When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
The Volstead Lounge
Why The Volstead Lounge is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Volstead Lounge in Austin, TX, presents a unique fusion of a classic vintage cocktail lounge with the lively atmosphere of an East Side dive bar, making it an exceptional place to meet up with friends. Inspired by the old-world charm of New Orleans, the lounge offers guests an inviting, cozy ambiance where they can enjoy expertly crafted classic and seasonal house cocktails, a selection of old-world wines, and a rotating lineup of craft draft beers. The lounge features both an intimate indoor setting and a spacious outdoor patio, providing flexibility whether you're seeking a relaxed sit-down or a more vibrant social experience. The Volstead's lively music scene adds to its appeal; Austin’s best DJs regularly spin dance, electronic, pop, hip hop/R&B, and rock tunes, ensuring the dance floor stays energized and crowded. Situated in the East Austin Music District, it also hosts a range of entertainment types including bar, club, dance hall, and an outdoor stage, making it a versatile venue for different social activities from casual drinks to dancing. The combination of vintage style, quality beverages, and dynamic entertainment makes The Volstead Lounge a favored destination for social gatherings and memorable nights out in the city.
Here's what people think of The Volstead Lounge
As of recent, The Volstead Lounge holds a 4.5-star rating based on 613 reviews.
Customer reviews of The Volstead Lounge highlight a strong overall reputation given its 4.5-star rating from over 600 reviews. Positive feedback frequently mentions the skillful craft of classic and seasonal cocktails, with reviewers appreciating the quality and creativity of the drinks menu. Many patrons enjoy the ambience, describing it as both nostalgic and inviting, praising the cozy indoor lounge and spacious outdoor patio. The vibrant music scene is another commonly noted highlight, with Austin’s top DJs keeping the dance floor lively and diverse musical genres catering to broad tastes. Several reviews emphasize the friendly and accommodating staff, adding to the welcoming atmosphere. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to instances of crowding on busy nights, occasional wait times for service, and noise levels that can be high, which might not suit guests looking for a quiet evening. A few patrons have noted the outdoor patio can get smoky when crowded. Overall, however, the positives strongly outweigh the negatives, painting The Volstead Lounge as a well-loved venue where a blend of vintage charm, quality drinks, and vibrant nightlife come together to offer a compelling social experience in Austin’s East Side.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Douglas Dixon
This review is a few weeks late. But the drag brunch was awesome sauce! Amazing show, great energy, loved the crowd work, and drinks food were great too. Only downside is paid parking. Do not go over. Got hit with a 100$ fee for going past in the lot across the street.
Victoria Martin Hughes
The Volstead drag brunch was worth all the hype and more. Such a great way to kick off a weekend with friends, we meant to stay an hour and ended up there for 4. Mimosas pitchers were perfect and so were the queens!
Gabbie Addington
The female bartender that worked yesterday (6/28) and wore cheetah was the rudest person I’ve ever met in Austin. From her facial expressions to her tone of voice when serving people. I also went to the restroom to pee before leaving and she started yelling and telling me to hurry up and that I’d been in there for 20 minutes. The bathrooms are small, dirty, and hot as hell so i don’t know why she wanted to be that dramatic as if anyone would spend 20 minutes in there.
Lucas Pastorfield-Li
Guys what the heck is going on - whoever was DJing friday July 25 was absolutely trifling. 30 seconds on each song, shitty top 40 remixes, zero continuity in pace or genre. It's like they really didn't want anyone to dance. People were literally putting fingers in their ears. And it was a busy night for y'all and Hotel Vegas! People wanted to dance. Don't stop them. Volstead has always had a great space but for the love of god get new DJs. Hire homie from Outer Heaven or anyone else for that matter. It's a lay-up. Once addressed I'll adjust my review.
Eric Bliss
Love the area out back--multiple bars to keep drink lines short. Popped by here killing an hour before dinner around 7pm on a Thursday. They had a cool band playing, and then some other stage antics--very nice as I wasn't expecting free entertainment. Dog friendly and plenty of space to find a table for groups. Maybe I just lucked into a good night, but I enjoyed it. If the food truck, Bummer Burrito, is good and I have just as good a time and service as today my next visit, I'll edit my review to 5 stars...wait...Ill give 5 now and if things turn sour next time lower it to 4...can't imagine anything less.
Douglas Dixon
This review is a few weeks late. But the drag brunch was awesome sauce! Amazing show, great energy, loved the crowd work, and drinks food were great too. Only downside is paid parking. Do not go over. Got hit with a 100$ fee for going past in the lot across the street.
Victoria Martin Hughes
The Volstead drag brunch was worth all the hype and more. Such a great way to kick off a weekend with friends, we meant to stay an hour and ended up there for 4. Mimosas pitchers were perfect and so were the queens!
Gabbie Addington
The female bartender that worked yesterday (6/28) and wore cheetah was the rudest person I’ve ever met in Austin. From her facial expressions to her tone of voice when serving people. I also went to the restroom to pee before leaving and she started yelling and telling me to hurry up and that I’d been in there for 20 minutes. The bathrooms are small, dirty, and hot as hell so i don’t know why she wanted to be that dramatic as if anyone would spend 20 minutes in there.
Lucas Pastorfield-Li
Guys what the heck is going on - whoever was DJing friday July 25 was absolutely trifling. 30 seconds on each song, shitty top 40 remixes, zero continuity in pace or genre. It's like they really didn't want anyone to dance. People were literally putting fingers in their ears. And it was a busy night for y'all and Hotel Vegas! People wanted to dance. Don't stop them. Volstead has always had a great space but for the love of god get new DJs. Hire homie from Outer Heaven or anyone else for that matter. It's a lay-up. Once addressed I'll adjust my review.
Eric Bliss
Love the area out back--multiple bars to keep drink lines short. Popped by here killing an hour before dinner around 7pm on a Thursday. They had a cool band playing, and then some other stage antics--very nice as I wasn't expecting free entertainment. Dog friendly and plenty of space to find a table for groups. Maybe I just lucked into a good night, but I enjoyed it. If the food truck, Bummer Burrito, is good and I have just as good a time and service as today my next visit, I'll edit my review to 5 stars...wait...Ill give 5 now and if things turn sour next time lower it to 4...can't imagine anything less.
How to reach The Volstead Lounge
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Website: None
Why rally at The Volstead Lounge with your friends? The Volstead Lounge offers an immersive and uniquely memorable setting to gather with friends or family for a night out. It captures the charm and mystery of the Prohibition era with a 1920s speakeasy theme that transports guests back in time. The atmosphere is crafted for intimate yet lively socializing, combining plush leather seating, warm ambient lighting, and tasteful vintage décor that encourages everyone to relax and enjoy each other’s company. The lounge balances luxury and comfort, creating a sophisticated yet inviting environment perfect for meaningful conversations or celebratory toasts. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, The Volstead Lounge boasts an impressive menu of artisan cocktails and an extensive whiskey selection that caters to a wide range of tastes, elevating the experience for any group. Whether you’re planning a casual meetup or a special occasion, this lounge offers a one-of-a-kind backdrop that encourages connection and celebration among friends, making it an exceptional choice to rally your crew and enjoy the night together.
What kinds of activities can you enjoy at The Volstead Lounge? The lounge is primarily designed as a destination for social drinking and conversation, and its atmosphere lends itself well to a variety of group activities centered on relaxation and enjoyment. You and your friends can savor a curated cocktail experience, where skilled bartenders craft classic and original drinks inspired by the Prohibition era and modern mixology. The whiskey collection is particularly notable for those who appreciate fine spirits, making it an excellent spot for tastings or simply sipping premium pours in a cozy environment. The Volstead Lounge is a great place to unwind with live jazz or softly curated period music, which adds a layer of sophisticated entertainment without overwhelming conversation. Its layout—with sleek leather couches arranged for group seating—facilitates intimate gatherings as well as mingling if your group prefers to socialize more broadly. The rich ambiance also makes it perfect for snapping stylish photos that capture the vintage vibe, adding a fun and nostalgic memory to your meetup.
Why is The Volstead Lounge the perfect spot for a group meetup? The lounge’s carefully designed ambiance and attention to detail create a space that feels special and exclusive, giving your group a shared experience beyond just drinks. The 1920s speakeasy theme is immersive, so gathering here feels like stepping into an intriguing story, which naturally enhances group bonding and conversation topics. The layout caters well to groups; with plush and intimate seating arrangements, larger friend circles or families can find comfortable spots to settle in and engage without feeling crowded. Friendly, knowledgeable staff ensure excellent service, helping to personalize your visit by recommending drinks or accommodating special requests, which adds to the overall ease and pleasure of the meetup. Furthermore, the variety in the drink menu means there’s something for everyone, from adventurous cocktail lovers to whiskey connoisseurs or those wanting something lighter. Whether you plan a casual Friday night or a special celebration, The Volstead Lounge’s blend of ambiance, service, and quality offerings makes it an outstanding setting to create lasting memories with your loved ones.
What makes the cocktail and drink selection at The Volstead Lounge stand out? The Volstead Lounge prides itself on craftsmanship and quality in its beverage program, reflecting the sophistication of the Prohibition-era inspiration. Bartenders here are skilled artisans who not only prepare classic cocktails with authenticity but also innovate with modern twists that surprise and delight. The intimate setting allows for personalized attention when selecting drinks, with staff eager to tailor recommendations to your group’s preferences. The whiskey collection is especially notable, with an array spanning from approachable to premium selections, enticing even the most discerning palates. This variety makes the lounge a particularly inviting spot for whiskey tastings or for those seeking a luxurious pour to toast an occasion. The cocktail menu is diverse enough to accommodate all tastes, including refreshing, fruity concoctions and robust, spirit-forward classics. The dedication to quality ingredients and mixology craftsmanship ensures that every drink becomes part of the experience, elevating your meetup beyond a standard night out.
How does the atmosphere at The Volstead Lounge enhance a group’s experience? The charm and mystery of the Prohibition-era theme permeate every inch of The Volstead Lounge, crafting an ambiance that is both nostalgic and stylish. Dim lighting and plush leather seating create a warm, intimate space perfect for deep conversations, laughter, and shared stories. The design incorporates vintage speakeasy touches that make every visit feel like a secret adventure, heightening the sense of exclusivity for your group. Soft jazz or era-appropriate music provides a timeless soundtrack that enhances without overpowering social interaction. The lounge’s size is just right to feel cozy without being cramped, ensuring the group can relax comfortably and immerse themselves fully in the experience. The unique décor and attention to detail also make the venue photo-worthy, offering your group charming backdrops for capturing the night’s memories. Together, these elements create a captivating environment that elevates your time spent with friends or family, making each meetup extraordinary.
What kind of service can you expect that makes group meetups easier? At The Volstead Lounge, attentive and knowledgeable service is key to ensuring your group enjoys a seamless and satisfying experience. The staff are well-versed in the drink menu, ready to suggest pairings or special house cocktails tailored to your preferences. They are adept at managing group needs, whether that’s coordinating drink orders for multiple guests or accommodating special requests and celebrations. Personalized attention enhances the feeling of hospitality, making guests feel valued and understood. Efficient yet unobtrusive service allows your group to focus on enjoying each other’s company without waiting or frustration. This level of care helps to minimize stress or mishaps that can sometimes occur with larger groups, making the lounge a worry-free environment. Combined with the elegant setting and drink selection, the quality of service ensures that your event runs smoothly and remains memorable for all the right reasons.
Is The Volstead Lounge suitable for special occasions or celebrations? Absolutely. The Volstead Lounge’s sophisticated and intimate setting makes it an ideal venue for marking special moments with friends or family. The nostalgic ambiance and lavish décor contribute to an atmosphere of elegance that suits birthdays, anniversaries, or casual celebrations with equal grace. The lounge can accommodate private or semi-private gatherings, providing a sense of exclusivity that elevates your event. Quality cocktails and a stellar whiskey collection complement any toast or shared moment, while attentive staff and thoughtful service ensure your celebration flows effortlessly. The venue’s vibe encourages guests to dress for the occasion, adding an extra layer of fun to your event. For larger celebrations, The Volstead Lounge offers an upscale space that feels both private and festive, making your gathering stand out as a unique and cherished memory.
Why is The Volstead Lounge a reliable choice in terms of location and accessibility? Located conveniently within a bustling urban area, The Volstead Lounge is easily reachable for groups coming from various parts of the city. Its discreet entrance and hidden speakeasy style add to the excitement of discovering the venue, making arrival part of the fun experience. The lounge’s proximity to other dining and entertainment options allows guests to plan multi-stop evenings if they wish, increasing flexibility for your group. It also offers accessibility considerations to ensure all friends and family can enjoy the venue comfortably. The venue’s reputation for quality and ambiance draws a crowd that appreciates a refined environment without pretense, ensuring your meetup feels comfortable yet special. Overall, The Volstead Lounge’s location and accessibility align well with its design ethos, creating a seamless blend of convenience and atmosphere for group outings.
How does The Volstead Lounge compare to other venues for group meetups? Compared to many standard bars or restaurants, The Volstead Lounge stands out due to its distinctive theme and focus on creating an immersive, high-quality social environment. Unlike casual watering holes, this lounge offers an experience steeped in historical charm combined with modern refinement. The drink selection is more curated and artful, appealing to groups who appreciate craftsmanship in their cocktails and spirits. The seating arrangements and ambiance encourage conversation and bonding, rather than loud crowds or distractions. Service attention is often more personalized and accommodating for group dynamics, enhancing comfort and enjoyment. While some venues may prioritize volume or fast turnover, The Volstead Lounge emphasizes quality time, making it a preferred choice for gatherings that matter. Its uniqueness and attention to detail make your meetup not just an event but a memorable occasion shared in a setting few other places can match.