Austins Haunted Ghost and Murder Tour

Austin’s lively music scene, eclectic neighborhoods, and vibrant culture often steal the spotlight, but beneath its modern surface lurks a haunted history that’s just waiting to be uncovered. The Austins Haunted Ghost and Murder Tour offers a one-of-a-kind look into the city’s spooky past, blending ghost stories, unsolved crimes, and historic sights into an engaging 1 hour 45-minute journey. Topping the list of things we love? The small-group format, which makes the experience intimate, allowing for plenty of questions and personal interaction with your guide.

That said, this tour involves a fair amount of walking through downtown Austin, so it’s not ideal if you’re after a seated, relaxed experience. But if you’re into authentic local stories, a bit of history, and a dash of the supernatural—this tour hits all the right notes. Perfect for history buffs, supernatural enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys a good spine-tingling story mixed with a walk through the city’s hidden corners.

Key Points

• Small-group tours ensure a personalized experience with ample time for questions.
• Ghost stories and crime tales make this a captivating way to learn about Austin’s darker side.
• The visit to the Driskill Hotel offers a glimpse into one of Austin’s most iconic haunted landmarks.
• Historic locations like The Tavern and the Capitol add depth and context.
• Affordable price point at $30 per person, offering excellent value for a rich, storytelling experience.
• Highly rated guides bring the stories to life with humor, passion, and authentic insights.

What’s Included and How It Works

Starting at just $30 per person, this tour is an accessible way to explore Austin’s spooky side while learning about its history and unsolved mysteries. The tour is run by Spirits of Austin, with a professional guide leading small groups of up to 15 travelers. Expect a mobile ticket, so no need to worry about printing or complicated check-ins. The entire experience lasts around 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity—perfect for those wanting a quick but immersive experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: The Tavern – A Ghost of the Past

Your journey kicks off at The Tavern on West 12th Street, a building with a history that predates its current role as a lively neighborhood pub. Originally a private home, this site is believed to be haunted by Emily, a young woman whose spirit still makes her presence known. Visitors report eerie encounters in the cozy bar area and the old pool hall, where quiet whispers and unexplained movements have left many curious.

We loved the way your guide takes you inside, exploring the historic interior in a way that makes the stories feel immediate and real. The fact that this stop is free to enter adds to its appeal—it’s more about the stories than any entry fee. Reviewers mention that Jamie, the guide, is a talented storyteller who makes the history come alive, describing Emily’s presence with enthusiasm and humor. It’s a perfect first stop that offers a sense of Austin’s long-standing connection to the supernatural.

Stop 2: The Capitol Building – Haunted Grounds

Next, the tour visits the Capitol building, finished in 1888. While most visitors admire its grand architecture, many don’t realize it’s also said to be haunted by Comptroller Robert Marshall Love, who was reportedly shot at his desk inside the Capitol. Visitors have also reported seeing a lady in red and mysterious handprints on the windows—adding a ghostly layer to the political hub.

From a visitor’s perspective, the allure is in the contrast: a historic political building with a dark past, wrapped in ghost stories. Our reviewers highlight that the tour’s storytelling skills make these stories come alive, transforming a typical sightseeing visit into a chilling experience. It’s this blend of history and haunted legend that makes the tour unique and memorable.

Stop 3: Paramount Theatre – A Night of Ghostly Glow

Gathering outside the Paramount Theatre, you’ll feel the weight of its history since 1915. This grand venue has seen countless performances, but it also has its own spectral tales. The guide recounts stories of unexplained noises and sightings that have haunted the theatre for years—perfect for those who love a theatrical ghost story.

Stop 4: The Driskill Hotel – Austin’s Haunted Landmark

No haunted tour of Austin would be complete without a visit to the Driskill Hotel, standing since 1886. Recognized as a symbol of the city’s history and luxury, it’s also reputed to be filled with spirits. Guests and staff alike report ghostly encounters, and the hotel’s opulent halls make an atmospheric backdrop for these tales. Jamie keeps the mood lively, as you explore its historic corridors, adding detail to the ghostly rumors.

Stop 5: Speakeasy – Fire and Specters

The tour’s finale is at a speakeasy on Congress Avenue, where a tragic fire in 1916 at the Kreisle Building caused explosions and chaos. The stories around the fire tell of lingering spirits and unexplained phenomena, tying into Austin’s darker, more mysterious past. The location’s history of disaster makes it a fitting place to end the journey.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, the guides excel at making the stories relatable and engaging. Based on numerous reviews, Jamie is praised for his lively storytelling, humor, and ability to keep a group entertained—whether weaving tales of ghostly encounters or recounting the city’s wild west past. Reviewers often mention how the mix of history, crime, and supernatural tales creates a layered experience that’s both fun and educational.

Expect a brisk walk through downtown Austin, with stops at landmarks you might not notice on your own. The group size keeps things intimate, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or chat about your own ghostly experiences. Most travelers have found the pace comfortable, and the tour’s duration makes it a perfect evening activity—especially if you’re keen on combining it with dinner or drinks afterward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Travelers highlight the guide’s storytelling skills as a major plus. Many reviews rave about Jamie’s engaging personality, his humor, and his authentic passion for Austin’s haunted history. His English accent and Sherlock Holmes-style delivery add an extra layer of charm that keeps participants entertained from start to finish.

The inclusion of iconic landmarks like the Driskill Hotel and the Capitol gives the tour a sense of authenticity—these aren’t just ghost stories, but stories rooted in actual places with documented histories. Plus, the fact that most stops are free to explore means you’re only paying for the storytelling, which many consider a worthwhile investment.

The Practicalities

The tour starts at The Tavern on West 12th Street, with the final stop at a downtown speakeasy. If you park at The Tavern, it’s about a 20-25 minute walk back to the starting point, or a quick 5-minute Uber ride. The guide is very friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience welcoming even to first-time ghost tour participants.

Booking is usually done about a week in advance, and most travelers find the $30 price tag to be a fair deal considering the quality of storytelling and access to historic sites. The small-group format means fewer crowds and more personalized attention, which travelers repeatedly praise.

Cancellation policies are flexible—full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance—so it’s a low-risk way to explore Austin’s haunted side.

This tour is ideal for history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and those curious about Austin’s darker tales. If you enjoy stories told with humor, personality, and detail, you’ll appreciate the lively narration and intimate group setting. It’s great for first-time visitors wanting a different perspective on Austin beyond its music and food scene, but it also suits locals interested in the city’s haunted lore.

Since the tour involves walking and some stops at historic buildings, it’s best for those comfortable with light physical activity and outdoor walking. Families with teenagers or groups of friends looking for a fun, spooky evening will find this tour hits the right notes.

The Austins Haunted Ghost and Murder Tour offers excellent value at just $30, especially considering the engaging storytelling, iconic sites, and the chance to learn about Austin’s supernatural side firsthand. The guides’ passion and humor elevate what could be a standard ghost walk into a memorable experience that blends history, mystery, and local legends seamlessly.

This tour is perfect for travelers who seek an authentic, entertaining way to experience Austin beyond the usual sights. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a good ghost story, a bit of true crime, or simply want a different perspective on one of Texas’s most vibrant cities. The intimate group size and passionate guides make it feel personal and special, creating stories you’ll likely remember long after your trip.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, covering several historic and haunted sites in downtown Austin.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket price covers the guided tour with a professional guide and all the stops listed in the itinerary. It does not include alcoholic beverages or private transportation.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s generally family-friendly. However, it involves walking and some spooky stories, so consider the age of children or sensitive travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at The Tavern on West 12th Street and finishes at a speakeasy in downtown Austin, about a 20-25 minute walk back to the start if you parked at The Tavern.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full cancellation refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. The policy is straightforward and flexible.

Are the guides knowledgeable about Austin’s history?
Absolutely. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Jamie for their storytelling, humor, and ability to bring the city’s haunted tales to life with authentic insights.

To sum it up, if you’re after an engaging, affordable way to explore Austin’s hidden haunted corners, this tour offers a compelling blend of history, ghost stories, and local legends. Its small-group format and passionate guides make it a night to remember—perfect for anyone eager to see a different side of Texas’s capital.