Only true locals know these 27 unwritten rules of Austin

Published

1 year ago

August 5, 2024

Only true locals know these 27 unwritten rules of Austin

Whether you’re a Capital City native or a relative newcomer, there are just some things every Austinite understands to be true.

We asked our readers to share Austin’s unwritten rules, from common city knowledge to relatable trends and local lingo.

You won’t find these rules in a handbook, but they are undoubtedly absorbed by the community — and if you’re not from Austin, some of these might be a little difficult to explain.

We’re kind to our neighbors

“Smile when you walk past someone.” —Annabel P.
“Hold the door for people, smile or wave when you pass someone by, and a ‘yes sir/ma’am’ never hurts.” —@sacheverellthestore
“All Austinites know to be kind to all animals.” —Zee Z.
“Always watch for 🏃🏻‍♀️ & 🚴.” —@raisingninjas
“In Barton Springs, geese always have the right of way.” —@ray.tangrui1992

Austinites do their part to keep the city beautiful by leaving it cleaner than they found it.

Keep Austin Beautiful

“Leave the greenbelt cleaner than you found it.” —@dazedd_
“Don’t forget your reusable bags at H-E-B.” —@waifu.rachel
“Do not ever litter anywhere.” —@livesinyogapants

The unspoken rule everyone knows

“If you say you’re bringing breakfast to the meeting without specifying what you’re bringing, you need to show up with either tacos or kolaches.” —@secretstevie
“We don’t move anywhere until we check out how good the nearest H‑E‑B is.” —@janeywarmbrod
“Expect weirdness and embrace it!” —@michems9677
“Queso is acceptable at breakfast, lunch, and dinner.” —@jmarcoux
“If you go to De Nada Cantina, don’t drink more than two margaritas.” —@glcough
“If you live south of town lake and a friend moves to the domain, the days are numbered.” —@trentdollarhyde
“Work on the same side of the river that you live.” —@wutangfinancials

We’ve learned a thing or two from commuting

“No slow drivers in the far left lane!” —Emily A.
“Wave if someone lets you merge.” —@amillionofmax
“We don’t honk. A tiny horn tap if someone in front gets distracted when the light turns green. Maybe a brisk honk if you are getting lane drifted on the freeway… otherwise no honking.” —@tbaby71_1111

Shoppers at a vintage booth at the Front Market — Shopping at the Front Market is a great way to keep your dollars local.

We like it local

“Support your small businesses!” —@shop.revival.atx
“Throw a few dollars in the open suit case of the sidewalk musician.” —@miriamloganauthor
“Support local artists!❤️🙌 😍” —@mindbodyhenna

Austinites are built different

“Austin is a laid-back city so no dress codes.” —Jody W.
“Don’t complain about the heat. This is Texas and yes, Austin is hot. You are going to sweat, your hair is going to look like crap, and you may have to change clothes twice a day.” —@lonestarsuz
“It’s ok to wear flip flops to all restaurants.” —@bonniebrushwood

From your friendly neighborhood City Editors

“You can never go wrong with local music — sometimes the best way to hear a band for the first time is live in the Live Music Capital of the World.” —City Editor Figi
“Keep water shoes, a swimsuit, a towel, a quilt, and reusable grocery bags in the trunk of your car at all times.” —City Editor Morgan
“Subscribe to ATXtoday to stay in the loop of current happenings.” —SATXtoday City Editor Nicholas

What did we miss? If you know an unofficial rule that’s not on the list, let us know.

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Texas Tech lands K-State LB Austin Romaine out of transfer portal

Published

6 hours ago

January 4, 2026

Press Room

Texas Tech lands K-State LB Austin Romaine out of transfer portal

The Texas Tech football team landed its first commitment out of the transfer portal on Sunday.

Kansas State transfer linebacker Austin Romaine announced his commitment on social media. A second-team all-Big 12 selection this season, Romaine joins Texas Tech with one year of eligibility plus a redshirt year available.

The 6-foot-2, 245-pound linebacker has been a fixture in the middle of the Kansas State defense since his true freshman season of 2023 — when he earned five starts and was named Big 12 defensive freshman of the year, an award he shared with his new teammate Ben Roberts. He started all 12 games in 2024 and had 66 tackles, six quarterback hurries, an interception and a fumble recovery in 2025.

What Kansas State transfer Austin Romaine brings to Texas Tech football

Romaine will likely be seen as Jacob Rodriguez’s replacement as the other starting linebacker next to Roberts next season. It would also indicate John Curry will remain at the STAR (the hybrid linebacker-safety position) in which he excelled this season.

For his career, Romaine has three forced fumbles (all in 2024) and had his first career fumble recovery and interception in 2025.

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Austin, TX

Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal

Published

18 hours ago

January 4, 2026

Press Room

Top 10 Gyms In Austin TX (2026) – Fitness For Every Goal

Updated: Sunday, January 4, 2026

Jump To: Full-Service | Affordable | Group

As the new year approaches, many Austinites are setting fresh fitness goals and rethinking their workout routines. Austin’s gym scene continues to evolve in 2026, offering everything from luxury athletic clubs to no-frills strength gyms and high-energy group fitness studios.

Whether you’re training for performance, looking for community, or simply trying to stay consistent, these gyms in Austin stand out for their programming, facilities, and overall value.

Editor’s Note: Our staff works hard to bring you the latest information. However, all information mentioned in this article is subject to change. As always, please confirm before heading out.

Also, check out our articles on the Healthy Food Cedar Park, Healthy Food Round Rock, and Healthy Food in Austin!

Full-Service Gyms

Life Time

Image credit: Life Time Austin North

Life Time is ideal for those who want a premium, all-in-one fitness experience. Members have access to expansive workout floors, boutique-style classes, pools, recovery amenities, and family-friendly programming.

Where: 1301 S Lamar Blvd, Suite 100, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 6:00 am – 10:00 pm | Monday – Friday 4:00 am – 11:00 pm

Gold’s Gym

Gold’s Gym remains a staple for strength training and general fitness in Austin. With multiple locations, members benefit from large free-weight areas, machines, group classes, and personal training options.

Where: 13435 N Hwy 183, Austin, TX 78750
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 9:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 11:00 pm

Hyde Park Gym

Hyde Park Gym is a longtime favorite among serious lifters in Austin. Known for its old-school atmosphere, it prioritizes heavy lifting, strength equipment, and a focused training environment.

Where: 4125 Guadalupe St, Austin, TX 78751
Operating Hours: Saturday 8:00 am – 7:00 pm | Monday – Friday 6:00 am – 9:00 pm | Saturday 7:00 am – 7:00 pm

Affordable & Budget-Friendly Gyms

Korrect Fitness

Image credit: Korrect Fitness

Korrect Fitness is a premier 10,000-square-foot training facility in South Austin that specializes in functional performance through small group conditioning, unconventional equipment like steel maces and kettlebells, and elite recovery amenities including cold plunges and saunas.

Where: 4401 Freidrich Ln, Unit 301, Austin, TX 78744
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 6:00 pm | Monday – Friday 5:00 am – 9:00 pm

Planet Fitness

Planet Fitness is best for beginners or anyone looking for a low-pressure, affordable gym membership. The gym focuses on cardio equipment, circuit training, and a welcoming environment.

Where: 1807 W Slaughter Ln, Austin, TX 78748
Operating Hours: 24/7

Anytime Fitness

Anytime Fitness offers 24-hour access and smaller gym footprints, making it a convenient option for busy schedules. It’s a solid choice for members who value consistency and flexibility.

Where: 8516 Anderson Mill Rd, Austin, TX 78729
Operating Hours: 24/7

FeV Iron Vault Gym

Image credit: FeV – Iron Vault Gym

Iron Vault Gym caters to powerlifters, bodybuilders, and experienced strength athletes. The gym emphasizes high-quality equipment and a no-frills approach to training.

Where: 2101 W. Ben White BLVD #105, Back of building facing Redd St, Austin, TX 78704
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 9:00 am – 4:00 pm | Monday = Friday 7:00 am – 8:00 pm

Group Fitness & Specialty Studios

Orangetheory

Orangetheory delivers coach-led group workouts combining cardio, rowing, and strength intervals. The structured format appeals to members who want accountability and efficient, results-driven sessions.

Where: 401 W 3rd St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday – Sunday 7:00 am – 2:00 pm | Monday – Thursday 5:00 am – 8:00 pm | Friday 5:00 am – 6:00 pm

F45 Training

F45 focuses on fast-paced functional training in a group setting. Daily workout variations keep classes engaging, making it popular with members who enjoy high-energy, team-based fitness.

Where: 500 E 4th St, Austin, TX 78701
Operating Hours: Saturday 9:00 am – 12:00 pm | Sunday 9:30 am – 11:15 am | Monday – Thursday 5:30 am – 7:15 pm | Friday 5:30 am – 6:15 pm

Big Tex Gym

Image credit: Big Tex Gym

Big Tex Gym is a veteran-owned, old-school strength sanctuary in North Austin that provides 24/7 access to specialized equipment for powerlifting, bodybuilding, and strongman training within a supportive community atmosphere.

Where: 1921 Cedar Bend Dr A 130, Austin, TX 78758
Operating Hours: 24/7

Many gyms offer free trials or seasonal promotions at the start of the year, making January an ideal time to explore. And once you’ve locked in your workouts, you can also check out our weekend guide of activities and events!

Lacey is a freelancer and Austin local who’s always on the hunt for new restaurants to try, fun activities to do, and local events to attend. She loves sharing her discoveries with others through her writing and hopes her work encourages both visitors and locals to be active in the community. When she’s not writing, you can find her exploring one of the city’s many hiking trails with her Blue Heeler, Oreo, getting lost in a good book, or dancing the night away to some house or techno beats at one of her favorite rave spots.

Austin, TX

Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County

Published

1 day ago

January 3, 2026

Press Room

Minor arrested in double-fatal shooting in Williamson County

article

Accident or crime scene cordon tape, police line do not cross. via Getty Images

WILLIAMSON COUNTY, Texas – A juvenile has been arrested Saturday after an early morning double-homicide near Round Rock.

The situation ended after officials successfully negotiated a barricade situation with the minor, they say.

Williamson County double-homicide

What we know:

Williamson County authorities got the shooting call around 2 a.m. from the 8900 block of Brushy Gate Cove, outside the Round Rock city limits.

Williamson County sheriff’s deputies found two men dead of gunshot wounds at the scene. The suspect was barricaded inside a bedroom in the home.

Williamson County SWAT and crisis negotiators responded, and the suspect peacefully surrendered around 6:30 a.m.

Officials say there is no ongoing threat to the public.

Williamson County officials comment

What they’re saying:

“On our arrival, we found two deceased people from the residence, adult males,” said Commander John Foster of the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

“Anytime you have a barricaded subject inside of a home where we believe two people are deceased, you know, we’re going to take all precautionary measures that we can to ensure our safety and the safety of the neighbors as well,” said Foster.

Investigators say everyone involved resided in the house and that this was an isolated incident.

“Information is going to be very limited, because this is a juvenile investigation, and certain laws protect certain information regarding juveniles,” said Foster.

What we don’t know:

The identity of the minor suspect has not been released.

The victims were not identified.

The motive behind the shooting has not been commented on.

The Source: Information in this article came from the Williamson County Sheriff’s Office.

Williamson CountyCrime and Public Safety

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