Austin Downtown History: Vibrant Storytelling Walking Tour

Discover the vibrant history of Austin on a storytelling walking tour. From cowboys to condos, explore the city’s transformation and learn about the eccentric Austinites who shaped its story.

Duration: 2 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Dumont’s Down Low Bar - Located in what was once a lively vice district, this tour begins with the origin story of Austin, exploring the old west mentality that established the largest red light district in the southwest. Note: Entry is not included.
  • O. Henry Home & Museum - Renowned short story writer O. Henry resided in Austin before…
What's Included
  • Expert local guide
  • Insightful commentary on local culture
  • Entry fees to all attractions included
  • Complimentary refreshments and snacks
  • Comfortable transportation throughout the tour
  • Special access to exclusive areas
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

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…

Location
Halcyon
West 4th Street
Downtown Austin outside Halcyon Coffeehouse @ 4th Street & Lavaca. You may use the restroom inside Halcyon without making a purchase if you tell them you are with the walking tour.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(149 Ratings)
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Ajmglobaltraveller
Mar 22, 2025
Very interesting tour - Great tour with Emily, who was a great guide. Emily regaled us with a lot of history and facts, with some folklore thrown in.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Beverly_m
Mar 18, 2025
Great informative 2 hour Austin walking tour - Not much of old Austin is left, but this tour helped us understand the city's evolution. Lots of interesting stories and information. Emily was our guide and she did a great job. It was an enjoyable 2 hours.
Review provided by Viator
Lisa_c
Mar 18, 2025
Historical Austin. - One of the best history walking tours I’ve been on over the years. Emily was informative, precise, sensitive to the customer and professional. I highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Bridget_s
Mar 17, 2025
Emily was an excellent... - Emily was an excellent tour guide - knowledgeable and entertaining. She made learning about Ausin's history great fun.
Review provided by Viator
Julie_b
Mar 14, 2025
Our host Kimberley was... - Our host Kimberley was wonderful. She made the tour very fun and taught us a lot about the history of Austin
Review provided by Viator
Sightsee16427576850
Mar 9, 2025
Great Austin walking tour - Great guide! Kim brought the streets of original Austin alive with historic and anecdotal stories. From architecture to food you’ll get enough info to fall in love with and keep exploring this fascinating city.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sharon_w
Mar 3, 2025
Interesting Historical Tour - Emily was very knowledgeable about the history of Austin. She was patient and more than happy to answer questions. She had some great stories, and we had a great time.
Review provided by Viator
Robindz6079pn
Feb 23, 2025
Great historical tour of Austin - Absolutely loved this tour. My wife who grew up in Austin even learned some history. Just the write length and love me the way the guide intertwined stories. Highly recommend
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Karyy2025
Feb 23, 2025
If you have 2 extra hours…don’t miss this tour - It was fun and informative. Good tour guide. A good synopsis of the Wild West. Definitely worth the $35 price. Good value.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
L9465aqbarryb
Mar 19, 2025
Emily was great - Emily provided some fabulous guidance and education about Austin. She made the tour exactly what we were hoping for. Thanks !
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $30
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).