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.

Exploring Austin's Caves and Caverns

Austin and the surrounding Texas Hill Country features incredibly diverse landscapes, offering everything from green, rolling hills to limestone cliffs to rocky riverbeds to mesquite and pine forests. But the area also contains a lesser-known, hidden treasure—the intricate underground cave systems…

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The Complete Guide to Lakes in the Austin Area

Famous for its rivers and lakes, Austin and the surrounding Texas Hill Country is bisected by its countless waterways. Here's a quick guide to kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and boating on the water in the Texas state capital. Lady Bird Lake There are three lakes in the Austin area formed by…

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Day Trip Destination: Spicewood

Home of Texas icon and country music legend Willie Nelson, Spicewood has a charm all its own. Fantastic barbecue, rolling hills, fabulous vineyards, and incredible views make this day trip one to remember. You’ll feel miles away from the city while still satisfying that need for novelty. Nature &…

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Pedernales Falls Hiking Guide

Pedernales Falls State Park has arguably some of the most beautiful and unique scenery in the Texas Hill Country. While the river itself is reason enough to visit the park, scenic trails wind through forests, atop ridges, and along the riverside. Walk the sandy shores of the Pedernales River and…

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Day Trip Destination: Smithville

If you were a fan of Hope Floats , then Smithville is probably already on your “must visit” list. For everyone else, it should be. There’s a reason it’s been the backdrop for 13 different movies. This great little town is about 40 miles from Austin and boasts all the small-ish town charm you’re…

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Visiting The Wayback

One of the best parts about visiting Austin is the opportunity to escape to the Texas Hill Country. You can easily enjoy the best parts of city life and Hill Country relaxation at The Wayback, a casual boutique hotel just 15 minutes west of downtown. Surrounded by hills and a big Texas sky, The…

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Day Trip Destination: San Antonio

Just over an hour from Austin, San Antonio has emerged as a Texas hot spot and a great day-tripping destination. While it’s always been one of the largest cities in the state, over the past several years it’s come into its own as a great destination for food, fun, drinks and cultural adventures. You…

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Day Trip Destination: Salado, TX

Our favorite state has many historic spots but Salado, Texas has that old town look-and-feel that really connects you with small-town Texas history. Just an hour north of Austin, it’s the ideal spot for a quick getaway. Take to the charming streets to stroll the art galleries, split a dish at lovely…

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Day Trip Destination: Bastrop

Visitors travel across Texas in search of serene vistas and wide-open skies… but that road trip isn’t necessary. Austin is lucky enough to be just 30 minutes away from neighboring Bastrop, a city whose charm cannot be overstated. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the heart of Austin, Bastrop feels a…

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