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.

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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Where to See Holiday Lights in Austin

There are so many things that make the holiday season fun. Whether you're in town for a convention or to celebrate the season with loved ones, visiting one of Austin's spectacular light shows should be on the agenda. Here are some of the top places to check out holiday lights in Austin this winter…

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Austin New Year's Eve Itinerary

Austin is the ultimate holiday destination. With warm winter temps, it's easy to spend time exploring Austin's incredible outdoor attractions, hanging out on patios and adventuring throughout the city. We've pulled together a list of restaurants and things to do and see while you're in town to make…

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Top Holiday Concerts & Shows in Austin

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and Austin is bringing back some festive traditions featuring amazing live music and spirited performances. If you haven’t experienced the holidays in Austin, see below for some of this season’s can't-miss events! 11/19/24 Jinkx and DeLa Holiday Show Long…

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Visiting Peppermint Parkway at COTA

This time of year Austin is dazzling with light displays and holiday cheer. During the holiday season, Circuit of The Americas transforms into a holiday extravaganza as it's lit up by millions of lights through a one-mile driving route. Here's everything you need to know about the 2024 Peppermint…

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Austin Holiday Shopping Guide

Whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to start thinking about your 2024 holiday gift list. If you’re looking for something really special or even one-of-a-kind for your friends and family, look no further than these local, handmade shopping events and markets in Austin, running from Black Friday to…

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The Ultimate Guide to Holidays in Austin

Spending the holidays in Austin? Celebrate like a local and join in some of our city’s most beloved holiday traditions, from over-the-top holiday lights displays to shopping markets and live performances of Christmas classics. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Holiday Light Displays…

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Top Things to Do in Austin This Winter

You’ll find plenty to do in Austin during the wintertime, both indoors and out, thanks to the city's temperate weather. You can hike along forest trails, sip seasonal cocktails in a cozy lounge, explore a world-class museum and dine outdoors on a heated patio. Add these ideas to your Austin winter…

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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 Annual Trail of Lights taking place December 10-23, 2024. Celebrating it's 60th anniversary in 2024, this iconic Austin event transforms Zilker Park into a winter wonderland as it's lit up by more than 2…

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Guide to Exploring Hamilton Pool Year-Round

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most popular parks in the Travis County area. So popular, in fact, that you need reservations to get in. It’s easy to see why—the beautiful blue pool in the collapsed grotto and trickling waterfall make for excellent photo ops and hiking trails provide gorgeous…

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