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 Celebrate Juneteenth In Austin

Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” is a holiday that celebrates the abolition of slavery in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, some states under Confederate jurisdiction did not implement it until years later. It wasn’t until June 19, 1965 that Union…

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Your Complete Austin Summer Bucket List

Summer is a great time to visit Austin. Outdoor activities are the name of the game, from kayaking Lady Bird Lake and cooling off in a spring-fed swimming hole, to catching an outdoor concert and picnicking in a scenic park. Here are 25 Austin summer activities to help build your itinerary. Lady…

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Autism-Friendly Activities in Austin

No matter whether you or a loved one fall on the spectrum, Austin is full of spots that offer a great time during your visit. Whether you're planning a date, taking some much-needed alone time, or headed on a family outing, each location offers a place for autistic people to just be. Cheers…

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Visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Tucked away in South Austin, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center brims with native Central Texas blooms and landscapes. Designated as the State Botanic Garden and Arboretum of Texas, the gardens reflect the unique story of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson’s journey towards beautifying Austin…

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Visiting the Austin Zoo

Located southwest of the Barton Creek Habitat Preserve, the Austin Zoo is a family-friendly adventure. Open year-round, the animal sanctuary and rescue houses more than 300 animals of 100 different species. Featuring a feeding area, a train ride and regular educational demonstrations, kids and…

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ABC Zilker Kite Festival

Welcome Spring at the ABC Kite Festival The nation’s oldest kite festival is a fresh-air ballyhoo of kite flying contests, food, games and more. Austin’s annual ABC Kite Festival takes place each spring, and is free to attend. Hundreds of colorful kites will dot the sky from morning till night. This…

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Top Things To Do in Austin with Kids this Spring

While much of the country is still thawing out from the winter, spring in Austin is sunny and mild, making it the perfect time of year to visit with your kids. Here are some of our favorite family-friendly ways to celebrate the season! Credit Monet Hambrick. Visit a Park Soak up the sunshine while…

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Visiting Mayfield Park & Mount Bonnell

Situated in the heart of west Austin, witness the natural beauty of Central Texas with a visit to Mayfield Park and Mount Bonnell. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a visitor looking for a glimpse of Austin's famous wild peacocks or a local, you're sure to enjoy these historic parks and their…

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Fun Things to Do in Austin with Kids this Weekend

Get weird, wild and wacky over a three-day weekend with this fun Austin itinerary. The whole family will keep busy with everything from outdoor adventures to kid-friendly attractions and lots of yummy eats in between. DAY 1 Morning Fuel up for the day with a filling breakfast taco at Fresa’s South…

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The Complete Austin, Texas Bucket List for Spring

Spring is almost here! And with it comes loads of outdoor fun in Austin. From picnics in the park to scenic biking trails and alfresco patios, you’ll find that our town knows how to make the most of this sunshine season. Here are 12 fun things to do in spring for your Austin, Texas bucket list…

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