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 Patio Bars for Al Fresco Drinking

Austin is synonymous with breakfast tacos, watering holes (for drinking or swimming) and an obsession with patios. Triple-digit temperatures may slow us down, but never stop us from rounding up human and furry troops for ice-cold local craft beers, juicy burgers, ooey-gooey queso and the simple…

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Where to Find Frozen Treats in Austin

Looking to beat the Austin heat this summer? Chill out with some of the coolest treats in town, including artisan ice cream cones and frozen cocktails, found everywhere from food trucks to hip patio lounges. Ice Cream Amy’s Ice Creams In the mood for a classic scoop? Take a trip to one of the 12…

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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…

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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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Hot Summer Nights 2024

Hot Summer Nights is bringing four packed days of music to Austin's own Red River Cultural District. Originally 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. Along with the…

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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…

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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 tours. Texas State…

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7 of the Best Swimming Holes in & Around Austin

There’s no denying it: summer is sizzling in Austin. But luckily, Mother Nature helps out with a number of splashy swimming holes that offer a fun way to cool off. Shake the summer heat at some of the best swimming holes found in and around Austin. Please note that swimming is not always guaranteed…

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