Ale and Alibis

If you’re after a tour that combines Austin’s lively rooftop bar scene with a dose of its darker history, Ale & Alibis offers just that. This experience isn’t your typical bar crawl — it’s designed to entertain, shock, and inform, all while giving you a chance to see some of downtown Austin’s best rooftop spots.

What we love about this experience is how it balances storytelling with socializing. You get to learn about Austin’s most notorious murders from an engaging guide, and you’ll enjoy stunning views of the city from the rooftops. Plus, the $35 price tag gives you access to a memorable 2-hour journey for a pretty reasonable cost.

Of course, it’s not perfect. Some reviews mention logistical hiccups, like a confusing text that led to a delayed start, which can definitely put a damper on your evening. Also, drinks aren’t included, so if you’re expecting free cocktails, that’s not part of the package. Still, if you’re curious about Austin’s gritty side, this tour could be a good fit—especially if you enjoy true crime, social outings, and city views.

This tour is best suited for adult visitors who want a mix of storytelling, socializing, and city views, rather than those looking for a traditional bar crawl or a family-friendly outing.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling from experienced guides makes the history come alive.
• Prime rooftop locations offer great views of Austin’s skyline.
• Affordable price point of $35 for roughly two hours of entertainment.
• Limited inclusions—drinks are extra, and no food is included.
• Logistical hiccups have been reported, so be prepared for possible delays.
• Ideal for adults interested in true crime, socializing, and city sights.

What to Expect from Ale & Alibis

If you’re considering this tour, here’s a detailed look at what you’ll experience from start to finish.

Starting Point: The Westin Austin Downtown

Your evening begins at the Westin Austin Downtown, located at 310 E 5th St. The meeting point is convenient, close to public transportation. Upon arrival, you’ll check in with your guide, ready to set out on this two-hour journey. The tour is capped at 20 people, which keeps things intimate and allows your guide to connect with everyone.

First Stop: Azul Rooftop

Your first destination is Azul Rooftop, perched on the 20th floor of the Westin Hotel. This outdoor lounge offers a spectacular view of the Austin skyline, perfect for starting your evening with a panoramic backdrop. You’ll spend about 40 minutes here, listening to your guide share tales of Austin’s more sinister stories, all while soaking in the city lights.

According to one reviewer, this was a “very interesting way to see cool rooftop bars,” and the guide, Mary, was praised for her storytelling skills. She knew her stories well, adding lots of detail that made the history more vivid.

Second Stop: RULES & REGS at the Fairmont Hotel

Next, it’s on to RULES & REGS, a rooftop bar and restaurant with a stunning view of downtown Austin. Another 40-minute stop allows you to sip, socialize, and hear more stories of Austin’s dark deeds. The rooftop setting adds a sleek, modern vibe, making this a highlight for many.

While no drinks are included in the ticket, you’ll have the chance to purchase your favorites. The stories shared here tend to keep the mood lively, blending the city’s beauty with its more macabre side.

Third Stop: Edge Rooftop

Your final stop is Edge Rooftop, which provides arguably the best view of downtown Austin’s glittering lights. This spot is fashionable and offers a sweeping vista, perfect for wrapping up your evening. Once again, you’ll spend about 40 minutes enjoying the atmosphere and listening to your guide recount stories that keep you hooked.

One reviewer appreciated the “great stories” and the “stunning view,” which made the ending of the tour feel special. It’s a fitting finale, especially if you enjoy cityscapes and a bit of thrill.

The Experience, the Guides, and the Stories

Throughout the tour, the guide’s role is crucial — they’re responsible for entertaining, informing, and maintaining the flow. From reviews, guides like Mary and Shelby have been praised for their personable approach and knowledge. One reviewer called Shelby “very personable,” noting he shared some great stories from his own experiences.

However, not all reviews are glowing. One participant experienced a delay caused by a confusing text message, which cut into their time at each stop. This kind of logistical hiccup can be frustrating, especially when you’re eager to soak in the views and stories. Still, the guide’s storytelling ability often made up for minor setbacks.

The Stories and Atmosphere

Expect bite-sized stories about some of Austin’s worst murders, including tragedies like mass shootings and domestic disputes. These stories are not overly graphic but are engaging enough to give you a chilling sense of the city’s darker side.

The tour’s social aspect shines. It’s a good chance to meet other adults interested in true crime and city history. While drinks are not provided, the stops at rooftop bars mean you can purchase your own and sip while listening to the tales.

The Value of the Tour

At $35, this tour offers a unique mix of entertainment and education. You get to visit three rooftop bars, each with its impressive view, and hear stories that add a new perspective to Austin’s skyline. The length of around two hours makes it a manageable evening activity, especially if you want something different from the usual bar crawl.

However, keep in mind that the price doesn’t include drinks or food, so budget extra if you want to indulge. The guide’s engaging storytelling and the stunning views compensate for this, making it a good value for those interested in true crime and city vistas.

The Downsides and Considerations

Logistically, the tour isn’t without its flaws. A reviewer mentioned a frustrating mix-up where a text message caused them to meet at the wrong location, wasting about 40 minutes. While such issues can happen, they affect the overall experience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule.

Weather can also be a factor — the tour takes place mostly outdoors on rooftops, so wind, cold, or rain could impact your comfort. No specific mention of indoor options, so dress accordingly.

Finally, the tour is geared toward adults interested in stories of crime and city views. If you’re traveling with children or expecting a family-friendly activity, this might not be the best fit.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re a true crime enthusiast or someone interested in Austin’s more notorious stories, this tour will likely entertain you. It’s also ideal if you enjoy social outings at rooftop bars with a bit of storytelling sprinkled in. The scenic views provide a beautiful backdrop, making it perfect for a relaxed evening with friends or a date night.

However, if you’re looking for a more structured, food-inclusive experience or prefer indoor venues, you might want to explore other options. Similarly, those sensitive to weather or logistical issues should consider the potential for delays or discomfort.

Wrapping Up: Is It Worth It?

For $35, Ale & Alibis offers a memorable way to experience downtown Austin’s skyline with a twist — stories of its darkest moments. The guide’s storytelling ability, combined with the stunning rooftop views, creates an engaging atmosphere that easily stands out from typical bar crawls.

This tour is best for curious adults who enjoy true crime, city views, and socializing. It’s not perfect — logistical hiccups and the lack of included drinks may be minor annoyances, but they don’t overshadow the overall experience. If you’re flexible and eager for a different, entertaining perspective on Austin, this could be a fun and fascinating night out.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
This tour is designed for adults 21 and over, mainly because it involves visiting bars where alcohol is purchased separately. It’s best suited for travelers interested in socializing and true crime stories.

Are drinks included in the ticket price?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to purchase your own beverages at each rooftop stop.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with three stops of about 40 minutes each.

What should I wear?
Since the tour is mostly outdoors on rooftops, dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. It can be windy or chilly in the evenings, so layers are recommended.

How many people are in a group?
The tour has a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and the guide able to engage everyone.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
The information provided doesn’t specify accessibility details, so it’s worth contacting the provider if you have specific needs.

In the end, Ale & Alibis stands out as a fun, unique way to see Austin’s downtown from above while learning about its darker side. If you enjoy storytelling, city views, and social evenings, it’s worth considering for your Austin itinerary. Just keep an eye on logistics and weather, and you’re likely to have a memorable night.