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.

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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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. TLC. Credit to…

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20 Iconic Austin Restaurants

While Austin may be known for its legendary Tex-Mex, tasty breakfast tacos and juicy barbecue, there's so much more to the capital city's food history to explore. Austin's celebrated dining scene has evolved with lightning speed over the last few decades, but don't forget to pay homage to the greats…

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Visiting The Wayback

One of the best parts about visiting Austin is the opportunity to escape to the Texas Hill Country. You can easily enjoy the best parts of city life and Hill Country relaxation at The Wayback, a casual boutique hotel just 15 minutes west of downtown. Surrounded by hills and a big Texas sky, The…

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Day Trip Destination: Miraval Austin Resort & Spa

Dreaming about your next getaway, but can’t commit to a week-long vacation right now? Sometimes taking a few hours away from your usual routine is all you need to recharge your mind, body and soul - and Miraval Austin Resort & Spa's day package, which features full access to Miraval's extensive…

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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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11 Austin Wine Bars Worth Visiting

Is “rosé all day” your personal mantra? At Austin’s many wine bars, you’ll find plenty of reds, whites, rosés, and more—enough to keep even the most enthusiastic oenophiles happy. Visit one of these Austin favorites to find the best bottles in town. Aviary. Courtesy of Resplendent Hospitality…

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Day Trip Destination: Lake Travis

Any day you’re on the lake is a good day and Lake Travis is a perfect getaway for those looking to get out on the water. The businesses that have sprung up around the lake in far west Austin, Lakeway and other nearby towns are seemingly all designed to get you to relax, have fun, and indulge in a…

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Best Steakhouses in Austin

If there’s one thing Texas is known for, it’s beef. There’s something about a good steak that no other dish can replicate. It’s practically required when you’re visiting Austin to settle in at a steakhouse and indulge in a Texas tradition. Austin Land and Cattle One of our favorites is Austin Land…

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Visiting Reimers Ranch Park

For the outdoor enthusiast or the casual sunbather, Milton Reimers Ranch is the best of the Texas Hill Country. Located just a quick 30-40 minute drive from downtown Austin, this place feels like a world away! About Reimers Ranch This gorgeous property once belonged to fourth generation Texas…

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