When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
The Jackalope
Why The Jackalope is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Jackalope, located at 404 E 6th St in Austin, Texas, is a vibrant and distinct bar known for its eclectic atmosphere and iconic giant jackalope centerpiece, which often serves as a fun photo opportunity for visitors. This downtown spot offers a casual vibe that appeals to a diverse crowd, making it a popular meet-up place for friends looking for a laid-back experience. The establishment features a sizable outdoor area equipped with games and ample seating, enhancing its social appeal, especially during good weather. Guests can enjoy a range of drinks, including specialty cocktails like their watermelon margarita, and simple yet tasty food options such as veggie burgers served with spicy mayo on toasted buns. Staff friendliness is frequently highlighted as a positive aspect, contributing to a welcoming environment overall. The Jackalope's location on the famous 6th Street also places it at the heart of Austin’s nightlife scene, making it an accessible and attractive venue for locals and tourists alike seeking an enjoyable night out in a unique setting.
Here's what people think of The Jackalope
As of recent, The Jackalope holds a 4.3-star rating based on 2051 reviews.
Reviews of The Jackalope present a mixed but insightful picture. On the positive side, many patrons appreciate the bar's friendly staff and the lively atmosphere that captures the spirit of Austin's 6th Street nightlife. The iconic giant jackalope sculpture is a crowd favorite, offering a memorable and playful element to the visit. Drink offerings receive favorable mentions, with cocktails like the watermelon margarita being tasted and enjoyed. The outdoor seating with games is also seen as a great feature for groups and casual gatherings. However, some negative reviews raise concerns about aspects such as cleanliness, particularly citing a rundown ladies restroom. There are also serious complaints about poor customer service and questionable handling of customer safety, such as unprofessional advice from staff in medical situations and incidents of lost personal items. Additionally, some customers consider the bar overpriced and note issues like disorganization internally. While these criticisms suggest room for improvement, the overall high volume of reviews and many positive experiences indicate that The Jackalope remains a compelling spot for socializing. Visitors may want to weigh these factors when planning their visit to this notable Austin venue.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Matt O'Dwyer
Cool bar to stop and grab a beer at. They have beer pong and some fun claw machines! Won a rubber duck!
Mayra Caballero
Was here yesterday 7/31/25 around 5:00 pm. Bought 3 beers and got charged DOUBLE the price. I forgot to pick up my second receipt , I don’t know if the girl gave herself a bigger tip but this is NOT okay. This used to be one of my favorite spots until this happened. Will not be coming back . Don’t forget to keep your receipts & check your bank accounts. Thief
Munah
The bar was going up on a Monday! It was my last night in Austin and I was debating on going to 6th street alone. I am so glad I went! As I walking down the strip, I heard people singing at the top of their lungs and I decided to see what this bar was about. You’re met with a huge Jackalope right in the middle. I immediately said I must take a photo of myself on it!! That night at the bar was a mixture of karaoke and music being played. Music was great and the vibes were immaculate in there!!!
ricky pelt
Great after concert place to hang out. Atmosphere and food was really good. Bartenders were super friendly as well.
Tran Phan
We were hungry. Ordered some snacks, no drinks. The snacks were ok… they were warm not hot, the mini corn dogs were not crispy. The atmosphere was better than the food. Friendly staff. As a dive bar, for drinks, it’s a good place to hang out with friends and dates
How to reach The Jackalope
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Website: None
Why rally at The Jackalope with your friends? When you’re searching for a spot that blends a chill, friendly vibe with a fun atmosphere, The Jackalope stands out as an excellent choice. With an impressive rating of 4.3 from over 2,000 reviews, it clearly resonates with locals and visitors alike. The Jackalope’s unique persona arises from its eclectic setting, welcoming community, and an inviting mix of good food and craft drinks. One of the big draws is its relaxed, no-fuss approach—meaning you can unwind, chat, laugh, and just enjoy yourself without the hassle of formal service. Imagine gathering your group around a lively bar area, some of you perched on the iconic Jackalope statue, snapping fun photos, while others savor expertly crafted cocktails or a tasty veggie burger. Plus, the venue frequently earns praise for its friendly staff and lively ambiance, making it the perfect spot to reconnect with friends or create new memories with family. Whether it’s a casual lunch getaway or a festive evening hangout, The Jackalope offers a welcoming backdrop that encourages that easy camaraderie and celebration among friends.
What makes The Jackalope perfect for a group meetup? For starters, the venue’s layout encourages socializing with plenty of comfortable seating, including an outdoor area that features tables and lawn games—ideal for groups to mingle over a round of drinks or light bites. The absence of traditional table service means guests freely roam to the bar to order food and beverages, which fosters movement and informal interaction among group members. The food menu, highlighted by tasty options such as the satisfying veggie burger served with fresh toppings and a spicy mayo, caters well to diverse palates. Drink selections, including popular choices like watermelon margaritas, keep the energy lively and festive. Moreover, the large, intriguing jackalope statue serves as a fun conversation starter and a quirky photo spot that adds to the experience. For those looking to hold casual events or simply catch up after long spells apart, the ease of ordering, vibrant environment, and the mix of indoor and outdoor spaces combined create an atmosphere that effortlessly suits group gatherings and celebrations.
What activities can groups enjoy at The Jackalope? Beyond the core appeal of delicious food and drinks, The Jackalope’s outdoor space offers informal entertainment options like lawn games that encourage playful competition among friends. This communal activity helps groups break the ice or deepen bonds in a relaxed setting. The bar areas function as social hubs where you can chat with your group or meet new people, contributing to a dynamic social vibe. For the creatively inclined, climbing atop the large jackalope statue to snap unique group photos turns into a memorable activity and playful icebreaker. The mix of indoor and outdoor seating also means groups can wander comfortably between sun or shade, depending on the time of day or mood. On weekends or special occasions, the space often buzzes with a diverse crowd, music, and laughter, lending itself well to both smaller, intimate gatherings and larger celebrations. This variety of interactive experiences makes The Jackalope a lively playground for social meetups beyond just eating and drinking.
How does The Jackalope’s atmosphere support memorable social experiences? Its reputation for a "super chill friendly vibe" stands as a centerpiece of the overall experience. The casual drop-in style service eliminates formalities so that groups can move and connect naturally rather than feeling stuck at fixed tables. Friendly bartenders and staff members contribute positively to this vibe by being approachable and helpful, ensuring that even newcomers feel welcomed. While some reviews mention certain areas like restrooms needing attention, the overwhelmingly positive feedback about the ambiance, drink quality, and food taste trumps these minor setbacks for many visitors. The eclectic, somewhat hipster aesthetic adds character and a sense of place that appeals to those looking for a venue with a bit of edge and personality. For groups looking to relax, share laughs, and enjoy a lively scene that isn’t overly pretentious, The Jackalope creates exactly that kind of warm, inviting atmosphere.
Why choose The Jackalope’s location for your meetup? Nestled in downtown Austin, The Jackalope benefits from its convenient central location, making it easy for groups to gather whether coming from work or other city venues. Its accessibility encourages a spontaneous drop-in or planned get-together without the fuss of long travel, freeing your time to linger and enjoy the company. The area itself is vibrant and bustling, so your meetup can easily happen before or after other city activities like concerts, shopping, or sightseeing. This proximity also means a wider variety of group members can join, as it caters to locals and visitors alike. Furthermore, a central spot in a dynamic city like Austin lends a certain cultural flair, contributing to the overall experience of fun and friendship The Jackalope represents.
What kind of food and drink experience can your group expect at The Jackalope? The Jackalope serves up a well-curated menu that balances classic bar fare with some creative twists. Notably, their veggie burger is highly regarded for its fresh ingredients and flavorful spicy mayo, making it a favorite among vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Drinks cover a broad spectrum but stand out with fun and refreshing options like the watermelon margarita that surprises even those who aren’t typically fans of fruity cocktails. The overall quality of food and beverage is consistently praised, and the bar atmosphere means drinks arrive cold and fast—perfect for keeping the mood light and flowing during your meetup. The mingling of flavors and casual presentation aligns perfectly with The Jackalope’s relaxed environment, letting groups enjoy tasty bites and sips without any pretense.
How does The Jackalope cater to different group sizes and event types? Whether you’re a small group of friends wanting a low-key lunch or a large pack celebrating a special occasion, The Jackalope’s layout and vibe can accommodate a range of gatherings. Its blend of open spaces indoors and out provides flexibility so groups can spread out or huddle closer depending on preference. The lack of assigned seating and table service means groups aren’t constrained by formal arrangements—everyone can move easily to hang with different friends or join other groups if they feel like socializing more broadly. The spaciousness combined with lively energy makes it an excellent venue for casual meetups, birthday parties, or after-work social hours. Visitors often remark on its capacity to adapt to the flow of the crowd, scaling well from casual hangouts to more dynamic celebrations. This flexibility is a huge plus for groups wanting a no-fuss, fun, and memorable outing.
What kind of crowd and vibe does The Jackalope attract? The clientele at The Jackalope tends to be diverse but generally leans toward a hip, friendly crowd that appreciates good drinks and a laid-back atmosphere. Locals frequent the spot for its welcoming ambiance, and the weekend buzz brings in a vibrant mix of groups, from friends to coworkers to casual partygoers. Its reputation as a somewhat hipster, eclectic bar located in a lively city often means you’ll encounter interesting people and engaging conversations. Despite some critiques mentioning occasional staff or service issues, most reviews highlight a positive, energetic environment that’s conducive to socializing and fun. This mix of a relaxed yet lively atmosphere creates a unique niche where groups can feel comfortable and come together without formalities or pressure, just pure friendly enjoyment.
In summary, The Jackalope functions as a quintessential meetup spot for groups seeking a relaxed, engaging, and visually distinctive environment. Its highly rated food and drink menu, combined with its open and flexible social spaces, give friends and family alike plenty of reasons to rally here. From lawn games and photo-worthy moments atop the iconic jackalope statue to a welcoming bar and outdoor seating, this venue delivers variety and vibe in one package. Located conveniently in downtown Austin, it’s a prime destination for anyone looking to connect, celebrate, and create memorable experiences with loved ones. Whether it’s an impromptu hangout or a planned celebration, The Jackalope invites your group to enjoy good company in a spot that knows how to foster fun and friendship.