Barton Springs, Austin: Our most recommended tours and activities

Austin: Single or Double Kayak Rental

1. Austin: Single or Double Kayak Rental

Explore the capital of Texas on a relaxing single or double kayak adventure. Take your time as you explore the city in either a single or double kayak and check out the views as you float along the calm waters of Lady Bird Lake. Discover multiple man-made outlets that can take you all the way from Congress Avenue Bridge to Barton Springs all while exploring on your own. Alternatively, relax and enjoy the towering sights of Downtown Austin while on the relaxing waters of Lady Bird Lake. A driver's license per kayak will be required when checking in on site. A waiver will also be required and can be filled out at the dock.

Austin: Small Group Tour with Texas Capitol Visit

2. Austin: Small Group Tour with Texas Capitol Visit

Welcome to our exclusive Best of Austin Tour with See Sight Tours, where you can experience the vibrant culture and breathtaking views of this amazing city. Our knowledgeable and friendly local guides will take you on a small group tour (max. 7 guests) in the comfort and style of one of our air-conditioned Mercedes Metris vans, ensuring that you get the best out of your Austin adventure. Meet your guide at your downtown Austin hotel and begin your fully guided tour in the comfort and style of a Mercedes Metris van. Your tour begins with a visit to the Texas Capitol - the seat of government for the state of Texas. This iconic Italian Renaissance Revival style building was constructed between 1882 and 1888 and is the sixth-tallest state capitol. Our guide will take you on a guided tour around the grounds, where you can admire the Heroes of Alamo, the Confederate Soldiers Monument, and the Volunteer Firemen Monument, among other notable monuments and statues. Next, we'll take you to see some of the famous murals in Austin, including the "I love you so much" mural and the "Greetings from Austin" mural. These vibrant and colorful murals are an Instagrammer's paradise and have become iconic symbols of the city. Afterwards, we'll head to Barton Springs, a natural spring-fed pool in the heart of the city, where you can take in the beautiful scenery and enjoy a relaxing walk around the area. We'll then make a surprise food stop, where you can indulge in some delicious local cuisine and treats. Next up, we'll take you to Mount Bonnell, one of the highest points in Austin, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city skyline. The view from the top is simply breathtaking, and you won't want to miss it. Finally, we'll adventure around the Pennybacker Bridge, also known as the "360 Bridge," which spans across Lake Austin and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and water. Throughout the tour, our guide will provide you with informative commentary and local insights, giving you a true taste of Austin's unique culture and history. At the end of your tour, we'll take you back to your Downtown Austin hotel, leaving you with unforgettable memories of your Austin adventure At the end of your tour, head back to your downtown Austin hotel.

Austin: Electric Bike City Sightseeing Tour

3. Austin: Electric Bike City Sightseeing Tour

Start at the shop and get outfitted to a pedal-assist E-bike. After a quick safety meeting and pre-ride warm-up, head towards the South Congress District and check out many of Austin's most famous murals where you'll have time to stop and snap some photos before heading on to your next adventure. Head towards the new boardwalk and take in the views of the Austin skyline before heading north to check out Downtown Austin. As you enter the downtown area, see some of Austin's most popular entertainment districts including Rainey Street and 6th Street. Continue towards the Texas State Capitol and get a chance to walk inside and check out the famous rotunda. Finish your tour by heading to the University of Texas campus and learn about the school's history. On your way back to the shop, stop at Texas's oldest swimming pool and the gem of Austin, Barton Springs. This natural pool is a recreational outdoor swimming pool that is filled entirely with water from nearby a natural spring and sits at 65 degrees year-round.

Austin: Kayaking Tour through Downtown to Barton Springs

4. Austin: Kayaking Tour through Downtown to Barton Springs

Follow your guide on a fun-filled kayaking journey to Barton Springs. Admire stunning views of the downtown Austin skyline. Enjoy a trip that is suitable for beginners, as it includes paddling instruction. Meet your guide and get set up with your kayak, paddle, and life vest. Learn how to paddle before setting off on your kayaking adventure. Capture pictures of Austin from the water. View the Congress Avenue Bridge, which is home to Mexican free-tailed bats. Explore the waters of Lady Bird Lake where you can view the Austin's skyline from afar. Kayak into the crystal clear waters of Barton Springs and search for local wildlife like the Barton Springs salamander. Return to your starting point at the end of your tour.

Austin: Lady Bird Lake Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental

5. Austin: Lady Bird Lake Stand-Up Paddleboard Rental

Explore the capital of Texas while leisurely paddling Lady Bird Lake and nearby waterways. Perfect for family, friends, or a combination of both, see sights like the towering Congress Avenue Bridge, Barton Springs, Zilker Park, the Statesman Bat Observation Center, and plenty of wildlife. Begin your adventure in downtown Austin to collect your paddleboard. Learn how to mount and maneuver your board and understand the rights of way for river and lake traffic. Then it's time to get into the water, pausing to take a photo of the sweeping city skyline dotted with skyscrapers. Feel the sun on your face as you paddle through the calm lake water of Lady Bird Lake. Stay here to watch for local wildlife along the banks or cruise towards the Colorado River to the Statesman Bat Observation Center and Congress Avenue Bridge to catch a glimpse of the city's large bat colonies. Continue to nearby Barton Springs, a set of four natural water springs located in Zilker Park. Take a break to swim in the crisp water or watch for wildlife like fish, otters, turtles, and birds. Then it's time to head back to return the paddleboards and take one last photo of your adventure.

Austin: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

6. Austin: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Once downloaded, your tour begins at Mount Bonnell, which offers panoramic views of the city. Next, you’ll cruise around the outskirts of the city, seeing plenty of parks, nature preserves, and botanical gardens and learning more about the founding of this weird and wild capital city along the way. At Barton Springs, you’ll have a chance to take a dip in this beautiful natural pool or rent a kayak to row down Austin’s gorgeous river. Then you’ll cross Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the largest urban bat colony in America. Hear why bats roost here and how to see them take flight as you cross into Austin’s urban core. Learn the story behind the iconic slogan “Keep Austin Weird,” then park by the Texas State Capitol building and stroll along its historic grounds. Next, you’ll walk down Congress Avenue, flush with preserved historic architecture, quirky shops, and amazing restaurants. Finally, you’ll reach Austin’s famous 6th Street, the buzzing nightlife center of the city. Your tour concludes here.

Austin: 1.5-Hour Lady Bird Lake Bike Tour

7. Austin: 1.5-Hour Lady Bird Lake Bike Tour

Escape the hustle and bustle of Austin's tourist hotspots and get off the beaten track as you explore Lady Bird Lake on a bicycle tour. See more of the city in less time, visit famous locations, and enjoy entertaining commentary from your local guide along the way.  Meet your guide at the meeting point, receive your helmet and bike, and set out on your tour. Head down to the famous Barton Springs Pool and Zilker Park area and learn about Austin's largest park and its significance. Then head towards the Stevie Ray Vaughn statue and the Congress Avenue bridge. The itinerary includes sites like the old Mopac railroad bridge, Austin's newest library, the Pfluger pedestrian bridge, and of course the iconic boardwalk for perfect photo opportunities of the Austin skyline. Listen as your guide provides insider tips about life in Austin and gives you informative tidbits about the locations that are on the tour’s itinerary.  

Austin: Lady Bird Lake Kayaking Tour

8. Austin: Lady Bird Lake Kayaking Tour

Our friendly tour guides will greet you at Rowing Dock, and get you set up with everything needed on the water. The tour guide hosts a safety meeting and fits each guest for a life jacket. The Rowing Dock staff will help you into your boat and review basic paddling tips with you prior to departure. Once on the water, your tour guide will lead you on a journey to the Springs. Along the way, there will be numerous opportunities to take photos with the downtown Austin City skyline in the background. This tour is approximately two miles round trip and lasts two hours. Guests will be allowed to get out of their boats and take a dip in the cool spring water. The tour ends at Rowing Dock.

Austin: Guided City Kayaking Tour

9. Austin: Guided City Kayaking Tour

Admire the Austin skyline on a guided Kayaking tour. Sail along Lady Bird Lake and look out for local wildlife, such as the Mexican free-tailed bat and enjoy your beautiful surroundings at Barton Springs. Pick up your Kayak and set off from Lady Bird Lake. Follow your tour guide along this serene lake and marvel at the glittering skyline ahead. See the Congress Avenue Bat Bridge and keep an eye out for the famous Mexican American free-tailed bats. Sail past historical buildings that make up the iconic Austin skyline as well as important bridges, including Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge. Continue to Barton Springs and admire the crystal-clear water and lush surroundings.

Austin & Houston: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

10. Austin & Houston: Self-Guided Driving Audio Tour

Start by downloading the Action Tour Guide app, which will function as your personal tour guide, audio tour, and map all in one. Purchase one tour per car, not per person. Everyone listens together! Once downloaded, your tour begins in either Austin or Houston. In Austin, you’ll start at the beautiful Mount Bonnell. As you drive, you’ll learn about Texas’s struggle for independence and the city’s rich and delightfully diverse music history. Plus, cruise past the Wild Basin Wilderness preserve, replete with over 200 acres of preserved wilderness. Uncover the city’s rich BBQ history, especially Austin’s pit-style cooking! Then find out how this became the hottest city in the tech industry. Stop by Zilker Botanical Garden with 28 acres of local and exotic flora. Pay a visit to the beloved Barton Springs with its three-acre spring-fed pool, a miniature train, and even a community theater! Then, cross Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the largest urban bat colony in America. Dig further into Austin’s culture and learn how the iconic phrase “Keep Austin Weird” was born! Get some trivia on the various movies and shows that have been filmed here, such as the cult classic, Office Space and Richard Linklater’s ambitious Boyhood, shot over a dozen years. Then park by the majestic state capitol and stroll through the beautiful grounds as you learn more about Austin’s fascinating history. Finally, catch snatches of the vibrant nightlife on 6th Street, which was once a hive of booze-related shenanigans during Prohibition. This concludes your Austin adventure! In Houston, you’ll begin on Lamar Street, between the Embassy Suites Hotel and Grove Restaurant. Then hear about the Caddo Nations and how the Spanish conquered their land to establish Mexico. Proceed past the Buffalo Bayou Park and unearth the famed Battle of San Jacinto, a key fight in the struggle for Texan independence! As you drive, you’ll behold amazing architecture both new and old, from sleek skyscrapers like Penzoil Place to the grandeur of Christ Church Cathedral. Discover the blend of art, science, and history at the Houston Museum District, where you’ll find a diverse range of museums dedicated to everything from African-American culture, to children, natural sciences, and beyond! Of course, no visit is complete without learning the history of NASA. Learn why Houston was chosen for the headquarters and hear stories of some of its greatest triumphs as you make your way to the Johnson Space Center. Your tour concludes here.

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Barton Springs, Austin

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What people are saying about Barton Springs, Austin

Overall rating

4.9 / 5

based on 44 reviews

Mike was extraordinary! He knew all the stories info and locations of this tour inside out. He is personable, considerate, knowledgeable and very adept at sharing his vast knowledge. My only regret is that it wasn't a week long tour.

We took a 3 hour downtown Austin and surrounding area tour on electric bikes. There were six in our group and we had no problem staying together, even going up hills and through the busy downtown area. The bikes were awesome!

Excellent tour with Michael! Great photos. We take bike tours in cities to learn how to navigate the city and recognize landmarks. This tour was full of these opportunities.

Loved this tour! Fun way to see Austin. Mike did a terrific job. Highly recommend this tour. Well worth the money.

This is an amazing tour. We got to see so much of the city. Highly recommend it.