Discover the Best Things to Do in Austin, Food & Drink deals and more!
Krav Maga students learned how to defend against real-world scenarios at an edged weapons seminar
When I moved out of my parents’ home to the Live Music Capital of the World, my dad insisted I take a few Krav Maga classes to learn self-defense. I conceded it was a good skill to have and began the search, despite my intense desire to avoid anything involving physical activity. I stumbled upon Fit and Fearless, signed up for my one free class, and had the experience of a lifetime. [Read more…]
SaulPaul in his element (Credit: SaulPaul)
When I met SaulPaul at Bennu Coffee on South Congress at Riverside, it was the tail end of a hectic day. Forty-five minutes later, a perma-smile was plastered to my face. When you spend time with genuinely positive people, that’s just what happens.
Not only is this master of the mic making major waves in the music scene locally and nationally, but he’s doing it with a spirit of generosity and positive thinking. A man with a fascinating story reflected beautifully in his craft, SaulPaul is an artist worth emulating. [Read more…]
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is about an hour south of Austin and features an African safari, Texas-style
Whether you’re a giraffe lover or just an animal lover in general, I have the day trip adventure for you to put on your calendar next. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is just an hour south of Austin on the outskirts of San Antonio. The ranch is a fun twist on traditional animal-viewing experiences and features a Texas-style African safari. [Read more…]
Grab a cold beer and a beach balm inspired by beer (Credit: Aromaholic)
Indulge your inner flower child with local, handmade bath and beauty products, all for under $50. Austin’s love of all things natural and creative comes together in these divine bath, beauty, and wellness products.
My nickname among my friends is “Lotions and Potions,” meaning I do NOT leave home without them. Resisting the urge to read every description on every bottle, smell, and try out each tester on the shelf is a constant struggle. The good news: Austin makers offer an abundance of lotions and potions. While they are perfect stocking stuffers or host gifts at Christmas, they make excellent presents year-round.
Who doesn’t love finding a magical product that makes the hair, skin, or face radiant, lustrous, and beautiful? Here I share some of my favorite local goodies, so you can stock up on gifts. We won’t tell anyone if you buy them for yourself, either. We don’t judge. [Read more…]
Mindy’s Bakeshop creates a plethora of homemade cookies, cakes, and sweets
As a kid, Mindy Sepeti watched her mom bake cakes and pies in the kitchen. During the holidays, she couldn’t wait for her mom to bake a batch of sugar cookies, so they could decorate them together. These moments were ingrained in her memory, but it took her a while to realize they didn’t have to remain in the past. [Read more…]
Sixteen bands performed on the iconic Paramount Theatre stage Saturday night, as Austin nonprofit Black Fret awarded $230,000 in grants to 19 local bands at its annual Black Ball. For all the gowns and tuxedos in the audience, the atmosphere was informal and upbeat. Excited whoops and friendly heckling were directed towards the stage, and the few technical delays were shrugged off with a sense of humor.
We were there to celebrate. The first award winner of the night, Jackie Venson, told attendees she wasn’t going anywhere because of Austin’s vibrant support system for musicians. “There’s no HAAM in New York. There’s no SIMS [Foundation] in Chicago.”
With a fair amount of negativity directed towards Austin’s growth and subsequent affordability issues, one might assume the ecosystem for musicians is in decline. While we have work to do as a city, Black Ball showcased a vibrant community of musicians being propelled toward success through Black Fret grants. [Read more…]
The people of Austin love supporting the local community and culture with gusto! It’s a trait many of us hold near to our hearts, and try to abide by every day. Love for local artists and makers is evident all year round, at markets and pop-ups. Let’s continue to show support this holiday season by being part of The City of Austin’s Shop Zero Waste program. [Read more…]
Every Sunday is a Funday with Austin Sports & Social Club (Credit: ASSC)
Want to meet new people? Seeking a not-too-boring, not-too-hard New Year’s resolution? Austin Sports & Social Club is here for you! [Read more…]
Once Thanksgiving turkey and the last bit of pumpkin pie have been eaten, it’s time to put your shopping prowess to work and get cracking on presents! Here at The Austinot, we work hard to put together a local gift guide like none other, with an emphasis on local businesses you may not visit often. Have a foodie in your life? We have that covered. How about furry family members? We’ve got something for them, too!
So let’s get to it, shall we? [Read more…]
Hye House Bed & Dinner is perfect for a night or few away (Credits: Hye House, Hye Market, Hye Market Farms)
When I’m indulging in a weekend away from Austin, I cherish my time to relax. Mornings spent sipping cups of coffee, lingering over meals, and savoring time with family and friends are what I enjoy the most. It’s these simple pleasures Hye House Bed & Dinner seeks to elevate.
Just 20 miles east of Fredericksburg, Hye House Bed & Dinner offers a customized experience within a range of budgets, for both couples and small groups. Its location in the midst of the Texas Wine Trail ensures guests have plenty to do while they’re in the area. [Read more…]