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 Holiday Shopping Guide

Whether you’re ready or not, it’s time to start thinking about your 2022 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 Austin Winter Bucket List

You’ll find plenty to do in Austin during the wintertime, both indoors and out, thanks to the city's temperate weather. Here 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…

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Where to Eat in Austin Right Now

Looking for the best places to eat in Austin right now? Our curated list of new and essential restaurants will almost certainly have whatever you’re craving, from fall-off-the-bone barbecue to elevated Mexican eats and upscale sushi experiences. Eat up, y'all! Local Foods. Credit Mackenzie Smith…

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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 Lights Displays…

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Guide to Exploring Hamilton Pool Year-Round

Hamilton Pool Preserve is one of the most popular of the Travis County Parks. 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 a delightfully refreshing dip. But…

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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’s Most Romantic Restaurants

There’s nothing better than showing you care through the universal language of really, really good food and drink. So, grab your date and head to one of Austin’s dreamiest (and tastiest) restaurants for a swoon-worthy dining experience that would rival that of Lady and the Tramp. Fonda San Miguel…

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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 Bouldering Project. Credit Jacob Bodkin. Climbing Gyms Climb…

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Best Coffee Shops in Austin

Looking for the perfect cup of joe? You'll find it in Austin, where local roasters, craft brewers and champion latte artists abound, offering up everything from fair trade certified and locally roasted beans to spicy seasonal handcrafted chais and intricately detailed rosettas. While you may find…

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