Austin - Insider Guide 2026
WELCOME TO AUSTIN
2025-09-18 08:12:55
Whether it’s your first visit or your 50th, Austin always has something new to discover — world-famous live music, unforgettable food, one-of-a-kind shops, scenic trails and friendly faces around every corner. This guide is your starting point to explore the city like a local and make the most of your time in the Live Music Capital of the World®.
ON THE WEB
Go to visitaustin.org to discover what locals and visitors love about Austin. Dive into curated guides, local favorites and insider tips on everything from can’t miss events to the best places to eat, stay and explore. Sign up for our monthly eNewsletter at visitaustin.org/enewsletter for fresh travel inspiration and seasonal highlights, delivered straight to your inbox. For deeper dives into neighborhood gems, fun itineraries and local recommendations, don’t miss the Austin Insider Blog. Written and curated by Visit Austin, it’s packed with ideas for outdoor adventures, festival tips, restaurant suggestions and more. Find it at visitaustin.org/austin-insider-blog.
AUSTIN VISITOR CENTER
Conveniently located in a brand-new space in the heart of Downtown (103 E. 5th St.), the Austin Visitor Center is your one-stop shop for planning your perfect Austin experience. Whether you’re looking for expert advice, a local souvenir or just a great cup of coffee, we’ve got you covered.
Here’s what you’ll find at the new Austin Visitor Center:
• Personalized recommendations on where to eat and explore from our friendly, knowledgeable team
• Locally made gifts and souvenirs in our curated retail shop
• 5th & Brew, our on-site coffee shop, serving delicious coffee, drinks and light bites
• Departure point for many guided tours, including city sightseeing, walking tours and more
• Secure luggage storage
• Free Wi-Fi and a comfortable place to plan your next activity.
We’re open seven days a week and always ready to help. Learn more at visitaustin.org/visitor-center.
AUSTIN’S CULTURAL HERITAGE
Visitaustin.org offers dedicated resources for anyone interested in Black, Hispanic and Latino/a, LGBTQ+, and Asian American and Pacific Islander influences on the Austin experience. Learn more at visitaustin.org/lgbtq and visitaustin.org/cultural-heritage.
BIG DEALS
Get discounts at local shops, restaurants and attractions with Austin Insider Deals. For details, go to visitaustin.org/deals.
ACCESSIBILITY RESOURCES
Austin strives to be a welcoming city for all. From wheelchair-accessible trails to sensory-friendly attractions and accessible public transit, there are many ways to explore the city comfortably. Visit visitaustin.org/plan-a-trip/accessibility for resources and inspiration to help plan your trip.
TAKE A TOUR
See Austin on a guided tour, departing from the Austin Visitor Center. Local experts will show you around the Capitol area, Downtown, historical sites and more. Popular tour companies include Austin Detours, AO Tours Austin, Austin Duck Adventures, Double Decker Austin, Downtown Walking Tours, Metrocycle Pedicabs and Twisted Texas Tours. Custom-designed tours are also available. Call (512) 478-0098 or stop in at the Austin Visitor Center for more tour information.
On the cover: Rocky's Bar. Photo by Inti St. Clair.
SCAN HERE
for more information on the Austin Visitor Center
©Visit Austin. View All Articles.