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.

Spring & Summer Film Festivals in Austin

Austin is known for many film festivals year round. Cinephiles and industry professionals flock to the city and pack out venues to experience movie magic on the big screen. Between March and August, cinephiles can partake in several renowned film and television festivals that attract some of the…

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Fun Things to Do in Austin with Kids this Weekend

Get weird, wild and wacky over a three-day weekend with this fun Austin itinerary. The whole family will keep busy with everything from outdoor adventures to kid-friendly attractions and lots of yummy eats in between. DAY 1 Morning Fuel up for the day with a filling breakfast taco at Fresa’s South…

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Guide to Exploring Hamilton Pool Year-Round

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most popular parks in the Travis County area. So popular, in fact, that you need reservations to get in. It’s easy to see why—the beautiful blue pool in the collapsed grotto and trickling waterfall make for excellent photo ops and hiking trails provide gorgeous…

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Where to Zipline Near Austin

One of the most unique ways to take advantage of the beautiful Texas Hill Country is by flying through the trees on a zipline adventure. Take in fresh air, gorgeous scenery, and if you're lucky, some wildlife sightings as you glide through the air on a giant steel cable. Check out some of the best…

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Day Trip Destination: Wimberley

In the past five years, Wimberley has skyrocketed in popularity, making it one of the most interesting day trip adventures in the Texas Hill Country. Set against a backdrop of our state’s natural beauty, it’s abuzz with artsy and entrepreneurial energy. Choose your own perfect day—whether it’s…

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2024 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2024 and mark your calendar with Austin's biggest festivals and events, from food to fine arts and, of course, live music. For dates and the latest updates about each event, please check visitaustin.org/events or visit the event's website. January 1/5-6/24 Free Week Red…

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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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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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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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