Downtown Black History Walking Tour in Austin
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Discover the rich history of Black communities in downtown Austin on this engaging walking tour. Spanning just one mile, you'll explore stories that are often overlooked—covering everything from Austin's early days to the ongoing legacy of Black residents in the city.
We'll visit key sites like the Texas African American History Memorial, Wooldridge Square, and the historic Sixth Street. Along the way, you'll learn about the contributions of Black Austinites to the city’s development, the struggles faced during segregation, and the ongoing fight for civil rights.
This tour offers a meaningful look into Austin’s past, encouraging dialogue and reflection. It’s perfect for history buffs, locals, or visitors eager to understand the city’s diverse roots.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Downtown Black History Walk in Austin?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, covering about a mile of walking through historic sites and neighborhoods.
What is included in the tour?
All fees and taxes are included. Please note, bottled water and tips are not included.
Is the tour suitable for all ages and fitness levels?
Yes, it’s suitable for adults aged 16 to 100 and accessible for all physical fitness levels.
What should I bring or wear?
Wear comfortable shoes, bring water if needed, and dress appropriately for weather conditions. The tour is outdoors and involves walking between stops.
Can I book a private tour?
This experience is offered as a group tour with a maximum of 5 participants. For private arrangements, please inquire directly.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- All Fees and Taxes
Not included
- Bottled water
- Tips
Itinerary
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Stop 1
The Texas African American History Memorial on the Texas State Capitol Grounds provides context on Texas' African history from colonial times to today. We’ll discuss the history of the Capitol building, completed in 1888, and the Black labor behind its construction through convict leasing.
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Stop 2
Explore the history of slavery in Austin and Travis County at a historic mansion, highlighting the lives of enslaved people and notable figures in Austin’s past.
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Stop 3
Wooldridge Square, one of Austin’s original four squares from the 1839 Waller Plan, where early Black churches, schools, and social institutions were established. We’ll also discuss Booker T. Washington’s 1911 speech here.
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Stop 4
Visit the Heman Marion Sweatt Travis County Courthouse to learn about Austin’s role in Jim Crow laws and the civil rights movement, including Thurgood Marshall’s arguments during Sweatt v. Painter.
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Stop 5
Walk down Congress Avenue to discuss desegregation efforts, including protests at the Paramount Theatre and other pivotal moments in Austin’s civil rights history.
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Stop 6
End the tour on Sixth Street, once the hub of Black commerce before becoming the city’s famous entertainment district. We’ll explore the history of Black businesses and the creation of the Negro District in 1928, which displaced Black residents to East Austin.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
Address: 1100 Congress Avenue (Intersection of 11th St. & Congress Ave.)
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day before
- 0% refund if cancelled within 24 hours
- May be canceled due to bad weather
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $55.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
