
The Story of Austin Downtown History Walking Tour
The Story of Austin Downtown History Walking Tour
From cowboys to condos, 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. We’ll step inside beautiful historical buildings and learn about the eccentric and heroic Austinites who shaped Austin's story.
This tour paints a vivid picture through storytelling.
Book This ExperienceA glimpse of the journey






Your Itinerary
A curated journey through the experience
Oilcan Harry's
In what was once a bustling vice district, we will begin with the origin story of the city of Austin and talk about the Western mentality that built the biggest red light district in the southwest.
20 minutesO. 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 questionable tales of his time here in Austin.
10 minutesJoseph and Susanna Dickinson Hannig Museum
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.
5 minutes6th Street
Learn the historic and current significance of Austin's most famous street.
10 minutesThe Driskill
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.
15 minutesIncluded
- Tour Guide
- Entry/Admission - The Driskill
Not Included
- Gratuities
Good to Know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Near public transportation
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 22 travelers
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Tickets & Cancellation
You can present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start time of the experience.