Top Austin Historical Tours

Austin is filled with stories of the past, which is what makes it a great city. Instead of exploring the city with your nose in a guidebook, book this engaging historical walking tour. Discover Downtown Austin's rich history and its transformation into a vibrant city. Hear intriguing stories of bold Austinites who shaped Texas' capital, while exploring historic sites and architectural treasures.

Head off the usual tourist trail to uncover Austin’s sinister side on this guided walking tour through the city's most haunted and historic sites, covering about 2 miles (3.2 km) of the downtown area. Begin at The Tavern, once a Prohibition-era hotspot and now home to ghosts, before visiting eerie landmarks like the Texas Capitol, Paramount Theatre, and the Driskill Hotel, famous for its haunted bridal suite and lingering spirits. Along the way, hear chilling accounts of the "Servant Girl Annihilator", the UT Tower shooting, and whispers of the modern-day “Rainey Street Ripper.”

Explore Austin via a relaxing open-air pedicab tour. Pass by downtown sites including the Texas State Capitol, Governor's Mansion, Pecan Street, Lady Bird Lake, and more. Travel at your own pace on this tour that's individually tailored to meet your group’s interests. Choose between two convenient departure locations or arrange for pickup in front of your hotel.

Hear the historical tales of murder and mayhem that helped make Austin weird on this haunted history tour of Texas's capital city. Join an acclaimed storyteller guide for a group walking tour through Austin's supernatural nooks and creepy crannies, including a tour of the famous Driskill Hotel. The short tour takes place in the evening so you can easily fit it into busy schedules.

Hear stories about Austin’s Old West history and spooky unexplained happenings—and discover many of its most atmospheric drinking dens—on this two-in-one Old West ghost tour and pub crawl. Meet your guide in the evening in central Austin and get ready to explore. Visit multiple bars and historical landmarks over the course of the tour, with a dose of storytelling—and chances to buy drinks—at each stop.

Explore Austin by traveling along the city’s bike trails during this guided tour. Stop at landmarks such as Barton Springs, the Stevie Ray Vaughan statue, Congress Avenue (known for the “Bat Bridge"), and more. You’ll be able to experience Austin from a unique perspective. Plus, you’ll be able to go farther faster thanks to the assistance of an e-bike.

The all-new ACL Live Tour experience offers an immersive journey into the legendary Austin City Limits TV series and award-winning music venue. The tour begins with a captivating short film showcasing iconic performances from the longest-running music show in television history. Highlights of the ACL Live Tour include: • Interactive Timeline: Explore 50 seasons of unforgettable performances, complete with behind-the-scenes stories from series producers. • Extensive Photo Galleries: View the work of photographers Scott Newton and Alison Narro, capturing artists from both the TV series and the ACL Live stage. • Original ACL TV Stage Access: Step onto the original ACL TV stage and snap a photo where nearly 1,000 acts—starting with Willie Nelson in 1974—have performed. • Behind-the-Scenes Exploration: Gain exclusive access to rockstar green rooms, backstage areas, and the inner workings of Austin’s award-winning music venue.

Step into Austin’s dark past with this Haunted Audio Tour — a self-guided journey through real haunted landmarks and verified history. Explore at your own pace as immersive sound design, cinematic storytelling, and spine-chilling true tales reveal the city’s most notorious spirits. No apps, no groups—just you, your smartphone, and Austin after dark. We painstakingly research, write, record, and edit our tours.

If you want to see more of Austin in less time—without getting jammed into a tour bus—book this e-bike tour perfect for seeing the sights, while enjoying Austin's fantastic weather. Hop on your pedal-assist e-bike, and follow your guide to Austin's famous murals, city landmarks, and University of Texas buildings. Along the way, take in views of the downtown skyline, and visit the Texas State Capitol building.

Discover Austin's vibrant downtown on this engaging 1-hour guided walk along historic Congress Avenue. Starting at the iconic Texas State Capitol, you will visit renowned landmarks such as The Driskill Hotel and the Paramount Theatre, while learning intriguing local history and quirky Austin facts. The tour also includes a view of the famous Congress Bat Bridge against the backdrop of beautiful murals, making it a perfect outing for all ages. - 1-hour guided tour through downtown Austin's highlights - Visit landmarks like the Texas State Capitol and The Driskill Hotel - Suitable for all ages with family-friendly storytelling - Tours available on weekends at 11 AM and 2 PM

On this haunted walking tour, you’ll hear the dark tales of the city and discover what goes bump in the night. Go at your own pace, stop anytime. Take the tour anytime. It's all outside. The tour never expires. This tour includes a built in EMF ghost detector to show you if any spirits are close by. Simply press the EMF button after the tour starts to enable it. As you walk you’ll see the old Guys town, historic parks and buildings, the wild west churches, the governor’s mansion, the historic centuries old hotels and many more sites. And you’ll hear about the tales of the people that lived here. And why they decided to stick around. Beware, this tour is not for the faint of heart. Our Ghostly adventure begins at the Pierre Bremond House.

Come join this Austin e-bike biker gang to see the sights and feels the vibes of the crown jewel of Hill County. The e-bikes are fun, easy to ride and best with friends to get around this amazing city. Ride past Austin and Hill County icons including The Driskill (a historic and haunted hotel), Austin City Limits, Town Lake, and much more. Enjoy a dynamic experience in a vibrant city where every ride is different.

The Best Way to Discover Austin: Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Tour. Play, learn, and walk! Explore at your own pace with a 100% self-guided activity. Start anytime (24/7) with no guides or schedules. Pause for a photo with the George Washington Statue or a quiet moment at the Texas Peace Officers Memorial and resume whenever you're ready—even the next day. This unique team-building activity is perfect for couples, families, and groups. The "Complete City" Package - Everything you need in one app: Interactive Game: Solve puzzles and discover 10+ major attractions, plus hidden gems revealed along the way. Audio & Text: Listen to our audio guide or read the history/legends of each site. Insider Tips: Access hand-picked local restaurant and shop recommendations. What you will visit: UT Tower, George Washington Statue, Littlefield Fountain, Bullock History Museum, Peace Officers Memorial, Texas Capitol, Memorial Lawn, African American History Memorial, Tejano Monument, and Saint Mary.

In 1885, America’s first serial killer stalked the streets and alleyways of the city of Austin. He came to be known as the “Midnight Assassin,” but his identity remains a mystery. On this guided evening walking tour, explore historic Austin including West 6th Street, Guy Town, and the Warehouse District, plus stop for a drink at the Driskill Hotel, as you learn about his crimes.

Just a short drive from Austin is the intriguing history, culture and attractions of San Antonio. Come check it out with a local guide who will take you to some of the best sights of the city, including The Alamo, a river cruise, the Tower of the Americas and Mission San Jose. You'll learn about the city on your drive from Austin and be full of great memories on your drive back.

Uncover the hidden stories of Austin with a walking tour. Your guide will lead you through the historic downtown, starting at what was once the largest red light district in the Southwest. You'll hear about the old west mentality that shaped Austin and delve into the intriguing past of famous residents, like short story author O. Henry. Explore the legacy of Susanna Dickinson, the last survivor of the Alamo, and stroll along the iconic 6th Street. The tour culminates with a visit inside the opulent Driskill Hotel, built in 1886, where tales of greed, politics, and celebrities come alive. This tour offers a unique and intimate look at Austin's transformation into the city it is today. Get to know Austin through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide. See the main tourist sights you want to see, as well as discover areas and venues. Benefit from your guide’s familiarity with the area that interests you. Get lots of valuable advice from your guide about other things to do in the city.

Guests of all ages are welcome to our Ghosts of Austin tour, combining history with hauntings for a fun and family-friendly outing. After an introduction to Austin's haunted past, we'll visit some of Austin's spookiest locales: the Texas State Capitol, The Driskill Hotel and the Texas Governor's Mansion. As we unearth some of their histories, you'll hear about the ghosts, ghouls, apparitions and phantoms that haunt their grounds. Expect an outing that will make your spine tingle!

Get to know Austin on a leisurely morning walk with a nationally acclaimed storyteller as your guide. Learn little-known stories about the city, get inside tips on the best coffee shops, restaurants, and live music venues, and explore the city like a local. This tour helps you avoid tourist traps to make the most of your visit to Austin. Great for kids and adults alike, learn about the city in a fun, low-key way.

Our tours are experiences - not 'cookie cutter' tour 'products' where the guide has a memorized insert-city-here kind of thing you can do practically anywhere. BikeTexas tour guides are real Austin residents who care about making sure your Austin experience exceeds your expectations. Our guides are passionate about our city and are ready to share with you all the things that makes Austin unique from any other city! You are never lost with a local.

Unlike many city tours, this touris capped at just seven travelers, providing an intimate setting for exploration. Ideal for those who want an immersive sightseeing experience. Stops include Mount Bonnell, the Texas State Capitol Building, the Greetings from Austin Mural, and more. There are plenty of opportunities to take photographs along the way, with panoramic views that can't be seen anywhere else.

Save on costs without sacrificing quality on this small-group Lake Austin boat tour. Enjoy a social atmosphere as your captain shares insightful commentary and enhances your experience on the water. Cruise past top landmarks such as the Austin Country Club, Emma Long Metropolitan Park, and Tom Miller Dam while you relax and take in the beautiful lakeside scenery.

Uncover some of Texas's darkest history, scandalous stories, and sordid secrets in Georgetown. Located 30 miles north of Austin, this charming Central Texas hamlet is home to “the most beautiful square in Texas.” We’ll grab a drink to-go at a local pub before we begin to tell the town’s heinous tales of violence, murders, and suicides. This adults-only experience is a memorable mix of True Crime, ghost tour, and pub crawl.

Skip the crowds—this private tour is just for your group! Discover the heart of Texas on our “Austin Explorer: A Vibrant USA Heritage Walk.” This guided walking tour takes you on an exciting journey through Austin’s rich history, stunning architecture, and lively cultural scene. Wander historic streets, admire iconic buildings, and soak in the city’s creative energy. Highlights include the natural wonder of the Congress Avenue Bridge bats and the city’s vibrant art scene. Designed for history buffs, art lovers, and curious travelers alike, this tour goes beyond sightseeing—it's about truly connecting with the spirit of Austin. Become an urban explorer as you uncover stories, snap unforgettable photos, and create lasting memories in one of America’s most dynamic cities. Join us to walk, learn, and marvel in Austin like never before!