Austin is famous for its barbecue, and for good reason. This city takes its smoked meats seriously, with a mix of legendary joints, innovative chefs, and outdoor adventures that let you soak up Texas flavor. Some tours focus on classic, pit-smoked brisket and ribs, while others combine BBQ with local wine or vibrant city walks. We particularly like the From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle for its relaxed, scenic trip into the Texas Hill Country, where you can indulge in Salt Lick BBQ and sample Hill Country wines. It’s a great way to escape the city and experience Texas cuisine in a stunning setting.
Whether you prefer a quick and tasty walk through Austin’s street food scene or a full-day tour with wine and BBQ, this list has a lot to offer. Keep reading for detailed insights into each experience to help you find your perfect Texas BBQ adventure.
1. From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle
At number 1, this Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a relaxing half-day trip out of the city with delightful stops at Salt Lick BBQ and two renowned Hill Country wineries. The tour is rated a perfect 5.0/5 based on 862 reviews, reflecting how much travelers appreciate the combination of excellent food, scenic views, and personalized service.
The tour includes round-trip transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle that holds up to 10 people, ensuring a comfortable experience without feeling crowded. You’ll visit Salt Lick BBQ, a Texas legend famous for its smoky brisket, sausage, and ribs. While the price does not include alcohol or food, budgeting around $35 per person for BBQ and $17-20 for each wine tasting makes it easy to plan ahead. The first stop is about 50 minutes at Salt Lick, then you visit Fall Creek Vineyards and Duchman Family Winery, where tastings cost $20 and $17 respectively.
What makes this tour stand out is the personalized experience, knowledgeable driver, and the chance to sample top Texas wines amid rolling hills. Reviewers love the effortless ride and the friendly guides who make the day memorable. It’s perfect for small groups seeking a relaxed, scenic day with excellent food and wine.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice if you want a guided, all-inclusive experience that combines Texas barbecue with local wines in the Texas Hill Country.
2. Small Group Austin Red River Street BBQ Food Walking Tour
Number 2 on our list is this Red River BBQ Food Walking Tour. With just 7 reviews and a rating of 5.0/5, it promises an intimate, flavorful exploration of Austin’s street food scene. For $134, you’ll spend about two hours walking through the vibrant Red River Cultural District, stopping at iconic BBQ spots like Cooper’s Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que and Iron Works Barbecue.
Your guide helps you navigate the best spots for sampling Texas-style smoked meats—think sausage macaroni & cheese and pulled pork sandwiches. The tour also includes a fun side trip to see the Colorado River and the famous Congress Avenue Bridge, home to the world’s largest urban bat colony. The small group size ensures personalized attention, making it easier to ask questions and try different dishes.
Reviewers mention how the guide’s local insights and the variety of stops made the experience memorable, although some note that the portions are small and a bit more food would be appreciated. Still, the tour offers an authentic taste of Austin’s barbecue tradition in a lively urban setting.
Bottom Line: A fantastic option for foodies who want to sample multiple BBQ styles while exploring Austin’s downtown energy.
3. Locals Know BBQ Food Tour in Austin Texas
This Locals Know BBQ Food Tour ranks third, offering a deep dive into Austin’s barbecue scene, including stops at highly acclaimed spots like la Barbecue and Micklethwait Craft Meats. Priced at $175 per person and lasting around three hours, it’s geared toward travelers eager for insider stories and a curated tasting experience.
This tour is distinctive because it emphasizes avoiding long lines at popular joints while meeting passionate pitmasters and hearing their stories firsthand. The itinerary includes tasting smoked lamb chops and other Texas favorites, making it a comprehensive exploration of local barbecue craft.
Guests appreciate the personalized approach and the chance to enjoy some of the best barbecue Austin has to offer without the wait. The intimate setting also encourages conversation and insight into the city’s culinary culture. The tour is best suited for those who want a mix of excellent food, local history, and a small-group vibe.
Bottom Line: Perfect for barbecue enthusiasts wanting a behind-the-scenes look at Austin’s top joints with storytelling from pitmasters.
4. Austin Small-Group BBQ Walking Food Tour
The Austin Small-Group BBQ Walking Food Tour is a hands-on way to enjoy Texas barbecue in just two hours. For $129, you’ll walk through the historic Rainey Street district, sampling brisket, ribs, and other local favorites.
This tour is fully guided, limited to 12 people, providing a personal experience as you explore some of Austin’s most iconic neighborhoods. Highlights include witnessing the vibrant nightlife of Rainey Street and passing by Ladybird Lake, with stops at popular barbecue spots. You’ll get to taste classic Texas dishes like smoked brisket and share a fun, active experience with fellow travelers.
Guests praise the tour for its knowledgeable guide, authentic food, and the chance to see Austin’s lively streets up close. The tour is ideal for those who prefer a walk-and-eat approach rather than a vehicle-based experience and want to enjoy the city’s atmosphere while tasting its barbecue.
Bottom Line: Great for active travelers who want to combine city exploration with top-notch barbecue samples.
$129 per person
5. Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and Texas History Museum in Austin
This Brewery 5K Fun Run, BBQ, and History Tour offers a different kind of experience, blending outdoor activity with Texas barbecue. Starting at a local brewery, the 5K run or walk is a lively way to start your day, followed by a free beer and swag. Afterward, you’ll head to Terry Black’s BBQ, a Texas staple known for its smoky, tender meats.
The tour lasts about five hours, targeting active travelers who enjoy combining fitness with food and culture. Along the way, you’ll pass Austin’s South Congress Bridge and Ladybird Lake, soaking in the city’s iconic sights. The tour’s unique mix of outdoor exercise and hearty BBQ makes it appealing to active adults.
While no reviews are available, the combination of a 5K, craft beer, and top-tier BBQ offers a well-rounded experience for those wanting to combine health, local history, and culinary delights. Ideal for fitness enthusiasts who love food and want an energetic way to enjoy Austin.
Bottom Line: A fun choice for active travelers who want to combine a bit of exercise with classic Texas barbecue.
$175.00 per person
6. Austin Eats Barbecue Sweets and More
Closing out our list, Austin Eats: Barbecue, Sweets, and More is a 2.5-hour tour priced at $230 per person. It takes you through Austin’s most celebrated bites, from chili to tacos and sweet treats. The experience is perfect for those who want a broader taste of Austin’s culinary scene, not just barbecue.
Highlights include sampling chili at a longstanding local parlor near the Capitol, enjoying tender brisket on Barton Springs Road, and indulging in fresh blue pancakes on South Congress. The tour also explores Rainey Street’s vibrant scene and offers exclusive deals through a local rewards pass. The guide provides personal storytelling, making the tour both informative and fun. While it’s pricier, you get a comprehensive taste of local flavors in a relaxed setting.
This tour suits travelers who want a mix of savory and sweet Austin bites, with a focus on local eateries and unique flavors. It’s ideal for travelers looking for variety and a more leisurely pace.
Bottom Line: Excellent for food lovers wanting a diverse culinary experience in the city’s most popular neighborhoods.
$230.00 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Austin BBQ Experience
When picking the right BBQ tour, consider your budget, how much time you want to spend, and whether you prefer walking or vehicle-based adventures. For a scenic day out with wine, the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a relaxing escape. If you love city exploration combined with sampling multiple spots, the Red River Street BBQ Food Walking Tour hits the mark. For those eager to skip lines and get behind the scenes, the Locals Know BBQ Food Tour provides a more exclusive experience.
Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate tours that include tastings at no extra cost, while those seeking a more comprehensive foodie experience might prefer the Austin Eats Sweets and More or the Small-Group Austin BBQ Walking Food Tour. Remember to book early during peak seasons, especially for popular spots like Salt Lick or during festivals.
Final Thoughts
Austin’s BBQ scene is vast and varied, from guided tours that combine wine and scenic drives to intimate walks through lively neighborhoods. For a relaxed, scenic day with excellent food and wine, the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle is a top pick. If you want a fast-paced, flavorful exploration of Texas BBQ with insider stories, the Locals Know BBQ Food Tour is ideal. And for those who prefer a city walk with great street food, the Red River Street BBQ Food Walking Tour offers an authentic, lively experience.
Whatever your style, booking early is advised, especially during busy tourist seasons. Austin’s BBQ scene will not disappoint, and these tours make it easy to enjoy the best the city has to offer.