The Austinot

Discover Austin Texas! An Austin blog with hundreds of unique articles.

The Hills of Milk and Honey Educates Austin’s Next Generation of Farmers

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Dripping Springs Farm Hills of Milk and Honey

Amy Milliron, founder of The Hills of Milk and Honey in Dripping Springs

Guest article by Michelle Lozano

Farmer Amy Milliron of The Hills of Milk and Honey wondered about the intrinsic value of beekeeping, when she discovered livestock guardian dog Bo’s favorite place to nap: 10 feet away from the bees he protects, where the humming lulled him to sleep.

As a farmer on an educational mission, Milliron brought a glimpse of beekeeping to her educational programs using an observational hive, which gave her students a closer look into the lives and work of bees. “Bo loves the sound of the buzz, the kids are connecting…there is something awesome about that. And they will not view bees the same again.” [Read more…]

Texas Heritage, Boutique Shopping, Delicious Food Await in Comanche

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Comanche Texas Day Trip

Head to Comanche to sip wine, dine, and explore the county’s rich history

On my recent day trip to Lockhart, I found out about that city’s past as a rough cowboy town. I was prepared to learn a similar history during my visit to Comanche, Texas. However, after spending 72 hours there, I’d describe Comanche as more of a rough outlaw town. The town’s residents would agree.

Everywhere I went, locals were quick to tell me tales of Comanche’s infamous characters, interesting landmarks, and deep (often violent) history with the very Native Americans the town and county were named after.

Although the town–with a population of little more than 4,000 people, located two hours northwest of Austin–still has a rustic outlaw vibe, it’s become quite the Texas charmer. Visitors can enjoy an award-winning winery, antique shops, museums, and local restaurants.

So if you’re looking to escape Austin in search of a little adventure, then I encourage you to hop in the car and head out to explore Comanche.

[Read more…]

No Bad Days: Insider’s Guide to Lake Travis

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Lake Travis GuideWhen Austin’s summer temps surpass a punishing 100 degrees, it’s time to cool off in a swimming hole. Lake Travis, roughly 30 minutes from central Austin, has been a watery, refreshing respite from Austin’s heat, traffic, and citified stress since 1942. This is your detailed guide to spending a flawless day in and around Lake Travis.

Lake Travis, one of a series of manmade lakes around Texas, is a branch of the Colorado River. The Lower Colorado River Authority created Lake Travis when it built Mansfield Dam (part of the Highland Lakes project to create lakes throughout central Texas).

The lake measures approximately 63.5 miles, snaking up and around west Travis County nearly to Marble Falls. It’s our largest body of water in the area and has spawned a lifestyle centered around boating, water sports, yacht rock, and easy living.

I spent a few days out at Lake Travis in order to share these adventures with The Austinot’s readers. These tips are a good start to getting to know the area and its activities. Enjoy! [Read more…]

Atx&o Showcases Austin’s Small Businesses

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Brown Sisters atx&o Austin, Texas

Meet the Brown sisters, the creatives behind atx&o (Credit: Erica Tello)

Here at The Austinot, we highlight local businesses, events, and movers and shakers. So it makes sense for us to acknowledge those with a similar mission.

Few do local story sharing as well–or with as much style–as atx&o, the brainchild of sisters Ashley and Becky Brown. Whether through curated web series, quick hit spotlights, or events, atx&o is making waves and bringing people together.

I recently sat down with the Browns to flip the script and shine a spotlight on them, and the work they do.

[Read more…]

Virtually Tour Austin Central Library’s Impressive Six Floors

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Austin Central Library Six Floors

There are six floors to wander through and explore at Austin Central Library (Credit: Amanda Gagnon)

Even though Austin Central Library has been open for a while now, I recently visited for the first time. The building itself is stunning and I was pleasantly surprised by what the library offers to visitors.

Of course, you can check out books and other media. It’s a library. But did you know you can record a podcast from one of the shared learning rooms? Or that there are reading porches and a rooftop garden? How about the newly opened cafe?

I could have spent all day at Austin Central Library and can’t wait to return for another visit. [Read more…]

Become a DIY Crafting Master at North Loop’s Crafts & Drafts

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DIY Crafting Austin at Crafts & Drafts

Some of the crafting supplies available at North Loop’s Crafts & Drafts

Wine and paint parties took us by storm a few years ago. The simple premise has turned out to be incredibly entertaining and successful. But we aren’t all painters! I know I’m definitely lacking in the fine arts department…

Ananda Neureither, who found herself on the way to yet another wine and paint party, wondered about variations on the theme. Her crafting and DIY prowess soon manifested as Crafts & Drafts, a local workroom where you can take classes or host your own event.

[Read more…]

Guide to Austin’s Nightlife Districts for Bachelor Party Planners

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You’ve seen them. Young men roaming the city, with an eye for adventure and matching t-shirts. They touch down in Austin on Thursday or Friday, live their best lives for as long as they can, and then go back to whatever reality they came from.

Bachelor parties are everywhere in Austin, and for good reason. Our city offers the best food, drink, and outdoor activities. There’s the amazing weather, and accessibility within the city that makes it easy to navigate from place to place. If you’re planning a bachelor party in Austin, know you have options–most of all the option to keep it uncomplicated and fun. [Read more…]

6 Local Places to Practice Archery Around Austin

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Archery Training Center Austin Texas

Archery Training Center provides recreational and competitive lessons for all ages (Credit: Archery Training Center)

Austin has its fair share of activities for locals and tourists: kayaking, hiking, bar hopping, concerts. But if you’re looking for something out of the ordinary, then take up a bow and arrow (a dream come true for a medieval bookworm like myself)! Keep reading to discover six places in the Austin area where you or your kids can learn archery. [Read more…]

15 Ways to Savor a San Marcos Day Trip

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Texas State Tubes San Marcos River

No San Marcos day trip would be complete without a float on the river

No one likes leaving the beautiful playground that is Austin, but a change of pace and scenery can rejuvenate the soul. San Marcos, an easy jaunt south, tempts with adventures in and on the San Marcos River, charming craft breweries, tried and true eateries, and little to no traffic.

Here’s what I discovered during my San Marcos getaway.

[Read more…]

Where to Swim in Austin: Pools, Splash Pads, Swimming Holes

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Aerial view of the Bartholomew Pool in Austin

Aerial View of Bartholomew Pool (Credit: City of Austin PARD, Aquatics Office)

Guest article by Dana Minney

Austin and the surrounding area are so full of splash opportunities, it can be hard to decide where to go for your swimming adventures. Here’s a list of local swimming spots, ranging from your friendly neighborhood splash pads to Central Texas’ biggest water parks…and everything in between.

[Read more…]

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