The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour
Overview
Available languages
2 hours
Mobile ticket
From cowboys to condominiums, take a walk through the story of Austin, beginning and ending in what was once a roaring red light district in Austin’s earlier years. Along the way, we'll explore the rich history of Austin and discover how it became the vibrant and dynamic city it is today, with emphasis on the eccentric and heroic Austinites who shaped Austin's story. Topics of historic vice may not be appropriate for children. Large Group? Visit our website. This is an outdoor tour that only goes inside the Driskill Hotel.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Places to sit at each stop are not provided.
This walking tour covers 1.1 miles.
Recommended for ages 13+ due to content regarding the historic red light district.
You may use the restroom at Halcyon Coffee without making a purchase if you let them know you're with the walking tour.
What To Expect
Dumont's Down Low Bar
In what was once a bustling vice district, we will begin with the origin story of the city of Austin and talk about the old west mentality that built the biggest red light district in the southwest. We do not go inside.
O. Henry Home & Museum
Famous short story author O. Henry lived here in Austin before he made it big. Outside his home, we will dig up a few tales of his time here in Austin. We do not go inside.
Options
The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour
What‘s Included
Tour Guide
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reviews
271 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Austin Walking Tour
John M,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great tour with David. I definitely recommend it. Fun to learn about some of the historical areas in Austin. A walking tour but not strenuous.
This walking tour of historical Austin is a must if you are a tourist or live there!
ritapM5049IP,Jun 14, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Tour guide was fabulous! Very knowledgeable and interesting
Worth it
tspain,Jun 13, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00David did a great job of keeping things interesting with historical tidbits and stories.
Great walking tour of Austin
washerf,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Fantastic laking tour of Austin. Met at a great local coffee shop. The tour guide was fantastic. Highly recommend. Tour guide was super knowledgable about local sites and happenings.
Austin Past and Present
cmartin871,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00David was an excellent guide who shared lots of information about both the history of Austin and its current reality. He was very knowledgeable about past and present, injecting humor appropriately as he led us through many of the city’s landmarks. Even as a lifelong Texas who has visited Austin many times, I learned some new information about our capitol city!
Highly recommend this tour
Ashley M,Jun 6, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00David was a wonderful tour guide. Very knowledgable on Austin and provided a great walking tour. Definitely recommend.
An excellent insight into the beginnings of Austin.
christinewN6147IR,May 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00David brought to life in 11/2 hours the colourful beginnings of life in Austin . Entertaining and insightful.
Fun and interesting way to spend a couple of hours getting to know Austin
Deb M,May 24, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Just 6 people for tour so never a problem hearing and easy to keep together . If you are curious about history or architecture, it’s the perfect start to your Austin visit. Our guide was David who was excellent
David is the best!
Katie Q,May 23, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Very pleasant, David was informative, the city is a gem! Very clean. Easy terrain and a 1.5 mile journey through the cities blooming history.
It’s a Pity if You Don’t Take the Nitty Gritty City Tour!
X89MObend,May 21, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great Tour! David was a knowledgeable, personable tour guide and a great story teller. A wonderful introduction to Austin!
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Operated by Nitty Gritty City Tours of Austin