Hit the Road: Unique Austin Walking Tours

Sunlight shines through trees along a curved riverside walkway with a city skyline of tall buildings and blue sky in the background.

Austin might be Texas’ capital, but it definitely marches to a slightly different tune than other major Texas cities. Whereas Fort Worth and Houston both have a distinctive “cowboy” persona, Austin has a much more techy vibe, with lots of musicians and computer engineers. People don’t say “Keep Austin Weird” for nothing! Still fun and totally Texas, Austin is an exciting place to be, both as a visitor and a resident. 

If you are new to the area, or are looking to discover new areas of the city, you might find that walking tours are the perfect way to explore. Austin has a number of unique tours that will help you learn lesser-known facts about ATX. Whether you want to learn about infamous residents of Bat City or want to explore various eateries or entertainment spaces, there is something for you. Gather your crew and slip on your favorite walking shoes and get ready to learn about Austin in a fun, engaging way.

Five unique walking tours in Austin, TX, you don’t want to miss

    • Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour (1.5 hours)- Learn about the spookier side of the capital city from an expert guide, who will enchant you with haunting tales of some of Austin’s well-known spaces. One of your tour stops is the Driskill Hotel, where you will hear some spine-chilling stories about the paranormal. There is also a family-friendly version of this tour if you want to bring young kids along.
  • Austin Taco Tasting Walking Food Tour (2 hours)- It’s always Taco Tuesday when you check out this tasty tour. On this small-group tour, you’ll get to taste three different tacos plus a dessert from local Austin hot spots. You’ll also stroll along some famous landmarks, such as the Congress Avenue Bridge, and learn interesting tidbits about Austin’s foodie scene. Come hungry!
  • Live Music Crawl (3 hours)- Music lovers, this one’s for you! You’ll get to experience the live music scene in Austin like a local. Your tour includes admission to three different live music venues, plus a walking tour of the area guided by a local who will fill you in on all kinds of information about the live music capital of the world. This tour is for guests 21 and over only- don’t forget your ID!
  • Weird Austin City Tour (2.5 hours)- See the weirder sites of the city to understand more about its unforgettable moniker. Stroll across Lady Bird Lake as you are regaled with tales about Austin’s off-beat persona. You’ll learn about the city’s popular bats, sample a delicious snack as you stroll and snap photos at some favorite spots around the city. This is one tour you don’t want to miss. 
  • Midnight Assassin History Tour of Austin (2 hours)- This “killer” tour is for you, true crime buffs! In 1885, a murderer roamed the streets of Austin, committing crimes that led him to become known as Texas’ first serial killer. He roamed the streets of Austin for a year, terrorizing women but his identity remains unknown to this day. This nighttime tour isn’t for a faint of heart!

All of these tours can be booked through Get Your Guide. Find them here. Happy touring! 

Austin-area lodging

Looking at booking a stay in Austin so you can explore the culture and the music in this vibrant Texas city? Consider booking a stay at Camp Tuhuaya, an exciting family adventure campground in Austin. Owned and operated by the Boy Scouts of America, Camp Tuhuaya is a spot you’ll visit and won’t want to leave. Filled with exciting amenities such as hiking, water activities and fishing, Camp Tuahuaya is a vacation unto itself. The only question you’ll ask at the end of your getaway is if you really have to leave. Happy trails!