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.

9 Reasons to Explore Austin's Outdoors

Whatever your recreational preference, Austin likely has it. The city is, after all, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, which boasts state parks, rivers, swimming holes, cliff walls and every other type of outdoor destination imaginable. Landgoers and water lovers alike have countless ways to…

Continue Reading

Austin Cycling Guide

Ready to get on your bikes and ride? There are plenty of places to do so in Austin whether you want a car-free paved path for a leisurely cycle or you prefer to tear up some single track. So grab your helmet and a pair of shades and take your wheels to one of these cycling hot spots perfect for…

Continue Reading

The Complete Guide to Lakes in the Austin Area

Famous for its rivers and lakes, Austin and the surrounding Texas Hill Country is bisected by its countless waterways. Here's a quick guide to kayaking, paddle boarding, swimming and boating on the water in the Texas state capital. Lady Bird Lake There are three lakes in the Austin area formed by…

Continue Reading

Stand up Paddle Boarding in Austin

Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is a popular way to while away the day in Austin, and with a steady influx of outdoor enthusiasts visiting the city, the beginner-friendly sport has gained even more steam in Central Texas. With an abundance of rivers and lakes, perfect for flat-water paddling, you'll…

Continue Reading

Austin's Hike & Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake

The Hike and Bike Trail is a low-grade trail, most of which is wide enough to accommodate both cyclists and pedestrian traffic, making it a leisurely, enjoyable ride for cyclists, runners and families alike. Because the trail winds through downtown, there are access points and parking all along the…

Continue Reading

Historic Austin: Zilker Park & South Austin

A trip to Austin puts you in the heart of Texas history. From the Texas State Capitol to the Paramount Theatre, the Driskill Hotel to Barton Springs, the heritage of the Lone Star State lives and breathes throughout our city. We invite you to explore, experience and enjoy Austin’s many memorable…

Continue Reading

Your Guide to Paddling Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird Lake is the epitome of the Austin lifestyle. Every day of the week, the lake is filled with people taking advantage of this stretch of dammed-off Colorado River that offers endless recreation opportunities. Backdropped by the downtown Austin skyline on one side, Zilker Park and Auditorium…

Continue Reading

The Best Hiking in Austin

If there’s one thing Austinites love, it’s playing outside. Whether that involves a paddle on the lake, a spin around the Veloway, or a run around the park, months of warm temps and sunshine make the city a great place to get outside to play. And one of locals’ favorite ways to while away a Sunday…

Continue Reading

Discover Austin with local musician Dr. JOE

Let musician and Austinite, Dr. JOE, take you on a tour of his hometown that celebrates music, art, food trucks and everything else that makes the Texas capital wonderfully weird. Explore Austin and discover what makes the Live Music Capital of the World® so special, from honky-tonks and dance halls…

Continue Reading