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 Carriage ride around downtown |
8413 FM 973 Austin, TX 78719 United States +1 512 243 0044 http://www.austincarriage.com/ |
For a fabulous weekend tour of the city or a romantic evening ride, this service is one of the premier ways to visit Downtown Austin. Tours begin at several of the major hotels, as well as at a number of downtown restaurants. Weekend tours are available and cover over 20 historic sites, including the Governor's Mansion and the County Court House. The carriages are also available for special events. Carriages can be found near the Capitol on 11th at Congress Ave. The ride will take you on a tour of the downtown area. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Land and lake tours |
1605 West Fifth St Austin, TX 78703 United States +1 512 477 5274 http://www.austinducks.com |
This one-of-a-kind tour takes you through the city on an authentic amphibious military landing vehicle that carries up to 45 passengers. The tour goes through downtown, to the State Capitol, the Governor's Mansion, the LBJ Library, Sixth Street's music district, historic Congress Avenue and area lakes. Meanwhile, the tour guide gives the history of the city, along with little-known insights. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Heidi Sisk |
 Photo: Sara Leah Miller |
 Photo: Jason Swett |
 Haunted Austin stories |
617 Congress Ave. The Hideout Coffee House & Theatre Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 853 9826 http://www.austinghosttours.com/ |
In a town with as much history as Austin, you are destined to find some scary stories and haunted locations. This tour takes you through downtown to experience some of the ghosts of this city's past. Hear stories about famous Austinites who have died, but never seemed to leave town. Learn about serial killers pre-dating Jack the Ripper, murders and mayhem, as well as spooks and haunts of Austin's sordid past. This tour may be a too much for small children. But adults will find it a wonderful way to learn about Austin's secret history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: David O. Conrad |
 Photo: Stanford |
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Tour Austin on Your Own Segway |
8212 Barton Club Dr Austin, TX 78735 United States +1 512 699 6051 http://www.glidingrevolution.com/ |
See the beautiful sights of the Texas State Capital, Austin, like you've never seen them before by gliding on a Segway. Segways have a platform perched on two wheels with a patented gyroscope balancing system enabling the standing rider to maneuver by tilting forward or backwards while using the steering control on the left side of the handlebar to turn. We offer 7 day a week, 365 day a year guided 2.5 hour Segway tours visiting the Governor's Mansion, the Texas State Capital, the World famous 6th street entertainment district, the new 2nd street shopping district and much more. Our guided Segway tours are informative tours now rated as one of the highest quality tours in Texas. Segway guided tours are ideal for families, visitors, residents and work groups for team building activities. We currently have a variety of new model Segways in many colors for your enjoyment including the popular XT Off-road models. We believe in safe and fun Segway experiences for all of our guest groups. Reservations are strongly recommended. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Star Rosencrans  |
 Photo: 512-495-9250 |
 Photo: sara strick |
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Downtown location |
823 Congress Avenue Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 495 9224 http://www.amoa.org |
With award-winning exhibitions focusing on American art and its significance to the region, this museum hosts fabulous works by contemporary artists. Along with the fantastic touring shows, this museum often has professionals speak about the works and their significance. The Austin Museum of Art is also involved with the television series The Territory, which showcases independent film and video broadcasts through the Public Broadcasting System stations. A free docent-led tour is available to the public at 2pm every Saturday during exhibitions; group tours require special arrangements. Groups of ten or more are asked to reserve a time to visit the Museum. There is a second location on 35th Street. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Faruk Ates |
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Historical Austin tours |
5100 Trading Bend Austin, TX 78735 United States +1 512 498 4686 |
This service is perfect for the complete historical tour of Austin. Walking tours through the Capitol area and a special "Legends and Lore of Austin and Texas" tour offer a hands-on experience of the city. But by far, the best tour offered is "Ghosts, Murder and Mayhem," where you can learn the mysterious secrets that Austin keeps hidden away in its history. This is a wonderful way to learn about the city for a very reasonable price. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Robert M. Farr |
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Ride on an historic locomotive |
Fifth Steet at Comal (Plaza Saltillo) Austin, TX 78767 United States +1 512 477 8468 http://www.austinsteamtrain.org/ |
Escape from the 21st Century and journey back into the Great West aboard the Hill Country Flyer, a vintage passenger train making day-trip excursions every weekend year-round. Departing from Cedar Park, only 20 miles north of downtown Austin, each train ride offers 1920s coach cars for families on a budget and 1950s Pullman lounge cars for leisure travelers. Special excursion trains throughout the year include storybook specials for children, mystery dinner trains for adults, and holiday rides to local festivals along the train route. The vintage train is operated by the dedicated volunteers from the Austin Steam Train Association, a community-based non-profit organization. Ticket prices range from $18-$43 on the Hill Country Flyer, and $12-$32 on the Bertram Flyer. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Welcome to Austin |
209 East 6th Street Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 478 0098 http://www.austintexas.org/ind... |
Make this one of the first stops on your tour of Austin. Pick up brochures and maps to help you navigate the city, and learn about some of the more interesting local landmarks, attractions, restaurants, entertainment and lodging that might not be in the standard tour books. If your interests lie in local history, stop by the Heritage Marketing Department, located in the Austin Convention and Visitors Bureau. A tour guide is on hand to give you the inside scoop. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: SELCO |
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Cruising Town Lake |
208 Barton Springs Rd Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 480 9264 http://www.capitalcruises.com/ |
For cruising around on Town Lake, the best way to go is on a Capital Cruise. Have dinner with friends or just your date, while watching the beauty of Austin's downtown from the peaceful water. Sightseeing tours are available along with canoes and kayaks; or you can take out paddle boats for an outdoor activity with the family. So whether it is a romantic evening for two or a day on the lake with kids, this service can meet your needs. Furthermore, the Hyatt caters cruises and serves shrimp pasta, beef or chicken fajitas, and more. They will work with your company or group to customize a menu if you desire. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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State travel information |
112 East 11th St Austin, TX 78711 United States +1 512 305 8400 http://www.tspb.state.tx.us/CV... |
Built in 1867 as the home of the Texas General Land Office, this building is the oldest standing government building in the state. Along with a listing on the National Register of Historic Places, it has quite a bit of history. From 1887 to 1982, a draftsman named William Sidney Porter, better known today as the short story author O. Henry, rented a space upstairs. Some of the author's greatest short stories were inspired by his experiences here. The second floor of the building houses the O. Henry Nook, where visitors can view his comical land tract maps. The building also houses the State Travel Information Center, which provides guided tours. A Texas-style gift shop is located on the first floor. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Mike Stanger |
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Classes and diving |
6215 North Lamar Blvd Austin, TX 78752 United States +1 512 452 6990 http://www.io.com/clearwater-d... |
If you are looking for a place to take scuba classes and test out your new skills, this is a great shop to explore. Stop by for equipment rentals and planned excursions, including trips to a unique 15,000 square foot open-water diving area. Group and individual classes are offered. If you are looking for a package deal you can avail of that as well. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Carriage rides around town |
8101 Hwy 290 W Austin, TX 78620 United States +1 512 477 8824 http://www.diegelberosecarriag... |
One of the best ways to learn about scenic Austin is from the back of a Clydesdale-drawn carriage. Romance, historical and family fun tours are available by appointment; or if you are a wayward evening traveler on Sixth Street, take in a tour of downtown. See the Capitol, Governor's Mansion, and the famous Fourth Street "Warehouse District." Custom tours and event rentals, including full wedding packages, are also available. Visit the Web site for more information on rentals and rides. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Home of noted sculptress |
304 E 44th St Austin, TX 78751 United States +1 512 458 2255 http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/eli... |
The former home and studio of German sculptress Elisabet Ney is open to the public for exploration. This home was one of the first buildings erected in the Hyde Park neighborhood, which was developed as a suburb in 1892 by Monroe Martin Shippe. Ney referred to her space as Formosa (beautiful in Portuguese) and visitors flock to this museum to view nearly 50 busts and statues of Texas heroes, as well as Europeans she sculpted as a young artist. Her tools and several personal items are also on display. Admission is free. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Spamboy.com |
 Photo: Spamboy.com |
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Living history museum |
802 San Marcos St Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 472 8180 http://www.frenchlegationmuseu... |
King Louis Philippe ordered Alphonse Dubois de Saligny of France to Austin in 1839 to become the French liaison to the Republic of Texas. He insisted on being called "Count" and built this home on 22 acres of land in 1841. While waiting for building to cease, he was involved in a dispute over pigs and moved to Louisiana. He never returned to Texas and did not spend a single night in this home. In 1848 Dr. Joseph Robertson purchased the home and passed it on through his family for years; in 1949 the State of Texas acquired it. The home has been restored and even houses a French Creole kitchen. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Jo Abraham |
 Photo: Steve Exendine |
 Photo: Margit Borve |
 Photo: FashionCoat |
 African American culture museum |
1165 Angelina St Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 974 4926 http://www.ci.austin.tx.us/car... |
As the first neighborhood museum in the state dedicated to African American history and culture, this 1926 structure houses oral histories, videos, artifacts, folk art and photographs. The library was once Austin's main library and received a Texas State Historical Marker in 1976. The museum is named in honor of Dr. George Washington Carver, a black slave who went on to graduate from college in 1894. Carver's achievements included the development of over 300 products from peanuts, a professorship at Iowa State and Alabama Tuskegee Institute, the Spingarn Medal from the NAACP and the Roosevelt medal for his contributions to science. The museum exhibits a fantastic collection, as well as changing exhibits of black history and culture in Austin and Travis County. Admission is free (donations accepted). Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dave Hein |
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Greek Revival-style historic home |
1010 Colorado St Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 463 5518 http://www.governor.state.tx.u... |
This is one of the oldest governor's mansions in the country that is still being used on a continuous basis. Builder Abner Cook created a simple square home with four rooms downstairs and four rooms upstairs. A conservatory was added in 1914 along with a new kitchen area. The home showcases original artwork and furniture from yesteryear, as well as modern pieces added during the 1980s restoration. Guests are invited to enjoy viewing the first floor and lush grounds surrounding the home. Tours are limited to 25 people; please arrive early to assure your spot. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Veerle Pieters |
 Photo: Chris Drumgoole |
 Photo: Matthew D. Sheppard |
 Photo: Jennifer E. Garrett |
 Photo: Peter Czukor |
 Photo: Matt Sprague |
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 Photo: fashionistatv.com |
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Tour the Hill Country by train |
Hwy 183 and FM 1431 Austin, TX 78613 United States +1 512 477 8468 http://www.austinsteamtrain.org/ |
For an enjoyable afternoon, take a scenic journey on this Central Texas vintage steam train. Traveling deep through the Hill Country, this excursion is a must-see for any train buff. Wander through small Texas towns and view the beauty of an era gone by, all while enjoying a relaxing trip in an old-time rail car. Visit the Web site for a schedule of departure times. Prices vary based on seating. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Nate Kohl |
 Photo: BCooner |
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Austin's oldest college |
900 Chicon St Austin, TX 78702 United States +1 512 505 3000 http://www.htc.edu/ |
Time brought Tillotson Collegiate and Normal Institute (established in 1877) and Samuel Houston College (established 1900) together in 1952. The merged college now known by the joint name is a fantastic campus and educational facility. One of the older buildings is Evans Hall, originally part of the old Tillotson College campus. This limestone building was constructed entirely by students. Prospective students and the general public are welcomed to follow guided tours of the campus. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: wcities |
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A ride on the Colorado River |
Riverside Drive and South First Street (between the Congress and South First Street Bridges) Austin, TX 78716 United States +1 512 327 1388 http://www.lonestarriverboat.com/ |
Take a tour with Lone Star Riverboat down the Colorado River (known as Town Lake in the Austin city limits) on a paddle wheel boat. This Southern style of transportation is a perfect way to take in the city's skyline. Trips are 90 minutes long and do not require reservations. Call ahead to determine the seasonal schedule. During the summer moonlight cruises are offered, as well as close-up cruises of the bats underneath Congress bridge. Prices vary by excursion, so check their website for further information. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Sunnie Wegner |
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Greek Revival house museum |
2310 San Gabriel St Austin, TX 78705 United States +1 512 478 2335 http://www.neill-cochranmuseum... |
Built in 1853 by Abner Cook, the master builder of the Governor's Mansion, this Greek Revival-style home is made with Texas limestone. Originally built as the Washington Hill House, the two-story structure is now a museum. Operated by the Colonial Dames of America, the museum is furnished with 19th-century reproductions of 18th-century French antiques. Historic documents dating from 1770-1900 are also housed here. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Old wives tales |
206 West Main Avenue, Suite 105 Austin, TX 78664 United States +1 512 314 5070 / +1 512 809 1205 http://www.roundrockghosts.com/ |
If you can't get your fill of ghost stories, come to Round Rock Ghost Tours. The tour offers eerie sounds, bone-chilling tales, creepy historical facts, and a walk through downtown. Leigh and Dayne Choate's interesting stories are enthralling and leave you awed. What's more, you also get to know the history of Round Rock. The tour starts at Saradora's Coffee House and lasts 90 minutes. Rates: Adult - USD13, children under 13 - USD9. Not recommended for children below 10. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Dan Masters |
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Historic 1877 mansion |
1316 W 6th St Austin, TX 78703 United States +1 512 974 7480 |
Constructed in 1877, this home was built for Dr. Richmond Kelley Smoot. Originally on 10 acres of land, including a spring-fed lake, it was designed by Dr. Smoot himself. Workers laid handmade bricks—some that you can still see the fingerprints on. Smoot, who was also pastor of the First Southern Presbyterian Church (now referred to as Central Presbyterian Church), founded the Austin School of Theology. The house and its furnishings have been donated to the Heritage Society of Austin and tours are given by appointment. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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The heart of Texas |
1100 Congress Ave Austin, TX 78701 United States +1 512 463 0063 http://www.capitol.state.tx.us... |
The slogan states that "everything is bigger in Texas," and if you look at our Capitol, the phrase rings true. Standing a stately 309 feet and modeled after the nation's Capitol in Washington D.C., this is the nation's tallest. Designed by architect Elijah E. Myers and constructed of red granite, the Capitol took more than seven years to complete. It was finished in 1888, at a total cost of more than three million dollars, an extravagant price even by today's standards. The perfectly landscaped grounds reflect the languid pace of life under the Texas sun, inviting you for a quiet stroll or a lazy day under a tree. Tours: Daily except Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year's Day. Allow 30-45 minutes for the tour. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Cruise the Colorado River |
208 Barton Springs Austin, TX 78704 United States +1 512 480 9264 |
Cutting through downtown Austin from South Austin is the beautiful Colorado River, called Town Lake when you get into the city. Although this tour is aimed at visitors, locals frequently take the beautiful trip on hot summer days. Prop your feet up and sip a Shiner beer while drifting past the urban landscape and learning about Austin the Texas way. Review © 2007, Wcities |
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Tour the University of Texas Tower at Twilight |
Texas Union 24th & Guadelupe St. Austin, TX 78713 United States +1 512 232 6009 http://www.utexas.edu/tower/ |
Summertime signals the return of the popular escorted twilight tours of the University of Texas Tower. Enjoy sweeping vistas of campus and the surrounding Austin community from the Tower's deck, as sunset fades to amber hues and city lights twinkle across the horizon. History and crime buffs will also appreciate this tour. It's the site of the notorious killing spree meted out by Charles Whitman on August 1, 1966. Using the tower as a sniper's perch, Whitman opened fire on unsuspecting people below, killing fourteen innocent victims in ninety minutes. Oliver Stone in Natural Born Killers (1994) makes reference to this dark day in Texas Tower history. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: huan huang |
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Take a guided tour of UT |
24th Street at Whitis Ave University of Texas campus, Main Building Austin, TX 78712 United States +1 512 475 7399 http://www.utexas.edu/student/... |
The best way to learn about the University of Texas at Austin campus is through one of their wonderfully informative tours. Student guides lead walking tours and discuss a wide range of issues including academic programs, student services, community life and the history of the university. Tours start at the Information Desk on the ground floor of the Main Building (also known as the UT Tower). Wear comfortable shoes-the campus is much larger than the original 40 acres designated to hold these facilities. The tours last about one to one and a half hours. For larger groups, make reservations at least two weeks in advance by calling +1 512 475 7399. Note: During the months of May and December, only one tour is offered at 2pm each day, Monday through Saturday. No tours on official University holidays. Review © 2007, Wcities |
 Photo: Aaron Ray |
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