Torrid Tales True Crime Walking Tour of St Augustine

If you’re someone who appreciates history but with a twist of mystery and crime, the Torrid Tales True Crime Walking Tour in St. Augustine might just be your perfect afternoon adventure. Priced at $30 per person, this 90-minute journey takes you through the shadowy corners of one of America’s oldest towns, revealing stories of murders, court cases, and unresolved mysteries.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its small group size—capped at 12—ensuring an intimate, interactive experience. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll walk down narrow streets, stopping at key locations linked to gripping true crime stories. The fact that it’s available rain or shine means you can plan confidently regardless of the weather, and it’s ideal for travelers who enjoy learning about the darker side of history without the ghostly or pub crawl vibe.

A key highlight for many is the opportunity to continue chatting with the guide in a nearby bar after the tour—perfect for delving deeper into the stories or simply relaxing after a spooky stroll. However, do note that drinks aren’t included in the ticket price, so plan accordingly. For those interested in true crime, history buffs, or curious travelers looking for something different, this tour offers a compelling mix of storytelling, history, and suspense.

Key Points

• Small Group Intimate Experience: Limited to 12 travelers, enhancing interaction and engagement.
• Diverse Crime Stories: From Florida’s oldest unsolved murder to recent tape-caught crimes, the tour covers a broad timeline.
• Expert Guide: Led by a licensed and knowledgeable guide, who answers questions and shares nuanced details.
• Convenient and Accessible: Starts at 8:30 pm, making it a great evening activity, rain or shine.
• Optional Post-Tour Discussion: End outside a local bar for further conversation—no drinks included in the tour price.
• Value for Money: Well-designed, engaging, and priced reasonably for the depth of storytelling and small group size.

A Closer Look at the Experience

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at 62 Charlotte Street, where the first stop introduces you to an unsolved case. Here, the atmosphere begins to set a mysterious tone. You’ll learn about the initial clues and the unresolved nature of the crime, which keeps you pondering whether justice was ever truly served. The guide’s ability to weave historical context with crime details enhances the experience, making the location come alive.

Next, at 124 Charlotte Street, the story shifts to a solved case. The guide reveals how police managed to crack this one, shedding light on investigative techniques and community reactions at the time. This contrast between solved and unsolved cases offers a fascinating perspective on how justice sometimes wins out and sometimes leaves lingering questions.

The third stop, 210 St. George Street, revisits another unsolved case, this time with a court review. It’s here that you’ll see how the legal system handled—or failed to handle—certain crimes. The guide’s insights into the court proceedings, combined with historical details, give a well-rounded picture of crime and justice in St. Augustine’s past.

At 116a St. George Street, the focus is on a solved case that’s particularly significant to the town’s history. Reviewers have praised the guide’s thoroughness here, citing that she was able to answer intricate questions about the case, which adds a layer of credibility and engagement not always found on similar tours.

Finally, the tour concludes at 70 Hypolita Street, where the most recent case—caught on tape and still hotly debated—is reviewed. This contemporary story adds a fresh, real-world element to the night’s tales, emphasizing how crime continues to evolve with technology.

What Travelers Can Expect

Throughout the tour, you’ll find yourself walking along St. Augustine’s historic streets, each stop offering a detailed narrative about the crime, the investigation, and the aftermath. The guide, described as knowledgeable and eager to answer questions, enhances the storytelling with nuanced details and contextual insights.

Expect to learn about crimes spanning nearly 240 years, from Florida’s oldest unsolved murder to recent tape-recorded incidents. This historical breadth makes the tour both educational and entertaining, especially for those interested in the evolution of criminal justice in America.

A typical stop lasts about 15 minutes, enough to absorb the details without feeling rushed. The small group setting fosters conversation, allowing you to ask questions and clarify points. Many reviews highlight how the guide’s ability to answer even the most detailed questions kept the story engaging.

The Value of the Tour

For $30, this experience offers excellent value, especially considering the personalized attention and the variety of stories covered. It’s a well-crafted way to explore the darker side of St. Augustine beyond the usual ghost tours or casual sightseeing. Plus, the optional extension to a local bar offers a relaxed environment for further discussion, making it a well-rounded evening activity.

Practical Details

• Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Time: Starts at 8:30 pm
• Meeting Point: 62 Charlotte Street, near the historic core
• Tour Size: Limited to 12 participants
• Weather: Rain or shine—be prepared with an umbrella or raincoat
• Age: Recommended for ages 15 and up
• Physical Fitness: Moderate—expect some walking and standing
• Extras: No drinks included, optional post-tour discussion at a nearby bar

Why This Tour Works

What makes this tour stand out is the careful curation of stories that balance the eerie with the historical. You’ll find the guide’s insights particularly valuable, as she can answer detailed questions about the cases—something that many travelers find a real benefit. Several reviewers noted her ability to keep the stories engaging and her depth of knowledge.

The mix of solved and unsolved cases provides a nuanced view of crime in St. Augustine, making it more than just a spooky story session. It’s an educational experience that shows how investigations unfolded over almost two and a half centuries.

Also worth mentioning is the small group size, which enhances the experience by allowing for a more personal connection and the chance to interact with the guide directly. Being able to ask questions, clarify details, and get personalized responses makes the whole experience more meaningful.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, or curious travelers who want to see a different side of St. Augustine. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy walking and are comfortable on their feet. Since the stories span a range of time periods, it will appeal to anyone interested in crime stories that are both historical and contemporary.

It’s an evening activity, making it an ideal way to wind down after exploring the city during the day. If you prefer ghost stories, this might not be your cup of tea, but if crime stories intrigue you, you’ll find plenty to discuss and ponder.

The Sum Up

The Torrid Tales True Crime Walking Tour offers a unique, engaging, and deeply informative experience for those interested in the darker stories that have shaped St. Augustine. The small group size and knowledgeable guide create an atmosphere that feels both personal and immersive. The mix of unresolved cases, solved mysteries, and recent crimes ensures a well-rounded exploration of crime history.

For just $30, you gain more than just a walking tour—you get an inside look into the town’s most captivating and chilling stories. The optional post-tour bar discussion adds a social element that many find enhances the experience, giving it a casual, relaxed finish.

This tour is especially well-suited for adventurous daytime explorers looking for an evening activity that combines history, mystery, and storytelling. It’s perfect for travelers who want to explore beyond the usual attractions and enjoy a thoughtfully curated narrative that leaves you pondering long after the last story.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s recommended for ages 15 and up due to the mature nature of the crime stories and content discussed.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it does. Be prepared with rain gear if necessary, as the tour continues regardless of weather.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a comfortably paced activity in the evening.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 62 Charlotte Street and ends near Scarlett’s on Hypolita Street, with an opportunity to stay and discuss stories afterward.

What’s included in the price?
A guided tour led by a licensed and experienced guide.

Are drinks or food included?
No, drinks aren’t part of the package, but there’s an optional opportunity to go inside a local bar after the tour.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended for the outdoor walk.

Is transportation provided?
No, it’s a walking tour, so you’ll need to meet at the designated start point.

Discover St. Augustine’s darker side with this well-reviewed, thoughtfully designed tour—an excellent choice for anyone eager to combine history with intrigue.