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.

Austin Climbing & Bouldering Guide

Austin is filled with craggy walls and limestones cliffs perfect for climbing and bouldering. In fact, the city is home to a robust population of climbers. And visitor or local, beginner or pro, you don’t have to go far to send it. Austin Climbing Gyms Climb any time of year and in any weather at…

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10 Local Artists to Watch at SXSW 2023

The long-awaited SXSW Conference and Festivals makes its highly anticipated return to stages across Austin on March 10-19, 2023. The SXSW Music Festival brings together artists, industry professionals and music aficionados from around the world to network, enhance their careers and celebrate the…

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Valentine's Day in Austin

Struggling for some unique date ideas for the 2023 Valentine's weekend in Austin? From delicious meals to fun activities to do together we've got you covered with some of the best ways to celebrate your loved one this Valentine's Day. ROMANTIC RESTAURANTS & VALENTINE'S DAY MEALS Aba Aba is…

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How to Experience Free Week 2023

Looking to shake off those post-holiday blues? Red River Cultural District’s Free Week has your cure. This year’s festivities will take place January 5-7, 2023 and will feature 100+ local bands in 15 venues around the city. With so many performances to hear and venues to see, here’s an insider guide…

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2023 Austin Event Guide

Preview the fun to come in 2023 and mark your calendar with Austin's biggest festivals and events, from food to fine arts and, of course, live music. For dates and the latest updates about each event, please check visitaustin.org/events or visit the event's website. Austin City Limits Music…

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Where to Ice Skate in Austin This Winter

For some, gliding over a smooth ice surface on steel-bladed skates is a form of exercise or recreation but for others it’s a highly competitive sport. No matter the reason, the feeling you can get from the activity is adrenaline rushing! This seasonal winter activity is the perfect way to get into…

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Where to Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Austin

2023 is quickly approaching, and Austin knows how to celebrate in style. From live music to exclusive dinners, Austin has a range of events so you and your loved ones can ring in the new year the right way. Check out some of the events we’ve highlighted so you can start planning your New Year’s Eve…

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Visiting Austin's Trail of Lights

The holidays are here, and one of the best ways to celebrate in Austin is by visiting the city’s 58th Annual Trail of Lights. From December 8-23, 2022 (closed Mondays), Zilker Park transforms into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2 million lights, 90 lighted holiday trees and more…

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Guide to Austin's Holiday Pop-Up Bars

Although warm Texas temps may not make it feel like December, Austin is ready to celebrate the season big. Light shows illuminate the city skyline and holiday markets are all over town to help you find the perfect gift for loved ones. Even Austin’s nightlife scene gets festive with a number of…

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