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.

Music Venues in Central Austin

Central Austin is the one area of town that is arguably still as iconically Slacker- esque as it was in the ‘90s. Since the filming of this essential Richard Linklater capstone, this area of Austin has reached new heights in the world of food, music and entertainment. Here are some live music spots…

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Hot Luck Live Food & Music Festival

Experience the hottest new chefs and inventive culinary creations May 22-25, 2025 at Hot Luck Live Food & Music Festival. This annual event—created by MICHELIN-recognized and James Beard Award-winner Aaron Franklin of Franklin Barbecue, Mohawk owner James Moody and Mike Thelin, co-founder of Feast…

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Karaoke Bars in Austin, Texas

Known as the Live Music Capital of the World®, Austin is home to lively karaoke spots that capture the city’s vibrant musical energy. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just looking for a fun night out, Austin’s karaoke bars provide the perfect stage to unleash your inner rockstar. Check out…

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Weird Things to Do in Austin

Austin’s reputation for “weirdness” is somewhat 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…

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Austin's Creek Show at Waterloo Greenway

Creek Show in Austin is a dazzling light art event that returns this year from November 8 through 16, 2024, marking its 10th anniversary! Held along Waller Creek, this event showcases large-scale light installations by local artists and designers, transforming the urban landscape into a colorful…

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Haunted Places in Austin, Texas

While Austin isn’t typically known for its haunted offerings, you can find a few places to celebrate the spooky and supernatural this fall in the capital city. Check out our list of top spine-chilling things to do and (allegedly) haunted places in Austin, Texas. Haunted Places in Austin The…

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Things to Do for Halloween in Austin 2024

If you're looking for a good ghost story, not only does Austin have some ghoulish ones to tell, the city is also full of festive ways to celebrate Halloween. From scary movies, haunted houses and parties at your favorite local bars to kid-friendly events like corn mazes and Boo at the Zoo, here are…

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Best Escape Rooms in Austin, Texas

Looking for an exhilarating and immersive adventure in the heart of Texas? Escape rooms in Austin have surged in popularity, offering up an opportunity to test wit, problem-solving skills, and teamwork in a variety of unique scenarios. PanIQ Escape Room Austin You’re in for a fantastic time when…

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Top Annual Arts Events & Festivals

Art thrives in Austin. It's apparent in our world-class museums. rocking music scene and growing film presence. Whether you are looking to view a curated collection or marvel at the stories behind street murals, Austin is a destination for creators and art lovers alike. With arts events happening…

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