With a booming economy and a rapidly growing tech industry, Austin is a magnet for high-net-worth individuals and successful professionals looking for an eclectic yet sophisticated place to call home. It's no surprise why Austin has become a hotspot for discerning homebuyers and real estate investors.
But more than just purchasing a property, buying in Austin means investing in a lifestyle. That's where one of Austin's most under-the-radar high-end enterprises comes into play — the city's membership clubs.
Austin's spirited social club scene
Austin's membership clubs provide their communities with a full spectrum of amenities, including world-class sporting facilities, networking opportunities, and social events that are regularly the talk of the town. It's about inclusivity, leisure, community, connectivity, and a sense of belonging in one of the country's most dynamic and diverse cities.
Below, we explore five extraordinary Austin membership clubs, all serving as premier locations for connecting with people in the capital city.
Austin Club
110 E 9th Street, Downtown
With its commitment to maintaining a refined and exclusive environment, Austin Club is a cornerstone of Austin's social landscape. Established in 1949, the venerable institution has represented a higher form of luxury and sophistication for Austinites seeking a close-knit, socially driven lifestyle.
Occupying the historic Millett Opera House building, which dates to 1878, the club — known as the oldest private dining club in Austin — exudes old-world charm and elegance. Dining, banquet, and meeting facilities include the more than 4,000 square foot Medallion Ballroom, a formal dining room featuring custom murals adorning the walls, a cocktail lounge, and five private rooms ideal for hosting intimate events or meetings.
Just two blocks from the Texas State Capitol building, the club boasts several political power brokers among its membership, including representatives and senators. However, the true highlight of the Austin Club is its extraordinary cuisine. Available to members for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the club understands that its ultimate reputation is staked on satisfying the appetites of its discerning clientele. In its nearly 75-year history, Austin Club has yet to disappoint.
Driftwood Downtown
319 Colorado Street, Downtown
Part of the Discovery Land Company's worldwide portfolio of luxury properties and an extension of the Driftwood Golf and Ranch Club, Driftwood Downtown is the group's first private club located in an urban setting. Situated in the heart of downtown Austin, a few blocks north of Lady Bird Lake, this members-only club captures the essence of Austin's world-class culinary and cultural scene.
Among the club's many amenities, members can access a private rooftop lounge, a warm, rustic mezzanine with a full-service bar, a tap room and an array of pool tables, a golf simulator and live music, and curated and private events across the club's private spaces. Driftwood Downtown also features on-site concierge services to help members navigate the best of Austin's social and recreational activities.
The Headliners Club
221 West 6th Street, Chase Tower, Downtown
Positioned high above the streets of Austin on the 21st floor of downtown's Chase Tower, The Headliners Club is deeply intertwined with Austin's social and political history. Founded in 1955, the club was initially established as a gathering place for media socialites and has since evolved into a private haven for leaders across various sectors. Amongst its events-laden calendar, the Headliners Club still honors its journalistic roots through its namesake foundation.
In addition to the Headliners Club's iconic panoramas overlooking the Texas State Capitol, the University of Texas, and the sweeping Austin skyline, the club is the city's premier destination for networking, camaraderie, and exquisite dining. The latter is curated by chefs who understand the nuances of traditional and contemporary cuisines.
For those who require a professional backdrop for business engagements or spaces for private family or corporate events, The Headliners Club offers 13 distinct private meeting rooms, each outfitted with state-of-the-art A/V equipment to facilitate seamless presentations and discussions, as well as the member's favorite Press Box Bar.
The Pershing
2415B E 5th Street, East Austin
Located in a serene corner of East Austin and among the most unique of Austin's private membership clubs, The Pershing was founded by visionary entrepreneurs looking to redefine the private club experience. Merging traditional aspects of the social club structure, including outstanding cuisine through the Pershing East cafe and coffee shop and private event space with the public listening venue Pershing Hall, which focuses heavily on local talent, The Pershing introduces a modern sensibility to Austin's social scene.
The Pershing occupies a beautifully restored 1940s-era bungalow that seamlessly integrates contemporary design elements with the original architecture's nostalgic charm. Pershing House’s multi-level venue hosts a wide array of amenities for members, including a bar and lounge area, a private living room and adjacent terrace, second-floor meeting rooms, an alcove featuring a shisha den (hookah lounge), an exterior courtyard, and an art gallery.
With its cutting-edge approach to the private club experience, The Pershing offers a refreshing alternative to more traditional institutions and presents members and guests with an eclectic persona that is as distinct and dynamic as the city itself.
Soho House Austin
1011 S Congress, Building 2, Suite 100, Travis Heights
As part of the global network of Soho Houses that first found life in a space above founder Nick Jones' restaurant in London's Soho district, the Soho House Austin has become a popular addition since opening in 2021. Positioned as a home-away-from-home for business professionals in creative industries, this Austin location carries forward the brand's ethos of offering a curated experience that blends casual sophistication with artistic flair.
Part high-end hostel, part global social club, Soho House Austin is unlike any other membership club in the city. Nestled in an area known for its thriving creative scene, the club offers an array of perks designed for the modern creative professional. These range from private screening rooms showcasing independent films to artist studios and workspaces that invite members at home or on the road to create in a comfortable, welcoming space.
The culinary offerings are equally compelling, designed by chefs who understand the nuances of global flavors and can make them distinctly Austin. Plus, the rooftop pool adds another level of serene luxury — a sanctuary that serves as both a lounge and a vantage point to observe Austin's buzzing city life. Members can use the club’s several event spaces, book one of its 46 bedrooms, access the Club Cecconi restaurant, Dante's HiFi+ vinyl listening bar, and, when traveling, access other Soho Houses around the world.
Discover the best of Austin with a trusted real estate expert
Interested in learning more about things to do in Austin? Are you ready to explore the best of Austin luxury real estate? Contact expert Eric Copper today, and allow his years of experience and expertise to guide you to Austin's extraordinary high-end luxury real estate scene.
