TASA Midwinter Guide: 5 Must-Do's in Austin

We’re less than a week away from TASA’s Midwinter Conference in Austin and I couldn’t be more excited.

The conference is always a great way to learn about the work of Texas’s top school leaders and the different ways they are working to engage their communities.

Throughout the conference, my team at K12 Insight will be highlighting the work of K-12 “Customer Service Superheroes.” What’s that mean, exactly? If you’re heading to TASA, be sure to stop by booth #832 to find out. If you can’t make the conference, stay tuned to our social media channels (@k12insight) to follow along virtually.

I’m also thrilled to be able to show off my adopted home of Austin to colleagues and new friends. If you’ve never been to Austin, you’re in for a treat. If you’ve been here before, you can probably already hear the music.

If you’re headed to TASA, I hope you’ll set aside some time to get out and see all the city has to offer. To help, I’ve put together a list of 5 must-do adventures.

Enjoy–and can’t wait to meet up at TASA!

1. Hike Mount Bonnell

There’s no better way to get your daily steps in between TASA sessions than hiking to the top of Mount Bonnell, one of Austin’s most famous and scenic spots. Located 775 feet above Austin, Mount Bonnell is known as the highest point in the city and offers stunning views of Lake Austin and the surrounding area. If you’re a nature lover–or just want a spot for the perfect selfie–Mount Bonnell is the place to go.

2. Tour Austin Central Library

Built in 2017, Austin’s Central Library was immediately named one of Time Magazine’s 2018 Greatest Places. The library has more than 500,000 books–which is impressive in its own right. But, the space is much more than a maze of shelves–it also contains a cafe, event space, a rooftop butterfly garden, and more. It’s also one of the most interesting examples of modern architecture in the entire state of Texas.

3. Shop South Congress

Looking for a new pair of cowboy boots? Want to take in some local art? Looking for a bite to eat? South Congress–or SoCo as the locals call it– is one of Austin’s most unique shopping and dining destinations. If you’re looking for some great shopping–or awesome food–SoCo is a must-go.

4. Visit Lady Bird Lake

The latest weather reports forecasts cooler, but sunny days for TASA–perfect weather for a walk or bike ride on the trails around Lady Bird Lake. Feeling a bit more adventurous? Rent a kayak or try stand up paddleboarding.

5. Unwind on Rainey Street

There’s no better way to close out a busy day of learning and networking than with a beverage and some great live music. And there’s no better place to do that in Austin than on Rainey Street–known for its renovated houses turned into laid-back bars.

One of our favorite bars on Rainey Street is Half-Step at 75 1/2 Rainey Street. It also happens to be where K12 Insight is hosting its TASA party on Tuesday, January 29, 2019 from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Come celebrate the contributions of all K-12 customer service superheroes and groove to the music of Billy McCoy.

I can’t wait to see everyone at TASA. Click here to register for our celebration and get the lowdown on all of our conference sessions.  See you in Austin!