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 State Parks & Recreation Areas Near Austin

Austin is surrounded by incredible parks and outdoor recreation areas. With rolling green meadows, wide open spaces, giant cypress and oak trees throughout the countryside and along creeks, limestone cliffs, rocky riverbeds, rivers, lakes and caves, Central Texas has some of the most diverse…

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Visiting the Waterloo Park and Moody Amphitheater

Just a block east of the Texas State Capitol, lush Waterloo Park welcomes families and entertainment-seekers to a refuge within the city center. Its 11 acres include walking trails, food trailers, an abundance of native plants, and a 5,000 person amphitheater that hosts frequent concerts and events…

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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…

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Exploring McKinney Falls in Austin

Your Comprehensive Guide to the State Park Located just 13 miles from Downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is an exceptional place to enjoy the great outdoors. Visitors can see local wildlife like armadillos, painted bunting, and various snake species native to Texas. From camping and hiking…

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What to Do on Memorial Day Weekend in Austin

Planning to spend Memorial Day weekend in Austin? Whether you’re in the mood to relax and unwind or get outside, we’ve got you covered! Here are our suggestions for the best ways to spend three days off in Austin, Texas. Krause Springs. Credit Haley Plotkin. Explore the Outdoors Soak up plenty of…

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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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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…

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Guide to Exploring Hamilton Pool Year-Round

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most popular parks in the Travis County area. So popular, in fact, that you need reservations to get in. It’s easy to see why—the beautiful blue pool in the collapsed grotto and trickling waterfall make for excellent photo ops and hiking trails provide gorgeous…

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