Austin’s walking tours efficiently unlock the city’s character with well-researched routes and expert local guides.
Standout choices include the Haunted Austin Walking History Tour, where guides share spine-tingling tales in the historic downtown district.
The Austin Walking Food Tour earns top marks for its carefully curated stops featuring Texas-style BBQ and local specialties.
We especially love the Austin Haunted Pub Crawl for combining fascinating historical stories with visits to atmospheric watering holes.
The True Crime Walking Tour brilliantly pieces together notorious cases while exploring downtown landmarks.
Let’s explore the best walking tours Austin has to offer.
Key Points
- The Haunted Austin Walking History Tour offers an engaging 1.5-hour exploration of the city’s haunted history, including the iconic Driskill Hotel.
- The Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour combines history and ghost stories at historical landmarks and bars, providing an opportunity to purchase drinks.
- The Murder by Gaslight Walking Ghost Tour focuses on Victorian-era murders and receives high praise for its enthusiastic guides and storytelling.
- The Austin Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours offers a culinary journey through the city’s local specialties, such as barbecue brisket and breakfast tacos.
- The Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour explores the transformation of the city’s downtown from a red-light district to a modern hub, covering 1.1 miles in 2 hours.
Haunted Austin Walking History Tour
The Haunted Austin Walking History Tour whisks visitors through the city’s spooky past, led by an acclaimed storyteller.
With over 760 reviews and 91% recommendation, this 1.5-hour tour explores Austin’s haunted history, including the iconic Driskill Hotel, and lesser-known locations.
Travelers will hear tales of murder and mayhem, seeing the city’s dark past.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and near public transportation. A moderate fitness level is recommended, and comfortable shoes are advised.
Reviewers praise the guide’s engaging storytelling and depth of knowledge, though some note pacing issues and lack of humor.
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Austin Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
For those seeking an immersive culinary adventure, the Austin Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours provides an unparalleled opportunity to explore the city’s diverse and flavorful offerings.
With a 722-review strong reputation and a 94% recommendation rate, this tour is ideal for foodies and first-time visitors alike. Guests can expect to savor a mouthwatering lineup of local specialties, including barbecue brisket, breakfast tacos, and Italian cannoli, all while discovering popular sights and attractions.
Knowledgeable and engaging guides lead the way, offering historical context and a special secret dish. While the tour’s pacing may feel slightly rushed, the overall experience is highly satisfying, with guests often expressing interest in returning for more.
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Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour
Stepping away from the culinary delights of the Austin Walking Food Tour, the Austin Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour offers a captivating blend of history, ghostly tales, and lively pub experiences.
This 4.5-rated tour takes participants on a journey through Austin’s haunted past, exploring historical landmarks and atmospheric bars. Guided by knowledgeable storytellers, the tour brings the city’s Old West history and supernatural legends to life.
With the opportunity to purchase drinks at each stop, the experience promises a spooky yet social night out.
While some participants have noted occasional organization challenges, the majority recommend this tour for those seeking a fun and immersive way to discover Austin’s haunted side.
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Murder by Gaslight Walking Ghost Tour
This captivating Murder by Gaslight Walking Ghost Tour transports guests through the dark and haunting history of Victorian-era Austin.
Running nightly at 9 PM, the tour takes visitors to locations tied to gruesome murders, while guides provide vivid storytelling.
Though mostly praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge, some guests wish for more hands-on experiences.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance.
With 88 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, this ghost tour is highly recommended for both locals and visitors seeking a unique nighttime activity in Austin, though guests should book early and expect occasional logistical issues.
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Austin Downtown Private Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Visitors seeking a culinary adventure in the heart of Austin can embark on the Austin Downtown Private Walking Food Tour with Secret Food Tours. This highly-rated, 100% recommended tour offers a delightful sampling of local cuisine, from succulent BBQ brisket to a sweet and creamy flan cheesecake.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the 3-hour journey explores the city’s vibrant streets, with highlights including a “secret” dish and a “beary” special smoothie.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for those with moderate fitness levels. Guests should note the itinerary and menu may change due to availability and weather.
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The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour
For those eager to uncover the fascinating history of Austin’s downtown, the The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour provides an immersive and engaging experience.
This 1.1-mile tour, led by the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide Emily, explores the city’s iconic landmarks and local favorites. With a maximum of 25 participants and a moderate fitness level required, the tour offers insights into Austin’s past, including its historic red light district.
Accessible to wheelchair users and near public transportation, the tour provides free cancellation and a pay-later option. Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s balance of history and entertainment, making it a must-do for both locals and travelers seeking to discover the story of Austin.
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Small Group Austin Red River Street BBQ Food Walking Tour
The Small Group Austin Red River Street BBQ Food Walking Tour takes guests on a culinary journey through the heart of the city’s vibrant Red River Cultural District.
Led by a local guide, this small-group experience allows visitors to sample delicious barbecue from various street vendors and restaurants.
The tour includes five stops, allowing participants to fully enjoy Austin’s renowned barbecue scene.
With a maximum of 10 people, the tour offers a personalized and intimate atmosphere, perfect for foodies and Texas barbecue enthusiasts.
The meeting point is conveniently located, and the tour ends at the iconic Stubbs Bar-B-Q.
Priced at $134, this walking tour is an excellent way to explore Austin’s rich culinary heritage.
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Haunted Austin Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour
Set out on a chilling exploration of Austin’s haunted past with the Haunted Austin Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour. For 2.5 hours, a local guide will lead you through the city, sharing stories of its haunted history and stopping at 2-4 local haunted bars.
You can purchase alcoholic drinks along the way and take home a commemorative can cooler. With a maximum of 12 travelers and a minimum age of 21, this tour offers an intimate and adult-friendly experience.
However, keep in mind the mixed reviews, potential disappointments regarding tour duration and stops, and the moderate fitness level required.
Nonetheless, if you’re up for a spooky and boozy adventure, this tour could be the perfect fit.
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The Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour
Explore Austin’s haunted history with the spellbinding Ghosts of Austin Walking Tour. Rated 4.5 stars by Ghost City Tours Austin, this 1.5-hour excursion takes you to the city’s most haunted locations, including the Texas State Capitol, The Driskill Hotel, and the Texas Governors Mansion.
Expect engaging storytelling as you hear tales of ghosts, ghouls, and historical figures. The tour is family-friendly and accessible, with a maximum group size of 30 travelers.
Although some guests wished for more excitement or variety, the overall feedback highlights the knowledgeable and captivating tour guides.
With a price of $24.99 per person, this walking tour offers a unique opportunity to explore Austin’s paranormal past.
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Small-Group Austin Taco Food Walking Tour
A small-group taco tour through Austin’s vibrant food scene awaits.
The 3-hour Small-Group Austin Taco Food Walking Tour promises a delectable journey, with travelers sampling tacos from multiple restaurants and exploring notable sights like the Willie Nelson Statue.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour offers an engaging narrative and a final treat at Voodoo Doughnut.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes strollers and service animals, and is easily accessible via public transportation.
With a maximum group size of 10, this taco tour provides an intimate and flavorful experience.
Recent reviews praise the guide’s enthusiasm and the diverse taco selections, though some noted confusion over meeting location changes and desired more in-depth information about Austin.
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Golden Austin Adventures: A Senior’s Walking Delight
Seniors seeking a leisurely exploration of Austin’s captivating history and vibrant culture will find delight in the Golden Austin Adventures tour.
Priced at just Kč10,685 for a group of up to 4 participants, this 2-hour walking tour showcases the city’s architectural gems and hidden gems.
Guests will visit iconic landmarks like the Texas Governor’s Mansion, Wooldridge Square, and the Paramount Theatre, as well as stroll down the lively Congress Avenue and historic Sixth Street District.
Led by a professional local guide, the tour offers an immersive experience tailored to seniors, blending sightseeing, relaxation, and culture at a comfortable pace.
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Austin: Street Food Guided Walking Tour
Explore the vibrant culinary scene of Austin on this immersive street food walking tour.
For just $3,091 per person, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour guided adventure through the city’s top food spots, limited to 10 participants.
Savor smokey sausage mac & cheese, saucy pulled pork sandwiches, and your choice of tender, smoked BBQ meats.
Cool off with refreshing shaved ice as you stroll through the Rainey Street Historic District and along the Colorado River.
This tour offers the perfect balance of food, history, and sightseeing, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Suitable for couples, friends, solo travelers, and families, this 5-star rated experience showcases the best of Austin’s vibrant food scene.
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Austin: Small Group Taco Tasting Foodie Walking Tour
Enjoy Austin’s vibrant taco scene on this Small Group Taco Tasting Foodie Walking Tour.
This 2-hour excursion, limited to just 10 participants, takes you on a delicious journey through the city’s top taco spots. Indulge in a variety of tacos, from grilled steak to shrimp macha, and finish with a sweet local doughnut.
Along the way, you’ll explore iconic Austin landmarks, including the Rainey Street Historic District and the Congress Avenue Bridge.
With a knowledgeable guide providing insights into Austin’s culinary culture, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the city’s thriving taco scene.
Comfortable shoes are a must, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance ensures flexibility.
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Austin: Morning History Walking Tour of Downtown Austin
Travelers seeking to uncover Austin’s captivating past can embark on the Morning History Walking Tour of Downtown Austin. Priced from $32 per person, this 1.5-hour English-language tour takes visitors through iconic sites, including the Willie Nelson Statue, Texas Capitol, and the historic Driskill Hotel.
Along the way, a knowledgeable guide shares intriguing local anecdotes and insights into Austin’s history. Participants can explore eclectic Sixth Street, discover coffee shops and music venues, and learn about the city’s famous bat phenomenon.
With a wheelchair-accessible route and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour offers a convenient and immersive way to experience the heart of Austin.
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Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour
For those seeking to uncover the captivating past of Austin’s downtown, the Downtown History Walking Tour offers an insightful and immersive experience.
Priced at $30 per person, this 2-hour guided tour covers 1.1 miles, starting at Halcyon Coffee and ending at 320 Congress Ave.
Along the way, you will visit notable landmarks like Antone’s Nightclub, the Sixth Street Historic District, and the Angelina Eberly Statue, learning about the city’s transformation from a red-light district to a modern hub.
With engaging storytelling and an emphasis on local culture and history, the tour is recommended for those interested in discovering Austin’s past and its evolution as the Texas capital.
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Austin: True Crime Walking Tour Tracing the Murders of 1885
Unraveling the grisly saga of Austin’s past, the True Crime Walking Tour Tracing the Murders of 1885 invites participants on a captivating journey through the city’s darkest chapter.
Over two hours, this immersive tour explores the hunt for an unidentified killer responsible for a series of murders that shook Austin in 1885.
Visitors will visit crime scenes, learn about the victims and investigation, and even stop for a refreshment.
The tour is described as akin to a true crime podcast, with the guide providing a wealth of details.
Suitable for ages 14 and up, this wheelchair-accessible tour is a must for anyone fascinated by Austin’s unsettling past.
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Austin: Austin Pub Walk
Departing from the grisly true crime stories of Austin’s troubled past, the Austin Pub Walk invites visitors on a lively exploration of the city’s vibrant beer culture and historic watering holes.
Over the course of 3 hours, guests will discover 4 unique pubs, enjoying special perks at each venue while uncovering the city’s intriguing past, including tales of haunted brothels.
The tour includes visits to the Driskill Hotel lobby and exclusive discounts on Voodoo Doughnuts.
Attendees can expect to hear stories dating back to the 1870s and enjoy Austin’s dynamic beer scene.
Comfortable shoes and an umbrella are recommended, as the tour operates rain or shine.
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Recap
Austin offers a wide range of walking tours that allow visitors to explore the city’s history, culture, and cuisine. From haunted tours and food tastings to true crime investigations, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, these walking tours provide a unique and immersive way to experience the best of what Austin has to offer.