Get your discount tickets for the The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour , save up to 9% !
Overview
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.
Meeting and Pickup
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.
End Point
We finish two blocks from where we start, right outside the Koppell Building @ East 4th Street and Congress Ave.
Redemption Instructions
Meet at Halcyon Coffee: 218 W 4th St 78701. Tell your guide your first and last name. Ticket is only needed for occasional verification. Nitty Gritty City Tours phone number accepts calls and texts.
Language Offered
English-GUIDE
Itinerary
1. 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.
2. 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.
3. How did the last survivor of the Alamo end up in Austin? We'll discover this and more outside the home she lived in on 5th St.
4. Learn the historic and current significance of Austin's most famous street.
5. We'll get to go inside this one! Built in 1886 and sometimes called "the people's hotel", the Driskill is teeming with historical tales of greed, politics, vice, music, celebrities, and more.
Inclusion
Tour Guide
Exclusion
Gratuities
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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.
Reviews
4.8
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Explore other options
Hatteras 58-61' Luxury Yacht in Puerto Vallarta & Nuevo Nayarit
Beijing Liyuan Theatre Opera Show Tickets
Private Full-Day Montreal City Car Tour-Montreal by Car
Gorges du Verdon Private Tour
Half-Day Exploring the Arch of Cabo San Lucas Guided Tour
2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise on the Osprey from Cape May
Private Yacht Rental Sea Ray 46ft Cancun 23P3
New Orleans City and Cemetery Bus Tour
Roundtrip Transfers Port Marseille to Aix en Provence