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.

Day Trip Destination: Salado, TX

Our favorite state has many historic spots but Salado, Texas has that old town look-and-feel that really connects you with small-town Texas history. Just an hour north of Austin, it’s the ideal spot for a quick getaway. Take to the charming streets to stroll the art galleries, split a dish at lovely…

Continue Reading

Visiting Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Less than two hours away from Austin is Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, a magical outdoor wonderland, indeed. Here, a massive pink granite dome stands 425 feet above the rocky soil below, a spectacular sight amidst the rolling Hill Country landscape. At the park, campsites, hiking trails, and…

Continue Reading

Where to See Longhorns In Austin

Perhaps no state mammal is associated with its “home state” as quickly as the Texas Longhorn. Weighing in at up to 1,500 pounds and standing up to six feet tall, these bovine beauties certainly catch the eye. But it’s their titular longhorns, sometimes reaching eight feet from tip to tip, that…

Continue Reading

Day Trip Destination: Bastrop

Visitors travel across Texas in search of serene vistas and wide-open skies… but that road trip isn’t necessary. Austin is lucky enough to be just 30 minutes away from neighboring Bastrop, a city whose charm cannot be overstated. Just a hop, skip and a jump from the heart of Austin, Bastrop feels a…

Continue Reading

Your Complete Fall Bucket List

Celebrate fall in Austin with tons of seasonal activities, including pumpkin patches and corn mazes, spooky tours and amazing outdoor adventures in the scenic Texas Hill Country. Austin really shows off some of it's best qualities this time of year. From perfect weather and patio dining to amazing…

Continue Reading

Discover Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa

Situated amongst the rolling hills and autumn splendor of Texas Hill Country sits Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, a vineyard experience offering luxury accommodations, award winning Texas wines, craft beers and hearty fare. A visit in the fall welcomes visitors with cooler temperatures, grapes…

Continue Reading

Day Trip Destination: Round Rock

Just 20 minutes north of Austin, Round Rock is known for historic sites, a walk-able downtown, great shopping, and professional and amateur sports offerings. Get to know this destination and plan your day trip from Austin with our guide to the top things to do, see and eat in Round Rock. Downtown &…

Continue Reading

Day Trip Destination: Marble Falls, TX

Though just 50 miles west of Austin, the city of Marble Falls makes you feel like you’re in some kind of dream. Revel in the great outdoors! Pick berries at a quaint farm! Eat pies the size of a small country! Drink cold craft beer! Picnic in a vineyard! Let’s be honest — a day trip here simply…

Continue Reading

Day Trip Destination: Miraval Austin Resort & Spa

Dreaming about your next getaway, but can’t commit to a week-long vacation right now? Sometimes taking a few hours away from your usual routine is all you need to recharge your mind, body and soul - and Miraval Austin Resort & Spa's day package, which features full access to Miraval's extensive…

Continue Reading

Day Trip Destination: Lockhart

Lockhart has long been known as the barbecue capital of Texas. Way before Franklin was a whisper in the wind, Texans from all over have flocked to this city to get their carnivore on. There’s more than meets (or meats) the eye here though—a fascinating history, adorable shops, live music, golfing…

Continue Reading