About The Volstead Lounge
The Volstead Lounge is an intimate East Austin cocktail bar and dance venue that blends vintage speakeasy vibes with dive-bar charm (lostinaustin.org ). Located at 1500 E. 6th Street, it occupies the east end of the Salinas Building next to sister bar Hotel Vegas. Guests enter a dimly lit lounge with leather couches and nostalgic decor inspired by Old New Orleans, complete with seasonal and classic cocktails, rotating craft beers and an old-world wine list (heyaustin.com ) (www.austintexas.org ). Austin guides describe Volstead as “a classic vintage cocktail lounge,” where “Austin’s best DJs keep the dance floor crowded” and a huge backyard patio connects to Hotel Vegas (heyaustin.com ) (wanderlog.com ). In short, Volstead matters as an East Sixth nightlife staple – a retro-style bar known for its creative drinks, big patio and late-night energy. It’s been active for over a decade; for example, SXSW lineups as far back as 2015 filled multiple nights at Volstead (www.concertarchives.org ). The bar’s name nods to the Prohibition-era Volstead Act, fitting its speakeasy motif. Whether for happy hour or a late-night party, Volstead is celebrated for its unique atmosphere and cultural role in East Austin nightlife.
Events and Programming
The Volstead hosts an eclectic mix of entertainment every week, from DJs and dance parties to live music and drag shows. Most nights are DJ-driven: local and regional DJs spin hip-hop, reggaeton, cumbia, electronic and more. One recurring dance night is “The Jump Off,” a free Thursday party featuring hip-hop and Latin beats (texashotelvegas.com ). Fridays often have themed sets (for example, DJs like King Louie spinning Latin urban tunes) or no-cover community events. On weekends and festival dates you might find live bands or acoustic showcases – in fact, ConcertArchives shows Volstead lined up dozens of bands during SXSW (8-band bills on multiple March 2015 dates) (www.concertarchives.org ) (www.concertarchives.org ). The venue also runs branded series: for instance, “Volstead Unplugged” is a 21+ acoustic set series with doors ~7:00pm and local singer-songwriters performing in a stripped-down format. Sundays are famous for drag brunch (“Vixens of Volstead”) on the big patio with local drag entertainers, DJs and even food trucks serving brunch items (texashotelvegas.com ) (an example event listed “Clandestino” taco truck for brunch (texashotelvegas.com )). Weekday and late-night offerings include open mic nights (e.g. “Underground Voices” on Mondays) and trivia or karaoke nights, often with drink specials. Most events have modest or no cover charges. One guide notes “there is a cover charge at the door, but it gets you into both The Volstead Lounge and Hotel Vegas” (wanderlog.com ) when a charge applies. Overall, the programming spans casual nightlife fun (DIY trivia, karaoke and dance parties) to more curated live music; ticket prices (if events are ticketed) typically stay in a moderate range (often $5–$20 for larger shows). In short, Volstead is known for its lively schedule: think loud party DJs and diverse sets one night, laid-back brunch drag shows another, all in a vintage cocktail-lounge setting.
Tickets and Booking
There is no dedicated box office building – Volstead is a bar, so tickets (when required) are usually sold online or at the door via the promoter or the bar staff. For most DJ nights, weekly parties and drag brunches, you can simply arrive and pay any cover at the door (often just a few dollars or even free). Special concerts or one-off shows may have advance tickets listed on local event calendars or via the Volstead/Hotel Vegas social media. Popular events often sell out, so it’s wise to watch the venue’s event announcements and secure tickets early. Presales (if any) typically go up a week or two beforehand. When in doubt, call the venue or check the official websites (HotelVegasAustin.com lists Volstead events under “Calendar”). One booking tip from locals: the cover charge to Volstead covers Hotel Vegas too, so your ticket or wristband usually grants access to both spots if they share an event night. Pricing-wise, drinks are moderately priced (see below), and you should expect to pay around the price of a good bar cocktail. Happy hour deals (see below) make visits very affordable. There’s no formal dress code or VIP table package – just arrive early for the best spots at busy shows and have a valid ID ready for entry.
Seating and Layout
The Volstead’s interior is cozy and largely general-admission. Inside you’ll find scattered lounge-style seating and high tables, but the floor is mostly open. A few leather couches line corners, giving low-key spots to sit, but at full events almost everyone stands near the bar or dance floor. Sightlines can vary – the DJ booth or stage is small and off to one side, so standing upfront or near the center of the room is best for a clear view. One reviewer describes Volstead as “a casual night club with leather couches and a massive patio” (wanderlog.com ), and other sources note it has “a large indoor space” connected to “a spacious patio” (www.concerthotels.com ). In practice, the best viewing spots are right in front of the DJ/performers; further back you’ll see less (and near the bar there may be obstructions). Acoustically, it’s a loud, hard-surface room – the sound system pumps bass heavily on dance nights. World’s Basement recommended seating on the patio on very loud nights to give your ears a rest, since inside can get deafening. Overall, think of Volstead as standing-room-first with just a hint of sofa seating: if you need a chair, arrive early (there are only a few) or grab a place on the patio.
Getting There and Parking
The Volstead Lounge is located at 1500 East 6th Street in Austin, Texas (volsteadlounge.wordpress.com ). It sits just east of Interstate 35 on East Sixth Street (the bar itself is at I-35’s east frontage). If coming by car, the easiest access is via I-35; take the 6th Street exit and head east. Street parking is extremely limited on this block after rush hour – there is no private lot for Volstead, except that Hotel Vegas (1502 E. 6th) has a shared small parking area in back that may fill early. Most people end up parking on side streets a block or two away (Surprise, Salina, Comal or Neches) where metered spots are sometimes available. During busy evenings, we recommend rideshare or taxi: drop-off can be made on East 6th just outside the entrance. Lyft/Uber rides to 1500 E 6th usually queue at nearby Hotel Vegas. Public transit is also an option: CapMetro buses run along East 6th and Red River – for example, Route 10 runs down East 6th toward downtown, and Route 803 runs on Red River & Spring near East Cesar Chavez. The Plaza Saltillo Metrorail station (Blue/Orange line) is 3–4 blocks north (at Comal/7th St) – from there it’s a short walk or catch a bus south to 6th. Overall, plan for urban parking; if you drink, the compact downtown location makes a rideshare or public transit ride the simplest choice rather than searching for scarce parking.
Inside the Venue
Volstead’s vibe is energetic and busy. A doorman usually checks ID at the main entrance (you must be 21+ with a valid government ID to enter). On event nights, the doors often open well before showtime – roughly 90–120 minutes ahead (seatgeek.com ) – and there is sometimes an outdoor line. Once inside, you’ll find a full bar and several bartenders serving vintage-inspired cocktails, beers and shots. Credit cards and cash are both usually accepted for drinks. There is no on-site kitchen, but food trucks often park outside for brunches or special nights (for instance, a local taco truck *Clandestino* serves brunch items on drag brunch days (texashotelvegas.com )). Volstead does not have a coat check, so plan to keep bags small and on you. In fact, the venue’s recommended bag policy is very restrictive: only small handbags or clear clutches are allowed (seatgeek.com ). As with most clubs, professional camera setups and large backpacks would likely be refused at the door. Photography with phone cameras is usually fine (no strict no-photo rule is posted), but avoid bulky or flash photography during shows out of respect for neighbors. The vibe is casual but trendy – staff and crowd style is "Austin casual," with many patrons dressing up in smart-casual or hip-bar attire (www.concerthotels.com ). On a practical note: restrooms here are single-stall (one on the west side) – they tend to be clean but narrow, and often become a queue on busy nights. As far as sound & lighting, the club is equipped for live/DJ events: for context, the sister Hotel Vegas (next door) has Yorkville PS10P mains, subs and QSC monitors in its PA (texashotelvegas.com ), so Volstead likely uses a scaled version of that professional sound setup. House lighting is typical club fare (colored LEDs and mirror ball), set to a moody, nightclub ambiance. All in all, expect a fun but crowded bar scene after you enter – lines at the bar, loud music and folks dancing all around. Plan to keep personal items minimal, and you’ll fit right in with the laid-back, energetic atmosphere inside.
Nearby Amenities
The Volstead sits in an entertainment-rich area. Immediately next door to the east is Hotel Vegas (1502 E 6th St) – it shares the large patio behind Volstead and often has its own shows. If you step out to East 6th Boulevard, you’ll find several restaurants and bars within walking distance. For example, Mohawk Austin (red River at 912) is a popular burger-and-beer spot just a block southwest. A few blocks west on 6th is El Borracho Tacos if you want Mexican food, or if you walk a few blocks south you’ll hit a strip of casual eateries and taquerias along East Cesar Chavez. For other drinks, the fashionable cocktail bar Little Dins Pawn Shop (at 6th & Neches) and the brewery taproom Zilker Brewing East (1701 E 6th) are under half a mile away. If it’s dinner before a show, nearby choices range from barbecue and tex-mex to American pubs in the Lower Eastside and East Cesar Chavez neighborhoods.
What Makes This Venue Special
Beyond practicalities, Volstead’s personality is what locals rave about. Its theme and decor set it apart from a run-of-the-mill bar: velvet chairs, vintage mirrors, and muted teal-and-gold tones make you feel like you’ve stepped into an old-school New Orleans parlor (heyaustin.com ). The lighting is intimate (not a bright neon dive) and the bartenders mix classic cocktails with a creative twist, which gives it real speakeasy credibility. Another unique aspect is its giant shared patio (sometimes called the "Eastside Beer Garden") that opens to Hotel Vegas – this courtyard-style space is rare on Sixth Street and allows large crowds to mingle. Numerous customers describe it as having a “cool, local crowd” and a welcoming “hidden gem” vibe (www.concerthotels.com ). Volstead also holds the distinction of hosting some memorable community traditions: for example, it was one of the first Sixth Street venues to start a popular drag brunch series, and it continues to foster underground music nights and open mics that launched local artists. The fact that cover to Volstead covers Hotel Vegas (and vice versa) adds to its special neighborhood feel – you can meander between two bars on the same ticket. In sum, the lounge’s historic nod (Prohibition-era name and cocktails), combined with its East Austin energy (DJs, drag queens, artful crowds) make it beloved by both performers and patrons. Artists appreciate that its intimate layout still packs energy, and audiences love that no two nights are the same – sometimes live guitars, other times hip-hop DJs, always in a drink-in-hand social atmosphere. All these factors – vintage character, lively programming and neighborhood spirit – are what make The Volstead Lounge a standout on Austin’s music and bar scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility – The venue entrance is at street level (no stairs) and there’s at least one full restroom inside, but as an older building it may have narrow doorways. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to phone ahead; they generally accommodate wheelchair users on the ground floor or patio. The patio area is open-air and pet-friendly (well-behaved dogs are allowed on the patio) (wanderlog.com ). seatgeek.com ). There is no coat check, so avoid bringing large backpacks or oversize items. Lockers are not available. www.concerthotels.com ). seatgeek.com ). Cash is useful if you want quick service or to tip, though cards are accepted. On slow nights you can ride up to the bar, but on busy nights the lines may form – picking a quiet seat in a corner is smart if you want to chat. Drag brunches and big party nights often have ticketing or RSVP; check the calendar. Finally, Volstead’s crowds can be a bit younger/hip, so keep an open mind and expect a lively dance-party atmosphere by late night. Avoid treating it like a quiet cocktail lounge – it’s a high-energy spot by design. These insider tips should help you blend in: get there early, bring your ID, dress the part, and enjoy the authentic East Austin experience.
What is the seating capacity of The Volstead Lounge?
The Volstead Lounge is a relatively small, club-like space. There is no published capacity, but it can generally hold on the order of a couple hundred people when including the indoor area plus the patio behind it. Most of the venue is standing-room (dance floor) with some lounge chairs around the edges. On busy nights it feels tight and intimate, so many fans describe it as suitable for roughly 100–200 guests at most. Arrive early if you want to secure a seat or prime standing spot.
How do I buy tickets for an event at The Volstead Lounge?
For most billiard events, if it’s a DJ night or casual party, no advance ticket is needed – you simply pay the cover charge (if any) at the door. If it’s a special concert or branded event, tickets are typically sold online through local ticket outlets or announced on the venue’s social media. The Volstead itself doesn’t have a box office, so check the official event page or booking announcement to see if pre-sale tickets are offered. In general, whenever Volstead promotes a ticketed show, that information will be listed on sites like the Hotel Vegas/Volstead Facebook page or event calendars. Otherwise, door admission (cover) is common. If a show is billed as “21+” with “RSVP on Facebook,” the door line opens 1–2 hours before the start time (seatgeek.com ) and admission is free or paid on arrival.
What is the dress code at The Volstead Lounge?
There is no formal dress code at The Volstead, but regulars recommend dressing in “Austin-cool” style. The crowd tends to be fashionable and trendy, especially on the weekend (www.concerthotels.com ). Casual bar attire is fine (jeans and a nice top or button-down), but many guests step it up a notch for late-night. In practice you’ll see anything from hip streetwear to casual party outfits. The tips for blending in: wear something neat (not athletic wear or flip-flops) and you’ll fit right into the throwback lounge vibe.
Are there any age restrictions or ID requirements?
Yes. The Volstead Lounge is strictly a 21-and-over venue. Every guest must present a valid government-issued ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.) to enter. Since the bar is licensed for alcohol, under-21s are not allowed inside at any time. Once inside, security or bar staff may ask to re-check ID. Plan to bring your ID early – the line can move slowly during peak attendance. If your ID is expired or doesn’t clearly show your photo and birthdate, you will not be admitted.
Is there a cover charge to get in, and does it cover other venues?
Often, many nights at Volstead either have no cover charge or just a small one (typically under $10). However, on some event nights there can be a cover. A unique feature is that the cover charge is shared with its sister bar, Hotel Vegas – if you pay at Volstead’s door, it usually grants you equivalent entry to Hotel Vegas’s patio and vice versa. As one source notes, “there is a cover charge at the door, but it gets you into both The Volstead Lounge and Hotel Vegas” (wanderlog.com ). In short, expect to pay at the door on big nights, and that ticket may get you into both connected spaces. Smaller, DJ-driven nights and drag brunches often remain free or very cheap to enter.
Are children or pets allowed at The Volstead Lounge?
Children are not allowed, since the venue is 21+. As for pets: the outdoor patio area is dog-friendly. Well-behaved dogs on leashes are often seen on the shared Volstead/Hotel Vegas patio, so yes – you can bring your dog outside on the patio. Inside the bar itself, animals are not permitted (just service animals). Plan to keep dogs outdoors and on a leash.
What food and drink options are available inside the lounge?
The Volstead is primarily a cocktail bar, so its own menu is drinks-only. They serve a full bar of classic and creative cocktails, rotating craft drafts, beers in bottles or tallboys, wine, and shots. Drink prices are moderate – for example, the weekly Happy Hour deals advertise $6 classic cocktails, $3 wells and even $2 Lone Star tallboys (texashotelvegas.com ). There is no kitchen in Volstead, but events often feature on-site food trucks. For instance, their drag brunches frequently partner with a local taco or sandwich truck for brunch fare (texashotelvegas.com ). Otherwise, you can step outside to nearby restaurants on East 6th (tacos, burgers, etc.) for food before or after your visit. Remember that outside food cannot be brought in; plan to buy drinks or eat before coming.
What is the parking situation, and is street parking available?
Street parking around Volstead is tight, especially during evenings. There is no dedicated free lot for the lounge (Hotel Vegas has a small lot behind it, but it fills fast). You will mostly rely on metered or permit street parking on nearby blocks, often with two-hour limits until evening. On busy nights, we recommend giving yourself extra time to find a spot. Since the area is popular, another good option is to use rideshare (Uber/Lyft) — drop-off and pick-up points are easy on East 6th Street by the front door. A few CapMetro buses do run along 6th Street (Route 10) or parallel streets (Routes 803/4 on Red River/7th), which can drop you within a block or two. In short, plan for urban parking or a ride downtown, rather than expecting ample parking right next door.
Does The Volstead Lounge have a wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms?
The lounge entrance is at street level, but keep in mind it’s an older building so doorways may not be very wide. There is at least one restroom inside – it is a single-stall (likely unisex) room. The venue’s accessible features aren’t fully detailed online, so if mobility is a concern you might call ahead. Generally, the ground-floor main area should be accessible if you can navigate crowding. If not, the back patio is open-air and wheelchair-accessible on flat ground. For patrons needing assistance, staff are usually accommodating if notified.
How early should I arrive before a show or event starts?
For popular shows, especially music events, it’s best to arrive well before start time. Doors often open 90–120 minutes prior (seatgeek.com ), and lines can form early. Arriving when doors open ensures a good place in line and a better spot inside (and lets you beat any crowds). On a typical Friday/Saturday night, if the show is at 10:00 pm, people often arrive as early as 9:00 pm or even 8:30 pm. For no-cover DJ nights, you can show up later, but for ticketed events, earlier is wiser.
Can I bring a backpack or large bag into Volstead Lounge?
No, large backpacks or big bags are not allowed. The venue enforces a small-bag rule to speed up entry. In fact, they recommend clear plastic bags or small clutches only (seatgeek.com ). Basically treat it like a nightclub – bring a wallet-sized purse or nothing at all. Any bulky bag will likely be refused at the door for security reasons.
Does The Volstead Lounge have coat check or lockers?
No, there is no coat check or locker room. You should keep personal belongings on you or use your car/ride-share. The space inside is tight and the staff will ask you to hold your coat or bag at your table/bar spot if necessary. It's another reason to carry as little as possible.
