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 First Timer's Guide to Austin

Where do you start planning when there are so many things to do, eat and see in Austin? Whether you're looking for weekend trip inspiration or enough activities to fill a whole week, we've narrowed down the list so you can save hours of planning. Check out these top five things to do in Austin…

Continue Reading

Where to Have Christmas Dinner in Austin

If you're planning to spend Christmas or Hanukkah in Austin, let our award-winning chefs minimize your time in the kitchen and order in from these local restaurants. Find great places to order holiday meals to take home, plus Austin restaurants that are open on Christmas and Christmas Eve. TLC…

Continue Reading

New & Notable in Austin

Fill your social calendar with even more exciting places to eat, drink and explore the arts around Austin. Check out our hot list of what’s new, plus see who recently won awards and accolades. Come spring 2025, patrons visiting the Blanton Museum of Art can enjoy French food. Austin restaurant…

Continue Reading

Top 5 Things to Do on Rainey Street

Austin’s Rainey Street is known for its historic bungalows, which have been transformed into unique bars, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Beyond its lively nightlife, the area is a go-to for great food trucks and outdoor activities nearby. Here are some of our top recommendations for making…

Continue Reading

Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin

2025 is quickly approaching, and Austin knows how to celebrate in style. From live music to exclusive dinners, Austin has a range of events so you and your loved ones can ring in the new year the right way. Check out some of the events we’ve highlighted so you can start planning your New Year’s Eve…

Continue Reading

Guide to Austin's Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Although warm Texas temps may not make it feel like December, Austin is ready to celebrate the season big. Light shows illuminate the city skyline and holiday markets are all over town to help you find the perfect gift for loved ones. Even Austin’s nightlife scene gets festive with a number of…

Continue Reading

Best Restaurants & Bars This Winter

There are lots of exciting things to do during winter in Austin. But when the winter weather hits and you're looking to get extra cozy, try out one of these winter warmers around town. From local restaurants with fireplaces and fire pits to dark and cozy wine bars, here are some of the best Austin…

Continue Reading

Austin Day Trip Activities

Day trippers (and locals) will find lots of exciting things to do in Austin. Hike or bike scenic trails, have a picnic in the park or head to an old-fashioned drive-in movie theater. The options are endless. Pedernales River. Credit to Victor Mata. Hike & Bike Take off on a hiking or cycling trail…

Continue Reading

What to Know About MICHELIN Guide Texas

MICHELIN Star Restaurants in Austin, Texas Austin’s culinary scene has officially gained MICHELIN status, placing it firmly on the map of global dining destinations. As the MICHELIN Guide Texas unveils its very first round of awarded restaurants, Austin’s unique blend of food heritage, inventive…

Continue Reading

The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Austin

Spending the holidays in Austin? Celebrate like a local and join in some of our city’s most beloved holiday traditions, from over-the-top holiday lights displays to shopping markets and live performances of Christmas classics. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Light Displays…

Continue Reading