{#
#}

Galveston Red Light District Tour

5 (139)
Galveston, US
5 (139)
Galveston, US
Share
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
Product photo
/ Person
1

Your Product

Select participants
Adult (16-99)
Min: 0 Max: 15
You should select a minimum of and a total maximum of
At least one participant is required. Please adjust and try again.

Free Cancellation up to before the experience starts (local time)

Please wait, fetching options!
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Galveston's Red Light District. Experience the glitz and glamour of the mob-run era, where world-class entertainers like Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin performed in the famous casinos. This 90-minute tour takes you to the sites of the brothels, casinos, and gangsters' homes, providing an authentic and captivating glimpse into the city's past. Learn from extensive research and firsthand information from former FBI special agents, documentaries, newspaper clips, books, and interviews. Explore the locations where Al Capone tried to establish his reign and discover the stories of infamous characters like Molly Waters, Galveston's most notorious Madam. Don't miss this opportunity to walk in the footsteps of history and uncover the secrets of Galveston's Red Light District.

About this experience

  • Free Cancellation For a full refund cancel at least before the start of your booking
  • Admission Not Included
  • 1 hours 30 minutes
  • Suitable for 1-15 Participants
  • Private Tour, Small Group Tour
  • Guided Experience
  • Authentic tour of Galveston's Red Light District
  • Learn about the mob and gangsters of the era
  • Visit historic sites of brothels and casinos
  • Discover the stories of famous entertainers like Sinatra
  • Experience a unique slice of Galveston's history
  • Guided tour of galveston's red light district
  • Gratuities

Popular Hotels Closeby

More about this experience

Introduction

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the fascinating world of Galveston's Red Light District with the Galveston Red Light District Tour. Travel back to the era when the mob ruled Galveston, and let the captivating stories of this dark and intriguing period unfold before your eyes. This tour offers a glimpse into a time when the rules were set by the mob and when Galveston was known as "The Free State." Prepare to be transported to a bygone era, where world-class entertainers such as Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. graced the stages of the city's grand casinos. Embark on a journey that will introduce you to the secrets and scandals of this notorious district.

What to expect?

During this 90-minute tour, you will explore the historical Red Light District, delving into its fascinating past. As you walk through the streets, your expert guide will share extensive research, firsthand information from former FBI agents, documentaries, newspaper clips, books, and interviews, ensuring an authentic and captivating experience. Discover the sites where brothels once stood, visit the infamous casinos, and learn about the gangsters who once called Galveston home. Let the vivid stories and anecdotes transport you back to a time when this district thrived with excitement and debauchery.

Who is this for?

This tour is for those who are intrigued by the hidden stories and secrets of the past. It appeals to history enthusiasts, lovers of true crime, and anyone who wants to delve into the fascinating underbelly of Galveston's history. Whether you're a solo traveler, a group of friends, or a couple seeking a unique and memorable experience, this tour offers a captivating journey into a lesser-known aspect of Galveston's past. Join us to satisfy your curiosity and gain a deeper understanding of the city's rich history.

Why book this?

The Galveston Red Light District Tour stands out as a window into a captivating chapter of Galveston's history that is often overlooked. Unlike traditional historical tours, this experience delves into the intriguing world of the mob-run Galveston, offering a unique perspective on the city's past. Immerse yourself in the stories and legends that surrounded the brothels, casinos, and gangsters during this era. With each step, you'll feel the palpable energy and mystique of a time when Galveston was a hotbed of illicit activities and glamorous entertainment. Book this tour to discover a hidden side of Galveston's history that is sure to captivate and intrigue.

Good to know

During the tour, you'll visit several notable sites, including the Oleander Hotel, which offered a safe haven for African American travelers during the Jim Crow era. You'll also explore the Mace Empire, where barber shop owners bootlegged wine and spirits for their guests. Additionally, you'll learn about Molly Waters, Galveston's infamous Madam who retired a millionaire, and marvel at the history of the Red Light District as it once buzzed with 40,000 men a day seeking love. With each stop, gain a deeper understanding of the district's significance and immerse yourself in its captivating tales of yesteryear.

Reviews

Customers who have embarked on the Galveston Red Light District Tour rave about the immersive experience and captivating storytelling. They praise the knowledgeable guides who bring the history to life and reveal hidden anecdotes. Visitors applaud the thorough research that contributes to the tour's credibility and authenticity. Guests express their intrigue and fascination as they navigate through the streets that were once at the center of Galveston's underworld. Overall, the Galveston Red Light District Tour receives high praise for providing an unparalleled glimpse into a time when mob rules dictated Galveston's fate.

How long before the event do I need to book?

  • You can book at any time before the event

Vouchers accepted in the following formats

  • Mobile

Your Itinerary

Antique Warehouse

Originally the Oleander Hotel in 1913. Listed in the Green Book as safe haven in the Jim Crow south. A place where the African American travelers could stay their journey to Galveston.

Admission Not Included

Maceo Spice & Import Company

The starting point of the Mace Empire. Formally Sam and Rosarrio first barber shop where they bootlegged wine and spirits for their thirsty guest.

Admission Not Included

Island Carriages

Formally the home of Molly Waters. One of the most famous houses on the island. Molly is Galveston's most infamous Madam as she retired a millionaire. The house is currently being restored.

Admission Not Included

Galveston Railroad Museum

At the height of the Red Light district, the railroad brought in 40,000 men a day all looking for love.

Admission Not Included

Reviews

(139)

5 (139)

teatac2020

Excellent tour. Found out things I didn’t know. With the turbine at night, you get the feel for the atmosphere back in time. It would be great if the antique store would allow you to take tours upstairs so we could see what the rooms look like at the brothel.

Trek593385

Jeff was very friendly and knowledgeable about the history of Galveston. It was an interesting tour but think it’s best to do at night to add to the ambiance of the stories told. Wear your walking shoes!

Csbeaird71

Greg was great! Very informative! We learned so much about Galveston we didn’t know even being from Texas. More on the historical side, not many creepy elements, but we enjoyed it none the less. Would recommend!

crystaleO5091HW

Very fun time, interesting back history to Galveston. We chose to do a late night tour which to me would have been prime time for these kinds of activities. Dave did a great job, I would recommend him.

victorianL7276NC

David did a great job on the tour and did well explaining all the history!!! He seemed very interested in being knowledgeable for the customers.

R9265NSamberl

We booked our tour last minute, I love that we were able to do so through viator! We were surprised that we wound up with a private experience which was pretty cool. Nothing spooky in my photos sadly, but a fun walking tour.

317mckenziew

Learned so much history! Such a cool tour! So glad we did this on our trip! I’ve been to Galveston before and never noticed all the things he pointed out! I don’t want to give anything away but book the tour!!

G8001PBjc

Very interesting, learned some history of Galveston that we have not heard before and it was fun. Dave did a good job. It is an easy walkable tour with a few places to sit as well.

105sammanthan

An interesting historical experience. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable about the area and its history. He also suggested some great places to check out.

Sally_S

fun Friday walk thru the historic red light district with Jeff. He was a great guide and told some very colorful tales. Especially liked the oldest drugstore in Texas. Off beat journey into little known history near the strand. Adults only.
Collected by Evendo & our supplier partners
2024-06-07 03:05