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.

Austin's Sustainable Travel Guide

From dining at award-winning restaurants that prioritize local and seasonal ingredients to exploring sprawling green spaces and unique shopping spots, Austin offers countless opportunities to experience the best of the city while reducing your environmental impact. Whether hiking in nature…

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A First Timer's Guide to Austin

Where do you start planning when there are so many things to do, eat and see in Austin? Whether you're looking for weekend trip inspiration or enough activities to fill a whole week, we've narrowed down the list so you can save hours of planning. Check out these top five things to do in Austin…

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New & Notable in Austin

Fill your social calendar with even more exciting places to eat, drink and explore the arts around Austin. Check out our hot list of what’s new, plus see who recently won awards and accolades. Come spring 2025, patrons visiting the Blanton Museum of Art can enjoy French food. Austin restaurant…

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Where to Go Shopping in Austin

Whether you’re a luxury label lover or a vintage treasure hunter, Austin has just the place for you to shop ‘til you drop. Spend some time at our sprawling shopping malls, charming retail districts and special shopping events. You won’t come home empty handed. Allens Boots. Credit Carolina de Mauro…

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Armadillo Christmas Bazaar 2024

It's the most wonderful time of the year and time for a new rendition of one of Austin's favorite old holiday traditions, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar. Taking over the Palmer Events Center from December 14-23, 2024, stop by to do some holiday shopping or just come and kick back by the stage. Shop…

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Festive Things to Do in Austin with Kids

Sing carols, twirl on ice, enjoy spectacular festive displays and get into the spirit of the season. We have the top tips for things to do with kids in Austin this winter. Courtesy of Trail of Lights. See Holiday Lights The Austin Trail of Lights is truly an Austin tradition celebrating its 60th…

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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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Austin Holiday Shopping Guide

Whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to start thinking about your 2024 holiday gift list. If you’re looking for something really special or even one-of-a-kind for your friends and family, look no further than these local, handmade shopping events and markets in Austin, running from Black Friday to…

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The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Austin

Spending the holidays in Austin? Celebrate like a local and join in some of our city’s most beloved holiday traditions, from over-the-top holiday lights displays to shopping markets and live performances of Christmas classics. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Light Displays…

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5 Things To Do & See on South Congress

Explore the offbeat boutiques of pedestrian-friendly South Congress Avenue. Stop for coffee, cocktails and culinary delights during your walk, and catch live music seven days a week. The shops on South Congress have something for everyone. Browse locally owned-turned household name shops like…

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