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.

James Beard Nominated & Award Winning Restaurants

While Austin still excels at barbecue and Tex-Mex, the city has a wide variety of cuisines and styles. From interior Mexican to regional Italian to farm-to-table New American, there is something for everyone, and the James Beard Foundation is taking note. Have a look at these eateries from recent…

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Self Guided Tour of Austin Murals

Take a drive around Austin and you will see a mix of eclectic and colorful murals. Check out this guide for a casual, self-guided tour of the most photo-worthy murals in town. Greetings From Austin 1720 S. First St. Start the day with this South Austin gem, one of the most photographed murals in…

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Where to Celebrate Juneteenth In Austin

Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” is a holiday that celebrates the abolition of slavery in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, some states under Confederate jurisdiction did not implement it until years later. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865 that Union…

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Best Music Venues in Austin

From intimate listening venues to packed dance floors, and dive bars to the bright lights of the big stage, Austin has a musical experience for every taste. Austin’s live music scene pervades every corner of the city, day or night. Gritty blues bands, indie rockers, solo singer-songwriters, reggae…

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Supporting Black-Owned Restaurants in Austin

Austin's Black community has quite the legacy in the Austin food scene. Find award-winning restaurants, authentic Ethiopian, Jamaican and Haitian flavors, savory smoked meats and flavorful southern comfort food all around town. Enjoy Austin's food truck scene with creative takes on baked potatoes…

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Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Austin

Texas may be renowned for its barbecue, but Austin’s culinary scene doesn’t stop there; the city is also brimming with meat-free fare and these restaurants are some of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Austin. Be prepared to be delighted and amazed. 1. Arlo's Jr. Known far and wide for…

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Weird Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s reputation for “weirdness” is somewhat hard to pin down. What exactly does it mean to be weird, anyway? If it means laid back, creative, fun-loving, and a little quirky, then it’s a fitting description. Visitors to our fair city should stop by some of these attractions to see if you agree…

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