Pirate, tropical bar pop-ups in Austin offer cool retreats for summer

As Austin's summer temperatures rise, a common theme is emerging from some of the city's most creative bar minds: escape. Two pop-up experiences are inviting Austinites to ditch the heat and dive into meticulously crafted worlds, each offering a refreshing take on a summer getaway through inventive drinks and immersive decorations.

Both Shipwreck'd at The Eleanor and Bald Grace's at The Dead Rabbit are offering more than just a place to grab a drink; they provide fully realized environments where the drinks and decorations work in tandem to create a cohesive experience.

The Eleanor brings pirates to downtown Austin with Shipwreck'd

At The Eleanor, the space has been transformed into Shipwreck'd, a pirate-themed hideaway. Through Aug. 2, guests can descend into a moody, maritime realm designed to evoke high-seas adventure and mysterious wrecks.

The decor leans into this fantastical narrative, creating an atmospheric retreat from the everyday. The drink menu, developed by The Roosevelt Room's team, complements the theme with 12 original cocktails, "musket shot" selections, and shareable punches — all with a nautical flair. The ambiance, coupled with the detailed drink offerings, aims to transport patrons to a playful yet refined world far from Austin's sweltering streets.

And yes, you will definitely hear the “Pirates of the Caribbean” title song here.

307 W. Fifth St. theeleanoratx.com. 512-494-4094.

The Dead Rabbit embraces a tropical vibe with Bald Grace's

Meanwhile, The Dead Rabbit Austin is embracing a different, yet equally transportive, summer vibe with Bald Grace's.

This limited-time pop-up draws inspiration from the Irish explorer Grace O’Malley, affectionately known as "Bald Grace." The space is infused with both nautical touches and lush island energy. The drink menu at Bald Grace's mirrors this fusion, featuring creations like the "Irish Coffee Grog" and the "Pub Tropicana," a mix of mezcal, rum, guava and pineapple. For those looking to share, a larger-than-life "Scorpion Bowl" promises to be a centerpiece.

204 E. Sixth St. thedeadrabbit.com. 737-530-8830.