Austin in 1 Day for Friends - Start inside The Tavern — see the spot tied to 'Emily' and early 20th-century hauntings
In Collaboration with Austin Spirits. Updated on February 2, 2026.
A lively 2-hour guided walking tour through Austin’s most haunted downtown sites. Meet at The Tavern, hear true-crime and ghost stories at the Texas State Capitol, Paramount Theatre, The Driskill, and the historic Kreisle Building site on Congress Avenue. Best for groups of friends who like spooky stories, photo ops, and a social evening out.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Austin Spirits, inspired by the tour Austin’s Haunted Ghost & Murder Tour. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Start inside The Tavern — see the spot tied to 'Emily' and early 20th-century hauntings
- Chilling tales at the Texas State Capitol and Paramount Theatre
- The Driskill Hotel’s infamous bridal suite stories
- Historic Kreisle Building site on Congress Avenue — a dramatic fire tale
- 2-mile walking route, small-group atmosphere, local guide with paranormal photos
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening walk through downtown Austin visiting haunted landmarks. Wear comfortable shoes and bring a charged phone for photos — optional after-tour drinks suggested.
Arrival & check-in — Meet at The Tavern (922 W 12th St)
Arrive early to check in, meet your guide and group. This is the official meeting point before the 20:00 tour start.
Tips from local experts:
- Plan to arrive 15 minutes early so your group can check in together — The Tavern can get busy on weekend nights.
- Street parking on W 12th is limited; use a rideshare drop-off at 922 W 12th St if you’re in a group to save time.
- Carry a small flashlight or enable your phone torch — the guide may point out subtle architectural details in low light.
The Tavern interior — 'Emily' & opening stories
Step briefly inside the Tavern to hear the opening stories: the building's past as a private home, the pool-hall tales, and the ghost known locally as Emily.
Tips from local experts:
- If your group wants photos inside, ask the guide — they can time a quick shot without disturbing patrons.
- Order a non-alcoholic drink or snack early if you want to enjoy it while the guide sets the scene (the tour itself does not include drinks).
- Keep voices low while inside — it preserves the atmosphere and is courteous to other patrons (and rumored spirits).
Walk to the Texas State Capitol — haunted desks & lady in red
Stroll from W 12th toward the Capitol while your guide narrates the story of Comptroller Robert Marshall Love, mysterious handprints, and other Capitol-area hauntings.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a good stretch for group photos with the Capitol as a backdrop — your guide will pause at the best vantage point.
- Wear comfortable shoes — sidewalks are historic and can be uneven; watch your step in dim light.
- If anyone in your group needs a restroom, stop beforehand — public restrooms around the Capitol can have limited hours in the evening.
Paramount Theatre stop — backstage legends & eerie lore
Gather outside (or at designated entrance) of the historic Paramount Theatre to hear tales of long-ago performances, stage ghosts, and spine-chilling theatre lore.
Tips from local experts:
- The Paramount marquee makes for a classic group shot — aim for candid nighttime photos with the neon glow.
- If your group wants to explore inside after the tour, check the theatre’s events schedule — sometimes late shows start right after our stop.
- Keep group size together on the sidewalk — Congress Ave is busy at night; stay close to the guide for safety and best audio.
The Driskill Hotel — bridal suite tragedy & lingering spirits
Visit the legendary Driskill Hotel exterior and lobby area where the guide shares stories about the hotel’s famous hauntings, including the bridal suite and spectral sightings.
Tips from local experts:
- The Driskill lobby is atmospheric — if the hotel allows, the guide will bring the group in briefly; be discreet and respectful to guests.
- For couples or small groups, this is a top spot for dramatic, moody photos — a flash or warm filter works well after sunset.
- If mobility is a concern for any friends, note the Driskill has steps; the guide can offer a slightly different standing spot to keep everyone comfortable.
Kreisle Building site (412 Congress Ave) — fire, explosions, and final tales
Conclude the walking portion at the historic site near 4th & Congress where the 1916 Kreisle Building fire occurred. The guide wraps with local true-crime history and shares real paranormal photos collected on prior walks.
Tips from local experts:
- This stop includes standing-room storytelling — cluster with your group for the best audio and to keep vehicles on nearby streets visible.
- Ask the guide to show the paranormal photos up close — they’re great conversation starters for post-tour drinks.
- If your group likes immersive experiences, bring a small recorder or app for EVP attempts (respect private property and others while doing so).
Final Q&A, group photo & optional after-party suggestions
Wrap up with Q&A, share final photos, and get recommendations for nearby bars and late-night bites to continue the night with your friends.
Tips from local experts:
- Group photos: ask the guide to take one with your phone — guides are used to framing large groups in low light.
- If your group plans to continue, the guide will suggest nearby Rainey Street and East Sixth options that welcome larger groups.
- Keep valuables zipped and close in downtown crowds; after-party venues can get lively and parking is scarce late at night.
Optional: Post-tour drinks — Whisler's (recommended for groups)
Not part of the guided tour ticket but a popular local spot to continue discussing the night’s stories — reservations recommended for groups.
Tips from local experts:
- Call ahead or book a table for groups of 4+ — Whisler's has a cozy inside bar and a lively patio area for groups.
- Try ordering shareable cocktails or rounds to keep the group moving; they accept cards but have a cash tip jar at the bar as well.
- If you're short on time, split into two smaller groups to avoid long waits; otherwise expect a 10–20 minute wait on busy nights.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | - |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Experience, Attraction, Culture, Neighborhood, Nightlife |
