Discover the powerful stories of Austin’s Black community on a guided walking tour through East Austin. Explore historic sites, engage with local culture, and support Black-owned businesses on this unique experience.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels since the pace is moderate and the route is mostly flat.
Wildlife
History
East Austin was historically a segregated community where much of Austin's Black population lived and contributed to the city's distinct cultural identity.
Conservation
Efforts in East Austin focus on sustainable tourism and preserving cultural heritage while supporting local businesses and minimizing environmental impact.
Black Austin Tours
Discover the powerful stories of Austin’s Black community on a guided walking tour through East Austin. Explore historic sites, engage with local culture, and support Black-owned businesses on this unique experience.
Black Austin Tours is a cultural tour company based in Austin, Texas that designs guided experiences centered on African American history, music, and community life. The company offers multiple walking and river tours that explore local Black heritage and contemporary culture across downtown and East Austin. Signature experiences include the Roll Colorado Roll River Tour by Black Austin Tours & Rowing Dock, led by Javier Wallace, which traces the Colorado River’s role in self-emancipation, recreation, and the 1960s swim-ins; the Taste & Sounds of the Chitlin Circuit: East Austin Music & Food Experience, which highlights East Austin’s music venues, food traditions, and visits to the George Washington Carver Museum; the Downtown’s Black History Walk, examining the Texas State Capitol’s construction and the histories of convict-leasing and cotton; and the East Austin Black History Walk, which visits the African-American Cultural & Heritage Facility, the George Washington Carver Complex, and local Black-owned businesses.
Tours combine documentary storytelling, site-specific interpretation, and community context to provide historically grounded perspectives. Guides draw on documented local history and public sites to present evidence-based narratives. Public schedules and tour descriptions are available through the company’s booking channels and partner listings. Black Austin Tours has been featured on The Adventure Collective, providing additional verification of its public programming and relevance to travelers seeking culturally focused experiences in Austin.
Programs serve visitors and local residents interested in history and culture. Tours engage community spaces, museums, and historic sites across Austin neighborhoods, offering context that connects landmarks to broader African American histories and community life.
Tours Offered
4 experiences
Walking and river-based itineraries
Local Focus
Austin, Texas
Centered on East Austin and downtown
Tour Types
Walking & River
Short, site-focused experiences
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Recognized listing for cultural tours
Reserve a walking tour or river experience to explore Austin's Black history, music, and food.
Wear Comfortable Walking Shoes
The tour involves several miles of walking on paved sidewalks and streets, so sturdy shoes will keep you comfortable throughout.
Bring Water and Stay Hydrated
Austin’s heat can be intense, especially in summer, so carry a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed.
Respect Local Businesses and Residents
Remember this is a working neighborhood; please be courteous when interacting with locals and shop respectfully.
Consider Accessible Transportation Options
If walking the full route is a challenge, check in advance for shuttle or ride-share alternatives to key stops.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and comfort for walking several miles on city sidewalks.
Reusable Water Bottle
Helps keep you hydrated during Austin's warmer weather.
summer
Sun Protection
Include sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect against strong sun exposure.
summer
Light Jacket or Layered Clothing
Useful for cooler mornings and evenings in the fall and winter seasons.
fall