Austin stands out among U.S. cities for its blend of outdoor adventure, quirky history, and lively nightlife. Whether you’re paddling along Lady Bird Lake, uncovering ghostly tales downtown, or sampling local olive oils, Austin offers something memorable for every traveler. We’re particularly fond of the kayak rental on Lady Bird Lake for its relaxed pace and stunning city views, and the Rainey Street Bar Crawl for a lively night out. These experiences showcase just how diverse and fun tours in Austin can be.
If you’re short on time, the 1.5-hour city and Hill Country drive gives an efficient overview of Austin and its surrounds. For a spooky twist, the Haunted History Tour offers chilling tales by night, while art lovers will appreciate the Wonderspaces Interactive Art Exhibition. Whatever your style, Austin’s collection of tours delivers authentic, engaging ways to explore the city.
1. Austin: Single or Double Kayak Rental
Travel along the peaceful waterways of Lady Bird Lake with this self-guided kayak rental. For just $32 per person, you can spend two hours paddling at your own pace. The calm waters serve as a perfect backdrop to view downtown Austin from a different angle, especially as the skyline reflects on the water. Kayaking here is ideal for those looking for gentle outdoor activity without the need for a guided tour.
This rental includes options for a single or double kayak, making it suitable for solo explorers or couples. You’ll enjoy close encounters with local wildlife, such as herons and turtles, while soaking up the city’s atmosphere. The flexibility of paddling whenever you like makes this a budget-friendly, relaxed outing. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and scenic the experience is, and many appreciate that it’s a great way to see Austin from the water.
Bottom Line: If you want a peaceful, inexpensive way to enjoy Austin’s natural beauty and skyline, this kayak rental is a perfect choice. It’s especially good for independent travelers or those with limited time but a desire for outdoor fun.
2. Austin: City and Hill Country Non-Stop Tour in a Mercedes
At number 2 on our list, the City and Hill Country Non-Stop Tour hits the mark for its efficient, comprehensive look at Austin’s highlights in just 90 minutes. Using a comfortable Mercedes van, a local guide takes you on a rapid but informative drive covering more than 50 sights across 30 miles. This tour balances city sights—trendy shopping districts and parks—with scenic views of lakes and Hill Country vistas.
The tour is praised for its engaging guide, with reviews highlighting how well the driver shares local stories and insights. Many visitors appreciate seeing Austin through the eyes of a local without feeling rushed. It’s a fantastic way to get an overview when short on time or to identify areas you’d like to explore further on your own. The tour’s value shines through its mix of sights and commentary, making it a smart choice for first-time visitors.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a quick, comfortable overview of Austin and its surroundings, this tour offers excellent value and engaging storytelling.
3. Austin: Downtown Austin Haunted History Tour
Uncover the spooky side of Austin with the Haunted History Tour. This 1.5-hour evening walking tour takes you through Downtown Austin, just a short walk from the First Street Bridge. Led by storyteller-guides passionate about ghost stories and macabre city tales, it offers a chilling glimpse into Austin’s haunted past.
What makes this tour stand out is the depth of knowledge and engaging narration. Guests learn about haunted spots like the Texas State Capitol and hear eerie stories about former districts, all in a lively, small-group setting. The reviews emphasize how the storyteller’s passion and storytelling skills make the tour both fun and fascinating. If you enjoy ghost stories or want a different perspective on Austin’s history, this tour fits nicely into an evening plan.
Bottom Line: A perfect option for ghost-story fans and those looking to add some spooky fun to their visit, especially after a day of sightseeing.
4. Austin: Wonderspaces Interactive Art Exhibition Entry Ticket
For those drawn to contemporary, multimedia art, the Wonderspaces Interactive Art Exhibition provides a captivating 75-minute experience. This exhibit showcases rotating installations by artists from around the world, emphasizing interactive and immersive exhibits.
Visitors can engage with artworks that use light, sound, and movement—think of an experience that stimulates your senses and sparks curiosity. The exhibits change regularly, so repeat visits or timing your trip during special shows can enhance your experience. People love how the art is presented in innovative ways accessible to all ages, making it a great option for families or anyone curious about modern art.
Reviews highlight the engaging and thought-provoking nature of the installations, with many mentioning how surprising and fun it is to become part of the art. If you’re into creative, interactive experiences, this is a must-see.
Bottom Line: A compelling choice for art lovers and families looking for a stimulating, memorable experience in Austin.
5. Dripping Springs: Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Tasting
Taste your way through the Texas Hill Country at the Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar Tasting. For just $25 per person, this 45-minute experience at Texas Hill Country Olive Co. offers a delightful chance to sample signature extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars. You’ll enjoy making your way through a curated selection of small bites and learning how these products are crafted.
What sets this experience apart is its intimate setting and the opportunity to understand the production process of high-quality olive oils and vinegars. It’s an ideal stop for foodies or anyone interested in local flavors. Reviewers note how informative the tasting is, with many saying it’s a fun and tasty way to spend part of a day in Hill Country.
If you prefer a relaxed, flavorful break from sightseeing, this experience offers great value and a chance to bring home some gourmet goodies.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary explorers and those seeking a flavorful, educational break in Hill Country.
6. Austin: Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour
The Family-Friendly Ghosts of Austin Tour is a 1.5-hour adventure designed to entertain all ages, from 5 to 100. It combines spooky stories with fun facts and is suitable for families looking for a lighthearted take on Austin’s haunted past.
Led by an expert guide, the tour covers notable sites and stories that include the Texas State Capitol and the old Red Light district. What makes this tour unique is its focus on making ghost tales engaging and appropriate for children while still interesting for adults. The reviews reflect how fun and accessible it is, with one mentioning it’s “perfect for a family afternoon.”
This tour is a good choice if you want a balance of spooky stories and family-friendly fun, especially if you’re traveling with kids who might be wary of scarier ghost tours.
Bottom Line: An engaging, family-friendly option that makes Austin’s haunted history accessible for all ages.
7. Austin: Haunted Pub Crawl Walking Tour
Combine history, spirits, and a lively atmosphere with the Haunted Pub Crawl. This 2-hour tour takes you through some of Austin’s most historic and haunted bars. Along the way, you’ll hear stories about ghostly legends tied to places like The Driskill Hotel and Buffalo Billiards.
The tour features exploration of historic bars, with plenty of time for drinks and socializing. Reviewers mention how much fun it is to stroll through Austin’s old neighborhoods while hearing spooky stories, making it ideal for groups who enjoy a mix of history and nightlife. The relaxed pace and engaging storytelling create a memorable experience for those interested in Austin’s ghostly side plus its vibrant pub scene.
Bottom Line: A lively way to combine Austin’s nightlife and haunted tales, perfect for those who like a good story with their evening drinks.
8. Austin: Ghosts Spirits & Poltergeists Haunted Walking Tour
If you’re after a more intense ghost experience, the Ghosts, Spirits & Poltergeists Tour offers a 1-hour exploration into Austin’s darker supernatural corners. This tour covers war, disease, and secret mysteries, including the spooky Minnesota Iceman at the Museum of the Weird and a theatre allegedly saved by a deal with the devil.
While reviews are mixed, with some finding it less polished, many appreciate the tour’s focus on authentic haunted locations and the guide’s storytelling ability. It’s best suited for those who are genuinely interested in supernatural tales and don’t mind a shorter, more intense experience.
Bottom Line: Good for fans of ghost stories looking for a compact, spooky adventure, especially if you’re intrigued by haunted museums and mysterious legends.
9. Austin Rainey Street Bar Crawl | The Epic Group
For a lively night out, the Rainey Street Bar Crawl offers an immersive experience lasting around 3.5 hours. It boasts free express entry to multiple venues, drink discounts, and VIP hosts who keep the party going. The crawl includes stops at some of Austin’s most popular bars, with lively music and a friendly group atmosphere.
Reviewers praise the well-organized logistics and the chance to meet fellow travelers while enjoying Austin’s famous nightlife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for an energetic, social way to explore Austin’s bar scene, especially if you’re new to the city or want to maximize your evening.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for party-goers and those wanting to experience Austin’s nightlife in a fun, structured way.
10. Austin: Axe Throwing
Looking for something a bit different? The Axe Throwing experience is a hit. For $28 per person, you get to throw axes at interactive targets with five different weapons available. The venue offers a full bar, making it a lively, adrenaline-charged activity.
This tour is suitable for groups wanting a fun challenge or a unique way to blow off steam. The reviews consistently mention how much fun it is, with many describing it as a straightforward, safe, and super entertaining activity. It’s a perfect escape from traditional tours and appeals to those curious about trying something new.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups seeking an active, memorable experience that combines fun with a bit of friendly competition.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Austin
When selecting your perfect tour, consider your budget, time constraints, and personal interests. If you love outdoor activities, the kayak rental offers a peaceful way to see the city. History buffs might prefer the haunted walking tours, while art lovers should not miss Wonderspaces. For a lively night, the Rainey Street Pub Crawl or axe throwing will deliver fun and social energy.
Booking early is recommended, especially for popular experiences like the Rainey Street Crawl and kayaking. Think about when you want to go—mornings might suit outdoor activities, while ghost tours are perfect for evenings. Travel smart by matching your choice to what excites you most about Austin.
In summary, Austin provides a spectrum of tours that showcase its natural beauty, vibrant arts, and haunted past. Whether you’re paddling on Lady Bird Lake, exploring art installations, or enjoying a pub crawl, these experiences add authentic, memorable layers to your trip. For a truly personalized adventure, pick a tour that matches your interests and pace, and don’t forget to book early to secure your spot.