DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for an experience that combines true crime history, haunted places, and a bit of ghostly intrigue, the DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour might just be your ticket. While I haven’t taken this tour myself, reviews and detailed descriptions suggest it offers a fascinating peek into LA’s darker corners. It’s designed for those curious about the city’s ghost stories, infamous crimes, and historic landmarks, all wrapped into a three-hour evening adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it blends guided storytelling with actual site visits—making history feel alive and a little spooky. The chance to sip a cocktail at haunted bars like Clifton’s or the Alexandria Hotel adds a fun, atmospheric touch. Plus, visiting places linked to the Black Dahlia, Charles Manson, and the Chinatown Massacre makes the tour both educational and chilling.

A possible consideration is the sound quality—one review mentions that the guide was a bit hard to hear without a microphone. That’s a small detail, but it might matter if you’re sensitive to missing some of the story’s nuance. This tour is best suited for adults or older teens with an interest in crime stories, history, and spooky tales. It’s not recommended for children under 15, nor for wheelchair users, due to walking and accessibility limitations.

If you enjoy urban legends, historic crimes, and exploring LA’s shadowy past, this tour offers a compelling mix of entertainment and education. It’s a good choice for solo travelers, couples, or small groups eager for a different side of the City of Angels.

Key Points

• Authentic dark history of Los Angeles, including famous crimes and hauntings
• Visit iconic haunted sites like the Biltmore Hotel and Hotel Cecil
• Learn from engaging guides with a focus on true crime stories and architecture
• Enjoy a spooky atmosphere at bars with haunted reputations
• Moderate walking involved, plan for weather and comfortable shoes
• Tour length is three hours, mostly in the evening, perfect for a night out

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour

This tour promises a three-hour journey through Los Angeles’ grim and ghostly side. Starting at the Biltmore Hotel, you’re introduced to the tragic last known sighting of Elizabeth Short, better known as the Black Dahlia. Standing outside this opulent, historic hotel, you can almost hear the whispers of 1947, the year her life ended there. The Biltmore’s grandeur contrasts sharply with its dark past, making it a compelling opening.

Walking from site to site, you’ll visit Clifton’s, a once-popular bar with a peculiar history. The guide shares how its Christian founder was involved in anti-corruption efforts—yet some secrets linger behind its cheerful facade. Here, you might find the atmosphere lively and eerie at once, especially as you learn about its haunted reputation.

Next stop is the Hotel Cecil, perhaps Los Angeles’ most notorious haunted building. Known for its history of murders, suicides, and the infamous “Night Stalker,” the Cecil’s dark stories make it a must-see for true crime buffs and ghost enthusiasts alike. As the guide recounts tales from this “hellish” hotel, you’ll appreciate how a place’s reputation can continue to haunt it long after its heyday.

The tour then takes you to the Alexandria Hotel, once a luxurious landmark that now hosts stories of ghosts, including Rudolph Valentino’s spirit reportedly still haunting his penthouse. Visiting these historic spaces offers a tangible connection to LA’s glamorous yet haunted past.

The Barclay Hotel is another highlight, home to two serial killers and scenes of brutal murders. Standing at these sites, you’ll feel the weight of history and the stories woven into the very stones.

The journey also takes in the site of the 1871 Chinatown Massacre, known as the largest mass lynching in US history. The guide will explain its significance, adding a sobering layer to the tour. It’s a stark reminder of the city’s violent and complex history.

Finally, you’ll visit the Halls of Justice, where infamous trials occurred, including those of Benjamin Bugsy Siegel and Charles Manson. Standing in these courts, you grasp the city’s ongoing fascination with crime and justice.

Practical Details and What to Expect

The tour begins at the corner of 2nd and Broadway, near a Metro station. Arriving 10-15 minutes early is advisable—parking can be tricky, and the guide starts checking in guests well before the scheduled start. The group is likely small, making it easier to hear and engage, though one review notes that the guide’s voice was sometimes hard to hear without a microphone. Bringing a small portable speaker or microphone could enhance the experience.

The tour is conducted mainly in the evening, enhancing the spooky atmosphere. Expect moderate walking—comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be on your feet exploring different sites. The weather in LA is usually mild, but dressing in layers is wise, especially if you’re sensitive to cool evenings.

This experience is not suitable for children under 15 or wheelchair users, mainly due to walking and site access limitations. The entire tour costs $60 per person, which is a reasonable price for a guided experience that combines storytelling, history, and visits to iconic haunted sites.

While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour stops at bars where you can soak in the ambiance after the walking portion. Many reviews highlight how the guides are knowledgeable and friendly, providing not just crime stories but also insights into LA’s architecture and local culture.

Authenticity and Value

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of entertainment and historical context. It’s not just a collection of spooky stories but a curated walk through parts of LA that have contributed to its noir reputation. The stories about the Black Dahlia or Charles Manson are told with a sense of respect and intrigue, adding depth to the ghostly tales.

The value is clear when considering that you visit multiple legendary sites, hear about infamous crimes, and enjoy a guided narrative—all for $60. The inclusion of haunted bars adds to the fun, creating a complete evening of ghostly intrigue and crime lore.

Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views of downtown LA, which provide a fitting backdrop for the stories. One reviewer, Harry from the UK, described the experience as “really informative about the general history in the area and the architecture as well,” highlighting how this tour isn’t solely about murder stories but also about understanding LA’s character.

The Sum Up

For those with a curiosity about LA’s darker side, this Ghost Tour offers an accessible way to explore the city’s haunted landmarks and true crime stories. It’s suited for travelers who enjoy history, ghost stories, and a bit of theatrical storytelling, especially in the cooler evening hours. The combination of site visits, storytelling, and a lively guide makes for an engaging experience that balances education and entertainment.

While it might not be ideal for families with young children or those with mobility issues, it’s a perfect choice for adults or older teens eager to see a different, shadowy side of Los Angeles. The tour’s focus on real stories, historic sites, and haunted legends ensures an authentic, memorable outing that captures LA’s noir mystique.

If you enjoy true crime, historic architecture, and spooky tales with a pinch of Los Angeles’ unique personality, this tour will give you plenty to talk about long after it ends.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 3 hours, mostly in the evening, making it a great choice for a night outing.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at the corner of 2nd and Broadway, near the Metro station. Arriving 10-15 minutes early is recommended.

How much does it cost?
The price is $60 per person, which covers the guided walk, storytelling, and site visits.

Is the tour suitable for kids?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 15 due to the nature of the content and walking involved.

Are food and drinks included?
No, but the tour includes visits to haunted bars where you can buy drinks afterward.

What about accessibility?
The tour involves walking and site access limitations; it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

What language is the tour conducted in?
It’s conducted in English.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a group size limit?
The tour typically involves small groups, but exact numbers aren’t specified.

Would I need any special gear?
Comfortable shoes are essential. Bringing a camera is optional but recommended.

In a nutshell, the DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour offers a compelling glimpse into Los Angeles’ haunted past and its notorious crime stories. With knowledgeable guides, authentic sites, and the atmospheric backdrop of downtown LA at night, it’s a memorable way to add some spooky flair to your visit. Just be prepared for some walking and a story or two that might send a chill down your spine.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby