Austin’s Best Speakeasies 3-Hour Guided Tour

Explore Austin’s Top Hidden Speakeasies in Just 3 Hours

The Austin’s Best Speakeasies 3-Hour Guided Tour offers a distinctive way to experience the city’s secret bar scene, all for $50 per person. This tour covers five unique venues, each with its own theme and atmosphere, starting at sunset and ending with a vibrant tiki-themed finale. With a professional guide leading the way and private transportation between key stops, this experience combines history, exclusivity, and creative cocktails.

While the tour is relatively short, it offers a well-curated selection of Austin’s most impressive hidden bars. It’s perfect for those who want a guided taste of Austin’s nightlife with an emphasis on atmosphere and craft. Note that alcoholic beverages are not included in the price and are available for purchase at each stop. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with a maximum of 9 guests, ensuring an intimate atmosphere.

Key Points

• Price: $50.00 per person for a 3-hour experience
• Duration: Approximately 3 hours, starting at 8:00 pm
• Stops: Five exclusive venues including hidden speakeasies and iconic locations
• Transport: Private vehicle used to move between venues after the initial stops
• Highlights: Stunning interior designs, creative cocktails, and a mix of historic and modern venues
• Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance

Starting at a Hidden Luxury Speakeasy Inside a Mexican Restaurant

The tour kicks off at Powder Room, a luxurious cocktail lounge known for its warm glow and impressive interior design. This hidden speakeasy is tucked away inside a casual Mexican restaurant, offering a breathtaking atmosphere that immediately sets an upscale, inviting tone. The 45-minute stop features some of the most visually striking interiors in Austin, making it a perfect introduction to the city’s secret bar scene.

Located centrally, Powder Room’s environment welcomes visitors into an intimate space where craftsmanship and decor are as impressive as the drinks served. This venue also provides a relaxed setting to start the evening before moving on to more historic and themed locales.

Passing Iconic Austin Landmarks with Stunning Capitol Views

As the group heads toward the next stop, the guide shares captivating stories about Austin’s past while passing by landmarks like the Texas State Capitol. This short 10-minute walk allows guests to enjoy stunning views of the Capitol Building and absorb a bit of Austin’s history.

This segment provides a nice pause to appreciate the city’s architecture and iconic sights, without feeling rushed. It sets the stage for the upcoming visits to historic and secret venues, adding a layer of local flavor and context.

The Driskill Hotel: Historic Charm and Haunted Vibes

Next, the tour visits The Driskill Hotel, a landmark built in 1886. Known for its haunted reputation and classic Texas luxury, this hotel exudes charm and quirkiness. A quick 10-minute walk through its grand lobby offers insight into Austin’s historic past, with the guide highlighting the building’s unique architecture and stories of its haunted reputation.

While inside, visitors get a chance to appreciate the grand staircases and vintage decor that define this historic location. The Driskill’s presence on the tour balances history with a lively, modern vibe, making it a memorable stop in the heart of downtown.

Modern Elegance at Here Nor There

The tour then progresses to Here Nor There, a stylish, invitation-only lounge that serves globally inspired cocktails. This modern speakeasy boasts a dark, inviting ambiance and an impressive visual presentation. Guests spend 45 minutes in this venue, experiencing some of the best-crafted drinks in downtown Austin.

Here Nor There’s exclusivity and trendy vibe make it a highlight for those interested in creative mixology. The guide emphasizes the venue’s invitation-only atmosphere, adding a sense of privilege and uniqueness to the experience.

Exploring the Buzz of 6th Street

A quick 10-minute stop takes the group onto 6th Street, Austin’s most famous nightlife thoroughfare. Known for its many bars, theaters, and vibrant energy, this area is a must-see. While the tour doesn’t include extended time here, passing through allows guests to absorb the lively atmosphere that defines Austin’s nightlife scene.

This segment also provides a visual contrast to the more exclusive venues, showcasing the bustling, energetic side of Austin’s entertainment culture. The guide shares stories about the street’s history and its role in Austin’s social life.

The Grand Finale at Tiki Tatsu-Ya

The tour culminates at Tiki Tatsu-Ya, a vibrant tiki-themed venue recognized among Austin’s 50 Best Restaurants and featured in GQ. This fantastical space offers theatrical drinks and an exotic decor that transports guests to another world. The 45-minute stop here is packed with creative cocktails and a lively, fun atmosphere.

Tiki Tatsu-Ya stands out as an explosive finish to the evening, combining visual spectacle, inventive drinks, and tropical vibes. The venue’s reputation for unmatched creativity makes it a fitting end to Austin’s ultimate speakeasy experience.

Logistic Details and Group Size

This tour departs from 301 W 5th St, Austin, at 8:00 pm, and concludes at the last venue on S Lamar Blvd. The group is limited to 9 guests, ensuring personalized attention from the professional guide. Transportation between the last stops is provided via private vehicle, making the transitions smooth and comfortable.

Guests should note that alcoholic beverages are not included in the tour price and are available for purchase at each venue. The tour is accessible to most travelers, and the confirmation is received immediately at booking.

What Sets This Tour Apart

The combination of historic, modern, and secret venues distinguishes this tour from typical pub crawls. The focus on hidden venues with impressive decor, including exclusive invitation-only bars and a vibrant tiki venue, creates a compelling experience. The stunning interior design at Powder Room and the exotic atmosphere at Tiki Tatsu-Ya are particularly praised.

While the tour’s short duration means it’s best suited for those with limited time or wanting a curated glimpse into Austin’s secret bar scene, it delivers a rich, visually engaging experience with creative cocktails (drinks are purchased separately).

Final Thoughts on Austin’s Best Speakeasies Tour

This 3-hour guided tour offers a thoughtful, fun way to explore Austin’s hidden speakeasies and iconic nightlife spots. With stops at luxury, historic, modern, and tiki-themed venues, it provides a well-rounded snapshot of the city’s diverse bar scene. The private transportation and small group size enhance comfort and intimacy.

This experience is ideal for those eager to discover Austin’s secret bars with a knowledgeable guide, especially for fans of unique interiors and inventive cocktails. While drinks are extra, the overall value lies in access to exclusive venues and insider stories that bring Austin’s nightlife to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are alcoholic beverages included in the tour?
No, all drinks are available for purchase at each venue. The tour price covers the guide and transportation, not drinks.

What is the tour’s start time?
The tour begins at 8:00 pm from 301 W 5th St, Austin.

How long does each stop last?
Stops range from 10 to 45 minutes, with the most extended being Powder Room and Tiki Tatsu-Ya.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the group size is limited to 9 guests, ensuring a comfortable experience.

What makes this tour different from other Austin nightlife experiences?
The focus on hidden, exclusive venues, including a private invitation-only bar and a vibrant tiki lounge, along with stunning interiors and creative cocktails, sets this tour apart.

Can the experience be canceled?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.