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.

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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Day Trip Destination: Marble Falls, TX

Though just 50 miles west of Austin, the city of Marble Falls makes you feel like you’re in some kind of dream. Revel in the great outdoors! Pick berries at a quaint farm! Eat pies the size of a small country! Drink cold craft beer! Picnic in a vineyard! Let’s be honest — a day trip here simply…

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Day Trip Destination: New Braunfels and Gruene

Experience Texas’ German Roots in New Braunfels, Texas. This Hill Country town is located an hour outside of Austin and is jam-packed with outdoor activities, historic attractions and wonderful restaurants, making it the perfect day trip destination for visitors to Austin. Plus, be sure to explore…

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Day Trip Destination: Georgetown

Just under an hour from Austin, Georgetown is known for its lovely main street, cool restaurants and bars and fun local shopping. Pick any weekend to get away and enjoy the slower pace without sacrificing great food and good fun. Shopping The Georgetown Town Square is dubbed "The Most Beautiful…

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How to Get the Full Texas Experience in Austin

Everyone knows that Austin is a bit…different…from the rest of Texas. But that doesn’t mean you can’t get the full Lone Star State experience in the capital! We’ve got great food, proud history, and natural beauty galore, right here in the city limits. Add these activities to your Austin bucket list…

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Day Trip Destination: Driftwood

Driftwood often gets overlooked on the way to other, larger Hill Country towns but it’s got a scene in its own right. Of course, it’s home to the legitimately world famous The Salt Lick barbecue but as Austinites rush out of the city in search of a little more space and some peace, Driftwood has…

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Hill Country Day Trip: Dripping Springs

If you’ve had your fill of walking around downtown Austin and are looking for other hot spots to visit, don’t fret: there are tons of lovely towns just outside of the Austin city limits that are perfect for spending a day in. One of the most popular towns for visitors (and locals) is Dripping…

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Day Trip Destination: Boerne

If you’re looking for a day trip with culture, nature, deep Texas historical roots and great food and drink, then head straight to Boerne, Texas. Settled over 150 years ago by German immigrants, this Hill Country town is nothing short of delightful. It’s one of those places where you stroll…

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Day Trip Destination: Blanco

Make your way to beautiful Blanco, Texas. Though it’s known for hosting an incredible lavender festival, the town offers so much more year ‘round. Get out in nature, learn some history, sip on some of the most well known and sought after craft beers and whiskies, plus eating well and living right…

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