When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Firehouse Lounge
Why Firehouse Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Firehouse Lounge in downtown Austin is a unique and inviting place to meet up with friends, offering a blend of historic charm and vibrant nightlife. Located in Austin's oldest surviving fire station, built in 1885, this craft cocktail lounge is tucked behind a hidden bookshelf inside an international hostel. The lounge features a warm, dimly lit atmosphere reminiscent of a speakeasy, enhanced by firefighter memorabilia and a charming vintage vibe. Guests enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, including prohibition-era drinks and local brews, making it an ideal spot for cocktail enthusiasts. Live music is a key highlight, with Thursday nights featuring diverse local acts spanning genres such as jazz, blues, folk, and reggae, while Saturday nights bring in DJ sets for dancing and late-night fun. With a capacity of 160 and an age limit of 21+, the lounge offers an intimate yet lively environment perfect for both locals and travelers seeking an authentic Austin experience. Additional perks include daily happy hours, including weekends, and easy access from the hostel, making Firehouse Lounge a go-to destination for a memorable evening with friends.
Here's what people think of Firehouse Lounge
As of recent, Firehouse Lounge holds a 4.5-star rating based on 1469 reviews.
Reviews of Firehouse Lounge predominantly praise the establishment for its unique ambiance and excellent cocktail selection. Many visitors appreciate the speakeasy feel created by the hidden entrance through a bookcase and the cozy, dim lighting that enhances the experience. Users frequently highlight the quality and creativity of the cocktails, noting that the bartenders are skilled and friendly. The live music is another strong point, with patrons enjoying the eclectic mix of genres and the intimate setting that allows the audience to connect with performers. Positive reviewers also commend the friendly and welcoming atmosphere, which makes the lounge a favorite spot for both locals and tourists. However, some negative feedback points to occasional overcrowding during peak times and limited seating, which can impact comfort and service speed. A few reviews note that the speakeasy's dark ambiance might not appeal to everyone, especially those preferring a more brightly lit venue. Despite minor critiques, the overall consensus is highly favorable, with many guests recommending Firehouse Lounge for its distinctive character, quality drinks, and vibrant music scene, making it a standout nightlife destination in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amber Lee
Expecting a firehouse but somehow ended up at a cute speakeasy where you enter through a bookcase in the wall? Just another regular Friday night in Austin. In all seriousness though, Firehouse is a decent speakeasy where half the fun is in taking photos at the sliding bookcase and the other half is after you wait about 20 minutes for your drinks. We ordered the passion fruit daiquiri and old fashioned (they couldn’t make a strawberry daiquiri variation, not sure if they couldn’t or wouldn’t). The drinks are good and strong but in a dimly lit speakeasy with a strange floor plan it never really felt worth the wait. There is sometimes live music which we unfortunately didn’t catch so there’s likely nights where the energy is much higher and you wouldn’t even notice. The speakeasy is on the far more accessible side (definitely not for parking, but it’s 6th so you should Uber anyways) which is good for those who want a casual find and might be fine with waiting for their drinks. It comes across as more of a lounge so be aware of that before expecting a lot of it. But in an area littered with other options, Firehouse feels a bit lacking. We’d recommend it as a warmup bar if you’re going out for a night on 6th but wouldn’t put it down as the highlight.
Carl Thomas
Great hole in the wall cocktail bar, the drinks are fantastic bartenders are excellent and the overall vibes set the tone for your evening. They often have live music, either a DJ or a band. When you arrive you enter through a book shelf which gives those prohibition speakeasy vibes. The bar itself is in the lounge dark tone vibe, great for a post dinner date spot. All orders happen at the bar, they know how to run great cocktails and the knowledgeable staff can help you if you want something more custom or on the mocktails variety. Seating is decent, on a busy night it’s more limited but there is ample spots to hang out. It’s a great spot for a date night, grabbing lounge drinks with friends, getting a small break from dirty 6th, or bringing out of town friends for a more unique Austin experience.
Natascha Parker
I love this place specially the staff because they are kindness, polait and be able to support you with resources that you need A+ to Ashlyn , Kelly and the manager Howie for helping me when I really need it .Also, Alexia always have a smile to the customer.You will feel at home .Nice place to stay and enjoy the art and 🎶. Close to Good restaraunts including vegetarian food , pharmacy and grocery store too. Also, near to museums, capitol state ,and bus stop, stop thinking twice. Price are incredible!😊
Michele C
Cute speakeasy located in a hostel. The staff is friendly and fun; the cocktails are amazing! The atmosphere is quiet and relaxed, definitely worth a visit!
Vidhathri Urala
My first time at a hostel. Enjoyed my stay and met some interesting people at the common kitchen area. Chose the female dorm room option, which made me feel comfortable. Located at a busy and happening place in Austin so it was fairly convenient for me (Also be aware that it won't be super quiet at night). Basic amenities were available.
How to reach Firehouse Lounge
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Why Firehouse Lounge may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable night out requires picking a spot that combines atmosphere, fun, and unique experiences — and Firehouse Lounge in downtown Austin delivers all that and more. This lounge is not just your typical bar; it carries the historic charm of Austin’s oldest fire station, built in 1885, creating a nostalgic and intriguing ambiance that makes every visit special. From the moment you and your friends step through the secret bookshelf entrance, it’s clear that Firehouse Lounge values both intimacy and exclusivity, giving your group an experience that feels like a hidden treasure. The warm, dimly lit interior decorated with firefighter memorabilia sets a welcoming yet lively tone that’s perfect for catching up, celebrating, or just relaxing together. This venue boasts a well-curated selection of craft cocktails and prohibition-era drinks that will impress anyone from the casual drinker to the cocktail connoisseur. On top of that, the lounge often features live music and DJs, providing an energized backdrop or dance vibes as you prefer. With its cozy size that accommodates around 160 guests, it offers the right balance of buzz and personal space, making it ideal for groups eager to enjoy memorable moments without feeling lost in the crowd.
What activities can you enjoy at Firehouse Lounge?
Firehouse Lounge is more than just a place to grab a drink; it’s a vibrant venue filled with activities that cater perfectly to groups. The centerpiece for many visitors is the live music that fills the lounge on select nights, especially Thursday evenings. The music ranges across genres such as jazz, blues, folk, country, and hot jazz, appealing to a wide variety of tastes and giving groups the chance to discover new sounds together. On Saturdays, the atmosphere shifts to DJ-driven dance nights, making it ideal for friends who want to unwind and move together to upbeat tracks. For those less into dancing, the quaint, speakeasy-style lounge with plush seating encourages relaxed conversations and bonding over expertly made cocktails. The venue also offers daily happy hours, including weekends, making it budget-friendly without sacrificing quality or experience. Beyond music and drinks, the lounge’s unique entry – a sliding bookshelf door – is an engaging conversation starter, adding an element of mystery and excitement as friends arrive and explore this hidden gem. Some nights may even feature special events highlighting local talent or unique themes, continuously refreshing the experience for repeat visitors.
Why is Firehouse Lounge perfect for group meetups?
Firehouse Lounge’s carefully curated environment makes it exceptionally suited to hosting groups, whether you're gathering with close friends, family, or colleagues for a casual meetup or special occasion. Its intimate capacity of about 160 people ensures your group feels part of a lively scene without the chaos or impersonal feel of larger clubs and bars. The lounge’s layout includes cozy corners and communal spaces where groups can comfortably settle in, making conversations easy even when the music is playing. Additionally, the staff is known for their craft cocktail skills, offering each guest a personalized drink experience that adds a special touch to group outings. The lounge’s central location downtown, close to Austin’s famous 6th Street, means it’s easily accessible for everyone in your circle, with plenty of nearby options to extend your night or start early with dinner. For groups extending their stay, Firehouse Lounge is connected to an international hostel, allowing visitors to conveniently book rooms if needed. This combination of location, ambiance, and thoughtful amenities means your group isn’t just meeting at a bar — you’re sharing a full experience tailored to making memories.
How does the historic and unique setting enhance your group’s experience?
The Firehouse Lounge inhabits what used to be Austin’s oldest fire station, built all the way back in 1885. This historic backdrop adds a layer of character not found in typical nightlife spots, instantly providing a talking point and a sense of place that enriches your outing. The decor, which features firefighter memorabilia and period details, gives your group a glimpse into Austin’s past while you enjoy modern comforts and entertainment. The idea of entering through a secret bookcase feels like stepping into a speakeasy from another era, turning an ordinary night out into an adventure. This historic charm also fosters a cozy atmosphere where groups can feel close-knit and away from the noisy, crowded typical bar scenes. Whether you’re enthusiasts of architecture, history, or just good vibes, the Firehouse Lounge sets a unique scene that elevates your gathering, helping each guest feel part of something special and memorable.
What makes the drink and food offerings stand out for your group meetup?
One of the essential elements that make Firehouse Lounge an excellent spot for socializing with friends or family is its impressive selection of drinks crafted to perfection. Renowned for their craft cocktails, the bartenders mix both classic prohibition-era cocktails and innovative modern concoctions, ensuring there’s something to suit every palate. This focus on quality and creativity invites your group to sample different flavors and enjoy a shared experience of discovering standout drinks. While the lounge prioritizes beverages, your group might also appreciate that it’s conveniently colocated with a hostel, meaning access to nearby food is straightforward, with many popular Austin eateries and food trucks just steps away on 6th Street to complement your visit. Additionally, happy hour specials on drinks make the experience more affordable for larger groups looking to enjoy good times without overspending. The thoughtful curation of drinks combined with easy access to food ensures your meetup is both flavorful and hassle-free.
What can you expect from the live music and entertainment?
Entertainment is at the heart of Firehouse Lounge’s appeal, especially for groups who enjoy blending social time with cultural experiences. The venue hosts a variety of live music, spanning genres like jazz, blues, country, gypsy jazz, and more, offering what many consider some of Austin’s best-kept musical secrets. These performances invite attendees to relax, listen, or even dance, depending on their mood and preference. The sound system and intimate stage create excellent acoustics, providing clear, immersive audio that enhances the music’s emotional and rhythmic impact. On other nights, the lounge switches gears to DJ sets, transforming the vibe into a dance-friendly environment perfect for groups looking to celebrate or simply have fun. This toggle between live and DJ music means your meetup can be tailored to the group's preferred style—whether it’s laid-back and smooth or lively and energetic. Firehouse Lounge regularly updates its event calendar, ensuring each gathering feels fresh and exciting.
How accessible and welcoming is Firehouse Lounge for groups?
Firehouse Lounge’s prime downtown Austin location makes it easily reachable by car, public transit, and rideshares, which is important when coordinating group meetups. The venue maintains an age requirement of 21+, aligning with its focus on quality adult nightlife. Reviews show that many guests find the staff friendly and knowledgeable, ready to help with group seating or special requests, although individual experiences can vary. The space is designed to balance privacy with a social buzz, so your group won't feel cramped or overwhelmed even on busy nights. Additionally, the adjacent hostel often hosts travelers from all over the world, adding an eclectic and inclusive feel to the atmosphere. While the venue is primarily a lounge and live music spot, its combination with the hostel and proximity to other Austin nightlife hotspots means your group has plenty of options for before and after your time there. This accessibility and community vibe make it a welcoming and practical choice for gatherings of friends and families alike.
What kind of groups tend to enjoy Firehouse Lounge the most?
The Firehouse Lounge draws in a diverse crowd, but it’s especially popular with groups who appreciate a blend of historic ambiance, quality cocktails, and live music. Music lovers seeking authentic, intimate performances of genres like jazz, blues, and folk find it a gem that suits their tastes. Travelers staying at the connected hostel often mingle with locals here, so groups including tourists enjoy the ease of access and authentic Austin vibe. For those celebrating milestones such as birthdays, reunions, or casual get-togethers, the relaxed yet dynamic setting helps create cherished memories. Additionally, people who enjoy speakeasy-style venues with hidden entrances and narrative charm appreciate the lounge’s distinct personality. Whether your group is into a quiet night of sharing stories over cocktails or a lively night of dancing and live bands, Firehouse Lounge serves as a versatile backdrop for social connection.
With its combination of historic charm, excellent drinks, diverse live entertainment, and a cozy yet lively atmosphere, Firehouse Lounge in Austin stands out as a premier venue for hosting group meetups. From the mysterious entrance to the warm ambiance and musical offerings, it crafts an experience that brings friends and family together in a setting that’s as memorable as it is fun.