Austin Insider Blog

This blog, written and curated by Visit Austin staff, shares the things that visitors love and locals can't get enough of.

Where to Ice Skate in Austin This Winter

For some, gliding over a smooth ice surface on steel-bladed skates is a form of exercise or recreation but for others it’s a highly competitive sport. No matter the reason, the feeling you can get from the activity is adrenaline rushing! This seasonal winter activity is the perfect way to get into…

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Weird Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s reputation for “weirdness” is somewhat hard to pin down. What exactly does it mean to be weird, anyway? If it means laid back, creative, fun-loving, and a little quirky, then it’s a fitting description. Visitors to our fair city should stop by some of these attractions to see if you agree…

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Where to See Holiday Lights in Austin

There are so many things that make the holiday season fun. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate the season with loved ones, visiting one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on the agenda. Here are some of the top places to check out holiday lights in Austin this winter…

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Festive Things to Do in Austin with Kids

Sing carols, twirl on ice, enjoy spectacular festive displays and get into the spirit of the season. We have the top tips for things to do with kids in Austin this winter. Courtesy of Trail of Lights. See Holiday Lights The Austin Trail of Lights is truly an Austin tradition celebrating its 60th…

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Austin's Best Tours

Visiting Austin for a few hours, and want to see the most you can in a short amount of time? New to town, and want insider access to all things Austin? From guided walking tours of downtown to a culinary adventure through Austin's best food trucks, call on these local tour companies to show your…

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The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Austin

Spending the holidays in Austin? Celebrate like a local and join in some of our city’s most beloved holiday traditions, from over-the-top holiday lights displays to shopping markets and live performances of Christmas classics. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Light Displays…

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Top Things to Do in Austin This Winter

You’ll find plenty to do in Austin during the wintertime, both indoors and out, thanks to the city's temperate weather. You can hike along forest trails, sip seasonal cocktails in a cozy lounge, explore a world-class museum and dine outdoors on a heated patio. Add these ideas to your Austin winter…

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Visiting Austin's Trail of Lights

The holidays are here, and one of the best ways to celebrate in Austin is by visiting the city’s Annual Trail of Lights taking place December 10-23, 2024. Celebrating it's 60th anniversary in 2024, this iconic Austin event transforms Zilker Park into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2…

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Splash Pads in Austin

Searching for family-friendly fun in Austin? Look no further than the city’s splash pads! From colorful play areas to refreshing water features, these splash pads offer a fantastic way for kids and adults to cool off and enjoy a sunny day. In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best splash pads…

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50 Fun Things to Do in Austin

There’s truly something for everyone in Austin. Whether you’re looking for live music, must-see museums, authentic Texas cuisine, scenic outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun, our city offers it all. Here are 50 of the best things to do in Austin to kick-start your trip. 1. Try Austin’s favorite…

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