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.

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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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…

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Top Things To Do & See on Red River

Red River Cultural District (RRCD) crackles with feverish energy and a bone-deep appreciation for live music. Discover local artists or catch a touring band on the verge of breaking through. There's a little something for everyone in the Red River Cultural District - from vegan-friendly spots to…

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50 Fun Things to Do in Austin

There’s truly something for everyone in Austin. Whether you’re looking for live music, must-see museums, authentic Texas cuisine, scenic outdoor adventures or family-friendly fun, our city offers it all. Here are 50 of the best things to do in Austin to kick-start your trip. 1. Try Austin’s favorite…

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Live Music Venues in Downtown Austin

There’s only one official way to experience Downtown Austin, and that’s to see some live music at one (or a few) of the many established music venues. Here are five of the top venues we think you should hit while you're exploring Austin's vibrant downtown. Nightowls at Antone's. Courtesy of The…

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aGLIFF 37: Prism Film Festival

Austin’s oldest film festival and premiere LGBTQ+ film fest of the Southwest, aGLIFF (All Genders, Lifestyles & Identities Film Festival) returns August 21-25, 2024 with screening s at multiple theaters around town. aGLIFF’s celebration for the 37th annual festival will salute both the rich history…

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Austin’s Most LGBTQ+-Friendly Neighborhoods

Austin, known for its eclectic culture and vibrant music scene, also shines as a beacon of inclusivity, boasting a variety of gay-friendly neighborhoods and LGBTQ+-owned businesses. Let's explore the diverse offerings of these neighborhoods, showcasing the unique charm that makes each lively gay…

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Best Independent Bookstores in Austin

Austin's independent spirit is alive and well in our community-owned, new and used bookstores. Make time to visit one of the many independently owned bookstores located around the city. All of them have something different to offer—here’s a list of the best indie bookstores to visit in Austin to…

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48-Hour Austin LGBTQ+ Itinerary

LGBTQ+-Owned and Gay-Friendly Things to Do in Austin, TX Austin is one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly cities in the country, with a perfect score of 100 on the Human Rights Campaign's Municipal Equality Index. But you won’t find just one “gayborhood” here. The community is integrated throughout this…

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Top Things To Do & See in Downtown Austin

Arts and culture, craft cocktails and draft beer, food trucks and fine fare, live music and dance clubs — there’s never a dull moment in Downtown Austin. Learn more about things to do, where to go and what to see downtown, from the Warehouse District and 2ND Street District to Congress Avenue…

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