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 Outdoor Activities in Austin

Austin is known for its great outdoors, both within the city limits and in the nearby rural Texas Hill Country. Get out and explore the best things to do outside, from winding hiking and biking trails to cool swimming holes and lakes perfect for paddling. 360 Bridge Hikers. Credit Pierce Ingram…

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Guide to the Perfect Austin Photo Dump

On your next trip to Austin no doubt you’ll be snapping pictures all over town. Check out our guide to craft the perfect photo dump to post of your trip to Austin. ON THE LAKE Whether by kayak, paddle board, canoe or boat, exploring Austin’s waterways is a favorite pastime of locals and a…

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Where to See Wildflowers Near Austin

In early spring, the Texas Hill Country blooms into a colorful cascade of delicate bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and Indian blankets, as wildflowers cloak the meadows, fields and valleys near Austin. Bring your camera, and your sense of wonder, as you scout out these top 10 spots for spectacular…

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30 Things to Do in Austin with Kids

Visiting Austin with the kids? We’ve got 30 great ideas for fun family activities they’ll love, from swimming holes and food trucks, to kid-friendly live music and museums that welcome curious little explorers. 1. Treat your kids to a true Austin dining experience at food truck park The Picnic…

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How to Experience Free Week 2025

Looking to shake off those post-holiday blues? Red River Cultural District’s Free Week has your cure. This year’s festivities will take place January 3-4, 2025 and will feature a myriad of local bands in nearly 20 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an…

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2025 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2025 and mark your calendar with Austin's biggest festivals and events, from food to fine arts and, of course, live music. For dates and the latest updates about each event, please check visitaustin.org/events or visit the event's website. January 1/3-4/25 Free Week Red…

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Where to See Holiday Lights in Austin

There are so many things that make the holiday season fun. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate the season with loved ones, visiting one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on the agenda. Here are some of the top places to check out holiday lights in Austin this winter…

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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…

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Austin Studio Tour 2024

The free, self-guided Austin Studio Tour – an annual Big Medium program – invites visitors to discover new artistic talent, see working studios, learn about artists' tools, techniques and inspirations, and explore galleries. A combination of the popular East Austin Studio Tour and West Austin Studio…

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Viva la Vida Festival & Parade

Each year, Mexic-Arte Museum celebrates the tradition of Día de los Muertos in Austin. During Viva la Vida Festival & Parade, the city's largest and longest-running Día de los Muertos event, visitors will experience a street festival and a parade down the iconic Congress Avenue, bringing together a…

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