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.

Your Hill Country Getaway: Hotel Viata

Escape to the tranquility of Texas Hill Country with a stay at Hotel Viata Austin. Nestled among lush trees, this charming retreat welcomes both locals and travelers to a warm and inviting experience. Join us as we explore the highlights of this hidden gem. Coastal Italian Dining with a Hill…

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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…

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Dog-Friendly Water Activities

Austin is an exceedingly dog-friendly city. Everywhere you go, you’re likely to find plenty of pups with their owners in tow. And with a warm climate for most of the year, there are lots of dog-friendly water activities so visitors and their pooches can stay cool, especially when temps rise in the…

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Pedernales Falls Hiking Guide

Pedernales Falls State Park has arguably some of the most beautiful and unique scenery in the Texas Hill Country. While the river itself is reason enough to visit the park, scenic trails wind through forests, atop ridges, and along the riverside. Walk the sandy shores of the Pedernales River and…

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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…

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Guide to Austin's Barton Creek Greenbelt

The Barton Creek Greenbelt, which travels through South Austin, is the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes in the city. You can enjoy hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming and even lazily passing a day perched in a hammock or sunbathing on a boulder along Barton…

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25 Can’t-Miss Food Trucks in Austin

Food truck eats are a must when you visit Austin. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly food truck park or tasty late-night bites on the patio at a bar, here are 25 to add to your Austin dining itinerary. Veracruz All Natural. Credit to Ryan Myers. 1. Veracruz All Natural Wake up with a migas…

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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…

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3 Days in Austin with Your Dog

Austin is an incredibly dog-friendly city. Locals take their fur babies everywhere—off-leash parks, specialty pet shops and even their favorite bars and restaurants. For visitors, pet-friendly hotels abound, and you won’t run out of fun activities to share with your best friend. Here are some ideas…

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