When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Meanwhile Brewing
Why Meanwhile Brewing is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Meanwhile Brewing, located in Southeast Austin, TX, is a spacious 3.7-acre brewery well-loved for its vibrant atmosphere and variety of offerings. This brewery stands out as a fantastic place to meet up with friends due to its expansive beer garden, lively taproom, and food truck scene that caters to diverse tastes. The venue also features unique recreational amenities like a turf soccer field and a children’s playground, making it family-friendly while offering plenty of entertainment for all ages. The taproom offers a rotating selection of 12 to 16 craft beers, alongside a full coffee and espresso bar, wines, ciders, frozen cocktails, and hard seltzer-based beverages, ensuring there is something for everyone. Meanwhile Brewing's commitment to live music spans numerous genres, including indie, blues, country, jazz, and more, emanating from their outdoor stage and adding to the social vibe. Open daily with accommodating hours even into the late evening, this venue also supports large group events with a capacity of up to 500 people, making it perfect for parties or community gatherings. Overall, the combination of quality drinks, food, entertainment, and spacious outdoor amenities makes Meanwhile Brewing a top destination for quality time with friends and family in Austin.
Here's what people think of Meanwhile Brewing
As of recent, Meanwhile Brewing holds a 4.7-star rating based on 1158 reviews.
User reviews for Meanwhile Brewing overwhelmingly praise the venue's lively and welcoming atmosphere combined with high-quality beer selections. Many reviewers highlight the diverse beer lineup, including favorites like Meanwhile Helles and Cosmic Echoes, noting the freshness and craftsmanship of the brews. Patrons appreciate the extensive outdoor seating and the inclusion of food trucks, which complement the beer perfectly and enhance the overall experience. The family-friendly environment, thanks to the playground and sports field, is also frequently commended. Positive reviews often mention the vibrant live music scene and the accommodating staff who contribute significantly to a memorable visit. On the flip side, some negative reviews point out occasional crowding during peak times, potential noise from the music that might affect those seeking a quieter experience, and sporadic wait times at the food trucks. A few visitors have noted limited parking during busy events. Despite these minor drawbacks, the majority of guests conclude with strong recommendations for Meanwhile Brewing as a superb social venue in Austin. The positives clearly outweigh the negatives, reinforcing the brewery's reputation as a beloved gathering place offering excellent beer, food, and entertainment options that cater to a wide range of tastes and social needs.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Omar Mejia
Meanwhile brewing offers a great variety of beer! They have several food trucks - I’ve tried 3 different ones offering Mexican food, pizza and ice cream… all great! The atmosphere is phenomenal! I’ve also played soccer during the week, they have a turf field. Love coming with my family here!
Elena L
Great spot to hang out with friends! The area has several food trucks offering different types of food, though keep in mind that not all of them operate on weekdays. There’s plenty of space inside, as well as outdoor seating. The place is quite popular, so it can get busy. Prices are average, the drinks are decent, and the service is fast with a friendly staff. The interior is simple, but there are good seating options for groups. Overall, a nice casual spot to grab a bite and relax with friends.
Todd
Good brews in a gorgeous setting…shaded picnic tables and a playground provide great spaces for the family. A large projector provides sports viewing. They have a bunch of food trucks and a soccer field. Also…some very good coffee!
Mayes White
Meanwhile Brewing Company is hands down one of the best spots in South Austin! They have a huge selection of beer, so there’s something for every taste, and if you get hungry, there are plenty of food trucks around with great options. The outdoor seating area is massive, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere. I happened to visit during a SXSW concert, so there was live music adding to the vibe. One of the best parts? The large playground for the kids—plenty of space for them to run around while the adults kick back with a cold beer. Whether you’re here for the beer, the food, the music, or just a laid-back Austin experience, Meanwhile Brewing delivers. Definitely a five-star spot!
Molly Schaefer
Very cool.place! We went there for the food truck we were recommend to. Ended up going in and getting a beer/soda. Atmosphere is very cool! Love that it is dog friendly/ family friendly. We went at lunch so not to busy but was very impressed with it all.
How to reach Meanwhile Brewing
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Website: None
Why Meanwhile Brewing may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Meanwhile Brewing with your friends?
Gathering at Meanwhile Brewing in Austin is a compelling choice if you're looking to combine great craft beverages, lively atmosphere, and versatile entertainment options all in one spot. Rated an impressive 4.7 out of 5 based on over 1,000 reviews, Meanwhile Brewing has earned its reputation as a vibrant social hub where friends and family can relax, connect, and celebrate together. The spacious 3.7-acre venue is much more than just a brewery — it is a destination offering something for everyone, from adults craving artisanal beers and cocktails to kids wanting active play. Whether your group is large or small, sporty or laid-back, Meanwhile Brewing has thoughtfully curated amenities like a turf soccer field, a dedicated children’s playground, and a music stage to keep attendees engaged and entertained. This makes it ideal not only for catching up over some carefully crafted beverages but also for making new memories through shared activities and live events. Its combination of high-quality drinks, casual yet stylish outdoor settings, food trucks, and open-air stages creates a dynamic environment that invites you to linger and savor the day with your favorite people.
What makes Meanwhile Brewing perfect for group meetups?
Meanwhile Brewing stands out for its spacious, versatile layout that accommodates groups comfortably. The brewery can hold up to 500 guests, making it suitable for casual gatherings, large birthday parties, or community meetups. The outdoor seating and expansive beer garden allow your group to spread out and enjoy the Texas weather while socializing in a relaxed atmosphere. Having three rotating food trucks onsite means everyone in your group can find something delicious to eat, accommodating various tastes and dietary preferences. Meanwhile Brewing’s extensive drink menu features over 20 rotating beers alongside options such as wine, cider, coffee, espresso, and innovative hard seltzer-based cocktails, ensuring there’s a beverage to please every palate. Moreover, the welcoming environment encourages bringing children and dogs, broadening the possibilities for family-friendly events or casual hangouts with furry friends. Friendly staff and a community-oriented vibe foster a welcoming ambiance that makes groups feel at home from the moment they arrive.
What activities are available for groups at Meanwhile Brewing?
The activities at Meanwhile Brewing go beyond just drinking and dining, creating a vibrant scene ideal for varied interests. For sports enthusiasts, the onsite full turf soccer field invites friendly matches or skill challenges that energize the group and create fun competition. Families will appreciate the dedicated children’s playground, which keeps younger visitors happy and safe while adults relax nearby. Music lovers will find frequent live performances on the brewery’s outdoor stage, featuring genres as diverse as indie, blues, jazz, country, and electronic music, offering something for all tastes on most days. The atmosphere is often festive yet accessible for all ages, providing a natural gathering spot for celebrations, casual meetups, or weekend hangouts. For quieter moments, the shaded beer garden and comfortable seating areas allow conversations to flow with ease. The presence of various food trucks onsite complements the drinking and play experience by offering creative dishes and snacks, allowing groups to customize their culinary experience without leaving the venue.
How does Meanwhile Brewing’s drink and food selection enhance group gatherings?
Meanwhile Brewing prides itself on an eclectic and high-quality beverage menu perfect for sharing and discovering new favorites together. The brewery offers 12 to 16 rotating beers, including crowd-pleasers like IPAs, hazy brews, and refreshing shandies. This rotating selection ensures that regular visitors continually have new flavors and styles to explore. Additionally, the taproom serves wines, ciders, and a range of low-proof and hard seltzer cocktails that provide diverse choices for guests who prefer alternatives to traditional beers. Coffee and espresso services also operate, ideal for daytime meetups or a warm-up boost before an active gathering. On the food side, meanwhile, three food trucks rotate onsite, featuring offerings like chef-driven ice cream, fried chicken sandwiches, loaded fries, and gourmet smash burgers. This variety enhances group meetups by allowing friends to mix and match dishes according to their tastes or share to sample multiple items. The casual, flavorful food perfectly complements the beverages and the outdoor gathering vibe, creating a complete culinary and social experience.
What types of events and live music can you expect at Meanwhile Brewing?
Meanwhile Brewing's lively calendar of events and live music adds an exciting layer to its group-friendly appeal. The brewery regularly hosts live performances that cover a wide array of genres, including indie, Latin, blues, classical, country, electronic, folk, bluegrass, jazz, pop, hip hop, and world beat music. This broad musical range means nearly every group can experience genres that resonate with their collective taste while enjoying their outing. The outdoor stage creates a relaxed concert setting under the Texas sky, perfect for both casual attendees and avid music fans. Special events, such as collaborative beer releases or community fundraisers, further enrich the venue's social atmosphere, offering unique experiences for groups looking for something more than a standard meetup. Meanwhile Brewing’s staff prioritizes creating a welcoming space where patrons can enjoy live music without sacrificing comfort or conversation, striking a balance between lively entertainment and social connection.
What are the practical details for planning a meetup at Meanwhile Brewing?
Planning a group meetup at Meanwhile Brewing is convenient thanks to its extensive hours and accommodating policies. Open seven days a week with extended hours on weekends (from early morning to late evening), the brewery offers flexibility to schedule gatherings at almost any time. This makes it an excellent choice for brunch meetups, afternoon soccer games, early evening cocktails, or long weekend celebrations. The capacity to host up to 500 guests means the venue can easily adapt to both modest and large groups, with options for reception-style mingling or seated banquets. Outdoor seating and open spaces encourage a laid-back vibe that works well for informal gatherings, while the presence of food trucks and a variety of drinks ensures logistical ease—no need to pre-arrange offsite catering. The staff is experienced with hosting events and can assist with party logistics, making your planning process straightforward so you can focus on enjoying your time. Its location in Southeast Austin is accessible and a known hotspot in the city’s vibrant social and music scene, further enhancing its appeal as a meetup destination.
Why is Meanwhile Brewing a great place for families and pet owners?
Unlike many craft breweries that cater exclusively to adult crowds, Meanwhile Brewing embraces a family-friendly and dog-friendly philosophy. The presence of a children’s playground means parents can bring their kids along, knowing there is a safe and engaging area designed just for them. This makes it easier to coordinate gatherings that include family members of all ages without sacrificing fun or comfort. Dog owners also appreciate Meanwhile Brewing’s welcoming stance toward furry visitors, with ample outdoor space where pets can explore and socialize while owners enjoy a drink. This inclusivity creates a warm and community-minded environment where no one in your group has to feel left out. It encourages a more relaxed and genuine social atmosphere, with the freedom to bring along family or pets adding tremendous value to group meetups. This commitment to being a place "for all" enhances Meanwhile Brewing’s reputation as a go-to spot for friends and families wanting to enjoy good times together.
How does Meanwhile Brewing compare to other group meetup spots in Austin?
Meanwhile Brewing’s unique blend of features sets it apart in Austin’s bustling brewery scene. While many breweries focus solely on their beer offerings, Meanwhile has developed into a full-fledged social venue combining craft drinks with extensive outdoor amenities and food options. Its sizeable turf soccer field and children’s playground add active dimensions rarely found in similar venues. The rotating food trucks provide culinary variety without needing to leave the premises, creating a seamless food and drink experience that caters to groups with differing preferences. The inclusion of live music spanning many genres and a large capacity for events means it doubles as a lively entertainment venue as well. Coupled with strong customer ratings and consistent positive reviews praising the venue’s ambiance, community vibe, and staff friendliness, Meanwhile Brewing stands out for anyone seeking a comprehensive, fun, and welcoming place to rally with friends or family in Austin.
Meanwhile Brewing offers a stellar combination of craft beverages, diverse activities, family and pet friendliness, and live music in a sprawling outdoor setting — making it an unmatched destination for group meetups in Austin.