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 Outdoor Activities in Austin

Austin is known for its great outdoors, both within the city limits and in the nearby rural Texas Hill Country. Get out and explore the best things to do outside, from winding hiking and biking trails to cool swimming holes and lakes perfect for paddling. 360 Bridge Hikers. Credit Pierce Ingram…

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Visiting the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center

Tucked away in South Austin, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center brims with native Central Texas blooms and landscapes. Designated as the State Botanic Garden and Arboretum of Texas, the gardens reflect the unique story of former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson’s journey towards beautifying Austin…

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Where to See Wildflowers Near Austin

In early spring, the Texas Hill Country blooms into a colorful cascade of delicate bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and Indian blankets, as wildflowers cloak the meadows, fields and valleys near Austin. Bring your camera, and your sense of wonder, as you scout out these top 10 spots for spectacular…

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Best Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants in Austin

Texas may be renowned for its barbecue, but Austin’s culinary scene doesn’t stop there; the city is also brimming with meat-free fare and these restaurants are some of the best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Austin. Be prepared to be delighted and amazed. 1. Arlo's Jr. Known far and wide for…

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Best Restaurants & Bars This Winter

There are lots of exciting things to do during winter in Austin. But when the winter weather hits and you're looking to get extra cozy, try out one of these winter warmers around town. From local restaurants with fireplaces and fire pits to dark and cozy wine bars, here are some of the best Austin…

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Where to Have Thanksgiving Dinner in Austin

If you're planning to spend Thanksgiving in Austin, let our award-winning chefs minimize your time in the kitchen and dine in or order in from these local restaurants. Find Austin restaurants that are open on Thanksgiving, plus great places to order Thanksgiving meals to take home. Thanksgiving…

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Austin Studio Tour 2024

The free, self-guided Austin Studio Tour – an annual Big Medium program – invites visitors to discover new artistic talent, see working studios, learn about artists' tools, techniques and inspirations, and explore galleries. A combination of the popular East Austin Studio Tour and West Austin Studio…

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Must-See Austin Historic Sites

Listen up, history lovers! We’ve compiled the iconic Austin sites you can’t miss while visiting the Capital City. Delve into the backstory of our fascinating town, where you can explore everything from art and history museums to lush parks, still-kickin' honky-tonks, and restaurants that have…

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