About Peckerheads
Peckerheads on 6th is a high-energy nightclub and bar located at 402 East 6th Street in Austin, Texas (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). Opened in March 2007 by a University of Texas alumnus (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ), it bills itself as an “affordable 6th Street party bar” that appeals to college crowds and locals alike (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). The two-story venue is unusually large for a Sixth Street bar – it contains three long wooden bars and two separate dance-floor areas (essentially two small stages and dancefloor on each level) (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). With space for up to about 500 people, Peckerheads often feels packed on weekend nights, but during off-peak hours even small groups find plenty of room to roam. The spirit of UT-Austin is woven into the venue’s identity: its walls sport burnt-orange Longhorn themes and even staff often chat about local football players visiting the bar (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ) (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). In short, Peckerheads stands out on Sixth Street as a loud, college-style drinking hole known for big crowds, cheap cocktails (including its famous giant mason-jar drinks) (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ), and a party-atmosphere that’s more bar than lounge. Despite the name, it’s a mainstream, all-ages (21+) dance spot rather than a gig venue, although it has hosted surprising big-name acts during festival season (see below) (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ).
Events and Programming
Peckerheads isn’t a theater with a fixed lineup, but it keeps music and entertainment running nearly every night. The atmosphere is driven by DJs playing Top 40, hip-hop, country, and popular dance hits – plus occasional live bands during festivals. During SXSW and other event weekends, the club has hosted an eclectic mix of acts. In past years its stage has seen everyone from Chance the Rapper, Macklemore and Wiz Khalifa to Austin’s own Kacey Musgraves and Pat Green (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). The bar proudly highlights these alumni – J. Cole, T.I., Akon, Janelle Monáe, Turnpike Troubadours and others have even thrown surprise sets there (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). On a typical weeknight, expect dance parties with a local DJ taking requests; on Fridays and Saturdays it’s especially busy and features larger DJ lineups and sometimes guest performers. Peckerheads also frequently runs drink-special nights. As one bartender noted, all domestic beers and $2 tequila are often promoted on any given night, with $2 “you-call-it” wells midweek and rotating weekend shot specials (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). The signature cocktails themselves are part of the programming: the iconic “Texas Tea” (a Long Island iced tea in a huge mason jar) and its sister “Adios Motherf**er” drink are essentially a draw unto themselves (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). In addition to the party music, Peckerheads entertains patrons with coin-operated games – think beer-pong tables, skee-ball machines and even a photo booth tucked inside the club (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). Overall, Peckerheads’ lineup is less about a fixed schedule of concerts and more about having something fun every night of the week, from country or 80s rock early in the evening to rap, EDM, and Top 40 after midnight (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ).
Tickets and Booking
Peckerheads is primarily a casual bar, so there is usually no advance ticketing. For most nights you can simply show up and pay any cover charge at the door (if there is one). Many nights have free entry or a nominal $5–$10 cover, especially for local DJs. (As a rule of thumb, if a headliner or special event is advertised, there may be a higher cover; check local listings or call ahead if you’re unsure.) Unlike a theater, there is no box office or reserved seating chart – it is general admission, standing-room, with patrons queuing at the door until 9:00 PM when the club opens (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). For very popular events or festival showcases, tickets might occasionally be sold online through third-party event sites, but even then you typically pick them up at the venue or present a mobile pass at the door. If you want to ensure entry on a busy weekend, your best strategy is to arrive early (before 10 PM on Friday/Saturday) to avoid lines or sold-out situations. Peckerheads does not sell tiered seats – everyone mixes on the same dance floors. The venue can also be reserved for private events: company parties, birthdays or large group outings up to about 500 people (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). To book a private party, you would contact the bar directly (via their website form or phone) and discuss an event package; the staff handles everything from seating to drink packages. Pricing for such group bookings is quoted per event. In short, casual drop-ins usually just pay at the door, while organized groups can call or email ahead to reserve space.
Seating and Layout
Peckerheads has a very open, standing-room layout. There are no assigned seats or tables for spectators – the only chairs are barstools at each of the three long bars. Expect to stand or mill around with your friends. On the main floor you’ll find the largest bar and the main dance area (with a small stage for DJs or bands). A second dance bar and stage are on the upper level, which is accessible by a staircase just inside the entrance (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). (In fact, one local write-up notes you ascend a few stairs from street level to enter, and the upper floor has no balcony or exterior windows (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ).) Because of this layout, there are a few different vantage points to experience a show. The best spot to hear music is often near the center of the ground-floor dance area or directly under the speakers. If you want a slightly clearer look at the performers, try leaning against the low railing of the second-floor “mezzanine” (near the DJ booth upstairs) – that vantage overlooks the main floor below. Bar stools at the end of the bars can also be good if you want a drink but still want to watch the music. In general, you can stand anywhere – there are no “bad seats” as there are no fixed seats – but do be aware it can get very loud. If you want to sing along, pick a spot back near the bar rather than directly in front of the speakers. One reviewer even described the interior as dark and windowless, with a sort of underground (or “mineshaft”) feel (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ), so aside from the dance floors there aren’t really hidden corners or balconies. The only common “seating” areas are along the straight wooden bars. Acoustically, expect a typical club sound system: it’s adequate for rap and pop music, but nothing like a concert hall. In short, Peckerheads is built for a party crowd standing/dancing together; there’s no VIP section or theater-style seating to consider.
Getting There and Parking
Address and Location: Peckerheads is at 402 E. 6th St (corner of Trinity St) in downtown Austin (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). This puts it right in the heart of the Sixth Street entertainment district, east of Congress Avenue and west of I-35. The bar’s neon sign is visible from the street corner late at night.
Driving & Parking: Downtown parking can be tricky, but there are options. On-street meters run along 6th Street and surrounding blocks. Meters are roughly $1 per hour (4-hour max) and generally enforced until midnight (on weekends, meters turn off at midnight, after which on-street parking is free) (en.parkopedia.com ). Note that since Peckerheads stays open until 2 AM, you can legally park at a meter at 10 PM and not feed it after midnight. Several public lots/garages are within a few blocks: for example, the small “6th Street Lot” directly nearby charges around $9–10 for a few hours (en.parkopedia.com ). A bit further away (4th/Trinity) is the Convention Center garage or a Hilton hotel lot, usually $10–15. One low-cost option noted on Parkopedia is the “Little Cowboy” lot (2-minute walk) at about $4 for 2 hours (en.parkopedia.com ). If you plan to stay late, many lots have flat evening rates ($8–$12) or even allow overnight parking. Be cautious of private lots that tow – stick to clearly public or hotel parking. The convenience of parking within one block often means paying for a lot; on-street spaces can be limited on busy nights.
Public Transit: Peckerheads is transit-accessible. Several Capital Metro bus lines stop nearby. For instance, Route 10 (running along 6th St) and Route 7 (along 7th/North Lamar) each have stops within two blocks (moovitapp.com ). The free downtown “Dillo” circulator often serves 4th/6th Street as well. Additionally, Metro’s Red Line (Route 550) light rail stops at “Downtown Station” near 4th & Red River, just a 5- to 7-minute walk north (moovitapp.com ). In practice, visitors from across Austin often take routes that go through the downtown transit center or connect at Republic Square, then walk a couple blocks to 6th & Trinity. Simply input “6th & Trinity” into CapMetro’s Trip Planner or Google Maps to identify current bus routes from your location.
Rideshare & Dropoff: Uber/Lyft and taxis are very popular for getting to 6th Street. The official entrance is on East 6th, so the simplest drop-off is at the corner of E 6th and Trinity. Because traffic on 6th can clog up on busy weekends, some visitors ask drivers to drop them at nearby Trinity Street a block north (where space is usually a bit clearer). After shows, meeting your ride right on 6th Street can be hectic – many fans instead arrange a pickup on Trinity or Brazos Street just off 6th. If staying into the late-night hours (closing is 2 AM), remember CapMetro buses will be scarce, so plan a rideshare pickup or taxi destination ahead of time.
Arrival Tips: Sixth Street is very walkable. If you’re coming from downtown hotels (e.g. on Congress or 3rd Street), just head one block east to Trinity and north a block to 6th. From UT campus, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk east via Guadalupe or San Jacinto to reach 6th. The venue itself has a small porch at street level; keep your ID handy for age-check on entry (the bar enforces the 21+ drinking age).
Inside the Venue
Peckerheads is all about partying, so expect a lively, loud interior and straightforward bar amenities. Entry & Security: At the door you will be asked for a photo ID – only adults 21 and over are admitted. Security staff may check bags or perform a brief pat-down. Dress is casual: just about anything goes after dark (jeans, shorts, tees are in); there isn’t a formal dress code, but most people come in nightlife or casual attire. Don’t bring prohibited items – think “no outside alcohol, no illicit drugs, no glass bottles.” Loud music starts right when the bar opens at 9:00 PM (www.peckerheadson6th.com ), so plan for a wait to be scanned in if you come late on a busy night.
Atmosphere: Once inside, you’ll find a packed, dimly lit club vibe. The main floor bar spans one wall, offering drafts, cocktails and bar snacks. The bartenders move fast – they’ve been noted as particularly friendly and fun (www.tripadvisor.com ) (restaurantguru.com ), so feel free to chat or ask for drink suggestions (and playfully banter, as is the norm). The music is cranked up loud: party tunes, rap, club mixes. Cocktails come in large portions – almost everyone orders the bar’s signature giant jar drinks. Notably, the Texas-Tea Long Island Iced Tea arrives in a huge mason jar (www.peckerheadson6th.com ), and its blue variant “Adios Motherf**er” (a mix of vodka, rum, tequila, etc.) is a crowd favorite (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). Both are very strong: one reviewer even joked that getting this drink was “like Shakespeare’s Long Island pitcher in a single drink” (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). The bar also offers well drinks and bottle service in the upstairs VIP cubbies, but most guests stick to standard mixed drinks and shots.
Drinks & Food: Peckerheads emphasizes drinks over food. You’ll find typical bar fare (pizza, wings or nachos) if you’re hungry – one review did mention a pizza that was “nicely cooked” (restaurantguru.com ), though food is not the main draw. Mostly people come for the $2 specials: traditionally, domestic beers (especially Mexican lagers) and tequila shots have been just $2 all night (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). They even have a legendary shot called the “H-Bomb” (Hideous Liquor and Red Bull) if you’re feeling adventurous (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). Note that cash is often easier for quick bar tabs, though the registers do take cards.
Unique Features: Up front near the entrance is a coin-operated photo booth – grab your friends and take a wacky group pic as a souvenir. The club also has interactive games tucked inside: you’ll see a long table set up for beer pong, plus an old-school skee-ball machine, free for patrons. This frat-bar aesthetic with games likely contributes to why locals call it so. There’s also a flickering “Texas-Tea” neon sign behind the bar referencing their famous drink.
Stress Points: Because Peckerheads can get very crowded, lines can form at the restrooms and bar late-night. One UT newspaper critic warned that “Peckerheads has plenty of room but only one set of restrooms, and sometimes the lines can be long” (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). Factor that into your plans during intermissions between songs. Coat checks are not typically offered; coat up in your bag or keep it near you. As for connectivity, the bar probably does not offer guest Wi-Fi, so make sure your phone is charged if you need to coordinate with friends or call an Uber. The cell signal inside can vary – sometimes entering the stairwell or back area can drop your reception due to the concrete and low lighting.
Nearby Amenities
Food & Pre-Party:** 6th Street itself is more nightlife than dining district, so many patrons eat before coming. If you want dinner nearby, turn-of-the-century pizza, tacos or Tex-Mex are good picks. A popular choice is Bufalina Pizza (on E. 5th St just west of Congress), known for fresh slices – it opens late and is about a 5-minute walk west (www.mapquest.com ). For Tex-Mex, Polvos (at 5th & Congress) or Jo’s Coffee (for light snacks and their famous Sagamore pot pie) are within a couple blocks. There’s also a Domino’s and a few taco trucks closer if you’re hungry late; downtown hotels often have in-house restaurants (the Hyatt Place at 8th & Lavaca or the Driskill hotel have quickoptions). Basically, go into Sixth Street with dinner in your system if you can.
Bars & Nightlife:** Peckerheads sits in the thick of Austin’s bar scene. Next door or a street over you’ll find dozens of options to continue the night. For example, the City Central Hotel (400 block of Trinity) has its own rooftop bars. If you hit Sixth Street too early, you could pre-game at nearby favorites like Scholz Garten (for beers near Rainey St) or La Paloma (Tex-Mex and margaritas on Congress Ave, one block west). Downtown clubs (like Empire Control Room or Whiskey Room) are also walking distance if you want to keep dancing after 2 AM.
Hotels:** If you’re visiting, there are many hotel choices within a short walk. The City Central Hotel is basically next door on E. 6th between Trinity and Lavaca (it’s affordable and even advertises nightclub packages). A bit farther are the Driskill (luxury, on Congress just south of 6th), the Hilton Garden Inn and Marriott Courtyard (both around 7th & Congress), plus boutique and budget options scattered north along Lavaca/Trinity. If your evening ends late, these are all within a 10-minute walk. Just remember – 6th Street closes to car traffic around last call, so plan your rides accordingly.
Transit & Late Night:** If you plan to leave after Peckerheads (it closes at 2 AM), note that CapMetro buses wrap up by midnight downtown. However, the free “Dillo” downtown circulator and the MetroRapid lines #801/#803 run until around 2–3 AM on weekends, and Metro’s nonprofit shuttle “Ciclovía” may also serve parts of downtown late. Most people, though, rely on rideshare or cabs. Several taxi stands are on 5th St (a few blocks west) and Lyft/Uber cars queue up along 4th and 6th. If walking late-night, stick with groups – downtown is generally lively but StaySafe as you head back to your hotel.
What Makes This Venue Special
Peckerheads’ real personality comes from its delightfully over-the-top college-bar vibe. The spirit of Pete “Pecker” Henderson (the original owner/franchisee) and UT frat days still lingers in every detail. First and foremost is the giant cocktail: Peckerheads invented (and even trademarked) the “Texas-Tea” – a Long Island iced tea served in an oversized mason jar (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). No trip there is complete without trying one. Its twin, the “Adios Motherf**er,” is equally famous (and potent) in a blue jar (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). In fact, locals note that when those two are served, it feels like a backyard college party – one blogger quipped that a $5.50 “Adios MF” was like getting the *whole* Dirty Sixth scene in one drink (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). These signature drinks give Peckerheads a cult status: you might see a line at the bar just for refills of these cheap, monstrous cocktails.
Another unique feature is the club’s inclusive, unpretentious feel. Other downtown venues can be split-up or genre-specific (country fans on 4th St, rock fans on 3rd, etc.), but Peckerheads throws everything together. You’ll hear Top 40 pop, a dash of classic rock, and modern hip-hop all in one night, catering to whichever crowd has more energy on that evening (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). The result is a sort of “anything goes” party where dance routines range from button-down country line-dancers to college kids whipping off shirts in unison. This mash-up character is by design – employees play the role of friendly MCs, encouraging the mix-and-mingle. Indeed, reviews often highlight the staff – bartenders and bouncers alike – as unusually upbeat and entertaining (www.tripadvisor.com ) (restaurantguru.com ). Several reviewers specifically call out the bartenders for being welcoming and even enjoying working the crowd (www.tripadvisor.com ). That energy is contagious: even on a quiet weeknight, one blogger described feeling immediately at home, as if generations of new graduates had been getting hammered in exactly this bar for decades (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ).
Peckerheads also has historical significance on Sixth Street. It sprouted up in a space that had been a longtime bar (variously called Bar Austin and Spy Bar) (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ), tying it to the street’s live-music roots. Over the years it carved out its own niche, bridging the gap between rowdy house party and music venue. Its reputation was solidified by events – for example, the Rolling Stone magazine hosted a party there during SXSW 2011 (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ), and the venue became known as a place where up-and-coming hip-hop artists in particular would pop in for intimate shows. Even without big names, though, local tradition recognizes Peckerheads as a place “you have to experience” on 6th Street. Its quirky charm (giant jar shots, party games, a photo booth, and late-night coordinates in a block-buzzing building) gives it personality no other Austin club has. (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com )
Visitor Tips and Information
Age & ID: Peckerheads enforces a strict 21+ policy. If you look under 30, be prepared to show valid ID (driver’s license or passport) at the door. There have been no reports of any special youth nights – consider it 21+. On weekdays, some bars do allow 18+ earlier in the evening, but Peckerheads’s marketing is squarely for adults, so assume you must be 21.
What to Bring: The essentials are cash (if you prefer tipping bartenders or paying cover) and ID. Your smartphone and a credit card are also helpful, but keep your wallet/purse close. Bring earplugs if loud music bothers you, especially if you’re sensitive to bass. For décor fans: bring a sense of humor and comfort in crowds. You won’t need anything fancy – this is not a suit-and-tie place. Athletic's gear or fraternity shirts might actually fit in well; the worst thing you can wear is a strict dress formal outfit (they’ll probably enjoy that less). Ladies often dress up a bit (nice jeans + top), and guys in casual button-downs or jerseys. Avoid wearing explicit T-shirts or gang-affiliated gear – 6th Street typically bans anything that could cause trouble. If you have a big backpack, consider leaving it at home – the bar likely won’t let you take one inside (small bags and purses are fine). There's no coat check, so if it's chilly, wear layers you can easily carry.
Inside the Club: When you enter, the door person may stamp or mark you. Keep an eye on your friends’ count – the club can sprawl a bit. If you’d like a seat, the wooden bar stools are first-come, first-served (especially on the upper level). Otherwise, find your spot along the dance floor or standing area. If the place fills up, you’ll have to squeeze into tight spaces – it’s part of the fun. All drinking is allowed only in the brown plastic cups they serve you; never walk around with bottles or outside drinks. You can bring your phone/camera and take plenty of pictures or videos (the management generally allows casual phone photography), but be ready to pause when staff gives announcements. Free refills are a myth – mingle if you want refills or beer runs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: One common pitfall is arriving too late. By midnight on a Saturday, Peckerheads could be at capacity, and the line outside (and the line for the single restroom) can be very long (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). Many locals suggest arriving around 10 PM for a party night to breathe easier and avoid lengthy wait-inside. Another tip: pace yourself on those giant drinks. Because the cocktails are so strong and cheap, some newcomers find themselves unexpectedly tipsy. Drink water between jars. Also, don’t expect quiet conversation – if you need to talk, step outside or find a corner away from speakers. Dress code is relaxed, but flip-flops after dark or excessively tacky costumes might not be welcome. Finally, be prepared for a high-energy “frat party” vibe. If that’s not your style, come earlier in the week or watch for quieter times.
Accessibility: The main entrance is at street level, but note that part of the venue is below street grade. There are a short staircase leading in, and the upper floor is only accessible by steps (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). This means wheelchair access is difficult. If you need accommodations (e.g. wheelchair seating on the main floor), it’s safest to call the bar in advance. The single restroom is on the ground level and is not handicap-adapted (no bench or lift). If mobility is a concern, consider sitting near the door or on the first floor—the club might be too cramped otherwise. Staff have not publicized other ADA features, so plan accordingly.
Last Call & Nearby After-Parties: Remember that Peckerheads and all 6th Street bars legally stop serving at 2 AM. At that time the music ends suddenly and the place empties out quickly. If you plan to continue the night, note that there are no 24-hour eateries in this area; the nearest 24/7 taco trucks or diners are several miles away. Most people take Lyft/Uber from here. The official curfew means streets north and south of 6th may be roped off to cars, so make sure your driver knows the exact route. Walking back to your hotel is fine if it is nearby, but do stay in groups (6th St. at 2 AM can be party-focused and a bit chaotic). As a final tip: a lot of the action on 6th Street centers on keeping your phone charged (for calls/ride-sharing) and having your ID easily accessible. Enjoy the party, but stay aware of your group so no one misses out on the ride home.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a ticket or cover to enter Peckerheads, and how much does it cost?
Most nights Peckerheads is open to the public with no advance ticket. You can usually walk in and pay any cover charge (often $0–$10) at the door. Local DJ nights typically have free entry or a small cover, while a headlining act may command a higher price (up to ~$15–$20). To be safe, check local event listings for special shows or arrive early on big nights to avoid sold-out crowds.
Where should I park when visiting Peckerheads?
Street parking on East 6th and surrounding blocks is metered ($1/hr, 4-hr max) and usually enforced until midnight (en.parkopedia.com ). After midnight on weekends, meters shut off so parking becomes free. There are a few small parking lots nearby: for example, the “Little Cowboy” lot (around the corner) is very affordable (~$4/2hr) (en.parkopedia.com ). Other lots on 4th or 5th Street cost roughly $8–$15 for the evening. If you park on-street, feed the meter until midnight. Given the hassle, many opt for rideshare over driving, especially late at night.
What public transit can I take to reach Peckerheads?
Peckerheads is transit-accessible by Austin’s CapMetro buses. For example, Routes 10 and 7 run along 6th/7th Streets, stopping within a block of Peckerheads (moovitapp.com ). The MetroRail Red Line (Route 550) stops at Downtown Station (4th & Red River), about a 5-minute walk north. Late at night, the free downtown “Dillo” circulator also serves 4th/6th Streets. To plan precisely, use CapMetro’s app or Google Maps. Many patrons simply Uber/Lyft to and from the club as well.
Are there any seats, and where are the best spots to watch a show?
Peckerheads is essentially standing-room with one main floor and one upstairs. There are a few bar stools at each bar, but no fixed seating facing the stage. For the best view (and sound), many guests stand near the center of the main dance floor, which is directly in front of the stage and speakers. You can also stand against the second-floor railing near the DJ booth to look over the crowd. If you want a quieter spot, stand off to the sides near the bars or at the back. There’s no “bad seat” per se, but keep in mind everyone shares the floor space while a band or DJ is playing.
What is the dress code at Peckerheads?
The dress code at Peckerheads is very casual. Think “night-out to a college bar.” Jeans, shorts, casual shirts, or club attire are all acceptable. Many people wear Texas-themed or sports tees. Avoid explicit gang-affiliated or offensive clothing, as that might get you turned away. Women often dress up a bit (nice tops and jeans or dresses), while men wear shorts or jeans and T-shirts or button-downs. It’s definitely not a black-tie or business setting – comfort and fun are key. Footwear should be stable, especially if you plan to dance.
Is Peckerheads accessible for guests with disabilities?
Accessibility is limited at Peckerheads. The entrance involves a short staircase up from street level (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ), so wheelchair access may be difficult. The main floor is on one level, but the lively area (bars and stage) is partially below street grade. The upper level is only reachable by stairs. The restroom is on the ground floor and is not ADA-adapted. If you require accommodations (e.g. wheelchair seating or accessible restroom), it’s best to call ahead and ask how they can help. For many mobility needs, you might find it safer to stay on the first floor near the entrance.
Does Peckerheads serve food?
Food is very limited at Peckerheads, as it’s primarily a drinking and dancing spot. The bartenders have mentioned pepperoni pizza and basic bar snacks in passing (and one review specifically praised “nicely cooked pizza” on offer (restaurantguru.com )). So don’t expect a full menu – if you’re hungry, eat beforehand at a restaurant (see Nearby Amenities above). Inside Peckerheads you can usually get chips, peanuts or other simple finger foods, and sometimes a pizza slice or two if they’re cooking that night. But the focus is on drinks and party games, not a sit-down meal.
What are Peckerheads’ famous signature drinks?
Peckerheads is legendary for giant cocktails. Its signature “Texas Tea” is essentially a Long Island Iced Tea mixed in a *huge* mason jar (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). Another must-try is their blue “Adios Motherf**er” (often just called “Adios MF”) – a potent combo of multiple liquors that comes in a similarly large glass (www.peckerheadson6th.com ) (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). In fact, one local blogger quipped that getting an Adios MF at $5.50 was like buying “Dirty Sixth in a single drink” (www.sixthstreetcomplete.com ). For a quick shot, ask for the “H-Bomb” – a hideous (Hideous liquor + Red Bull) shot that is very strong (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). These signature drinks are part of the bar’s fun vibe, but beware: they have a reputation for being very potent!
Are there any drink specials at Peckerheads?
Yes. Peckerheads is known for cheap drink deals especially appealing to students. Historically, they’ve offered $2 domestic beers and $2 tequila shots most nights (www.hilltopviewsonline.com ). Mid-week you often see $2 house wells or “you-call-its” (wells, beers and seltzers) on Wednesdays and Thursdays, while weekends have rotating specials like $2 Jäger or exclusive shot promos. However, specials can change, so the best approach is to ask the bartender or check the bar’s social media for tonight’s deals. Even without specials, their house cocktails and beers are already inexpensive compared to many 6th Street venues (restaurantguru.com ) (www.tripadvisor.com ).
Can I pre-book a private event at Peckerheads?
Yes. Peckerheads can be booked for private parties or special events. The venue advertises that it can handle gatherings from a few dozen people up to the full capacity (~500) (www.peckerheadson6th.com ). To book, you would typically contact the bar (via phone or an online form). They’ll discuss your group size, date, and any special needs (like a reserved area, drink packages or custom music). Booking often includes some minimum spend on food/drink. This is great for birthday bashes, bachelor parties or business mixers – the staff is experienced in planning out space and service for groups. There’s no formal “box office” interface; you coordinate directly with the venue’s events coordinator.
What should I know about age restrictions and IDs at Peckerheads?
Peckerheads strictly enforces Texas liquor laws. This means a hard 21+ age limit for entry (with no exceptions). Bring a valid government-issued photo ID (driver’s license or passport) – bartenders and doormen will check it carefully. Photocopies or expired IDs will not work. The bar does not typically allow anyone under 21 off its dance floors even if sober. On rare special nights (like bachelor parties), they may allow 18+ guests earlier, but you will usually see signs if that exception applies. In general, assume it’s a 21-and-over venue – no minors inside at any time.
Is smoking allowed inside Peckerheads?
No. Smoking, including vaping, has been banned inside all bars and restaurants in Austin since 2007. Peckerheads complies with this indoor smoking ban (you’ll see “no smoking” signs). Patrons who want to smoke must go outside to the sidewalk area. Note that the upstairs end patio (if open) may allow smokers, but anytime inside the main dance floors or bars is strictly smoke-free.
What happens after closing time at 2:00 AM?
All bars on 6th Street, including Peckerheads, stop serving alcohol and start shutting down at 2:00 AM. Expect music to cut out exactly at 2:00, lights to come up, and the crowd to spill onto the street. This transition can be hectic on a weekend, with everyone trying to catch rides or walk to the next spot. If you plan to continue your night, the nearby clubs (on Red River or 4th Street) will be opening around that time. Many people simply arrange a rideshare in advance. Just give yourself a little extra time – the streets around 6th and Trinity get very busy as 2:00 AM hits. Also remember: there are no more bus or metro runs after midnight downtown, so taxis/rideshares are the main options post-closing.
