Bicycling and Walking

Bicycling

Austin's climate means that for much of the year bicycling is a very practical means of transportation. Besides getting good exercise, bicyclists can park free at their destination and help ease road congestion.

Bike Routes

The City of Austin's Bicycle and Pedestrian Program has produced a citywide map of suggested bike routes for commuters and recreational users. The map is available for $1 on the 8 th floor of One Texas Center, at 505 Barton Springs Road.

Bike Racks on Buses

All Capital Metro buses (but not “Dillos) are equipped with bike racks. Capacity is limited to two bikes per rack, but that is rarely a problem. Racks are easy to operate, but drivers can provide instruction if needed.

Walking

Downtown is easy to navigate on foot.   To help you along your way, download the map on this web site or pick up a free copy at the Austin Visitor Center, any downtown hotel or at our office, 211 E. 7 th Street, Suite 100-L.  

There are numerous walking tours that can provide you with exercise, enjoyment and a bit of Austin History.

Historic Walking Tours

Austin is full of history, and the Austin Visitor Center carries a number of walking tour brochures so that you can discover the wonders of our city. Free guides for the following sites and areas are available at the Visitor Center at 209 E. 6 th Street:

  • Capitol Building and Grounds
  • Bremond Block
  • Congress Avenue and E. 6 th Street
  • O. Henry
  • West Austin (west of Lamar)

Free guided walking tours from March through November (including holidays) are offered to the general public.

Capitol Grounds Tour (60 minutes) - Saturday -2:00pm; Sunday - 9:00am

Bremond Block Tour (90 minutes) - Saturday & Sunday -11:00am

Congress Avenue and E. 6 th Street Tour (90 minutes) - 

Thursday, Friday, Saturday -9:00am; Sunday - 2:00pm

All guided tours depart promptly from the south entrance of the State Capitol Building, weather permitting.   For more information about tours or to speak with the tour guide, call (512) 454-1545, or click here .

For more information on the history of Austin, go to http://www.austintexas.org/visitors/heritage/

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