Experience East Austin’s rich Black heritage through food and music on a tour that uncovers the legacy of the Chitlin Circuit. Savor authentic dishes and visit historic sites while enjoying live stories and sounds.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves walking moderate distances around city neighborhoods.
Wildlife
History
The Chitlin Circuit was a network of venues across the South that provided safe spaces for Black musicians to perform during segregation, deeply influencing American music history.
Conservation
Local tour operators support sustainable practices by promoting walking tours that reduce vehicle emissions and encourage respect for historic sites.
Black Austin Tours
Experience East Austin’s rich Black heritage through food and music on a tour that uncovers the legacy of the Chitlin Circuit. Savor authentic dishes and visit historic sites while enjoying live stories and sounds.
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.
Book Early
This private tour fills quickly due to its unique cultural content—reserve your spot well in advance.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You’ll be walking between venues, so sturdy shoes will help you enjoy the experience comfortably.
Bring a Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially on warm days in Austin.
Prepare for Weather Variability
Austin weather can change quickly, so dress in layers and bring sun protection or rain gear as appropriate.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating city streets and venues with ease.
Reusable Water Bottle
Hydration is key, especially during warmer months in Austin.
summer
Lightweight Layered Clothing
Layers allow adaptability to Austin’s changing spring temperatures.
spring
Sunscreen and Hat
Protects your skin during outdoor portions of the tour.
summer