Frequently Asked Questions
Austin Walking Tours by Nitty Gritty City Tours
Where do the tours begin and end?
Start and end points vary, typically around Congress Ave. Your confirmation email includes the exact location. You’re also welcome to call or text if you need help finding us.
Where should I park?
Street Meters: Metered parking lines the streets of downtown. You may need some time to drive around looking for a spot. Use the ParkATX app for convenience. Street parking for the length of the tour is around $5. Meter maids make it rain tickets downtown, so do keep your meter current.
Quarter meters: Often available near the Capitol on 10th & 11th. Bring quarters.
Sundays: Metered street parking is free on Sunday, but check signage to confirm.
Private lots/garages: Easy to find, usually $20+ and allow all-day parking. This is the better option if you plan to be downtown for many hours.
What should I bring and wear?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. For daytime tours, we suggest sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
How much should I tip my guide?
Our guides are hard working and top notch. Tips are very much appreciated and not required on public tours. Customary tips range from $5–20 per person. Most guides accept Venmo, Zelle, or Cash App.
Can I tip online through the company?
If you booked through our website (ngctours.com), you have the option to add a tip at checkout. 100% of online tips at booking are forwarded to your guide. We don’t have a way to collect tips for your guide after the tour. This transaction after the tour must be between you and the guide directly. Your guide can provide their options.
Are gratuities ever required?
Large private, custom, and corporate groups may be charged gratuity at checkout. This will be included in the quote and not a surprise.
Are your public walking tours kid-friendly?
Honestly, not really. Our public tours are better for ages 13+. HOWEVER! Our custom and private kid-friendly walking tours are a big hit. We can customize content and lengths for any age. We also offer discounts for public school field trips. Contact us directly for more info.
Do I need to book my tour in advance?
Yes, you must book ahead. Our public tours often sell out, especially on weekends. Custom tours require a quote, but we can often accommodate last-minute requests — just reach out and we’ll do our best.
Is there a place I can book in person?
Yes, public tours can be booked at the Austin Visitors Center on 5th Street.
How long are your walking tours?
Tour lengths vary:
The Story of Austin: ~2 hours
Austin Ripper 1885: ~2 hours 15 minutes
Others: Typically 1.5 to 2 hours
All tours are well-paced, with plenty of stops for stories, photos, and occasional restroom breaks.
Are your Austin tours wheelchair accessible?
Some are!
Fully accessible: The Story of Austin, Gunfights & Grifters
Not accessible: Austin Ripper 1885, Architecture Walk, Haunted History — due to steep hills or uneven sidewalks.
Contact us for more info.
Will there be places to sit during the tour?
Very few. Our walking tours are mostly standing and walking, with only occasional chances to sit (such as a bar stop or brief bench break). If seating is a concern, let us know — we may be able to recommend the most comfortable route.
What should I bring for an Austin walking tour?
Comfortable walking shoes, a bottle of water, and clothing for the weather. Hats and sunglasses are great for daytime tours. We try to keep you in the shade when possible, but this is Texas — plan accordingly!
Do you offer private or custom tours in Austin?
Absolutely. All of our Austin tours are available as private experiences — Visit our private tours page or contact us for a custom quote. Private tours can start at your hotel, include custom stops (like tacos or cocktails), and be tailored to your group’s interests.
What’s the difference between your tours?
Each one focuses on a different angle of Austin:
The Story of Austin: Big-picture history, quirky stories, major turning points
Austin Ripper 1885: Unsolved “Servant Girl Murders” of 1885
Architecture Walk: Historic buildings, design, and the city’s transformation
Gunfights & Grifters: Rowdy tales of crime, scandal, and shady politics
Haunted History: Ghost stories rooted in real history and local lore
All of them feature original research, local storytelling, and memorable stops.
Are restrooms available during the tour?
Yes, most tours include at least one restroom break. Many also start at a location with facilities available if you arrive early. The exact number and timing depend on the route — check the tour page or ask us for details.
Is transportation included?
No. All guests are responsible for getting to and from the tour meeting spot. However, private tours can often begin at your downtown hotel if that makes things easier.
What if it rains?
All tours go out rain or shine. Please bring an umbrella or rain gear if needed. Don’t worry, our guides have plenty of experience giving five-star tours in the rain. For public tours you may cancel 24+ hours ahead for a full refund if weather is a concern. We will cancel and refund if conditions are outrageous.
What is your cancellation policy?
Public tours: Full refund with 24+ hours' notice.
Private/custom tours: 15% deposit is non-refundable; remainder is refundable with 24+ hours’ notice.
All cases: Tickets are non-refundable within 24 hours of your tour, unless tour is cancelled due to force majeure.
Still have questions?