What is Midnight Cowboy and what is it known for?

Midnight Cowboy is an intimate, upscale speakeasy bar modeled after the 1920s. It is recognized as one of the best hidden bars in Austin and is known for its hip speakeasy vibe, old-school cocktail menu, and its history as a former brothel.

Where is the bar located and how do you find it?

The bar is located at 313 E 6th St, right in the middle of the area known as "Dirty 6th". There are no signs outside, making it easy to walk past.

How do you get inside?

To gain entry, you must use a callbox adjacent to the 311 club and call "Harry Craddock" to be let in. Please note that this is an intimate, reservations-only lounge.

What are the hours of operation?

The bar is open Thursday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to 11:45 PM, and Sunday from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. It is closed Monday through Wednesday.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

Midnight Cowboy in Austin

Midnight Cowboy

Tucked away on Austin's lively "Dirty 6th" Street, Midnight Cowboy is an intimate, reservations-only speakeasy. Modeled after the 1920s and housed in a former brothel, it offers upscale, old-school cocktails behind a completely unmarked door.

Open prototype

Official site

Get directions

What to know

Located at 313 E 6th Street, Midnight Cowboy is widely recognized as one of the best speakeasy bars in Austin. This upscale lounge is situated right in the middle of the bustling entertainment district famously known as "Dirty 6th." Despite its highly active surroundings, the bar remains a hidden gem that is incredibly easy to walk past, as there are absolutely no signs on the outside of the building to indicate its presence. The venue is designed as an intimate, 1920s-modeled speakeasy. This sophisticated setting stands in stark contrast to its colorful past, as the building previously operated as a local brothel. Today, instead of its former trade, it serves as a refined, reservations-only lounge celebrated for its cozy speakeasy vibe and a carefully curated, old-school cocktail menu. Gaining entry to this secretive establishment requires a bit of playful mystery. Because there is no obvious entrance, visitors must locate a callbox adjacent to the 311 club. To be let inside, guests must buzz the callbox and specifically call for "Harry Craddock." Once admitted, patrons are treated to a world of vintage hospitality and high-end mixology, far removed from the chaotic streets outside. The bar operates on select days of the week, opening its doors from Thursday through Sunday. On Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, guests can enjoy drinks from 5:00 PM until 11:45 PM. On Sundays, the lounge operates from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM. The venue remains closed from Monday through Wednesday, preserving its exclusive and elusive charm for weekend travelers and locals alike.

Visitor tips

Be sure to make a reservation in advance, as this intimate lounge is strictly reservations-only.
Look for the callbox next to the 311 club and buzz 'Harry Craddock' to gain entry.
Plan your visit between Thursday and Sunday, as the bar is closed Monday through Wednesday.

Nearby context

Located right in the heart of Austin's famous "Dirty 6th" street, Midnight Cowboy sits amidst a vibrant mix of historic architecture and quirky modern favorites. Just a short walk away, you can grab a sweet treat at Voodoo Doughnut or marvel at the grand, historic architecture of The Driskill hotel. This contrast between historic luxury, high-energy nightlife, and hidden speakeasies captures the eclectic spirit of downtown Austin.

Quick facts