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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Tour Guide
Gratuities
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
Reviews
190 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Austin's history tour worthwhile
L4073PJjoelg,
Nov 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was informative and enjoyable. I learned a bunch about Austin's past. The 2 hours went quickly. The guide really was good.
Walking tour of Austin
Richard L,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Low intensity walking on flat surfaces on city sidewalks. Many breaks for explanations. Bathroom break about 2/3s of the way Guide gave a fantastic overview of Austin’s history and highlights , and great info on the history of 6th street
A great couple of hours
nicolehM6537XT,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our guide was very engaging and knowledgeable. Have walked the city a lot this week but this really helped me understand how the city developed and the story of places I had previously passed.
Excellent experience
Ya L,
Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Great walking tour. It saves me so much time to tour the downtown by myself. Emily is friendly, enthusiastic and knowledgeable. Highly recommend if you have a couple of spare hours while you visiting Austin.
It was a fascinating walk...
Terrie O,
Nov 5, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00It was a fascinating walk and talk and Emily our guide was very informative and helpful. I would highly recommend the tour
Very informative and fun!...
CHERYL L,
Nov 4, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Very informative and fun! We got a good all around view of a place we never been before and knew little about….and left knowing it better than we expected!
Great Tour to Get Familiar with Austin's History
996carriet,
Oct 29, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had a great tour last week with Emily. She has such an abundance of knowledge, is a great story teller, and made sure that we had a deeper understanding of the history of Austin. Her headset made it very easy to hear her speaking so, she kept the group organized and engaged. It's a great tour for those who want to get familiar with the downtown area and Austin's history. Thanks so much Emily!
A fun way to learn about the history of Austin
Mary G,
Oct 26, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Experience the history of Austin and it’s beautiful buildings the city fathers were smart enough to save
Excellent tour. Well worth it.
Mark L,
Oct 25, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Emily presented a detailed history of Austin and Texas in general as we’re walked through old Austin. Emily had a wealth of knowledge and presented it in an interesting way. Highly recommended tour.
Emily was excellent. She...
Dan B,
Oct 24, 2025
- Review from Viator
5.00Emily was excellent. She had lots of knowledge and some fun stories too! She also had good recommendations for local things to do including restaurants.
From $31.00
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Operated by Nitty Gritty City Tours of Austin