideal for food and drinks with friends or family?
When it comes to dining and drinking, Bouldin Acres offers a welcoming, high-quality experience with a relaxed vibe that perfectly complements social gatherings. The venue serves meals throughout the day, featuring approachable and delicious fare that appeals to a wide variety of tastes. Guests can enjoy a rotating selection of food trucks offering everything from gourmet burgers and appetizers to more unique local flavors. This not only ensures a dynamic menu but also supports local vendors, which adds to the authentic Austin dining experience. The food is crafted to pair exceptionally well with the drink options, making it easy to indulge in a full meal or just snack while chatting.
Bouldin Acres also boasts a full-service bar stocked with a diverse range of beers, cocktails, and non-alcoholic drinks. The bartenders are known for their friendly service and ability to craft beverages that appeal to all palates, from classic cocktails to creative concoctions. On top of this, the venue offers discounted prices during happy hours, making it even more attractive for groups looking to enjoy good drinks without breaking the bank. The dog-friendly patio allows you to sip your drink in the fresh air without leaving your four-legged friends behind. The ambiance is casual yet energetic, making it easy for conversations to flow and laughter to fill the air.
Whether you’re catching up over drinks after work, celebrating a birthday, or simply spending the weekend with your favorite people, Bouldin Acres provides an environment that balances great food, excellent drinks, and a warm atmosphere. Its long hours—from 11 AM to midnight—mean you can drop in for lunch, dinner, or late-night gatherings, offering flexibility for different types of meetups.
What makes Bouldin Acres' location and space suitable for larger groups?
Bouldin Acres occupies a generous area right on South Lamar Boulevard, one of Austin’s most popular and accessible neighborhoods. The venue’s two-acre property gives a sense of spaciousness rare for urban eateries, allowing large groups to convene without feeling crowded. This is a significant advantage when planning meetups where people want room to spread out, mix and mingle, or participate in various activities without interference. Whether your group is a small reunion or a larger celebration, Bouldin Acres can accommodate comfortably.
Furthermore, the property features both indoor and outdoor seating options, which means it is adaptable to different weather conditions and personal preferences. The outdoor areas include spaces shaded by trees and areas with views of Bouldin Creek, lending a scenic backdrop to your gathering. Indoor seating is roomy and comfortable, with a relaxed decor that invites long conversations and easy socializing. The combination of these spaces supports diverse group dynamics—some people may want to engage in games or sports, others may prefer to sit around a table sharing food and stories.
For those planning private events or want a more tailored experience, Bouldin Acres provides event venue services capable of hosting up to 1,000 people, making it ideal for community meetups or celebratory occasions like birthdays, anniversaries, or team-building gatherings. The venue’s experience in accommodating groups helps ensure your event will run smoothly.
How does Bouldin Acres cater to pet owners and families during meetups?
One of Bouldin Acres’ distinguishing features is its strong emphasis on inclusivity—not just for people but for pets as well. The venue is notably dog-friendly, offering a patio area where guests can bring their dogs along without restriction. This is a huge draw for pet owners who often struggle to find social environments that welcome their furry friends. Having a dedicated space where dogs can relax or mingle while their owners enjoy food, drinks, or games adds a very special dimension to group meetups.
Families with children also find Bouldin Acres an appealing destination due to its spacious green area and a playground. The presence of a playground means parents can keep kids entertained while still being close enough to socialize or enjoy meals. This family-friendly environment strikes a rare balance in the Austin dining and drinking scene, allowing multi-generational groups to come together in comfort. The venue’s open, relaxed style encourages a casual atmosphere where noise and movement from children or pets are not only accepted but welcomed.
This welcoming attitude toward both pets and families enhances the communal spirit that Bouldin Acres fosters, making it an ideal venue for those who want to rally together with all members of their chosen group — people, pets, and kids alike.
What special events and promotions does Bouldin Acres provide for groups?
Bouldin Acres regularly hosts special events that add excitement and variety to any meetup, giving groups extra reasons to gather there. Popular events include themed nights, live music sessions, trivia competitions, and seasonal celebrations that bring a lively energy to the space. Weekly or monthly events often feature specials on food and drinks, such as discounted happy hour pricing during afternoon and early evening hours. These promotions make Bouldin Acres not only fun but also budget-friendly, which is a critical consideration for groups looking for value without sacrificing quality.
Additionally, Bouldin Acres offers the convenience of reserving space for private events or larger groups. Their event hosting team can help plan everything from casual meetups to more formal celebrations, including corporate gatherings, birthdays, or community group events. The ability to customize the event to your group’s needs — including catering, layout, and equipment — ensures a smooth, personalized experience. The venue’s experience with large events, capable of holding up to 1,000 people, means they are equipped to handle logistics efficiently, so you can focus on enjoying time with your guests.
By combining regular entertainment options with flexible event services and friendly staff, Bouldin Acres creates memorable experiences that keep groups coming back.
Bouldin Acres is a multifaceted venue in Austin that stands out for its welcoming atmosphere, robust activity options, excellent food and drinks, and accommodating outdoor space. Whether your group is small or large, young or old, with pets or kids, Bouldin Acres offers an engaging setting for memorable meetups, making it one of the top choices for social gatherings in the Austin area.