Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour

Austin, US
94% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (292 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Gst (goods and services tax)
  • inclusion
    Signature pinktag partner souvenir luggage tag
  • inclusion
    Earbuds (you may also use your own)
  • inclusion
    Tour in a luxury air conditioned vehicle
  • inclusion
    Covers all the iconic austin sites

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Gratuities
  • exclusion
    Parking fees
  • exclusion
    Food and beverage not included, but you can bring your own food/beverage
  • exclusion
    State required child safety seat for infants & young children

Meeting Point

Tours will depart from the Austin Visitor Center located in the historic Phillips Building. Please check-in inside the Austin Visitors Center 15 minutes prior to your departure time.

Meeting point

103 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701 , United States

End point

End Point

Tours will depart from the Austin Visitor Center located in the historic Phillips Building. Please check-in inside the Austin Visitors Center 15 minutes prior to your departure time.

Meeting point

103 E 5th St., Austin, TX 78701 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Zilker Metropolitan Park

Zilker Metropolitan Park is considered "Austin's most-loved park." This 351-acre metropolitan park is home to a variety of recreation opportunities, facilities and special events for individuals and families.

2

Barton Springs Dry Goods

Within Zilker Park's 358 acres lies one of the crown jewels of Austin: Barton Springs Pool. The pool itself measures three acres in size, and is fed from underground springs with an average temperature of 68-70 degrees, ideal for year-round swimming.

Duration 5 minutes
3

Congress Avenue Bridge Bat Watching

The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge crosses over Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin. Congress Avenue Bridge is home to the world's largest urban bat colony, which is composed of Mexican free-tailed bats. The bats reside beneath the road deck in gaps between the concrete component structures. They are migratory, spending their summers in Austin and the winters in Mexico. According to Bat Conservation International,between 750,000 and 1.5 million bats reside underneath the bridge each summer.

4

2nd Street District

2nd Street District centers around Austin’s best mix of local retail, restaurants, living and entertainment. It’s a vibrant area of walkable downtown shopping, dining and enjoyment. Take a stroll and find Austin-owned restaurants and world-renowned music in this downtown gem. Includes Willie Nelson Statue, Moody Theater where Austin City Limits is recorded, City Hall and it's one block from the beautiful shores of Lady Bird Lake.

5

Lady Bird Lake

Auditorium shores is located on the south shore of Lady Bird Lake formerly known as Town Lake, immediately west of South 1st Street. To its south are the Long Center and Palmer Events Center. The Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail passes through the park from west to east near the shore; one of the trail's major trailheads adjoins Auditorium Shores.The site includes a memorial statue of late Austin resident Stevie Ray Vaughan, who played a number of concerts at Auditorium Shores. The park is known for its scenic view of the downtown Austin skyline.

6

Mount Bonnell

Mount Bonnell, also known as Covert Park, is a prominent point alongside the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River in Austin, Texas. It has been a popular tourist destination since the 1850s. The mount provides a vista for viewing the city of Austin, Lake Austin, and the surrounding hills.

Duration 15 minutes
7

Long Center

Joe R. and Teresa Lozano Long Center for the Performing Arts is a performing arts venue located along Lady Bird Lake in downtown Austin, Texas.

8

Wild Basin Preserve

Wild Basin Wilderness Preserve consists of 227 acres of native Texas Hill Country habitat west of Austin, Texas in Westlake Hills. The preserve maintains 2.5 miles of hiking trails.

9

Zach Theatre

Producing Austin's best live theatre for audiences of all ages. Musicals, plays, theatre for families, camps, classes, special events, and more

10

Pennybacker Bridge

The Percy V. Pennybacker Jr. Bridge in Austin, Texas, is a through-arch bridge across Lake Austin which connects the northern and southern sections of the Loop 360 highway, also known as the "Capital of Texas Highway." The road is widely considered one of the most scenic urban drives in Texas, in large part due to this arched weathering-steel bridge and the rolling hills that flank the road.

11

Umlauf Sculpture Garden & Museum

The UMLAUF Sculpture Garden & Museum is home to the largest collection of American sculptor Charles Umlauf's work.

12

Barton Creek Greenbelt

The Barton Creek Greenbelt, which travels through south Austin, is the go-to destination for outdoor enthusiasts and athletes in the city. You can enjoy hiking, biking, rock-climbing, bouldering, swimming and even lazily passing a day perched in a hammock or sunbathing on a boulder along Barton Creek. Enjoy 12 miles of trails via several access points throughout Austin.

13

The Contemporary Austin - Laguna Gloria

"This Mediterranean style villa was built in 1916 for Henry H. and Clara Driscoll Sevier. Named Laguna Gloria for a nearby lagoon off the Colorado River, the stuccoed home features a decorative window at San Jose Mission in San Antonio. In 1943 the site was conveyed to the Texas Fine Arts Assoc. by Clara Driscoll, best known for her efforts to preserve the Alamo. Her homesite is now owned by Laguna Gloria Art Museum." Recorded Texas Historic Landmark - 1983

14

Mayfield Park

Mayfield Park and Preserve is an island of restful respite located in the middle of Austin, Texas. Mayfield Park is listed in the National Register of Historic Places. This entire estate was presented to the city of Austin in 1971 by Mary Mayfield Gutsch for all Austinites to enjoy as a park.

15

6th Street

The nine-block area of East Sixth Street roughly between Lavaca Street to the west and Interstate 35 to the east is recognized as the Sixth Street Historic District and was listed in the National Register of Historic Places on December 30, 1975.Developed as one of Austin's trade and commercial districts in the late 1800s, the predominant building style are two- or three-story masonry Victorian commercial architecture. Most structures in the area had already been built by the 1880s, though a few notable exceptions include the Driskill Hotel (1886), the Scarbrough Building (1910), and the Littlefield Building. East Sixth Street (known locally as Dirty Sixth) plays host to a wide variety of events each year, ranging from music and film festivals (such as South by Southwest) to biker rallies (such as The Republic of Texas Biker Rally) and the Pecan Street Festival.

16

Austin Central Library, Austin Public Library

The building was designed by a joint venture of San Antonio-based Lake Flato Architects, known for their energy-efficient and sustainable projects, and Boston-based Shepley Bulfinch, successor to the firm founded by 19th-century architect Henry Hobson Richardson. The new central library offers a living rooftop garden, reading porches, an indoor reading room and a bicycle corral, large indoor and outdoor event spaces, a gift shop, an art gallery and a café run by the ELM Restaurant Group.

Duration 15 minutes
17

The Driskill

Built in 1886 as the showplace of a cattle baron, the Driskill remains a landmark of legendary Texas hospitality. Stroll through the opulent lobby with its marble floors and stained-glass dome, corridors filled with museum-quality artwork, and grand mezzanine for a glimpse into the hotel’s storied past.

Duration 15 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Please allow us 72 hours notice for ADA accessible vehicles
  • Additional information
    Please note: Adult guests with children younger than eight years of age (unless taller than 4 feet 9 inches) will need to bring a child safety seat, this is Texas State Law
  • Additional information
    Please contact us with any health concerns you may have. There will be stops at locations with uneven surfaces.
  • Additional information
    As of 05/04/2020 – We are offering tours by reservation only.
  • Additional information
    Special accommodations for wheelchair accessible needs will be addressed by management. Special arrangements may require as long as 72 hours’ notice to secure.
Provided by AO Tours Austin

What our experts say

  • icon
    Bring a light jacket for cooler stops
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    Try local BBQ at nearby Franklin's
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    Visit Barton Springs for a swim
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    Check out the view from Mount Bonnell
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    Take photos at the Driskill Hotel

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the vibrant city of Austin and the breathtaking beauty of the Central Texas Hill Country on the Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour. This 2.5-hour tour is the perfect way to discover the hidden gems and local hangouts that make Austin so unique. With a knowledgeable Austinite guide leading the way, you'll get an insider's perspective on the city's history, culture, and must-see sights. Hop aboard a 14-passenger convertible Mercedes-Benz sprinter van, equipped with sanitized headsets for a personalized audio experience available in English and Spanish. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Austin's iconic sites and stunning landscapes.

What to Expect?

During this panoramic sightseeing tour, you can expect to see all the top attractions that make Austin a beloved destination. From the historic Driskill Hotel to the natural beauty of Barton Springs, you'll have the opportunity to explore the city's most famous landmarks. The tour also takes you through hip and historic neighborhoods, allowing you to soak up the local atmosphere and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. With 3-4 stops along the way, you'll have ample opportunities to capture stunning photos and immerse yourself in the captivating scenery. Please note that the route and stops are subject to change due to events or closures, ensuring a dynamic and flexible experience.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for anyone looking to delve into the heart of Austin's vibrant culture and explore the picturesque landscapes of the Central Texas Hill Country. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience offers something for everyone. From history buffs to nature enthusiasts, the tour caters to a wide range of interests. Families, friends, and solo travelers will all find value in this comprehensive and engaging sightseeing adventure. So, grab your loved ones, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to discover the very best that Austin and the Hill Country have to offer.

Why book this?

There are plenty of reasons to book the Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour. First and foremost, you'll have the opportunity to explore Austin's iconic sites and hidden gems with a knowledgeable local guide. Their insider knowledge and entertaining stories will bring the city to life, providing a unique perspective that you won't find in guidebooks. Additionally, the 14-passenger convertible Mercedes-Benz sprinter van offers a comfortable and stylish way to travel, with open-air views that allow you to fully immerse yourself in the surroundings. The sanitized headsets provide a personalized audio experience, ensuring you won't miss a single detail. With flexible stops along the way, you can capture amazing photos and create lasting memories. So, if you're looking for an unforgettable sightseeing adventure in Austin, this tour is a must-book.

Good to Know

Here are some important details and tips to keep in mind before booking the Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour. Food and beverages are not included in the tour, but you're welcome to bring your own. Make sure to pack some snacks and drinks to keep you energized throughout the journey. It's also worth noting that a state-required child safety seat is necessary for infants and young children, so please plan accordingly. Gratuities are not included, so if you appreciate the exceptional service provided by your guide, feel free to show your appreciation. Convenient parking options are available near the Austin Visitors Center at 602 E 4th Street, including a garage at 601 E 5th Street and street parking for $2/hr using the Park ATX app. Prepare for an incredible adventure and get ready to uncover the best of Austin and the Hill Country.

Reviews

Customers who have experienced the Austin and Hill Country Panoramic Sightseeing Tour rave about the unique and immersive nature of the experience. They appreciate the knowledgeable and friendly guides who go above and beyond to make the tour informative and entertaining. Travelers also love the well-planned itinerary that covers all the iconic Austin sites, as well as the flexibility to adapt the stops based on events or closures. The open-air convertible van allows for breathtaking views of the city and the Hill Country, providing an unforgettable sightseeing experience. Overall, customers are highly satisfied with the tour, praising it as a must-do activity for anyone visiting Austin. Don't miss out on this exceptional opportunity to explore the city like a true local and discover the beauty of the Central Texas Hill Country.

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