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.

Where to See Live Music This Summer

The sun isn’t the only thing heating up this summer in Austin. The live music scene is also on the rise and you can catch performances nearly anywhere throughout the city. Watch a local act on the patio of your favorite beer garden, or pack a blanket and your friends to enjoy a show at the park…

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50 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Austin, TX

Experience the best of Austin—without putting a serious dent in your wallet—with our suggestions for 50 free and cheap things to do while you’re here. Stretch your travel dollars with everything from affordable food truck eats and outdoor adventures to free live music and fun tours. Texas State…

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Electric Vehicle Charging Spots Near Things to Do

Exploring Austin in an electric vehicle? We highly recommend it as the city is stupendously EV-friendly. So if you’re looking for a place to park and charge while you wander, eat, recreate or explore, we’ve got you covered with where to find electric vehicle charging stations in Austin, including…

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7 of the Best Swimming Holes in & Around Austin

There’s no denying it: summer is sizzling in Austin. But luckily, Mother Nature helps out with a number of splashy swimming holes that offer a fun way to cool off. Shake the summer heat at some of the best swimming holes found in and around Austin. Please note that swimming is not always guaranteed…

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Austin Climbing & Bouldering Guide

Austin is filled with craggy walls and limestones cliffs perfect for climbing and bouldering. In fact, the city is home to a robust population of climbers. And visitor or local, beginner or pro, you don’t have to go far to send it. Austin Climbing Gyms Climb any time of year and in any weather at…

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Visiting Mayfield Park & Mount Bonnell

Situated in the heart of west Austin, witness the natural beauty of Central Texas with a visit to Mayfield Park and Mount Bonnell. Whether you are an outdoor enthusiast, a visitor looking for a glimpse of Austin's famous wild peacocks or a local, you're sure to enjoy these historic parks and their…

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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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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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Austin's Best Outdoor Activities this Fall

Austin is an outdoor lover’s playground. And with its enviable location in the heart of Texas Hill Country, visitors can find everything from scenic state parks to crystal clear lakes close by. So, whether you’re a hiker, biker or boater, you’re sure to find your bliss in Austin this fall. Hiking…

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Austin Museum Day 2022 Attractions & Galleries

Austin has a booming art scene as well as a number of nationally recognized museums. With Austin Museum Day approaching on September 18, 2022, visitors should expect nothing but the best. This year, over 30 local museums and historic spaces around Austin will be celebrating with free in-person…

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