Our tours begin and end in various places near Congress Ave in the heart of Downtown Austin, including the Capitol gates, The Driskill Hotel, Halcyon Coffee Bar, and Millet Opera House. The tour descriptions and your confirmation email will tell you where each tour begins and ends. You are also welcome to call or text us if you are unable to find the starting place.

Please click the “Visiting Austin” tab at the top of the page to explore our recommendations for your trip to Austin.

Please wear walking shoes and bring water! For daytime tours, it is wise to wear a hat and sunglasses. Sometimes the sun shining on to the tall glass buildings can be really bright! We are rain or shine, so if looks like it might rain, don’t forget your umbrella or ponchos.

Our guides appreciate your tips tremendously! If you appreciate your guide and want to let them know, please consider tipping them. Most guides have options like Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App.

If you are wondering what is customary, it’s $5-15/person depending on your preference and the quality of the tour.

Of course, tipping is always optional.

If making your payment through our website isn’t working properly, or you prefer a different method, please contact us via call, text, or email so we can help you directly.

Our tours go out rain or shine! Please check the weather and be prepared for whatever’s coming our way. For rain, we recommend waterproof footwear, ponchos and/or umbrellas. Keep an eye on the weather ahead of time if this is going to be a problem for you. See our cancellation policy (also in the FAQ).

Meters:

We find there is often parking around 9th St on either side of Congress Avenue. There is metered parking all over downtown Austin. The meters have an app called ParkATX. It may be helpful to download it and set up your payment method and vehicle information before you get downtown.

Quarter meters:

There are often open spots at the coin-operated meters surrounding the Capitol building on 10th & 11th near Congress Ave. You’ll need a handful of quarters.

Private parking lots and garages:

There are plenty of these downtown, you’ll see them. Prices are more expensive (usually starting at $20) but a more convenient option than looking for an elusive parking space and many will let you park there all day.

We will be happy to issue refunds for cancellations 24 hours in advance of your tour or more. Within 24 hours of your tour, you are welcome to reschedule but we do not issue refunds. To reschedule, please contact us via call, text, or email and we’ll be happy to help.

Have a question we didn’t answer here? Just shoot us an email or text, or give us a call!

emily@realaustintours.com

512-507-2067