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.

Best Patio Bars for Al Fresco Drinking

Austin is synonymous with breakfast tacos, watering holes (for drinking or swimming) and an obsession with patios. Triple-digit temperatures may slow us down, but never stop us from rounding up human and furry troops for ice-cold local craft beers, juicy burgers, ooey-gooey queso and the simple…

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Austin Farmers Markets Worth Visiting

There are few things as refreshing as a sunny morning in Austin, surrounded by fresh produce, colorful bouquets, hot coffee and the sound of a local musician wafting through the stalls at one of our many farmers markets. Whether you're in town for a few days or a few weeks, a visit to one of our…

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Top Things to Do & See in the Seaholm District

Named for the decommissioned Seaholm Power Plant, the Seaholm District is now a quiet mixed-use area in Downtown Austin. The former industrial plant, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, has retained its original Art Deco-style exterior while new business and restaurants have moved…

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Visiting the Waterloo Park and Moody Amphitheater

Just a block east of the Texas State Capitol, lush Waterloo Park welcomes families and entertainment-seekers to a refuge within the city center. Its 11 acres include walking trails, food trailers, an abundance of native plants, and a 5,000 person amphitheater that hosts frequent concerts and events…

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Mezcal Bars in Austin

In recent years, the popularity of mezcal has skyrocketed the world over, and Austin is no exception. Thanks to our roots and love for all things Mexican, our city is home to many watering holes and restaurants that specialize in the iconic agave spirit. Whether you are a novice looking for guidance…

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Must-See Austin Historic Sites

Listen up, history lovers! We’ve compiled the iconic Austin sites you can’t miss while visiting the Capital City. Delve into the backstory of our fascinating town, where you can explore everything from art and history museums to lush parks, still kickin’ honky-tonks and restaurants that have proudly…

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The Best Tex-Mex Restaurants in Austin, TX

Austin is home to many global cuisines, but Tex-Mex takes the crown as the local favorite. This blend of Mexican and Texas-style comfort food can be found on just about any street, often in family-run restaurants that have operated for years. Here are some of the Tex-Mex restaurants worth visiting…

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Live Music Venues in Downtown Austin

There’s only one official way to experience Downtown Austin, and that’s to see some live music at one (or a few) of the many established music venues. Here are five of the top venues we think you should hit while you're exploring Austin's vibrant downtown. Nightowls at Antone's. Courtesy of The…

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Three Days in Austin on a Budget

There are budget-friendly things to do all over Austin, and we've pulled a list of some visitor favorites. Stretch your travel dollars with this three-day itinerary of budget-friendly eats, sips and sees. Looking for more? Check out these 50 Free & Cheap Things To Do in Austin. DAY 1 Kick off your…

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Self-Guided Austin Architecture Tour

Take a walking or driving tour to witness examples of Austin's most notable architecture. Each building has a unique story to tell, from the historic buildings on the University of Texas campus to the hard lines of downtown's Contemporary Austin Jones Center. Plan to visit each location for a fun…

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