Rows of cute bungalows have been transformed into Rainey Street, a lively scene of restaurants, bars and food trucks. Have brunch at the newly expanded Banger’s Sausage House & Beer Garden or dinner at Emmer & Rye (open for patio dining and takeout), hailed by Bon Appétit as one of the best restaurants in the country. Right outside patio draft wine bar The Drafting Room you’ll find the charming outdoor L’Estelle House, specializing in French fusion with a Texas twist

Live music venues of all stripes can be found on Red River Street, including Stubb’s Bar-B-Q (featuring a restaurant offering curb-side pickup), Mohawk rock club, hip-hop at Empire Control Room & Garage and local up-and-coming bands at the queer-owned Cheer Up Charlies. Stop in at Hoboken Pie after the bars have closed (offering takeout and delivery), when the people watching is outstanding and New Jersey-style foldable pizza slices hit the spot.

Sixth Street has always had a quirky allure, with its loud bars sharing space with world-class hotels. Easy Tiger Bake Shop & Beer Garden is a popular place for craft beer, artisan soft pretzels and competitive ping pong games. Maggie Mae’s rooftop is a great place for dancing and drinking. You won’t get in without a reservation, but Midnight Cowboy, a speakeasy that takes pride in its creative cocktails, is well worth the extra effort.

Fourth Street is home to some of the city’s best LGBTQ bars, where you can dance the night away at Highland Lounge, grab a drink and watch a drag show at Oilcan Harry’s, or lounge on the back patio at Rain. Catch concerts at ACL Live at The Moody Theater or Parker Jazz Club.