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.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Tour Guide
Gratuities
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Downtown Austin outside Halcyon Coffeehouse @ 4th Street & Lavaca.
End point
We finish two blocks from where we start, right outside the Koppell Building @ East 4th Street and Congress Ave.
Good to know
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.
What to expect
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Dumont's Down Low Bar
20 min
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.
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O. Henry Home & Museum
10 min
Famous short story author O. Henry lived here in Austin before he made it big. Outside his home, we will dig up a few questionable tales of his time here in Austin. We do not go inside.
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Joseph and Susanna Dickinson Hannig Museum
5 min
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.
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6th Street
10 min
Learn the historic and current significance of Austin's most famous street.
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The Driskill
15 min
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.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- This walking tour covers 1.1 miles.
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
FAQs about The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour
Can I cancel The Story of Austin: Downtown History Walking Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours.
Where does it start?
Downtown Austin outside Halcyon Coffeehouse @ 4th Street & Lavaca.
What's included?
- Tour Guide
What's not included?
- Gratuities
Which places does it visit?
It visits Dumont's Down Low Bar, O. Henry Home & Museum, Joseph and Susanna Dickinson Hannig Museum, The Driskill.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
Operated by Nitty Gritty City Tours of Austin
