Tea Around Town Austin: Elegant Tea Bus Tour and Treats

If you’re looking for an unusual way to explore Austin, this Tea Around Town tour offers a delightful blend of sightseeing, culture, and indulgence. Instead of the usual walking or driving tour, you’ll hop aboard a vintage double-decker bus, sip expertly brewed teas, nibble on gourmet snacks, and enjoy live acoustic music—all in a cozy, open-air setting. It’s a charming experience suited for friends, couples, or solo travelers eager for a taste of Austin’s lively vibe with a touch of elegance.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of iconic landmarks and the relaxed, intimate atmosphere created by the vintage bus and live music. The quality of the teas and delicious treats make it feel indulgent without being over-the-top, and the opportunity to take home a keepsake tumbler adds a wonderful finishing touch. One potential drawback is that the tour lasts about 90 minutes, so if you’re pressed for time or prefer more active sightseeing, you might find it a bit subdued. Still, it’s a premium experience that suits those who appreciate a leisurely exploration paired with a good story and great flavor.

This tour is perfect for those who want a refined yet relaxed way to see Austin. It’s particularly appealing if you love tea, enjoy small-group experiences, or are looking for a special way to celebrate a birthday, anniversary, or just a lovely afternoon.

Key Points

• Unique sightseeing experience aboard a vintage double-decker bus
• Premium teas paired with gourmet treats and live acoustic music
• Iconic Austin landmarks like the Capitol, UT Tower, and lakeside views
• Intimate atmosphere ideal for couples or small groups
• Includes a souvenir tumbler to remember the experience
• Good value for the price given the quality of food, drink, and scenery

An Engaging and Stylish Way to See Austin

This tour offers an inviting way to explore Austin’s vibrant streets from a comfortable, open-air vintage bus. The bus is styled in charming pink and floral accents, which makes it perfect for photos and adds a whimsical touch to your outing. The fact that it’s a double-decker means you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city, perfect for snapping pictures of Austin’s skyline and landmarks.

The tour lasts about 90 minutes—with roughly 75 minutes of riding and 15 minutes for boarding and disembarking. This makes it suitable for travelers looking for a relaxed yet engaging experience without overly committing a large chunk of their day.

The Itinerary: Stops and Sights

The tour itinerary reads like a curated collection of Austin’s most photogenic and historic sites, each offering a different flavor of the city:

The Pink Granite Architecture

The tour begins with a view of a stunning 19th-century building, notable for its pink granite façade and taller than the U.S. Capitol. It’s a favorite photo spot and a symbol of Austin’s historic charm. Sipping tea here adds a layer of elegance to the picture-perfect moment.

Austins Most Historic Boulevard

Next, you cruise down a lively stretch of downtown Austin, lined with boutique shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. A walk or drive along this street reminds visitors of the city’s blend of modern culture and Texas tradition—perfect for those who enjoy urban scenes with a touch of history.

The University of Texas Tower

No visit to Austin would be complete without a glimpse of the UT Tower. From your seat on the bus, you get a sweeping view of the sprawling campus, a spot that symbolizes the city’s educational and innovative spirit.

Lakeside Views

Passing by a peaceful lake, travelers can enjoy views of kayakers, paddleboarders, and the city skyline reflected in the water. Many reviews praise this section for its serene and scenic atmosphere, especially in the afternoon light.

Historic Theater and Modern Venue

The tour also passes a vintage theater from 1915, famous for concerts and festivals, as well as a sleek, modern event space that highlights Austin’s creative and technological energy. These stops showcase the city’s diverse cultural fabric.

City Skyline Panorama

Finally, you’ll get to see Austin’s skyline from the open-top deck of the bus—an impressive backdrop perfect for photos and a great way to round off your sightseeing.

The Food, Teas, and Live Music

A key highlight of the tour is the gourmet three-tiered service. You’ll taste three premium teas—each thoughtfully paired with freshly baked pastries, sandwiches, and sweets. Guests consistently praise the quality and presentation of the treats, noting they add a luxurious touch to the experience.

Live acoustic music performed by skilled musicians adds a relaxing ambiance, turning the ride into a cozy, memorable event. Several reviews mention the talented performers, like Mallory serenading guests, and how the music elevates the whole outing.

The Guides and Staff

Guests consistently describe the guides and staff as knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. The storytelling about Austin’s landmarks and history is lively and engaging, making the sights come alive. The staff’s friendliness is often praised, with many reviews mentioning their warm hospitality and helpfulness.

The Value: Is It Worth the Price?

At $69 per person, the tour offers a well-rounded package: scenic views, cultural insights, quality food and drinks, and a memorable setting. The inclusion of a souvenir tumbler adds a nice memento, and the overall experience feels carefully curated. For those who appreciate small-group intimacy and a stylish way to explore, this is a good value.

However, some reviews hint at potential disappointments. One comment mentions food not being fresh despite paying for the deluxe experience. While most guests rave about the quality, it’s worth keeping in mind that everyone’s expectations can vary. Also, since the tour depends on weather, rain or storms might cause cancellations or a less enjoyable experience outdoors.

Considering the Reviews

Most reviews are positive, praising the friendly staff, delicious food, and scenic views. The bus’s adorable decor and the live music are often highlighted as highlights. However, there are a few concerns about cancellations and food quality, which remind travelers to check the weather and perhaps temper expectations about gourmet perfection.

Practical Details

The tour departs from 650 E 10th St in Austin, near the Swim Club. Arrive at least 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start, as the bus departs promptly. The maximum group size is about 38 travelers, which strikes a balance between intimacy and lively social atmosphere.

Weather is a factor—since much of the tour is outdoors, poor weather could lead to cancellations or a less enjoyable experience. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, offering some flexibility.

This experience is ideal for tea lovers, anyone wanting a stylish way to see Austin, or those celebrating a special occasion like a birthday or anniversary. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy small-group environments, live music, and relaxing sightseeing. If you’re after a fast-paced, activity-packed day, this might not be the right fit. But if you want a gentle, charming taste of Austin with a touch of sophistication, it’s a delightful choice.

The Tea Around Town Austin tour offers a relaxed, elegant way to explore the city’s highlights. From the iconic landmarks to lakeside views, every stop feels thoughtfully chosen. The quality of the tea and treats, paired with live music and the vintage bus setting, creates a memorable atmosphere that feels both special and authentic.

This experience shines brightest for those who appreciate good food, beautiful scenery, and a cozy vibe. It’s perfect for romantic outings, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a gentle, stylish adventure. While it’s not for those seeking fast-paced sightseeing or gourmet cuisine, it excels at offering a unique, charming, and immersive glimpse of Austin.

For anyone wanting a relaxed, fun, and beautifully curated city tour with a touch of elegance, this is definitely worth considering when planning your Austin trip.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 90 minutes, with about 75 minutes of touring and 15 minutes for boarding and disembarking.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at 650 E 10th St, Austin, near the Swim Club, making it easy to access via public transportation or walking.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a scenic ride on a vintage double-decker bus, live guided stories, three premium teas, gourmet treats, live acoustic music, and a souvenir tumbler.

Are there any food or drink restrictions?
Guests will enjoy three different teas paired with delicious baked goods and sandwiches. No restrictions are mentioned, and the treats are freshly baked.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but the experience involves sitting outdoors on a vintage bus. It’s best to inquire directly if you have specific mobility concerns.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera for photos, a jacket if it’s cool outside, and an appreciation for relaxing, scenic sightseeing with good company.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. It’s best to check the forecast and plan accordingly.

This charming tour blends Austin’s lively sights, local culture, and a sophisticated taste of tea—perfect for those who want to experience the city in style and comfort.