Our Most Popular Tour
The Story of Austin
Downtown History Walking Tour
Take a top-rated Austin walking tour through the city’s wild, weird, and wonderful past
Tour Snapshot:
$27.50 public, $35 private
2 hours | 1.1 miles
Begins Halcyon Coffee, 219 W 4th
Austin origins, Congress Ave, 6th Street, music, legends, Driskill Hotel
Online booking required
Why this Tour is Unique
Guides make history fun, surprising, and sharp
Stories you won’t hear on other Austin tours
Based on research and primary sources
Insider tips for food, music, and exploring
Easy pace with shade and great downtown stops
A solid intro for visitors—and locals learn, too
Tour Description
This two-hour walking tour follows the streets of downtown Austin, from Congress Avenue to historic 6th Street, with a clear view of the Texas Capitol and the stories behind it. Along the way, you'll hear true accounts of politics, outlaws, urban legends, music history, and the moments that shaped the city. Led by a local guide, the tour is a great fit for visitors who want a solid foundation in Austin’s history and culture, along with insider tips and recommendations to help make the most of their trip.
Where we Start:
Halcyon Coffee @ 4th & Lavaca | 218 W 4th St
We meet outside Halcyon Coffee at 4th & Lavaca, in the heart of Austin’s historic Warehouse District. The building dates to 1900, and Halcyon has been serving coffee and cocktails here since 2001.
Need the restroom before we begin? Just let the barista know you’re with the walking tour. Our first stop is the longest—where we check in, meet your guide, and kick things off with early Austin and Texas history.
What You’ll Experience
Downtown landmarks and hidden spots
The Texas Capitol and Congress Avenue
Stories of duels, riots, music, and local characters
Why Austin got weird—and stayed that way
Walkable, relaxed pace with storytelling stops
Starts central, ends near food and nightlife
Don’t see the time you need? You can always request a custom time—it’s quick and easy!
The Story of Austin – What to Know Before You Go
Where does this downtown Austin walking tour start?
We begin at Halcyon Coffee (218 W 4th St) in downtown Austin. Just look for the guide with the friendly Austin energy.
What makes this Austin history tour unique?
This tour connects Austin’s quirky, political, and musical past to the city you see today. It’s not a lecture — it’s a witty, well-researched story that brings together scandals, revolutions, and weird but true facts you won’t hear on other tours.
Is the tour appropriate for kids?
We recommend it for guests 13 and up. The stories are not graphic, but the tour does touch on real history, including Austin’s early red-light district. It's presented respectfully and factually — never raunchy.
Where can I park for the tour?
There are several garages nearby. Street parking is also available, but you’ll likely need to go north of 6th or 7th Street to find a spot. We recommend arriving a few minutes early to find parking and get settled.
Are there restroom breaks?
Yes — there’s a restroom at the starting point if you arrive early and another option midway through the tour.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, water, and weather-appropriate clothing. Hats and sunglasses are great for daytime tours. Your guide will try to keep you in the shade when possible.
Will this tour run in the rain?
Yes, it runs rain or shine. Please check the forecast and cancel with at least 24 hours’ notice if the weather looks uncomfortable for you.
Is there seating on the tour?
Very limited. Expect to stand and walk throughout. The route is designed for comfort, but it is an active walking experience.
Is the tour accessible?
Yes. The full route is wheelchair and stroller accessible.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Public tours: Full refund with 24+ hours’ notice
Private/custom tours: 15% deposit is non-refundable; the remainder is refundable with 24+ hours’ notice
Rescheduling is always welcome with advance notice
Is transportation included?
No — all guests provide their own transportation to and from the tour.
What people are saying about this tour
“Unique tour! If you're truly into history, this would be a great match for you, as the knowledge shared comes across like that favorite history teacher you had in school that was great at storytelling. Enjoyed the 2 hours and learned a lot!”
-Amy, Google Review
“Most informative and enjoyable experience with the guide who is both friendly and welcoming. She was able to explain the history of Austin as background before the tour started and made it interesting on the various stops.”
-Vivien, Tripadvisor Review
“The walking tour around Austin was excellent and very informative. Our guide was incredibly friendly, approachable, and happy to answer all of our questions. The duration of the tour was just perfect, striking a great balance between exploring and learning. I would definitely recommend this tour to anyone visiting Austin!”
-Joanna, GetYourGuide Review