When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Oilcan Harry’s
Why Oilcan Harry’s is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Oilcan Harry's stands proudly as the oldest operating LGBTQ+ bar in Austin, Texas, offering a unique and vibrant atmosphere that makes it an excellent spot for meeting up with friends. Established in 1990, this bar has built a rich legacy and a diverse community presence, embraced by students and locals alike. The venue is known for its stellar lineup of nightly drag shows, featuring a blend of drag queens, drag kings, and inclusive performances that celebrate diversity and creativity. From lively karaoke nights to thrilling drag competitions such as the renowned Saturday Best Drag Show Ever, Oilcan Harry's guarantees entertainment that keeps the energy high and the crowd engaged. Located downtown, it features a friendly and welcoming ambiance where patrons can easily socialize and make new friends. The bar also hosts bingo and other fun, interactive events that contribute to its reputation as an inclusive social hub. Its combination of vibrant performances, a mixed crowd, and a historic place in Austin's LGBTQ+ history make Oilcan Harry's a top choice for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic, festive Austin night out.
Here's what people think of Oilcan Harry’s
As of recent, Oilcan Harry’s holds a 4.5-star rating based on 434 reviews.
Reviews of Oilcan Harry's depict a well-loved venue with a strong community appeal. Many patrons praise the diverse range of entertainment, particularly highlighting the dynamic drag shows and the lively, fun atmosphere that the staff creates. Positive comments often mention the engaging performances, variety of music, and a well-lit dance floor, enhancing the overall experience. Bartenders like Drake have been singled out for their exceptional friendliness and service, contributing to repeated visits and fond memories. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to an aging venue atmosphere, with remarks about a musty smell, cliquish crowd, and slow service late at night. A few visitors have noted that the bar's ambiance may feel somewhat dated and that the social scene could be challenging for newcomers to break into. Despite this, the majority sentiment celebrates Oilcan Harry's as a staple in Austin's gay nightlife, balancing its historic charm with lively events. The general consensus from reviews indicates that while there are occasional drawbacks, the bar remains a beloved gathering spot full of character and spirit, ideal for those seeking a blend of history, entertainment, and community connection.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Jesus Diaz
Nice back patio, several bar areas to serve the large crowds. It helped to keep things moving and people served. My bartender was super cute. Friendly and worked efficiently. The Blue Hawaiian I ordered was perfect.
Avery Tijerina
Oilcan Harry’s has the best drag shows Austin has to offer. This bar became my safe space. All the queens are stunning and amazingly talented! and I always have to give a shoutout to my bby Harlot!! She is and will always be the reason I fell in love with drag!!
joysbugs
Super fun place to see a show and hang out for a bevy. We selected this place because they do let 18-21 in with a cover charge. Welcoming friendly place in downtown Austin.
Eugene Johnson
l about a couple years ago I came to Austin because of my birthday into visit my family I'm probably one of the last of the living Legends from the '80s era and of course I'm older now and I do perform from time to time and I reached out to show directors in Austin and still to this day can't get booked so when I came to Austin I decided let me go ahead and just do the talent show I show up I'll beat out 12 girls 11 to 12 so then I get booked for the brunch the next week and while I'm at the brunch the MC ask me would you like to come do the talent night again I said oh I'm allowed to she said yeah I go back which was actually my birthday I win again but when they called out the winner who was Jamie Perry she said well since PT won last week she can't win this week which she could have told me that when I walked through the door I was disappointed I was hurt being a legend someone who has performed way before a lot of these girls were even born I started dragging 1982 and for me to come into the bar and beat out 12 girls 2 weeks in a row I should have been offered a booking If not a booking that night or the next week and maybe sometime before the year was over I've reached out to the show director who actually told me she was going to book me after the show never heard back I've reached out to orkin Harry still hadn't heard anything Just imagine you being from a city that you love a city that where you got your drag start from and you've been asking and asking and asking an even contacting the Austin Pride committee and no one response to you Just remember everybody who reads this comment that does drag you'll get in your '60s one day too I'm not asking to be booked every week I'm not asking even to be paid a lot of money Just the fact that I'm still around and still performing it would really be nice if someone would reach out to me and every once in awhile reach out to some of the older girls that are still around in the city and show them love we have to learn to respect our elders and show our elders respect because they laid the foundations for the girls to do what they do now Peace and blessings I hope everybody understands that this is not a read it's just how I feel thank you
Rebecca Bonola
Hands down my favorite Bar to come to when I go out in Austin. I love the atmosphere and the vibes. I love the drag shows and the staff is always so friendly. I’ve been there a handful of times now and the manager, Kristen, is always so friendly every time I run into her. Even though she is busy, she always stops to say hi. I will always make it a point to go to OCH whenever I can. 💜 Thanks for being you OCH, never change. 🥰
How to reach Oilcan Harry’s
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Why rally at Oilcan Harry’s with your friends? Oilcan Harry’s stands out as the ultimate venue for gathering with friends, offering a unique blend of welcoming atmosphere, vibrant entertainment, and a long-standing community spirit. Located in downtown Austin, this iconic LGBTQ+ bar has been a cornerstone of inclusion and celebration since 1990, making it a place where everyone—whether local or visiting—can feel at home. The 4.5-star rating from over 400 reviews reflects its enduring popularity and the joyful experiences people consistently have here. Rallying at Oilcan Harry’s means immersing yourself in a lively social hub where laughter, music, and dynamic performances create an atmosphere perfect for reconnecting with friends or forging new friendships. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a fun night out, the bar’s diverse events and friendly vibe ensure that every meetup is memorable. Its reputation as Austin’s oldest LGBTQ+ bar also adds a layer of historical charm, enriching your visit with a sense of belonging to a welcoming, vibrant tradition of community and expression.
What activities can you enjoy at Oilcan Harry’s and why is it perfect for group meetups? Oilcan Harry’s offers a wide variety of activities that cater to different tastes and group dynamics, making it an excellent choice for groups seeking entertainment, social interaction, and fun. Every night of the week features a different event, from lively drag shows to karaoke and bingo nights, guaranteeing that groups can find something tailored to their mood and interests. The venue hosts Austin’s longest-running Latinx drag show on Wednesdays, adding cultural flair and high-energy performances to your gathering. On Saturdays, groups can enjoy “The Weekend Grind,” where local DJs spin tunes to keep the dance floor rocking, complemented by energetic go-go dancers that lift the party atmosphere even higher. Sundays bring a mix of entertainment options like the ever-popular Dirty Dynasty Bingo and Total Drag Request Live, where the audience controls the show by requesting songs, making it an interactive and engaging experience for groups that love participatory fun. Having such a diverse event lineup means that groups can return multiple times, experiencing different facets of Austin’s vibrant nightlife while always enjoying a great time together.
How does Oilcan Harry’s foster the perfect environment for friendly and inclusive socializing? One of Oilcan Harry’s core strengths is its reputation as Austin’s friendliest queer bar, which makes it a welcoming space for both longtime patrons and newcomers. A group meetup here benefits from a warm, inclusive atmosphere where respect and celebration of diversity are central values. The staff and performers are known for their friendliness and approachability, setting a positive tone that encourages mingling and making new friends. This inclusivity is a magnet for a diverse crowd—including students, longtime locals, and visitors—which means groups can enjoy a dynamic social experience rich with different perspectives and energy. The bar’s design and layout promote social interaction, with ample space to gather around tables or on the dance floor, ensuring groups can spread out or come together as they please. Efforts to maintain a safe, positive environment add to the peace of mind for groups, allowing everyone to relax and enjoy each other’s company without worry.
What makes the entertainment lineup at Oilcan Harry’s unique and engaging? Oilcan Harry’s has distinguished itself by featuring an exceptionally diverse and high-quality entertainment lineup that keeps guests coming back night after night. Featuring drag shows every evening, the bar showcases a range of performers—from Latina Tatiana Cholula’s famous Divina Latinx drag nights to drag kings’ performances and drag queen competitions like “Best Drag Show Ever.” These shows not only provide vibrant visual entertainment but also celebrate the depth and breadth of drag culture, enriching the overall nightlife experience with humor, artistry, and inclusivity. Beyond drag, Oilcan Harry’s incorporates other unique events such as karaoke nights that encourage audience participation and themed social games like bingo with comedic hosts, which provide engaging and interactive ways for groups to bond. The music played ranges widely from mainstream hits to Latin beats, catering to different tastes and encouraging dancing and celebration. The variety and energy of these events make Oilcan Harry’s a destination where groups can enjoy an evolving spectrum of performances, ensuring no two nights feel the same.
Why is Oilcan Harry’s a historically and culturally significant venue in Austin? Oilcan Harry’s is the oldest operating LGBTQ+ bar in Austin, having opened in 1990, which situates it as a historic landmark within the city’s social and cultural landscape. This longevity reflects its foundational role in providing a safe and affirming space for LGBTQ+ communities over many decades. For groups interested not only in a fun night out but also in experiencing an important piece of Austin’s cultural history, a visit here connects them to the city’s ongoing narrative of inclusion, activism, and community building. This heritage also informs the bar’s consistent commitment to supporting diverse talents and creative expressions, bridging generations of patrons and performers alike. The preservation of this legacy, combined with a modern, lively atmosphere, makes it a unique spot that both honors tradition and embraces contemporary nightlife culture. For groups, this means the opportunity to celebrate together in a place steeped in meaning and community pride.
What practical features and amenities support group meetups at Oilcan Harry’s? Oilcan Harry’s is open every day from 2 pm to 2 am, providing ample opportunity for groups to plan meetups at various times, whether for an afternoon gathering or a late-night celebration. The venue accommodates guests aged 18 and over, with special 18+ nights held Monday through Thursday that require a modest cover charge, which makes it accessible for groups including younger adults such as college students. The bar serves a wide range of drinks, with prices that are moderate and comparable to typical Austin nightlife, ensuring groups can enjoy the beverage menu without excessive cost concerns. The staff is known for their attentiveness, especially during earlier hours, supporting an enjoyable and smooth visit for groups. The venue’s layout also caters well to groups, offering both dance areas and seating spaces where friends can chat and relax. Additionally, Oilcan Harry’s offers limited VIP access to weekly shows and special events available for purchase, allowing groups to enhance their experience with reserved spots and premium service, ideal for celebrations or milestone gatherings.
How do patrons describe their experiences at Oilcan Harry’s? Reviews from patrons highlight Oilcan Harry’s as a vibrant and enduring social hotspot in downtown Austin. Many guests appreciate the lively, welcoming environment where making new friends comes naturally amidst the music and entertainment. The diverse crowd and engaging programming from drag shows to karaoke keep visitors entertained, while bartenders and staff receive consistent praise for their friendliness and professionalism. Some reviews mention the nostalgic appeal of the bar, with long-time patrons recalling the venue’s prominent role in Austin’s nightlife over the years. Although a few mention that the atmosphere can feel cliquish to outsiders or note typical challenges of busy nightlife venues, the overwhelming consensus is positive, emphasizing Oilcan Harry’s as a beloved place to gather, dance, laugh, and celebrate. This blend of energy, community, and history makes it a highly recommended spot for groups seeking a memorable, fun-filled meetup.
Why choose Oilcan Harry’s over other venues for a group gathering in Austin? Oilcan Harry’s offers a compelling combination of history, inclusivity, and nonstop entertainment that few other Austin venues match. Its status as the city’s longest-running LGBTQ+ bar means it has deep roots and a rich community connection, ensuring an authentic and spirited atmosphere. The daily variety of unique events—from drag shows to dance parties and interactive games—guarantees that groups will find something they enjoy no matter their taste or mood. The bar’s commitment to creating a welcoming space for all identities fosters a social environment where groups feel safe and energized. By choosing Oilcan Harry’s, groups support a local, LGBTQ+-owned business with a mission beyond entertainment—one that nurtures community bonds and celebrates diversity. This makes every meetup not just a fun occasion but a meaningful experience embedded with culture, acceptance, and joy. For any group looking to blend celebration with connection and high-energy fun, Oilcan Harry’s is an unbeatable choice.