From Austin: Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle

Experience the Heart of Texas: Salt Lick BBQ & Hill Country Wineries Shuttle

If you’re looking to escape Austin’s hustle and experience some genuine Texas flavor, the Hill Country BBQ & Wine Shuttle offers a well-rounded, enjoyable day for about $69 per person. This 4.5-hour adventure takes you from the city’s center to the rolling hills of Texas, with stops at the iconic Salt Lick BBQ and two carefully chosen wineries. The tour is led by friendly guides, with a small group size (limited to 11), making it a relaxed and personalized experience.

What we love most about this tour is the ease it offers — no need to rent a car or plan out your countryside drive. It’s a straightforward way to sample Texas’s famed barbecue and local wines while soaking in some stunning hill country scenery. We also appreciate the flexible approach: you can bring your own alcohol to enjoy with your meal, and the guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about sharing Austin’s local gems.

One possible consideration is the extra cost for tastings at the wineries and the meal at Salt Lick, which can add up to around $80 per person. Travelers should budget accordingly if they want to maximize their experience. This tour suits those who want a structured but intimate glimpse into Texas’s culinary and vinicultural scene without the hassle of driving themselves. It’s perfect for first-timers, small groups, or anyone eager to enjoy the countryside comfortably.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Small Group Comfort: Limited to 11 participants, ensuring a personal touch.
• Authentic Texas Flavors: Enjoy Salt Lick BBQ and two award-winning wineries.
• Flexible Experience: You can bring your own alcohol and choose to buy wine or enjoy tastings.
• Stunning Views: The drive through the Hill Country offers some of Texas’s most beautiful scenery.
• Cost Breakdown: Tour price is $69, excluding meals and tastings; budget $35 for BBQ, plus additional for wine.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Multiple reviews praise guides for being friendly, engaging, and full of local insights.

A Detailed Look at Your Hill Country Day

Starting Point and Transportation

You’ll meet your guide inside the Austin Visitor Center, located at 103 E. Fifth St. It’s a central spot, but note, there’s no dedicated parking right outside. Instead, metered street parking or a nearby Frost Bank garage (at 401 E. 4th St.) are your best options. If you plan ahead, you can get the first 70 minutes of parking free by scanning a QR code inside the visitor center — a handy perk. The shuttle itself is an air-conditioned sprinter van, offering a comfortable ride through Texas’s scenic hills.

The group size keeps the atmosphere friendly and relaxed, which many reviews highlight as a big plus. Guides like Ike, Jax, and Joey are frequently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to keep everyone engaged. As one traveler put it, “Our guide, Ike, was amazing. He was very knowledgeable and able to keep us all involved,” making the trip feel more like a gathering of friends than a generic tour.

Salt Lick BBQ: The First Stop

The first destination is Salt Lick BBQ, the crown jewel of Texas barbecue. It’s a celebrated spot, and we loved that the tour includes at least 45 minutes here — enough time to order your meal, soak in the lively atmosphere, and enjoy some of the best meat Texas has to offer. It’s important to note, however, that the cost of the BBQ is not included in the tour price; it’s recommended to budget around $35 per person for a hearty meal.

Guests often mention how superb the food is. A reviewer from April 2025 described it as “divine,” noting the tenderness of the brisket and the smoky flavor that made the trip worthwhile. Another said, “Salt Lick was delicious and worth the trip alone,” emphasizing its reputation. The casual, friendly environment makes it feel like a true Texas experience — no pretenses, just good food and good company.

You’re welcome to bring your own alcohol to enjoy with your meal, which can enhance the experience, especially on a sunny day. Some reviews hinted that this flexibility adds to the relaxed vibe.

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Winding Through Hill Country

After lunch, the tour winds through the picturesque Hill Country. This part of the trip is all about the views. The rolling hills, lush greenery, and scenic vistas provide a perfect backdrop as your guide shares stories about the area’s history, wine culture, and local charm. Many travelers note how the drive itself is a highlight — “the countryside drive was beautiful and relaxing,” as one review states.

Wine Tasting Stops

The second part of the day is dedicated to visiting two award-winning wineries. Each stop offers at least 45 minutes for tasting and exploring. Reviewers consistently highlight the quality of wines and the welcoming atmosphere of the wineries. Some mention that the wines are quite good, especially considering they’re from Texas, which might surprise those expecting only average offerings.

You have the option to buy wine by the glass or do tastings, which are usually under $25 each. One traveler from 2025 noted, “The wines were wonderful, and the setting was beautiful,” while another appreciated the variety available, saying, “The second winery had better wines and a more relaxed tasting experience.”

While the tour doesn’t include the cost of tastings, many guests feel that the wine quality and the scenic vineyard settings offer good value. Plus, you get to take home some bottles to remember the trip.

Authentic, Unhurried Experience

Throughout the day, guides like Jax and Joey are praised for their friendly, informative manner. They make sure everyone is comfortable, share interesting tidbits about the local area, and keep the group entertained. Several reviews mention how they create a fun, personable atmosphere — “our guide, Joey, was fantastic and went above and beyond,” one reviewer shared.

While most guests find the 4.5-hour duration perfect for a half-day escape, some note that the timing at the wineries could be extended slightly. One traveler suggested, “An hour more at each winery would be perfect,” to better savor the wines and relax without feeling rushed.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour strikes a good balance between guided convenience and authentic local experiences. It’s especially suited for those who want a taste of Texas’s culinary delights and wine culture without the hassle of planning or driving. The small group size fosters a convivial atmosphere, and the guides’ knowledge makes the day informative and fun.

It’s ideal for first-time visitors to Austin seeking a straightforward, memorable day in the Texas Hill Country. Food lovers, wine enthusiasts, and those who simply want to enjoy beautiful scenery while sampling local flavors will find plenty to love here. Families, couples, or friends traveling together will appreciate the relaxed vibe and the opportunity to make new friends.

Final Thoughts on the Salt Lick & Hill Country Wineries Shuttle

This tour offers an engaging way to see a different side of Texas — the lush, rolling hills and the renowned flavors of barbecue and wine. It’s a neat package that combines food, scenery, and storytelling, all within a manageable time frame. For about $69, you get transportation, guided commentary, and the chance to taste some of the best that the Hill Country has to offer, making it a worthwhile option for those wanting a hassle-free, authentic experience.

The only extra costs are the meal at Salt Lick and the wine tastings, so budget accordingly. Many reviews highlight how guides like Ike, Jax, and Joey make the trip special, adding a friendly, personal touch that keeps the day lively and memorable.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, fun way to experience Texas’s famous barbecue and wine, this small-group shuttle is hard to beat — a true taste of Hill Country without the fuss.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the shuttle from Austin to Salt Lick BBQ and the wineries is included. It’s a comfortable, air-conditioned van perfect for the scenic drive.

How long is the tour?
The full experience lasts about 4.5 hours, typically scheduled in the morning, with plenty of time at each stop.

Are meals and tastings included in the price?
No, the tour price covers transportation and guides. You should budget around $35 for your BBQ meal, and additional funds for wine tastings if you choose to partake.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own alcohol to enjoy with your Salt Lick meal.

What’s the group size?
Limited to 11 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely, many reviews praise the guides for their friendliness and local knowledge, making the tour both fun and educational.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes are best for this outdoor-focused day, especially as you might be outdoors at the wineries and enjoying the scenic drive.

In sum, whether you’re a foodie, wine lover, or just eager to see Texas’s beautiful countryside, this tour offers a friendly, authentic way to enjoy a slice of Hill Country. It’s well-paced, flexible, and full of genuine local flavor — making it a standout choice for your Austin adventures.

You can check availability for your dates here: