Austin Murder Walk Voted by the Austin Chronicle 2022 Critic's Choice "Best Nightlife Activity."

Discover the dark history of America’s first serial killer on the Austin Murder Walk tour. Explore crime locations, theories, and enjoy a leisurely stroll through historic Austin.

Duration: 1 hour, 45 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • The Driskill - Our expert guides will explain in detail how the iconic Driskill Hotel fits into the story of the “Servant Girl Annihilator”. Built in the very year of the murders, 1885, you will be able to tour the lobby of this magnificent hotel and view the impressive portrait of its creator, Colonel William “Jessie” Driskill.

(This stop is subject to the Driskill’s rules and hours of operation and is available most, but not every night. However, all tours will see up close this beautiful hotel and learn of its history.)

  • 6th Street - Our expert true crime storytellers will escort your group through parts of the historic 6th street district in downtown Austin. Watch 6th street come to life as you view old photographs of how the street appeared during the time of the murders in 1885.
  • Speakeasy - The Speakeasy Tavern at 412 Congress Avenue is a crucial stop to understanding one of the possible suspects of the servant girl murders. Our expert guides will escort you inside and explain how this location weaves into the tapestry of this true crime mystery. While at the Speakeasy, you have an opportunity to grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the history of the tavern. (Drinks not included)
What's Included
  • Professional guide
What's Not Included
  • Alcoholic Beverages
  • Gratuities
  • Private transportation
Additional Information

The Austin Chronicle 2022 Critic’s Choice declared it as the ‘Top Evening Entertainment.’ Back in 1885, the first known serial killer in America lurked in the nascent city of Austin’s roads and alleyways. This brute, who was scarier than any ghost tale, maliciously murdered eight women with an ax. Throughout a year, this ‘midnight assassin’ struck fear into the city inhabitants. He was never apprehended, and his real identity remains unknown…or is it?

Our most extended tour takes 1 hour and 45 minutes, covering 2 miles of historic Austin, including West 6th Street, Guy Town, Warehouse District, and a refreshment halt at the legendary Driskill Hotel. The pace is comfortable with periodic short rests and a drink stop at the Driskill (drinks are not included) on the route.

Participate in this unique true crime walking tour to explore the actual crime sites and explore various theories related to the mysterious midnight assassin. It’s an utterly ‘murderous’ tour.

  • Not recommended for ages under 13.
Location
Bowie Street & West 6th Street
This tour will depart from the intersection of Bowie and West 6th, at the corner of Whole Foods in downtown Austin, Texas.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(269 Ratings)
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Z3619impatrickm
Aug 3, 2024
Tour - Will was a fantastic tour guide with in-depth knowledge of Austin. During our tour, a couple stopped Will to thank him for the tour the evening before. When we asked about places to go, he gave us excellent recommendations, making our tour an exceptional experience. Highly recommended!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kristenka7113sj
Aug 2, 2024
Great time!! - Will was an amazing tour guide! He was very knowledgeable of the topic and not because he had to be, but because he really enjoys the topics presented. We ended up going back into Austin to visit the firehouse bar and getting the code for the floppy disk the very next evening! We also went back to the Driskill bar for drinks and Cooper’s BBQ. What started out as an evening of plans, turned into 2 evenings of a really good time. Thanks Will!! (Also, don’t forget to read “if you tell” and watch “masterminds” on hbo 😂
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ryanms676zg
Aug 2, 2024
Great tour and even better guide in Will. - The leader Will is what really made this tour worth the money and the tip we left. The story is interesting and probably not super well known. BUT, it was Will who made the entire tour a great experience. We never felt like it was something that he had done a thousand times. He has a genuine deep knowledge of the subject AND a passion for it as well. Always happy to answer a question and to throw in interesting tidbits here and there. Also opened up some interesting things to do in Austin that paid off really well. 10/10 would recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Charles_e
Jul 27, 2024
Fantastic Tour! - Best tour we’ve ever had. Very informative. Extremely knowledgeable guide. He was entertaining too. We read the Midnight Assassin book but this tour really added to it.
Review provided by Viator
Polly_s
Jul 27, 2024
Perfect for True Crime Nerds - Will was an amazing guide, the tour was just fantastic. As a true crime nerd, his knowledge and enthusiasm brought everything to life. If you’re in Austin, definitely one of the tours to do. Highly recommend!
Review provided by Viator
Austinjock
Jul 27, 2024
A new dimension to Austin - We were looking for a family activity for the evening. Weren’t sure what to expect, this being our first walking tour. Great experience. * We learned a lot about what Austin life was like in the mid to late 1800s * The tour guide, Will, is not only really knowledgeable on the subject, but a first rate raconteur, keeping us all interested for the duration of the tour * The story of the Midnight Assassin, and the amazing twist at the end Thoroughly recommend. Adds a whole new dimension to Austin.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
24blakei
Jul 27, 2024
Great Tour - Will was very well spoken with a clear passion for the material. Great business to support! Make sure to check out their ghost tour in Austin and there Ghost and Murder walk in San Antonio as well!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dianejc5155ew
Jul 23, 2024
Party at Moon Tower! - Shannon was amazing and you could tell that she was passionate about everything that she spoke about on the tour. A great murder mystery tour with an historical backdrop of old Austin - would definitely suggest to any true crime fan!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jessica_t
Jul 13, 2024
Great tour! - We had a great time on this tour with our guide, Will. Amazing story telling that kept us intrigued the entire time. Thank you for a great experience!
Review provided by Viator
Robin_j
Jul 14, 2024
Forgetful - The tour guide seemed to be uncomfortable and forgot most of the details of each murder. It was very disappointing.
Review provided by Viator
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