How to Plan the Perfect Austin Sightseeing Tour: The Double Decker Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

If you’re exploring Austin for the first time, you might feel overwhelmed by the sheer number of attractions the city has to offer. From museums to shopping areas to art spots, there’s just so much to see! With the Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour, you can choose how to experience the city’s highlights by hopping on and off the sightseeing bus at leisure. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at this tour and how you can make the most of your Austin visit.

Overview of the Tour

The Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour is an all-day ticket that lets you explore the top attractions in Austin at your own pace. The tour has six stops and 21 points of interest so you can choose which Austin sights to explore. With this tour, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about the history of Austin, its celebrated architecture, and cultural significance with your onboard guide commentary. You’ll have a choice of two decks—either the lower climate-controlled deck or the open-top roof. The bus stops at museums, art spots, and shopping areas along the way, making it easy for you to see Austin’s highlights without any fuss.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour is a well-rounded experience that is tailored to make your sightseeing experience pleasant and fun. On the tour, you’ll be provided with sunscreen and water to ensure that you stay safe and hydrated during your excursion.

Itinerary and Tour Schedule

The Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour starts from downtown Austin and has six stops along the way. The bus operates through a 1 hour and 30-minute loop, with buses departing every 30 minutes.

Stops:

– Austin Visitors Center – La Bare – South Congress Hotel – Twisted Texas Tour – The Texas State Capitol – The Bullock Texas State History Museum

Schedule:

The tour runs from Thursday to Sunday from 10:00 AM – 5:30 PM. The tour runs every 30 minutes so you can catch a ride whenever you are ready.

Why the Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour?

The Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour is a great option for first-time visitors to Austin. Here are some of the reasons why this tour should be on your agenda when exploring Austin:

Flexibility

With this tour, you have complete control of what you will see and when. You can hop on and off the bus as many times as you like and explore Austin’s top attractions at your leisure.

Cost-effective

The tour is cost-effective, and you can save money on transportation costs when visiting the top attractions in Austin.

Convenience

The tour is convenient if you’re unfamiliar with Austin. With an onboard guide, you will have insight into the captivating history of the city, and you won’t have to worry about navigating complicated routes or finding your way around Austin.

Tips for Taking the Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

Here are some tips and tricks that can help make the most of the sightseeing experience:

Arrive early

We recommend arriving early for the first ride of the day to avoid crowds and make the most of your time in Austin. You’ll be able to enjoy the sights with fewer people around, giving you more time and space to find your way around the city.

Dress appropriately

Austin’s climate fluctuates throughout the year, and it’s important to dress appropriately. During the summer months, it can be hot and humid, so we recommend wearing light clothing and bringing plenty of sunscreen. During the winter months, temperatures can drop, and we recommend bringing a jacket.

Plan ahead

Planning ahead will make the tour experience more seamless. Research the attractions you plan to visit and time your visit to coincide with the bus schedule. You’ll also want to pack a few essentials—such mobile charger, headphones, and a camera—to make your excursion more enjoyable.

Book the Tour Here

Ready to explore Austin’s top attractions? Book the Double Decker Austin Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour here: book here and get ready to discover Austin’s rich culture, beautiful architecture, and top art spots.

Frequently Asked Questions About Austin

Austin is a vibrant and growing city full of unique culture and attractions. As the capital of Texas, it offers a rich history and a wide range of experiences for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re planning a visit or you’re already living here, we’ve put together a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you through this amazing city.

1. What makes Austin unique?

Austin is a unique city with a laid-back vibe and a thriving arts and music scene. It is known for its eclectic mix of live music venues, art galleries, and innovative restaurants. The city is also home to many green spaces such as Zilker Park and Lady Bird Lake, making it a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. With its vibrant culture, diverse and friendly community, and enthusiastic embrace of innovation, Austin offers a lifestyle unlike any other in the country.

2. What is the best time of year to visit Austin?

Austin has mild weather all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your interests. The summer months are popular for outdoor activities, such as swimming in Barton Springs Pool and hiking in the Greenbelt, but the city can get hot and crowded during this time. Spring and fall are great for outdoor activities as well and offer milder temperatures. If you’re interested in music, consider visiting during South by Southwest (SXSW) or Austin City Limits Music Festival, which take place in the spring and fall respectively.

3. What are some must-visit attractions in Austin?

Austin has something for everyone, but here are some of the most popular and iconic attractions:

– Barton Springs Pool:

This natural swimming pool is located in Zilker Park and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing.

– South Congress (SoCo):

This vibrant neighborhood is known for its eclectic shops, restaurants, live music, and vibrant street art.

– The Texas State Capitol:

This historic building is the center of Texas politics and offers free guided tours.

– Lady Bird Lake:

This lake is a popular spot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and hiking.

– The University of Texas at Austin:

The flagship campus of the University of Texas System is located in Austin and offers beautiful architecture, museums, and cultural events.

4. What is the food scene like in Austin?

The food scene in Austin is diverse and innovative. The city is known for its barbecue, Tex-Mex, and food trucks, but it also offers high-end restaurants and trendy cafes. Some popular foodie destinations include Franklin Barbecue, Torchy’s Tacos, and Uchi. With new restaurants opening all the time, there’s always something new and exciting to try in Austin.

5. How is public transportation in Austin?

Austin is a car-centric city, but it does have a public transportation system called Capital Metro. The system includes buses, rail, and ride-sharing services, making it easy to get around without a car. However, many residents still prefer to drive or use ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft.

6. What are some outdoor activities in Austin?

Austin is an outdoor enthusiast’s dream, with plenty of opportunities to get outside and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Some popular outdoor activities include hiking the Greenbelt, swimming in Barton Springs Pool, kayaking on Lady Bird Lake, and exploring the many parks and bike trails around the city.

7. How is the live music scene in Austin?

Austin is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, and for good reason. The city has a vibrant music scene, with live music venues all over town. Some popular venues include the Continental Club, the Saxon Pub, and Stubb’s BBQ. Music festivals like South by Southwest (SXSW) and Austin City Limits Music Festival bring in big-name acts from around the world and offer a chance to discover new music.

8. What are some cultural events in Austin?

Austin is home to many cultural events throughout the year, including the Texas Book Festival, the Texas Tribune Festival, and the Austin Film Festival. In addition, the city hosts many art festivals and events, such as the East Austin Studio Tour and the Austin Art Garage Sale.

9. What are some family-friendly activities in Austin?

Austin is a great city for families, with plenty of activities to keep kids entertained. Some popular family-friendly attractions include the Austin Zoo, the Bullock Texas State History Museum, and the Thinkery children’s museum. In addition, the city has many playgrounds, splash pads, and parks that are great for kids of all ages.

10. What is the job market like in Austin?

Austin has a strong economy and a growing job market, with many opportunities in the technology, healthcare, and education sectors. The city is home to a number of large tech companies, including Dell, IBM, and Apple. In addition, the University of Texas at Austin is one of the largest employers in the city. Austin’s low cost of living and high quality of life make it an attractive place to live and work.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Austin

Austin, Texas is a dynamic, lively city with a lot to offer both tourists and locals. Even with all its hidden gems and local favorites, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed if you’re new to the city. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to experience the best things Austin has to offer without feeling like you’re missing out on anything. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, delicious food, or cultural experiences, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Austin.

1. Visit the Capital of Texas

The Texas State Capitol is a must-visit tourist attraction in Austin. The building is an excellent example of how Texas takes pride in its rich history and culture. The Capitol features stunning architecture, including a rotunda that’s 218 feet high and a dome made of pink granite. You can take a self-guided tour, or join a guided tour to learn more about Texas state history. Keep in mind that tours are usually available from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm.

2. Explore the Outdoors

One of the best things about Austin is the abundance of outdoor activities. From hiking to kayaking to cycling, there’s no shortage of ways to have fun in the sun. Some of the most popular outdoor activities in the area include paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, hiking at the Barton Creek Greenbelt, or taking a dip in Barton Springs Pool. Most of these activities can be easily enjoyed within a day at a modest price, making them a perfect option for a traveler on a budget.

3. Indulge in Austin’s Food Scene

Austin is known for its food scene, which is a mix of southern, Mexican, and Tex-Mex cuisine. Some notable dishes include breakfast tacos, barbecue, and Tex-Mex classics like queso and margaritas. Austin has a lot of options to choose from, making it a foodie’s paradise. One of the best ways to explore the city’s food scene is through guided food tours or restaurant crawls. You can find many food crawls around the city, particularly on weekends.

4. Experience Austin’s Music Scene

Austin has a vibrant music scene, with live music performances happening every night of the week. The city is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” and has produced some of the most popular musicians of our time. You can catch a live performance at iconic venues like the Continental Club or Antone’s. For something more unique, head to the Broken Spoke, a historic honky-tonk that’s been around since 1964. You won’t want to miss this musical experience when you’re in Austin.

5. Visit the Blanton Museum of Art

The Blanton Museum of Art is one of the best cultural attractions in Austin. The museum features more than 17,000 works of art from different parts of the world, including European paintings and contemporary art. You can join a guided tour to learn more about the art on display, or explore it on your own. What sets the Blanton apart is its focus on providing a comfortable and inclusive experience, making it accessible for everyone.

6. Watch Bats Fly Over the Congress Avenue Bridge

Watching bats fly is an unlikely tourist attraction, but in Austin, it’s a must-see experience. Every evening during the summer months, over a million Mexican free-tailed bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge. You can view this natural spectacle from the bridge or take a boat ride on Lady Bird Lake to get a closer look. This is one of the unique experiences that Austin offers that you won’t find anywhere else.

7. Experience the South Congress Street Vibe

South Congress Street is a bustling cultural district that boasts some of the iconic restaurants, cafes, and vintage shops that Austin has to offer. This place is a destination itself because of the unique local businesses and nightlife that are hard to miss. It’s an excellent spot for people-watching, souvenir shopping, and enjoying street food with a fantastic atmosphere. There is no shortage of inspiring creativity in this part of Austin.

Book Your Tour Now

With so much to see and do in Austin, it can be challenging to decide where to start. But by following this guide, you’ll be able to experience some of the best things Austin has to offer. Remember to take your time and explore the city at a pace that’s comfortable for you. The city has a diverse population, and so it’s normal to expect a lot of unique experiences, from music shows to street art. You will never run out of things to do, making Austin a prime destination for tourists.