Have a Cold Brew at the Oldest Beer Hall in Central Texas
Review of Austin’s Historic Scoot Inn
Are you looking for a dog-friendly place in Austin where you can quench your thirst and take in a show?
The Historic Scoot Inn takes you back to a time when stagecoaches filled with thirsty railroad workers would dust themselves off and head to the general store in East Austin to relax after a long day. Located at 1308 East 4th Street, the Historic Scoot Inn has been a popular watering hole since 1871.
These days, the legendary establishment serves as a popular concert venue and beloved neighborhood bar. The newly revamped outdoor stage hosts a variety of talented local and national acts, including bluesman Gary Walker Jr. and the energetic Bosstones.
Concertgoers have plenty of room to roam at this spacious outdoor venue. Music fans can get close to the stage and dance to the rhythm of the powerful new sound system. The Historic Scoot Inn regularly presents free live performances.
Take one step inside the bar, and you’ll quickly see why the Historic Scoot Inn earned the Best of Austin awards for “Best Retro Bar on the East Side” and “Best Bar Interior.” Velvet-flocked wallpaper, Tiffany lamps, and oriental rugs give the cozy lounge the feeling of an authentic turn-of-the-century saloon. Every Thursday night at 8:30, the lovely Datura tickles the ivories of the resident grand piano.
The Scoot Inn holds weekly trivia nights that benefit the Creative Fund, an organization that supports the local performing arts community. Bar patrons can play skee ball for free every Wednesday and Thursday from 4 to 8 pm. Lively bartenders often throw quirky impromptu events like piñata massacres and temporary tattoo sessions.
If you’re just looking to toss back a few and relax, you won’t be disappointed with the Historic Scoot Inn. The bar serves a wide selection of specialty cocktails and craft brews. For wine lovers, the Scoot Inn offers French rose poured straight from the tap. A nightly rotation of food trucks, such as Mission Dog, serves up tasty snacks. On slower nights, customers can even choose their favorite tape to pop into the bar’s eight-track player.
Historic Scoot Inn Visitor Tips
- Operating hours are from 6 pm to 12 am from Wednesday through Saturday.
- The venue offers wheelchair access and ample bike parking.
- Locals can book the Biergarten Patio, which earned the title of “Coolest Patio to Rent for a Party” in the Best of Austin awards. The Biergarten accommodates up to 850 guests for private events.
- Dogs are allowed on the patio during non-show nights.
- Keep in mind that parking is scarce on show nights.
- For more information, check out the bar’s comprehensive FAQ.
Written by Cat Winske
