When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Moontower Saloon
Why Moontower Saloon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Moontower Saloon is a vibrant, spacious bar located on Menchaca Road in South Austin, famous for its authentic Texas vibe and welcoming atmosphere. Founded in 2011 in a restored 1950s ranch house, it offers guests a unique backyard party experience with string lights under oak canopies and plenty of room to spread out. The venue features expansive outdoor seating, sand volleyball courts, and multiple bars including an indoor air-conditioned bar and an outdoor covered bar, making it an ideal spot for gatherings in nearly all weather. Regular activities range from volleyball tournaments to charity fundraisers and trivia nights, providing something for everyone. The lively outdoor stage hosts live music spanning blues, funk, and Americana genres, enhancing the warm and friendly ambiance. Pet lovers appreciate that dogs are welcome, and the food trucks on site serve crowd-pleasing dishes like brisket grilled cheese alongside a variety of craft cocktails and beers on tap. The Moontower Saloon stands out as a go-to place in Austin for those who want to enjoy great drinks, good food, live music, and ample space to relax and socialize with friends in a casual, fun environment.
Here's what people think of Moontower Saloon
As of recent, Moontower Saloon holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2316 reviews.
Reviews for Moontower Saloon paint a picture of a popular South Austin hotspot that many find highly enjoyable, with a solid 4.5-star rating based on over 2300 reviews. Patrons frequently praise the expansive outdoor setting shaded by oak trees, the variety of activities such as sand volleyball, and the welcoming pet-friendly policy. Positive reviews highlight the friendly staff, live music, excellent drink selection including craft cocktails and beers, and delicious food from notable food trucks—especially the brisket grilled cheese. Many appreciate the relaxed atmosphere that offers both lively entertainment and comfortable elbow room. However, some negative feedback mentions issues such as a busy bar resulting in slower service, parking fees that can feel high, and occasional inconsistency in bartending. A few customers also compare it unfavorably to other local venues in terms of value or experience. Despite these critiques, the overall sentiment remains strongly positive with many visitors recommending it for casual hangouts, live music nights, and dog-friendly outings. The Moontower Saloon is widely regarded as a great place to enjoy South Austin charm with friends, offering a blend of good vibes, food, drinks, and entertainment in a comfortable outdoor setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Christie Wintersgill
Fun spot. Lots of room to run around and roam for the kids, relaxing and shaded seating areas. Good food trucks and overall cheap. $20 for parking that is validated (used towards drinks /food). Great climbing net for kids, all of them were having a blast.
Michala McWhirter
I wanted to adore this place. And somewhat, I did. But the one time I went to the bar to get a drink refill I was standing and waiting for several minutes while the bartender chatted with friends. When she realized there was about four of us waiting she rushed over and it was fine but a little absurd. I was excited for the food and was severely let down. The food consisted of two food trucks. (There’s more there but only two were open.) the fifers one, with the nachos, I stood and waited for several minutes and no one came so I went to the Thai food place. It was ok but literally noodles with a sauce and the frozen rotisserie chicken breast strips from Costco. The rice was just Costco premade bacon. And it was like $12 per dish. I could’ve made it at home much cheaper and faster and better. The nacho man came back so we ordered those. They were HEFTY. But again, just premade beef, pork, and chicken from probably Costco thrown on some chips and tops with massive amounts of queso. They were the better of the two options. The play place was so fun. My kids LOVED IT. Would we come back? Probably. But just for drinks and to let the kiddos play. I wouldn’t spent $50 on food that no one really loved.
Christopher Castille
This is an amazing space. There’s an interior bar with seating, large outdoor area, and volleyball courts. There’s staff is also very friendly!
Caio Guerra
We are tourists from Brazil and we went to the moontower saloon to watch the super bowl. Since our arrival at the salon, we liked everything about the place, a very large parking lot, a variety of drinks and a super cozy space. We were well served by some waiters at first, but a waitress with purple hair who arrived later treated us very badly simply because my wife and I pointed to a drink that was ready and said if it would be possible to make one like it for us. At the same time as we ordered the drink, we noticed her discomfort in serving us and a certain prejudice upon realizing that our “English” was a little different from the English of the natives. It's a horrible feeling to be in a place and go through that. My wife and I felt like leaving at the same time, but we decided to stay because we wouldn't let this type of person ruin our moment and our trip. I leave the tip for the restaurant to let some people more patient and respectful when serving the public because regardless of our nationality we should be treated equally because no one is more than anyone else!
Paul Delacruz
December 2023: Menchaca Road has slowly been transforming into a place where popular Austin hangouts have been opening new locations. I live nearby it and was time to see it again where my first place was the Moontower Saloon. I brought my wife during the day for lunch. The place had that Texas country feel with the gravel parking lot, rustic bar, outdoor seating under huge live oak trees, small stage, fire pit, food trucks and to my surprise sand volleyball courts. The place had a wonderful atmosphere. First we ordered food at one of the food trucks called Hot Texas Grills where the other was Fried Heaven but was not opened. While I waited for my Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla, I walked inside the bar to order a local beer. The bartender was nice and admired all the stickers behind her. This place looked like it had been here for decades with its old wood look almost like a dive bar. We sat outside on the deck checking out the place. The volleyball courts was located at the far end and was busy. This place was also dog friendly too. It was a very relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a beer and food at.
Christie Wintersgill
Fun spot. Lots of room to run around and roam for the kids, relaxing and shaded seating areas. Good food trucks and overall cheap. $20 for parking that is validated (used towards drinks /food). Great climbing net for kids, all of them were having a blast.
Michala McWhirter
I wanted to adore this place. And somewhat, I did. But the one time I went to the bar to get a drink refill I was standing and waiting for several minutes while the bartender chatted with friends. When she realized there was about four of us waiting she rushed over and it was fine but a little absurd. I was excited for the food and was severely let down. The food consisted of two food trucks. (There’s more there but only two were open.) the fifers one, with the nachos, I stood and waited for several minutes and no one came so I went to the Thai food place. It was ok but literally noodles with a sauce and the frozen rotisserie chicken breast strips from Costco. The rice was just Costco premade bacon. And it was like $12 per dish. I could’ve made it at home much cheaper and faster and better. The nacho man came back so we ordered those. They were HEFTY. But again, just premade beef, pork, and chicken from probably Costco thrown on some chips and tops with massive amounts of queso. They were the better of the two options. The play place was so fun. My kids LOVED IT. Would we come back? Probably. But just for drinks and to let the kiddos play. I wouldn’t spent $50 on food that no one really loved.
Christopher Castille
This is an amazing space. There’s an interior bar with seating, large outdoor area, and volleyball courts. There’s staff is also very friendly!
Caio Guerra
We are tourists from Brazil and we went to the moontower saloon to watch the super bowl. Since our arrival at the salon, we liked everything about the place, a very large parking lot, a variety of drinks and a super cozy space. We were well served by some waiters at first, but a waitress with purple hair who arrived later treated us very badly simply because my wife and I pointed to a drink that was ready and said if it would be possible to make one like it for us. At the same time as we ordered the drink, we noticed her discomfort in serving us and a certain prejudice upon realizing that our “English” was a little different from the English of the natives. It's a horrible feeling to be in a place and go through that. My wife and I felt like leaving at the same time, but we decided to stay because we wouldn't let this type of person ruin our moment and our trip. I leave the tip for the restaurant to let some people more patient and respectful when serving the public because regardless of our nationality we should be treated equally because no one is more than anyone else!
Paul Delacruz
December 2023: Menchaca Road has slowly been transforming into a place where popular Austin hangouts have been opening new locations. I live nearby it and was time to see it again where my first place was the Moontower Saloon. I brought my wife during the day for lunch. The place had that Texas country feel with the gravel parking lot, rustic bar, outdoor seating under huge live oak trees, small stage, fire pit, food trucks and to my surprise sand volleyball courts. The place had a wonderful atmosphere. First we ordered food at one of the food trucks called Hot Texas Grills where the other was Fried Heaven but was not opened. While I waited for my Buffalo Chicken Quesadilla, I walked inside the bar to order a local beer. The bartender was nice and admired all the stickers behind her. This place looked like it had been here for decades with its old wood look almost like a dive bar. We sat outside on the deck checking out the place. The volleyball courts was located at the far end and was busy. This place was also dog friendly too. It was a very relaxing atmosphere to enjoy a beer and food at.
How to reach Moontower Saloon
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Why Moontower Saloon may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Moontower Saloon with your friends?
Moontower Saloon stands out as an ideal gathering spot for friends seeking a relaxed, fun, and welcoming environment to rally together. Located in South Austin, this venue offers a unique blend of a laid-back outdoor atmosphere with plenty of space to socialize comfortably among shade trees and rustic charm. It is perfectly suited for groups looking for an unpretentious hangout where everyone can enjoy themselves without the pressure of formalities or cover charges. Whether your group wants to unwind with good drinks, share hearty food, or engage in lively games, Moontower Saloon caters to all these needs in one place. The presence of live music on multiple nights adds an extra layer of enjoyment and energy, making it a versatile venue that appeals to a broad range of tastes. Additionally, its dog- and kid-friendly policies mean no one in your group—including furry friends and families—is left out. This combination of accessibility, recreational options, and welcoming vibe makes Moontower Saloon an outstanding destination to connect, relax, and create memorable moments with friends.
What activities make Moontower Saloon perfect for group meetups?
Moontower Saloon offers numerous activities that ensure a lively and engaging experience for groups of friends or family gatherings. Among its standout features are three volleyball courts, which invite spirited matches and team play that naturally encourage camaraderie. Beyond volleyball, the venue has washer pits and corn hole games—classic backyard activities that appeal to people of all skill levels and ages, making the place feel like a large outdoor living room where friendly competition thrives. For beer pong lovers, a giant beer pong setup provides another fun way to break the ice and bond over lighthearted competition. The scatter of seating options under large shade trees promotes a chilled-out vibe where conversation flows easily while enjoying the great outdoors. A fire pit area offers a cozy nook for quieter moments or late-night chats, helping foster new connections or deepen existing friendships. All these amenities come with the benefit of free live music several times a week, reinforcing the vibrant social atmosphere and providing an excellent soundtrack to everyone's good times.
How does the ambiance and customer service enhance the meetup experience at Moontower Saloon?
The ambiance at Moontower Saloon is a cornerstone of its appeal, characterized by a distinctly Austin, old-school vibe that feels both welcoming and unpretentious. The outdoor setting with sprawling shade trees creates a refreshing backdrop, ideal for escaping the heat and settling into a calm and natural environment that encourages relaxation. The venue’s rustic, backyard-style feel makes every visit feel like a casual get-together among friends rather than a formal outing—perfect for groups who want to enjoy each other’s company without distractions. Regarding customer service, many patrons note the friendly and approachable bar staff who contribute to a warm atmosphere, making guests feel genuinely welcomed and cared for. The bartenders are known for crafting great drinks and engaging with customers, helping to elevate the overall enjoyment of the venue. This positive, easygoing vibe enhances group meetups by fostering an environment where social interaction feels effortless and enjoyable. However, it is also worth noting some critiques mention inconsistency in service quality, so experiences may vary on occasion.
Why is live music a key attraction for group gatherings at Moontower Saloon?
Live music at Moontower Saloon serves as an indispensable highlight that enriches the overall group experience. The venue hosts bands four nights a week, providing guests with a vibrant soundtrack that keeps the energy up and the mood celebratory. What makes this particularly appealing for groups is that there is no cover charge for these performances, removing any barriers to entry and making it easy to drop in for a spontaneous night out. The music ranges across genres but frequently features local bands, enriching the group’s outing with authentic Austin culture and sound. For special occasions such as Valentine’s Day, well-loved local bands perform, creating memorable event moments that groups can look forward to each year. The presence of live music not only entertains but also serves as a communal experience that bonds attendees through shared enjoyment of the arts, making Moontower Saloon more than just a bar—it is a social hub that brings people together through sound.
What food and drink options support the social atmosphere at Moontower Saloon?
Moontower Saloon complements its enjoyable activities and live music with a diverse selection of food and drink options designed to suit group gatherings. The bar offers a range of craft beers, cocktails, and other beverages that cater to varying preferences within a group, ensuring everyone can find something to enjoy. The drink specials frequently available deliver added value, helping groups celebrate affordably while sampling Austin’s well-regarded bar scene. The food here is described as terrific by many visitors, often reflecting hearty, comforting fare ideal for casual dining that pairs well with drinks and socialization. This culinary aspect supports the venue’s backyard party vibe, where guests can linger and chat over shared plates or meals without feeling rushed. In addition, the place’s policy of crediting parking fees back to guests who spend a minimum amount on food or drinks adds an extra layer of convenience for groups arriving by car, enhancing the overall experience by making logistics easier.
How does Moontower Saloon accommodate diverse groups including families and pet owners?
One of Moontower Saloon’s standout qualities is its inclusive and accommodating environment for diverse groups, including families and pet owners. Unlike many nightlife venues that cater primarily to adults, Moontower Saloon welcomes kids and dogs, making it a versatile option for a broader range of gatherings beyond just friends seeking night entertainment. This family-friendliness ensures that parents can bring along their children without stress, knowing there are open spaces and casual seating areas suitable for all ages. The dog-friendly policy means groups with pets can enjoy time together without having to leave furry friends behind, which significantly enhances the sense of community and relaxation. The outdoor venue’s spacious layout lends itself well to this inclusivity, providing plenty of room to safely accommodate different activities and groups concurrently. This makes Moontower Saloon not just a bar but a communal backyard space where people can rally regardless of their family or social circumstances.
Why is Moontower Saloon considered an authentic Austin experience?
Moontower Saloon captures the essence of Austin’s laid-back and eclectic spirit, making it a genuinely authentic local experience. Far from the overly commercialized venues of downtown, this spot offers a down-to-earth vibe that visitors and locals appreciate for its simplicity and warmth. The blend of outdoor leisure activities, live music featuring local bands, and a rustic, unpolished charm resonates deeply with Austin’s culture celebrated for creativity, music, and community. The fact that the saloon operates without cover charges for music and encourages casual fun with games like volleyball and washers makes it a refreshing alternative to conventional nightlife. Many visitors highlight Moontower Saloon’s old Austin feel, where people talk easily, strangers become friends by the fire pit, and the focus is on good times over pretension. This authenticity is a powerful draw, especially in Austin’s vibrant and ever-changing social scene, allowing groups to experience the city’s heart while enjoying memorable gatherings.
What practical tips improve your visit to Moontower Saloon for a group meetup?
To maximize your group’s experience at Moontower Saloon, consider a few practical tips before heading out. Since the venue is popular and parking can incur a fee, plan to spend at least $15 at the bar to have the parking cost refunded—this not only saves money but helps support the venue. Arriving earlier in the day or on less busy nights can secure the best seating under the shade trees, which is perfect for larger groups wanting a comfortable space together. Taking advantage of the various games such as volleyball and washers will enhance the social vibe, so bringing a competitive but fun spirit is key. Also, checking the live music schedule will help you pick the ideal night for your group, ensuring you catch a band everyone will enjoy. Lastly, remember the outdoor nature of the venue means dress comfortably and be prepared for changing weather, which is part of what makes the entire experience charming and relaxed.
In essence, Moontower Saloon is a versatile, inviting, and authentically Austin venue that caters exceptionally well to groups seeking a memorable meetup spot. Its combination of welcoming ambiance, diverse games, live music, and inclusive policies creates an environment where friends and family can effortlessly gather, enjoy each other’s company, and celebrate life together.