FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I have to reserve or can I just show up?
A: Reservations are strongly recommended for free tours, as tours may be cancelled if not enough people have signed up. Click here to sign up! However, if a tour still appears on the schedule day-of, then it is running as planned and you can feel free to join in without a reservation.
Q: How long is the walk?
A: About 1.5 hours, maybe a little more depending on the group. It’s more like strolling than intense hiking, with frequent stops. Routes range from about 0.5 miles (Downtown) to about 0.75 miles (East Side Art) 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! Similar walking tours in town are mostly priced at around $30 per person.
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 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 about 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 to May. Summer temperatures in Austin 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 group of more than 6 people, can we come on a free tour or do we need to book a private tour?
A: Larger groups are absolutely welcome on free tours! Just remember to sign up in advance by clicking here and let us know how many people are coming. If you don’t know the exact number, an estimate is ok. We’ll get in touch if we have any questions about your group! If you do prefer to book a private tour, send an email to laura@tipstertours.com with the date, time, and tour you’re interested in and the number in your group.
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!