Guadalupe Street, affectionately known as “The Drag,” just outside the University of Texas at Austin campus, is a vibrant and iconic stretch brimming with both student energy and Austin’s unique character. Far from being stereotypically COLLEGE, The Drag offers a diverse mix of experiences for everyone, from long-time residents to first-time visitors. As the academic year kicks into gear, there’s no better time to delve into what makes The Drag a must-visit Austin destination.
Located between 21st and 25th Street on Guadalupe Street in Austin, TX, this lively strip is a treasure trove of dive bars, diverse restaurants, live music venues, and unique vintage shopping spots. Join us as we explore the sights and experiences that await in one of Austin’s most historic and beloved districts.
Madam Mam's Thai Cuisine on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Madam Mam’s
510 W 26th St
For authentic Thai cuisine on Guadalupe Street Austin Tx, look no further than Madam Mam’s. This cherished restaurant, located at 510 W 26th St, offers a genuine taste of Thailand with family-style dishes crafted from recipes passed down through generations. Chef Mam is dedicated to using fresh, high-quality ingredients, traditional Thai flavors, and aromatic Asian spices to create memorable meals. Madam Mam’s is a true gem in Austin’s diverse Thai food scene, offering a culinary journey that feels both comforting and exotic.
The Pizza Press
404 W. 26th St.
Located at 404 W. 26th St on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, The Pizza Press brings a unique and engaging approach to the ‘build your own pizza’ concept. Inspired by the vibrant culture of 1920s Americana newspapers, The Pizza Press offers an immersive dining experience that blends delicious, customizable pizzas with craft beer, a lively atmosphere, and exceptional service. Its prime location near the UT campus makes The Pizza Press a popular and convenient choice, especially for those craving a late-night pizza fix after hitting the books or enjoying Austin’s nightlife.
The Carillon
Texas Executive Education, 1900 University Ave.
For a more refined dining experience near Guadalupe Street Austin TX, The Carillon, situated within the Texas Executive Education building at 1900 University Ave, offers an elegant escape. This upscale eatery serves gourmet, seasonal dishes with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients and artful presentation. The Carillon provides a sophisticated menu that is both visually appealing and deeply satisfying, perfect for a special occasion or a treat-yourself meal. Don’t miss their decadent dessert options to complete your gourmet experience.
Diners enjoying burgers at Dirty Martin's Place on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Dirty Martin’s Place
2808 Guadalupe St.
A true Austin institution on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Dirty Martin’s Place, located at 2808 Guadalupe St, has been serving up classic American comfort food since 1926. As one of Austin’s oldest restaurants, Dirty Martin’s is legendary for its delicious burgers and creamy milkshakes. They pride themselves on using fresh meats, quality produce, and time-honored recipes to ensure that every bite is packed with flavor. Stepping into this historic diner is like taking a trip back in time, offering an authentic taste of old Austin and some seriously good, no-frills food.
Exterior of Lucky Lab Coffee Co. on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Lucky Lab Coffee Co.
2421 San Antonio St.
For your caffeine fix on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Lucky Lab Coffee Co., found at 2421 San Antonio St within Space 24 Twenty, is an excellent choice. This popular coffee spot serves up specialty Third Coast coffee, along with refreshing lemonades, teas, and a selection of tempting sweets and pastries. Lucky Lab offers both indoor bar-style seating and outdoor picnic tables, creating a welcoming space where you can even relax with your dog. Open early at 6:30 AM, it’s the perfect place to grab a coffee to kickstart your day, whether you’re heading to class or commuting to work.
Exterior of The Ballroom at Spider House venue on Guadalupe Street Austin TX at night
Patrons enjoying the patio at The Ballroom at Spider House on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
The Ballroom at Spider House
2908 Fruth St.
A cornerstone of entertainment on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, The Ballroom at Spider House, located at 2908 Fruth St, is a renowned comedy and music venue. With a consistently packed calendar of events, including Resound bookings, local comedy shows, and diverse musical performances, there’s always something happening at The Ballroom. This venue has evolved over the years but remains a vibrant and essential part of the North Campus entertainment scene. Check out their schedule and make plans to experience a show soon!
Posse East
2900 Duval St.
While technically just off Guadalupe Street Austin TX at 2900 Duval St, Posse East is a UT favorite that deserves a mention. This popular sports bar, just a short hop from The Drag, is known for its game day specials and fantastic outdoor patio. It’s the ideal spot to meet up with friends to watch a Longhorn game and soak in the Austin sports atmosphere. Be sure to arrive early as Posse East fills up quickly, especially on game days. Enjoy classic sports bar fare like nachos, chicken wings, or tacos, paired with a cold beer while cheering on your team.
Exterior of Hole in the Wall music venue on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Hole in the Wall
2538 Guadalupe St.
A legendary live music venue on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Hole in the Wall, situated at 2538 Guadalupe St, has been a beloved Austin institution since 1974. This iconic spot has been a haven for musicians, tourists, performers, and music enthusiasts for decades. Hole in the Wall has played a crucial role in nurturing Austin’s vibrant music scene, having hosted early performances by now-famous bands like Spoon, Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears, and Fastball. You can catch live music almost any night of the week, and enjoy daily specials, including discounted Lone Star beers.
Crown & Anchor Pub
2911 San Jacinto Blvd.
Just a short walk from Guadalupe Street Austin TX at 2911 San Jacinto Blvd, Crown & Anchor Pub is a Do512 favorite for its relaxed atmosphere and extensive drink selection. This laid-back pub boasts ample seating and appealing daily Happy Hour specials. With 30 beers on tap and over 100 bottled and canned options, plus a wide variety of ciders and wines, there’s something for every taste. Enjoy a game of billiards indoors, or bring your dog and unwind on their outdoor patio.
Cain & Abel’s
907 W 24th St
A West Campus staple near Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Cain & Abel’s, located at 907 W 24th St, has been a part of the Austin and UT community since 1991. Their updated location continues to offer a wide array of beers on tap and a full bar, alongside a popular patio that’s always buzzing with activity. Cain & Abel’s is a prime spot for catching up with classmates, enjoying a casual date, or watching a game with friends while savoring some drinks on their lively patio.
Patio scene at Cactus Cafe on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Cactus Café
2247 Guadalupe St.
For an on-campus experience on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, the Cactus Café, situated at 2247 Guadalupe St within the Texas Union building, is the perfect destination. This intimate live music venue and bar is renowned for showcasing top acoustic acts in a cozy setting. Before the music begins, grab a drink, settle into a chair, and enjoy conversation with friends in this relaxed space. The Cactus Café offers a wonderful spot for a laid-back evening of music and drinks within the heart of the UT campus.
Via 313 Pizza
3016 Guadalupe St.
Craving Detroit-style pizza on Guadalupe Street Austin TX? Via 313, located at 3016 Guadalupe St, offers a unique pizza experience inspired by the owners’ memories of square-shaped pies. Their Detroit-style pizzas are cooked in cast-iron pans, resulting in a light, airy crust with caramelized cheese edges and a signature tomato sauce topping. Beyond their exceptional pizza, the Guadalupe Street location features ample indoor seating, an outdoor patio, and a full-service bar with handcrafted cocktails and a wide selection of local and regional beers on tap. For a non-alcoholic treat, try their grape-flavored Faygo pop, a perfect complement to their Original Pepperoni pizza.
Hopfields gastropub exterior on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Hopfields
3110 Guadalupe St.
For a sophisticated date night option on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Hopfields, a French-inspired gastropub at 3110 Guadalupe St, is an excellent choice. Hopfields offers a refined yet welcoming atmosphere with a front bar area for casual visits and a dining room for reservations. Their extensive drink menu includes a rotating selection of draft beers, creative cocktails, and a diverse wine list. The menu is seasonally inspired and always evolving, featuring exquisite dishes like the butter lobster roll and the Pascal burger.
Longhorn Fashions burnt orange apparel on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Longhorn Fashions
709 W. 22nd St. Suite 116
For UT Longhorns spirit wear on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Longhorn Fashions, located at 709 W. 22nd St Suite 116, is your go-to boutique. Founded by Tessie Watson, Longhorn Fashions specializes in stylish burnt orange clothing and accessories perfect for University of Texas fans. This shop, conveniently close to campus, sees its highest traffic during football season. Find the perfect burnt orange outfit and show your Longhorn pride!
Monkies Vintage & Thrift store interior on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Monkies Vintage & Thrift
1904 Guadalupe St Suite C
For unique and affordable vintage finds on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Monkies Vintage & Thrift, situated at 1904 Guadalupe St Suite C, stands out. Austin is known for its thrift stores, but Monkies distinguishes itself with its budget-friendly prices and a bold, eclectic selection of vintage clothing and accessories. You’ll discover pieces spanning various eras, from the 1960s to the early 2000s, with new items arriving weekly, ensuring a fresh and exciting thrifting experience with every visit.
Buffalo Exchange
2904 Guadalupe St.
A well-known name in sustainable fashion on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Buffalo Exchange, located at 2904 Guadalupe St, offers a curated selection of both vintage and contemporary used clothing and accessories. While a national chain, this Buffalo Exchange location reflects Austin’s distinctive and artistic style. Customers can buy, sell, and trade clothing, creating a unique and ever-changing inventory of cool and stylish threads. With a large space and a wide variety of items, plan to spend some time browsing and discovering hidden gems.
Antone's Record Shop storefront on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Antone’s Record Shop
2928 Guadalupe St.
A long-standing cultural landmark on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Antone’s Record Shop, at 2928 Guadalupe St, has been a haven for music lovers for over 30 years. Boasting an impressive collection of blues albums, along with a vast selection spanning every genre imaginable, Antone’s Record Shop carries on the legacy of Clifford Antone’s passion for music, mirroring the spirit of the renowned Antone’s music venue. It’s a must-visit destination for vinyl collectors and music aficionados exploring The Drag.
Nice Kicks sneaker store interior on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Nice Kicks
2900 Guadalupe St.
For sneakerheads on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Nice Kicks, located at 2900 Guadalupe St, is the ultimate destination for street-style footwear. This store offers a wide range of trendy sneakers from popular brands like Nike, Puma, Jordans, and Vans, as well as more unique and emerging brands. Nice Kicks combines high-end quality with gender-neutral styles in its extensive selection of shoes and apparel. Let their knowledgeable staff help you find your next pair of fresh kicks to elevate your style.
Space 24 Twenty outdoor shopping and event space on Guadalupe Street Austin TX
Space 24 Twenty
2420 Guadalupe St.
A unique multi-purpose space on Guadalupe Street Austin TX, Space 24 Twenty, at 2420 Guadalupe St, encompasses retail, dining, and events. Home to Urban Outfitters and Lucky Lab Coffee Co., Space 24 Twenty hosts pop-up markets, live performances, tarot readings, and various other events. The main Urban Outfitters building features two levels of women’s clothing, accessories, and home decor, while a separate space across the outdoor patio is dedicated to men’s fashion. Space 24 Twenty is a perfect spot to combine retail therapy with a relaxing coffee break and experience the dynamic atmosphere of The Drag.
