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.

Weird Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s reputation for “weirdness” is somewhat hard to pin down. What exactly does it mean to be weird, anyway? If it means laid back, creative, fun-loving, and a little quirky, then it’s a fitting description. Visitors to our fair city should stop by some of these attractions to see if you agree…

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Austin Day Trip Activities

Day trippers (and locals) will find lots of exciting things to do in Austin. Hike or bike scenic trails, have a picnic in the park or head to an old-fashioned drive-in movie theater. The options are endless. Pedernales River. Credit to Victor Mata. Hike & Bike Take off on a hiking or cycling trail…

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Where to Go Camping Near Austin

When the weather cools, it’s time to dust off your camping gear, fire up the engine on the RV, rile the kids up with talk of s’mores and ghost stories and go! Central Texas is liberally dotted with camping options that range from primitive to premium. Here are our favorite spots, arranged by…

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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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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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