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 Steakhouses in Austin

If there’s one thing Texas is known for, it’s beef. There’s something about a good steak that no other dish can replicate. It’s practically required when you’re visiting Austin to settle in at a steakhouse and indulge in a Texas tradition. Austin Land and Cattle One of our favorites is Austin Land…

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Austin's Secret Speakeasies

What makes a good speakeasy? A feeling of discovery? A strong sense of place? Great drinks? Yes, yes, and yes. Inside a great speakeasy, the outside world seems to stop. Windowless and timeless, there’s just you and the few people with whom you get to share the experience. Get in on the secret at…

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Best Hotels in Austin

Austin has so many beautiful, cool, funky hotels that it can be difficult to choose favorites, but we’ve done the *wipes brow* hard work to bubble up the best. From contemporary to classic, there are a plethora of options to choose from. Here are just a few of the many top-rated hotels in Austin…

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Historic Hotels in Austin

Some of Austin’s oldest hotels give a peek into the city’s fascinating history. Stay at a luxe Waller Creek estate, a Greek Revival-style boutique hotel or a South Congress motor court turned modernist oasis that all have intriguing stories to tell. Austin Motel. Credit Nick Simonite. Austin Motel…

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Historic Austin: Sixth Street

Sixth Street is a National Register historic district in Austin, with six blocks of turn-of-the-century Victorian commercial buildings. It is also home to a number of rocking venues that contribute to Austin's robust music scene. Before the music era began, the area was a melting pot of small…

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Your Guide to Paddling Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is the epitome of the Austin lifestyle. Every day of the week, the lake is filled with people taking advantage of this stretch of dammed-off Colorado River that offers endless recreation opportunities. Backdropped by the downtown Austin skyline on one side, Zilker Park and Auditorium…

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5 Reasons to Visit the Texas State Capitol

Whether a longtime resident, a transplant or a visitor just passing through town, a must-do activity in Austin is checking out the Texas State Capitol building and grounds. Learn more about the historic statehouse and find out how to explore the Texas State Capitol with these top 5 reasons to visit…

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Where to Shop Local in Austin

Keep it local and give your wallet a workout in Austin, where you’ll be tempted by everything from hip clothing stores to gourmet food shops. Plan a visit to these small, locally owned businesses that are sure to become your new Austin favorites. Be sure to check individual store hours and shopping…

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First Timer's Guide to Zilker Park

More than 1.3 million people visit Austin’s Zilker Park each year. It’s time for you to be among them! Zilker Park is one of the locals’ favorite places to find fun and fellowship. Live music and theater, sports and games, and simple enjoyment of the great outdoors await at this emerald isle at the…

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