Austin , United States of America

East Austin Black History Walk Tour

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About this experience

This historic walking tour takes guests through the beginnings of Austin's Black community through the present. Guests will learn about The City of Austin's 1928 Master Plan and creation of the "Negro District", which is was centered around East 11th Street. We will visit important sites and institutions throughout our one-mile journey. Guests will also be able to engage in dialogue about the changing nature of East Austin and the city's Black community. A large part of this experience is to support local Black owned businesses in the neighborhood.

Available options

East Austin Black History Walk Tour

What's included

Tour includes walking and learning about the historical significance of African American culture

Detailed itinerary

Our guide will meet you by the benches at the
front of the building to discuss the history and start the tour. Guests will learn about the history of African Americans in East Austin and the creation of the "Negro District" in 1928 by the City of Austin. We will discuss the historical formation of the neighborhood and the movement of African Americans from throughout the Austin area to East Austin. They will see the African American Heritage Cultural Center's mural dedicated to influential African Americans in Austin. Guests will also engage with the Dedrick-Hamilton House, which was constructed by formerly enslaved persons by the 1890s. It was continuously lived in by family members until the late 20th Century.

After passing by the Rhapsody Mural guests will learn about the Historic Victory Grill's emergence during the Jim Crow period. They will also learn about the Chittlin Circuit and Austin's African American music history.

Guests will visit the historic African American church which was founded in 1865 at the end of the Civil War. Guide will discuss how the church was founded by freedman.Guests will learn about the role of religious institutions in the African American community. Austin's oldest institution of higher learning, an HBCU Huston-Tillotson, was founded in this church's basement. Guests will also see the "Lynching in Travis County" marker that's on Wesley's lawn. This important marker allows for guests and guide to engage in a conversation about lynching in Austin and ways that African Americans resisted such violence through community and institution building.

Tour concludes at the George Washington Carver Center. Here guests will learn about the Austin's Black community's petition to have the segregated branch of the public library physically moved to the 'Negro District.' The guide will explain reasoning as to why African Americans renamed segregated institutions after prominent members of the Black community. Guests will also engage with the Voyage to Soulsville mural painted by John Fisher. This mural is important to Austin's Black community as it was finished in 1986. John Fisher is an Austin native and was trained by legendary artist, Dr. John T. Biggers at Texas Southern University. The tour guide will interpret the mural make direct connections to other aspects discussed on the tour.

Available languages

Guide guide

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Austin African American Cultural &Heritage Facility - by the benches at the
front of the building. Please don't enter the building.

About Austin

Austin, Texas, is a vibrant city known for its live music scene, vibrant arts community, and outdoor recreational opportunities. With a unique blend of Southern charm and progressive culture, Austin offers a dynamic urban experience with a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.

Top Attractions

Texas State Capitol

The Texas State Capitol is a historic building and the seat of the Texas government. It features beautiful architecture, a museum, and guided tours.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Zilker Park

Zilker Park is a large urban park offering a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and picnicking. It is a popular spot for both locals and visitors.

Nature Half-day to full day Free (some attractions may have fees)

South by Southwest (SXSW)

SXSW is an annual festival and conference that celebrates the convergence of the interactive, film, and music industries. It features live music, film screenings, and industry panels.

Entertainment 10 days (typically in March) Varies by event and pass type

Must-Try Local Dishes

Brisket

Slow-smoked, tender beef brisket, a staple of Texas BBQ, often served with sides like coleslaw, beans, and pickles.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without bun

Tacos al Pastor

Marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, served on corn tortillas with pineapple, onions, and cilantro.

Main course Contains meat, gluten-free if served without tortilla

Pecan Pie

A sweet pie made with pecans, corn syrup, and spices, often served with whipped cream or ice cream.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten, nuts

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Water sports Spa treatments Picnicking Strolling Museum visits Art galleries

Best Time to Visit

March to May and September to November

The best times to visit Austin are during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild and pleasant. These periods offer ideal conditions for outdoor activities and festivals.

18-32°C 64-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Austin is generally a safe city, but like any major urban area, it has its share of crime. Visitors should take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
• Use reputable transportation services

Getting there

By air

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport • 8 km (5 miles) from city center

By train

Austin Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Capital Metro operates an extensive bus network that serves most of Austin. Buses are a convenient and affordable way to get around, but schedules can be limited in some areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown South Congress (SoCo) The Domain

Day trips

San Antonio

130 km (80 miles) • Full day

San Antonio is a historic city known for its rich cultural heritage, the Alamo, and the River Walk. It offers a mix of history, shopping, and dining.

Fredericksburg

120 km (75 miles) • Full day

Fredericksburg is a charming small town with a rich German heritage, known for its wineries, historic sites, and shopping.

Lake Travis

30 km (20 miles) • Half day to full day

Lake Travis is a popular destination for outdoor activities, including boating, swimming, and hiking. It offers beautiful scenery and a variety of water-based recreation.

Festivals

South by Southwest (SXSW) • March (dates vary) Austin City Limits (ACL) Music Festival • October (two weekends) Formula 1 United States Grand Prix • October (dates vary)

Pro tips

Visit the Texas State Capitol and other historic sites for a deeper understanding of the city's history and culture.
Explore the vibrant arts and music scene, with numerous live music venues, art galleries, and cultural events.
Take advantage of the city's outdoor recreational opportunities, with numerous parks, trails, and water-based activities.
Try local cuisine, including Texas BBQ, Tex-Mex, and Southern comfort food, as well as a diverse range of international options.
Use public transportation, biking, or walking to get around the city, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be limited in popular areas.