5 Best Nightlife in The Hill Country, Texas

Craft cocktails are the focus at this stylish lounge set in a renovated house tucked off Fredericksburg's main strip. Go stiff and classic with a barrel-aged Boulevardier, get lifted with a riff on a classic with the Woodstock Mule (Houston's own Highway hemp-seed vodka infused with indica CBD flower, with ginger beer, fresh ginger, and lime), or go out on a limb with one of the bar's unique seasonal creations, like the Phuket Island (Thai iced tea, Monkey Shoulder Scotch, and Grand Marnier). Don't overlook the small but mighty food menu, which features bites like oysters and lamb lollipops, plus a short list of specials that rotates weekly.

What really puts Gruene on the Texas map is legendary Gruene Hall, known as the oldest continuously operating dance hall in the entire state. Many famous musicians owe their success to performances on this fabled stage, including Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, George Strait, Garth Brooks, Jerry Lee Lewis, and the Dixie Chicks. A trip to Gruene isn't complete without a turn on the old hardwood floors of Gruene Hall.

This saloon and dance hall, made famous by the song crooned by Waylon Jennings and Willie Nelson, was originally built by German settlers as a town hall, eventually growing into a post office, general store, blacksmith shop, and dance hall. In 1970, it was sold to a local humorist (and self-proclaimed “mayor of Luckenbach”) who turned the entire space into a music venue. Within a decade, the site was attracting musicians from all over to play against its rustic walls plastered with historic signs and relics. These days, Luckenbach features three stages for live music performances, a beer garden, a kitchen serving barbecue and burgers, and a food truck specializing in loaded baked potatoes. Photo opportunities abound, and there’s even a general store stocked with a wide variety of souvenirs. It’s an essential stop for any fan of country music, and Texas history.

From the owners of Austin's popular Nickel City comes the Texas tavern Old Pal Bar. Much like its predecessor, Old Pal gives off vintage dive vibes, but it has an incredible whiskey selection and a well-curated cocktail program. You'll reach peak Texan status when you enjoy a frozen Dr. Pepper alongside a beer-can chicken. Come hungry because this is better than your average bar food, and the fried chicken and jojos (seasoned potato wedges) are not to be missed. More nights than not you'll find live music or karaoke on stage and end up staying much longer than planned—just like you would at the home of an old pal.

It's not just a cute name, this bar is actually home to llamas and donkeys who roam the 35 acres and visit with guests who are seated in the modern-rustic beer and wine garden. You might not always experience a visit from a llama, but at least you can be guaranteed a beautiful Hill Country view, incredible sunsets, and a fun time with friends playing yard games while sampling craft brews.