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.

Where to Watch 4th of July Fireworks in Austin

The 4th of July in Austin comes alive with a dazzling display of colors, music, and community, transforming the city into a vibrant showcase of celebrations. From an unforgettable experience on the waters of Lady Bird Lake to the lively buzz of urban rooftops, each locale offers a distinct…

Continue Reading

Hot Summer Nights 2024

Hot Summer Nights is bringing three packed days of music to Austin's own Red River Cultural District this July 18-20, 2024. Created to bring awareness to local businesses and artists during the slower summer months, Hot Summer Nights has grown to be a marquee event for locals and visitors alike…

Continue Reading

Where to See Live Music This Summer

The sun isn’t the only thing heating up this summer in Austin. The live music scene is also on the rise and you can catch performances nearly anywhere throughout the city. Watch a local act on the patio of your favorite beer garden, or pack a blanket and your friends to enjoy a show at the park…

Continue Reading

Where to Eat & Drink in Austin this Summer

Summer in Austin is best spent basking in the sun while indulging in the city’s renowned bar and restaurant scene. Post up on a patio with a frozen beverage in hand or sample bites at a food truck. Here are our favorite summer staples from raw bars to patios, and don’t forget the sweet treats! Have…

Continue Reading

Hotel Swimming Pools in Austin with Day Passes

Splish splash, y’all! Austin’s warm weather is here and it has locals and visitors alike on the hunt for water activities to cool down from the summer sun. Austin has so many places to chill out, like spring-fed swimming holes and natural oases. But if you’re a planner, or want something a little…

Continue Reading

Where to Celebrate Juneteenth In Austin

Juneteenth, also known as “Freedom Day,” is a holiday that celebrates the abolition of slavery in Texas. Although the Emancipation Proclamation was made effective in 1863, some states under Confederate jurisdiction did not implement it until years later. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865 that Union…

Continue Reading

50 Cheap & Free Things to Do in Austin, TX

Experience the best of Austin—without putting a serious dent in your wallet—with our suggestions for 50 free and cheap things to do while you’re here. Stretch your travel dollars with everything from affordable food truck eats and outdoor adventures to free live music and fun activities for the…

Continue Reading

Top Things To Do in Austin This Summer

Summer is a great time to visit Austin. Outdoor activities are the name of the game, from kayaking Lady Bird Lake and cooling off in a spring-fed swimming hole to catching an outdoor concert and picnicking in a scenic park. Here are 25 Austin summer activities to help build your itinerary. Lady…

Continue Reading

Things To Do in Austin This Summer with Kids

School is out! And with so many great activities for kids, it’s easy to see why Austin is such a great vacation spot for families. Here is our list of the top five family-friendly things to do in Austin this summer. Blues on the Green. Credit Ryan Conine. 1. Jam Out at a Kid-Friendly Concert Austin…

Continue Reading