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 Places for Lunch in Austin

Austin’s local-centric culture makes it a great city for lunch enthusiasts—we don’t have to settle for sad subs or drive-thru chains. We have chefs who refuse to compromise on quality, chic diners and plenty of great delivery services to choose from. So, next time you find yourself wanting to get…

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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, swanky 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 First

Home to some of Austin's best restaurants, the South First Street neighborhood is a foodie haven and a must-see. Find food truck parks, coffee shops, art galleries and plenty of vintage shopping in this unique Austin neighborhood. Plus, be sure to stop for a picture at the Greetings from Austin…

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25 Places for a Margarita in Austin

Nothing says Austin like an icy margarita enjoyed on an outdoor patio. The city offers countless great places that mix amazing margaritas. But how do you pick just one (or two, or three!)? To help you navigate, we’ve compiled a list of the top 25 margaritas in Austin. Now get to sipping! Jump to Map…

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Visiting Barton Springs Pool

How many cities can boast a three-acre, spring fed pool right in the center of town? Austin can, with the famous Barton Springs Pool. Fed by four bubbling springs, this natural wonder maintains a brisk 68-70° year ‘round. Surrounded by grassy embankments, visitors to the pool can lounge in the shade…

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Top Things to Do & See in the Yard

Once an old warehouse district, The Yard has transformed into a vibrant 150,000-square-foot community full of local manufacturers and retailers. Check out the various shops and eateries wander around the property and marvel at the colorfully designed buildings adorned with one-of-a-kind murals. The…

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Music Venues in South Austin

Known for being an expansive district of oak tree-scattered neighborhoods, green spaces, and the quintessential weirdness that, well, keeps Austin weird, South Austin is filled with a ton of hidden gems that locals like to keep secret. A secret no more, here are some of the best live music spots you…

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James Beard Nominated & Award Winning Restaurants

While Austin still excels at barbecue and Tex-Mex, the city has a wide variety of cuisines and styles. From interior Mexican to regional Italian to farm-to-table New American, there is something for everyone, and the James Beard Foundation is taking note. Have a look at these eateries from recent…

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The Most Walkable Neighborhoods in Austin

Austin's reputation for vibrant culture is showcased by its abundance of walkable neighborhoods, each packed with unique attractions and amenities. Here are some of the best walkable neighborhoods in Austin. Downtown's 2nd Street District. Courtesy of 2nd Street District. Downtown Austin Downtown…

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