FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to reserve or can I just show up?
A: You can just show up for any public tour on the calendar – no reservations are required! But feel free to let us know to expect you if you prefer, especially if you have a large group of more than 6 people or any questions about the tour.
Q: How long is the walk?
A: About 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s more like wandering than intense hiking. Routes range from about 0.5 miles (Downtown) to about 1.25 miles (Music).
Q: How much does it cost?
A: Pay what you like. There are no fees. If you enjoyed the experience, tip what you think is fair and can afford. We leave it up to you to decide what the tour is worth!
Q: What is a typical tip?
A: The most common tips are $15-25, but it’s completely your call.
Q: What forms of payment do you accept?
A: Guides can accept cash and Venmo or other apps for tips. We can’t take tips on credit card right now but hope to in the future! For private tours, we can send an invoice via Square or Paypal, though there may be fees for these payment methods.
Q: Are tours accessible to those with wheelchairs or strollers?
A: Yes! All of our tours are accessible. If you have any questions or requests regarding accessibility on tours, please let us know!
Q: How do we know who will be leading the walk?
A: It’s easy. Just look for someone wearing a bright green Tipster shirt at the meeting location. If you have trouble finding your guide, call 425-219-9294 or email laura@tipstertours.com.
Q: Should we be on time to start the walk, and what happens if we’re late?
A: Try to be! We are hanging out at the meeting location 10-15 minutes before the start time and recommend that you try to arrive a few minutes early too. If you do happen to be late though, look around for us! We are typically at the starting point for at least the first 5 minutes of each tour, and within 1 block for the first 10-15 minutes. You can also call 425-219-9294 or email laura@tipstertours.com to let us know you’re running behind, though if you contact us after the tour begins we may not be able to respond. If nobody arrives within 10 minutes of the tour start time, it will be considered a no-show and cancelled.
Q: Do free tours run year round?
Our free public tour season runs from September through May. Daytime temperatures in Austin between June and August are often 100+ degrees Fahrenheit, and we have found that not many people typically show up to walk during those months. We do offer private tours year round based on guide availability, but recommend scheduling summertime tours as early or late in the day as possible to avoid the midday sun.
Q: Does quality suffer because you don’t charge a fee?
A: Absolutely not! Ask anybody on our team and they’ll tell you that they love what they do. They get to walk around some of the best parts of Austin and share insider tips and stories with cool people. Seriously, who wouldn’t want a gig like that? That said, we think that our guides are great and deserve to be rewarded for the tours they give. So tips are always appreciated if you enjoy the tour!
Q: What is a typical group size?
A: Depends on the weekend, weather, and many other factors. We’re prepared for all size groups! The walks tend to have a good number of people which makes the experience enjoyable and social. You’d be surprised by how many folks connect for food and fun after the walk.
Q: We are a large group of more than 6 people, can we just show up without a reservation?
A: Absolutely! No reservations are required. We’d appreciate it, though, if you let us know beforehand so we know to expect you.
Q: Does the tour make a loop?
A: No, tours end at another location where guests have a chance to continue the fun. After each tour, guides are available to give you directions back to your car or recommend other places to check out in the city!
Q: What should I bring?
A: Don’t forget your camera! You’ll definitely want to capture your experience. It’s also a great idea to bring water and sunscreen.
Q: Are the tours family friendly?
A: Yes! Tours are family friendly and kids of all ages are welcome when accompanied by an adult, including on the Beer Tour. However, the Haunts & Horrors Tour may not be appropriate for all children, and minors are not able to come along on Cocktail Tours.
Q: Are dogs allowed?
A: As long as your dog is friendly, well-behaved, and won’t be disruptive on the tour, you’re welcome to bring them along! We love dogs and always enjoy having them in the group.
Q: Will there be a food/drink/bathroom break?
A: Most of our routes don’t have ready access to public restrooms at all points along the way, and as tours are only about 90 minutes we don’t usually build in a bathroom or snack break. Try to use the restroom before the tour begins and come prepared with any refreshments you may want, but if you do need a bathroom break mid-tour just let your guide know and they will point you in the right direction!