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 Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa

Escape to Omni Barton Creek Resort & Spa for an extraordinary getaway. Nestled amidst the picturesque beauty of Texas Hill Country, this resort offers a haven of tranquility and rejuvenation. Whether you're seeking relaxation by our breathtaking pools, refining your golf skills on the championship…

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Where to See Wildflowers Near Austin

Every spring, the Texas Hill Country blooms into a colorful cascade of delicate Bluebonnets, Indian Paintbrushes and Indian Blankets, as wildflowers blanket 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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Where to Zipline Near Austin

One of the most unique ways to take advantage of the beautiful Texas Hill Country is by flying through the trees on a zipline adventure. Take in fresh air, gorgeous scenery, and if you're lucky, some wildlife sightings as you glide through the air on a giant steel cable. Check out some of the best…

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Best Dive Bars in Austin

Looking for the best dive bars in Austin, Texas? Head to these spots, where the drinks are stiff, the locals are friendly and the live music and jukeboxes play all night long. We’ve listed 21 down-home Austin bars to get your night started, from the best dive bars on Sixth Street and around…

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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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