Top Austin Historical Tours

Escape busy local buses and see Austin in style, with this private highlights tour. Enjoy the thrill of traveling in an open-top Ford Bronco, and check off lots of key landmarks—such as Lady Bird Lake, the grounds of the Texas Capitol, and Mount Bonnell. Also, as it’s a private trip, you can ask questions throughout and get a more personalized service.

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.

Explore the Texas State Capitol on a small group walking tour that brings Austin’s rich history to life. Led by an expert local guide, this engaging 1 hour and 15 minutes tour covers the Capitol's striking pink granite façade and its grand interiors, including the Rotunda and Senate Chambers. Learn about Texas politics, historical figures, and the unique identity of the Lone Star State as you stroll through the scenic 22-acre grounds, pausing at significant monuments like the Tejano Monument and the African American History Memorial. Perfect for both first-time visitors and locals seeking a deeper appreciation of Texas history. - Small group tour for an intimate and interactive experience - Guided exploration of the Texas State Capitol's architecture and history - Visit historic outdoor monuments and the Capitol Gift Shop - Enjoy a comprehensive tour lasting 1 hour and 15 minutes

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.

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.

Discover Austin's live music scene, Texas capital heritage, and BBQ legacy with our self-guided tour, allowing you to explore the Live Music Capital of the World at your own pace. Begin at the Texas State Capitol,. Walk along Congress Avenue to the Congress Avenue Bridge. Explore downtown Austin's 6th Street with 70+ bars and live music venues and the Rainey Street Historic District's converted bungalows. Paddle Lady Bird Lake's 10-mile shoreline trail, swim in Barton Springs Pool's 68°F year-round spring-fed waters, and picnic in Zilker Park's 351 acres. Cross into South Austin's SoCo (South Congress) district with vintage shops, cowboy boot stores, and iconic Austin photo spots. Tour the University of Texas campus including the 307-foot UT Tower, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Blanton Museum of Art's 21,000-work collection. Feel the fusion of Texas independence, music devotion, and the keep-Austin-weird counterculture that makes Austin America's most unexpected capital.

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.

This historic walking tour takes guests through the beginnings of Austin's Black community through the present. Guests will learn about The City of Austin's 1928 Master Plan and creation of the "Negro District", which is was centered around East 11th Street. We will visit important sites and institutions throughout our one-mile journey. Guests will also be able to engage in dialogue about the changing nature of East Austin and the city's Black community. A large part of this experience is to support local Black owned businesses in the neighborhood.

Experience a ghost tour with a difference on this themed adults-only (16+) tour that focuses on murders and hauntings in Victorian-era Austin. Instead of spending hours researching the city’s ghost stories, this tour takes you to places known for their poltergeists and paranormal activity. Notable locations that the tour passes include the Millett Opera House, the University of Texas Tower, and the Driskill Hotel.

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.

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.

Austin after dark with a local storyteller — haunted bars, hidden history, rooftop views, and the city’s most infamous ghost stories. This isn’t a scripted history lecture or a crowded tourist trap. Part ghost tour, part nightlife experience, the night is built around immersive storytelling, eerie legends, and the darker side of downtown Austin after midnight. From the Driskill Hotel to hidden alleyways and historic pubs, you’ll hear the stories that still linger through downtown after dark. -Two hours of vivid storytelling, history, and hauntings -Explore historic bars and landmarks with a local storyteller -Drinks available for purchase at each stop -Built for a social, interactive, and more personal group experience

If you’re looking for the flexibility to take a tour through Austin whenever your group wants to and is ready to go, book this Austin Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour. This audio tour gives you hours of stories about history and Texas culture as you ride around to different areas of Austin, including downtown, in the comfort of your own private vehicle. Plus, the easy-to-use app means you can play this audio tour any day at any time.

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.

Join the search for Austin's 1885 serial killer who targeted vulnerable populations of women. This tour explores the infamous historical murders that threw our city into a state of panic and turmoil. See the locations of the crimes and deep dive into the investigation, suspects, and victims of one of America's most fascinating unsolved mysteries. The unique and controversial theories presented on this tour are expanded upon in our Ripper podcast series- check out Nitty Gritty ATX wherever you get your podcasts.

Check off more Austin attractions in less time on this bike tour of the historic Texan capital. At a relaxed pace, you’ll cycle to significant sites including Lady Bird Lake, the Texas Capitol, and downtown public art installations. Delve into Austin’s rich history and receive personalized attention from your guide on this small-group tour.

Save time looking up bus schedules and opt for this hassle-free Austin sightseeing bus tour instead. Travel on a loop around the city that passes by top landmarks in Austin’s downtown area. Along the way, listen to commentary from a guide, get great photos from the top deck, or sit in the climate-controlled lower deck. Highlights include 6th Street, The Driskill hotel, Texas State Capitol, and the Texas Governor’s Mansion.

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.

Enjoy Austin from the relaxed speed of a motorized pedicab on this quick tour of the city. You'll get to see the Texas State Capitol, Lady Bird Lake, and 6th Street. All ages are welcome and children under 7 may sit on a lap. If you'd like to imbibe on the trip, you may! Just purchase drinks prior to the trip and no glass bottles, please.

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.

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.

Explore the eerie side of Austin on a unique haunted tour in a classic Cadillac hearse transformed into a spooky limo. Each night, embark on a 3-hour journey to historic locations known for their paranormal activity, including the Clay Pit and Littlefield House at UT. Guests will enjoy minimal walking while getting out frequently to visit haunted establishments. With complimentary sodas and ice available, guests can also bring their own alcoholic beverages to enjoy responsibly. This tour is perfect for ages 13 and up, making it an ideal experience for thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts alike. - Tour operates every night at 7 pm - Discover haunted hotspots in Austin with frequent stops for exploration - Enjoy complimentary refreshments; byob if you wish - Minimum of 2 participants required, accommodating small groups up to 6