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.

A Solo Traveler's Guide to Austin

Austin is one of the top cities to visit in the United States, and it's no surprise considering the amount of things to do, see and eat. Whether you want to cool off with a quick dip in a spring-fed pool or embrace the live music and nightlife scene, it's nearly impossible to get bored in this…

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10 Local Artists to Watch at SXSW 2024

The long-awaited SXSW Conference and Festivals makes its highly anticipated return to stages across Austin on March 8-16, 2024. The SXSW Music Festival brings together artists, industry professionals and music aficionados from around the world to network, enhance their careers and celebrate the…

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Visiting the Paramount & State Theatres

Established in 1915, the historic Paramount Theatre has stood as a Congress Avenues staple for more than 100 years. Then in 1935 State Theatre, the first theatre in Austin specifically designed to screen movies, was built right next door. The duo shares year-round programming with over 550 events…

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Austin's Most Iconic Musicians

Resonating as the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin easily boasts some of the most renowned working musicians of the past and present. From country and electronic blues artists to indie experimental rock bands, many household names have staked their claim from the beginning in this town’s…

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Best Dive Bars in Austin

Looking for the best dive bars in Austin, Texas? Head to these spots, where the drinks are stiff, the locals are friendly and the live music and jukeboxes play all night long. We’ve listed 21 down-home Austin bars to get your night started, from the best dive bars on Sixth Street and around…

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Top East Austin Music Venues

As the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin, Texas doesn't fall short on places to experience all different styles of music. In particular, East Austin is home to many venues that are full of character, both new and old. Locals and visitors flock to the east side every day of the week to get…

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How to Experience Free Week 2025

Looking to shake off those post-holiday blues? Red River Cultural District’s Free Week has your cure. This year’s festivities will take place January 2025 and will feature a myriad of local bands in nearly 20 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an…

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Top Holiday Concerts & Shows in Austin

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Austin is bringing back some festive traditions featuring amazing live music and spirited performances. If you haven’t experienced the holidays in Austin, see below for some of this season’s can't-miss events! "A Christmas Carol." Courtesy of ZACH…

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Austin’s LGBTQ+ Arts Scene

The LGBTQ+ community in Austin has a long and ever-growing history. The deep cultural tapestry has laid the ground for Austin’s LGBTQ+ art scene to flourish and expand through installations, dance and music groups, individual creatives, and much more. Various communities within LGBTQ+ spaces…

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