Austin Insider Blog

View Full Post Bullock Texas State History Museum

Published: 1/30/2014

Though I've lived in Austin for a few years, I just recently visited the Bullock Texas State History Museum for the first time. Located a block north of the Capitol, anyone interested in immersing themselves in Texas culture and history should take a look, and I did just that on the venue's monthly Free First Sunday (of course, for free). The museum contains three floors of exhibit space, the Texas Spirit Theater and an IMAX Theatre which seats more than 400 guests at a time. The Spirit Theater regularly hosts presentations about the history and destiny of the Lone Star State and... read more

Tags: Family Museums

Posted in: Arts & Culture Family

View Full Post Roaming through Rainey Street

Published: 1/28/2014

Austin's most unique entertainment district is lined with historic houses converted into bars with as much personality as the city itself. Whether you're looking for local brews, great food trucks or a rousing game of corn hole in the back yard, Rainey Street is perfect for a laid back night of socializing with friends. Night lights at Lustre Pearl. Courtesy Dunlap Properties. Staying true to Austin's roots, this strip of bars often features live, local bands. If your friends are anything like mine, the music is sure to induce awkward dance parties to music of all genres. After... read more

Tags: Nightlife Rainey Eat & Drink Neighborhoods Live Music

Posted in: Neighborhoods

View Full Post Risky Business

Published: 1/23/2014

I am not a risk-taker. I will never jump out of a plane. Or bungee-jump. Or even dare so much to step off the high-dive at the local pool (heck the low-dive seems iffy to me). But theres something about watching professional athletes attempt never-before-seen maneuvers at blistering speeds or while catching big air - without abandon and with limitless passion. And watching a risky sport is something I can (safely) get behind. The author as a young child. Enter extreme sports, specifically X Games . Arguably the Olympics of alternative action sports, X Games has been around since 1995 making... read more

Tags: Events X Games

View Full Post Daruma Ramen

Published: 1/22/2014

I will be the first to admit that I know next to nothing when it comes to Japanese cuisine (except for my love of sushi), but the growing trend of ramen in the city of Austin could no longer be ignored. Knowing I'd be downtown on the east side of Sixth Street checking out live music, I headed to Daruma Ramen , just across the street from Easy Tiger and Esther's Follies . Cue my eyes and stomach being completely delighted by the stylish and cozy interior (courtesy of Richard Weiss ), as well as the perfection that was my bowl of miso ramen. Daruma keeps a simple menu, with four... read more

Tags: Downtown Eat & Drink

Posted in: Eat & Drink

View Full Post C-Boy's Heart & Soul

Published: 1/17/2014

What's new in the Live Music Capital of the World ® ? For starters, as of December 31, 2013 C-Boys Heart and Soul officially opened its doors. Formerly Trophy's dive bar, C-boys Heart and Soul has already started off 2014 with a bang and has been named one of the Republic of Austin's "Top 10 Venues to Watch in 2014." C-Boy's Heart & Soul. So what's the vibe? Downstairs No-frills neighborhood bar setting, with classic soul and R&B concert posters. Upstairs The Jade Room lounge, styled after '50s-era Japanese GI bars (sake and... read more

Tags: Live Music South Congress

Posted in: Live Music

View Full Post Commit to Achieve Athletic Goals

Published: 1/15/2014

Its that time of year when resolutions are made and motivation to adopt a healthier lifestyle can be at an all-time high. But then reality sets in, you return to the daily grind, and if youre like me, its easier sometimes to forego that gym workout or outdoor frigid run in favor of a cozy night curled up on the couch (with a glass of wine - or two). And forget about a workout regime if you have to factor in travel! Austin Marathon As someone who considers themselves an avid athlete in their spare time, even I have trouble maintaining focus in the winter months. To achieve athletic goals, make... read more

View Full Post January Residency: Nakia + The Belmont Austin

Published: 1/13/2014

Nakia at The Belmont With so much music (and often so little time), it's hard to know where to begin when looking for a live show in town. Each month well let you know about a current Austin music residency, so you can be sure to catch some of the highlights! This month were checking out Soul and Blues singer, Nakia you may know him from season 1 of NBCs The Voice or even our music video Tick Tock Austin . (Hes at about 0:30 in case youre watching it now) Join Nakia this month in an intimate solo setting, where hell be performing his some of his favorites along with special guests. Make sure... read more

Tags: Live Music

Posted in: Live Music

View Full Post Hiking at Pedernales Falls State Park

Published: 1/10/2014

My family and I recently took a day trip to Pedernales Falls State Park . The park is about an hour drive from Austin, just east of Johnson City. I have fond memories of camping there as a kid and I wanted my to children to experience the area for themselves. Pedernales Falls is one of the largest parks in Central Texas. With more than 5,000 acres, it includes 20 miles of trails, scenic views, camping areas and an awe-inspiring waterfall. The park is great for families and offers hiking trails with different levels of difficulty. We hiked the easy quarter-mile to the beautiful... read more

Tags: Family Outdoors Parks

Posted in: Family Outdoors

View Full Post United Sounds of Austin

Published: 1/9/2014

We all know Austin loves live music, but many of us don't know its musical history. This Saturday, January 11, 2014, ACL Live at the Moody Theater invites us all to go on a musical journey with Alejandro Escovedo and friends as he narrates a guided tour through Austin's rich and historical music scene. Special guests include: Lucinda Williams, Joe Ely, Butch Hancock, Terry Allen, Rosie Flores, Roky Erickson, Bells of Joy, JT Van Zandt, Dr. James Polk, The Skunks and Kimmie Rhodes. For more information on the show and tickets click here . read more

Tags: Iconic Austin Live Music

Posted in: Live Music

View Full Post Bungalow

Published: 1/7/2014

One of my favorite hang-outs is Bungalow , situated in the popular Rainey Street district. The inside and outside mesh almost seamlessly thanks to a large corner window that extends out from the building. Wine is served by the half bottle, and more than 20 taps provide primarily local beer (Live Oak, Thirsty Planet and Real Ale to name a few). The expansive patio offers up picnic tables perfect for people watching along Rainey Street, table games including checkers and chess, a cornhole pit (or bean bags for you Northerners) and a food truck serving up hangover worthy tacos. Insider tip: Every... read more

Tags: Rainey Craft Beer Neighborhoods Nightlife

Posted in: Eat & Drink

Posts from January 2014

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