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.

Visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Tucked away in South Austin, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center brims with native Central Texas blooms and landscapes. Designated as the State Botanic Garden and Arboretum of Texas, the gardens reflect the unique story of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson’s journey towards beautifying Austin…

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Where to See Wildflowers Near Austin

Every spring, the Texas Hill Country blooms into a colorful cascade of delicate Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrushes and Indian Blankets, as wildflowers blanket the meadows, fields and valleys near Austin. Bring your camera, and your sense of wonder, as you scout out these top 10 spots for spectacular…

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Boutique Hotels in Austin

Travelers looking for a stay as unique as Austin may want to opt into a boutique hotel. We’ve gathered up the quirky, funky, swank and one-of-a-kind smaller format places to stay that will satisfy your need for the weird and the wonderful. Lay your head on custom linens, luxuriate in the best bath…

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Top 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. Home Slice Pizza. Credit Julia Keim. DINING Austin’s food scene is not for the faint of heart. Within the South…

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Weirdest Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s reputation for “weirdness” is a bit 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 with…

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8 Must-See Art Galleries in Austin

A city is only as cool as its artists. Austin has no shortage of creatives working to either preserve or transform different aspects of the city’s vibrant culture. Whether you want to soak in some culture or find a stunning piece for your home, there is an art gallery in town to suit your tastes…

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Visiting Austin's Trail of Lights

The holidays are here, and one of the best ways to celebrate in Austin is by visiting the city’s 58th Annual Trail of Lights. From December 8-23, 2022 (closed Mondays), Zilker Park transforms into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees and more…

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Where to Have Thanksgiving Dinner in Austin

If you're planning to spend Thanksgiving in Austin, let our award-winning chefs minimize your time in the kitchen and dine in or order in from these local restaurants. Find Austin restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, plus great places to order Thanksgiving meals to take home. Courtesy of TLC…

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Best Restaurants & Bars This Winter

There are lots of exciting things to do during winter in Austin. But when the winter weather hits and you're looking to get extra cozy, try out one of these winter warmers around town. From local restaurants with fireplaces and fire pits to dark and cozy wine bars, here are some of the best Austin…

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