An "Austin original", this "quirky, spacious" North Austin lounge has a "circus motif" and attracts a "friendly crowd" with its jukebox, frequent live music and "really cheap" beer and wine, though you can also "BYOL" (there's a liquor store next door) and they'll "supply the mixers"; if the whole experience is a little too "weird" for some", most agree "you have to go at least once."
In spite of (or maybe because of) its out-of-the-way location and bizarre circus theme -- complete with elephant and lion-tamer murals and an actual carousel behind the bar -- the Carousel Lounge is a highly popular local watering hole. You never know what will turn up onstage -- this place has hosted everything from smaller musical acts to belly dancers.
Circus-themed bar offering eccentric regulars and weekend hipsters live music four times a week.: