Austin’s barbecue scene stands among America’s finest, with several excellent guided tours to help you discover the best spots. The practical Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle combines smoky flavors with Texas wines in a well-organized half-day experience. We love the BBQ & Brew Shuttle for its smart pairing of local pitmasters’ specialties with Austin’s craft beer scene. The Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour earns our recommendation for its focus on family-run spots and authentic Texas cooking. All tours offer comfortable transportation and accessible options. Let’s explore our favorite BBQ tours in detail.
Good To Know
- Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a 5-star rated half-day tour with stops at Salt Lick BBQ, Fall Creek Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery.
- The BBQ & Brew Shuttle provides a 4.5-hour small group tour focusing on local BBQ and craft beer with skip-the-line access.
- The Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour showcases family-owned eateries, iconic dishes, and scenic landmarks in a 2-hour experience.
- Convenient round-trip transfers, comfortable air-conditioned shuttles, and wheelchair accessibility ensure a comfortable and accessible experience.
- Positive customer reviews highlight the engaging guides, delicious food and wine, and informative nature of the Austin culinary tours.
From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
For those seeking an immersive Hill Country BBQ and wine experience from Austin, the Texas Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a convenient half-day tour. Rated 5.0 with 770 reviews, the shuttle visits three acclaimed venues: Salt Lick BBQ, Fall Creek Vineyards, and Duchman Family Winery.
With round-trip transfers from Austin, the comfortable air-conditioned shuttle transports up to 10 passengers through the scenic Texas Hill Country.
The tour includes a 50-minute stop at Salt Lick BBQ, where guests can enjoy the renowned barbecue, followed by 45-minute visits to each winery. Guests should budget approximately $35 for BBQ and $10-$25 for wine tastings.
The shuttle service provides a relaxing and informative experience with a knowledgeable driver familiar with the Austin area. Wheelchair accessibility and early arrival for check-in are available.
Positive reviews highlight the engaging guides, delicious food and wine, and overall welcoming atmosphere of this Hill Country excursion.
Read our full review: From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle Review
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Austin: BBQ & Brew Shuttle
The Austin: BBQ & Brew Shuttle offers an exhilarating exploration of the city’s renowned barbecue and craft beer scenes.
This 4.5-hour small group tour whisks travelers on an unforgettable journey, immersing them in the rich culinary and beverage culture of Texas Hill Country.
Guests can savor the mouthwatering flavors of authentic barbecue at two local hotspots, each with its own unique style and legacy.
Between bites, they’ll visit a carefully selected craft brewery, where they’ll sample a variety of handcrafted brews and learn about the art of beer-making.
Throughout the experience, a knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, sharing the history and traditions that make Austin’s food and drink scene so special.
With skip-the-line access and a small group size, this tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned barbecue enthusiast or a craft beer lover, the Austin: BBQ & Brew Shuttle is a must-do activity that captures the essence of this vibrant city.
Read our full review: Austin: BBQ & Brew Shuttle Review
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Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin
Enjoy the mouthwatering flavors of Texas’ renowned barbecue and local cuisine on this 2-hour Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin. Priced from $89 per person, this culinary journey leads you through the city’s top family-owned eateries, where you’ll sample iconic Texas brisket, barbacoa tacos, and refreshing organic smoothies.
Along the way, you’ll explore scenic landmarks like the Texas Capitol, Congress Avenue, and the picturesque Town Lake.
The tour features stops at Lamberts Downtown Barbecue, Veracruz All Natural, Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que, and Juiceland. Savor the historic Texas All Beef Hotlink at Lamberts, indulge in the famous barbacoa tacos at Veracruz, and marvel at the “Big Chop” and brisket at Cooper’s while enjoying the Capitol views.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility and convenience.
According to 21 reviews, the Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin has earned an impressive 4.8/5 rating, with customers praising the delectable flavors and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour in Austin Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These BBQ Tours?
The cancellation policy for these BBQ tours typically allows for full refunds if cancelled at least 24-48 hours in advance. However, last-minute cancellations often incur fees or no refunds, so customers should review the policy before booking.
Do the Shuttles Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Food Options?
The shuttles typically offer a variety of food options, including vegetarian and vegan choices, to accommodate diverse dietary preferences. Guests should inquire about the specific menu offerings when booking their tour to ensure their dietary needs are met.
Can I Request a Private or Customized BBQ Tour?
Yes, you can request a private or customized BBQ tour. Many tour companies offer personalized experiences to cater to your dietary needs and preferences, allowing you to explore the best BBQ spots at your own pace.
How Accessible Are the BBQ Tour Locations for Individuals With Disabilities?
Most BBQ tour locations in Austin are accessible for individuals with disabilities, though the extent of accessibility may vary. It’s best to inquire with the tour operators about specific accommodations before booking to ensure a comfortable experience.
Are There Any Age or Group Size Restrictions for These BBQ Experiences?
The BBQ tour locations generally don’t have age or group size restrictions, though some experiences may have minimum age requirements or limit group sizes. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator for their policies.
The Sum Up
The best BBQ experiences in Austin offer travelers a chance to explore the city’s renowned barbecue scene. From the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle to the Austin: BBQ & Brew Shuttle and Famous Texas BBQ & Food Tour, visitors can indulge in the region’s mouthwatering smoked meats and local brews. These guided tours provide a convenient and immersive way to discover Austin’s vibrant barbecue culture.