Houston comes alive at night, with dives, cocktail bars, and nightclubs dotting the city. In our Houston Nightlife: Best Bars, we’ll cover the best night owl watering holes in each neighborhood.
Formerly known as the Washington Avenue Arts District, the re-branded Arts District Houston enriches the culture of Houston via arts and creative studios and galleries, public art installations and more. And nearby, you’ll find plenty of great spots to grab a drink or three.
Note: Centered around Washington Avenue, the area is roughly bound by the Memorial to the south, Spring Street to the north, Houston Avenue to the east, and Sawyer to the west.
The Best Bars in the Arts District Houston
- Darkhorse Tavern – You’ll find free popcorn, darts, jukebox, and a full bar at this tavern, set in a 1920s-era building. The bar has been a staple on Washington Ave since 2004, with cheap drink specials from $2 Lone Stars and $3 Fireballs on Monday to happy hour pricing until 11pm on Wednesdays. Click here for directions.
- Henderson Heights Pub – Looking for a low-key vibe? You’ll get it at this bright red Henderson Street watering hole, rocking both a shaded outdoor, dog-friendly patio, and an indoor lounge with TVs for sports watching. Nosh on bar pies, quesadillas, and loaded tots while you imbibe. Click here for directions.
- Holler Brewing Company – Located in Sawyer Yards, this local taproom brews suds from the dark and roasty Looyah Milk Stout to the aggressively hopped Loudly Double IPA. Lookout for a lineup of special events, including Wednesday Steak Nights with Snow Topi. The brewery is open until 10pm on Wednesday through Saturday, with hours until 7pm on Sunday. Click here for directions.
- Julep – Southern charm is in full effect at this stylish cocktailery from cocktail queen Alba Huerta. Drink your way through the South via creations like the Ramos Gin Fizz, Queens Park Swizzle, and classic Mint Julep. And sip them alongside bites from parmesan-crusted pimento cheese sandwiches to lobster rolls and oysters. Click here for directions.
- Liberty Station – This Washington Ave bar and patio may be tiny, but it packs a punch with its thoughtful selection of cocktails and beers by the draft and bottle. Sip a stiff drink or cold brew, play a game of foosball or cornhole, and grab grub from a rotating selection of food trucks. Click here for directions.
- Platypus Brewery – The brainchild of two Aussie blokes and a Texas gal, this Washington Ave brewery has Texan heart and Australian soul. Here, the suds are crafted with rare Australian hops, and the eats come in the form of wings, fish n’ chips, and Aussie specialties like meat pies and sausage rolls. Click here for directions.
