Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine

Introduction: A Unique Spin on St. Augustine’s Dark Corners

If you’re visiting St. Augustine, you might expect the usual ghost stories and haunted tales. But for those with a curiosity for the gritty reality of true crime, the Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine tour offers a different perspective. For $30, you’ll spend about an hour and a half walking through the historic streets, following victims’ footsteps and hearing stories not often discussed elsewhere. Led by a licensed, city-certified guide, this tour promises a more raw, unfiltered look into the town’s darker past.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authentic, on-the-ground storytelling—we actually walk to the sites where incidents happened, making the stories come alive in the very places they unfolded. Plus, the tour’s emphasis on lesser-known cases offers a fresh take for true crime fans craving new stories.

However, one consideration is the short duration—you get a quick glimpse into some cases, but if you’re looking for a deep dive into crime history, this may not satisfy your hunger for details. It’s best suited for those who enjoy walking tours with a focus on real stories and are comfortable with a moderate walking pace.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and adventurers looking for a different way to experience St. Augustine’s historic streets. If your interest leans toward stories that blend history and mystery, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• Unique focus on lesser-known crimes and victims’ stories
• Walks through historic locations like Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf and Flagler College
• Authentic storytelling with a licensed, city-certified guide
• Short, accessible duration ideal for a quick but meaningful experience
• Affordable price point offers great value for a themed walking tour
• Limited group size (max 12) ensures a more personal experience

A Detailed Look at the Torrid Tales True Crime Tour in St. Augustine

Starting Point: Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf

Your journey begins here, at Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf, a lively spot overlooking the water. It’s a fitting place to start because it’s as far from the usual crime scene as you can get—bright, cheerful, and touristy. From this location, your guide, whose name you might not always learn but who is licensed and city-certified, kicks off the tour with the first case.

While the tour does not include an admission fee here, the focus quickly shifts to the stories. Expect a concise 15-minute discussion about the initial case, setting the tone for the rest of the tour, blending history with a dash of suspense.

Exploring Bridge Street & Marine Street

Next, you’ll walk along Bridge Street and Marine Street, where your guide points out specific spots tied to the second case. Here, you’ll get about 20 minutes of storytelling. These streets are central to old St. Augustine, and the stories cover incidents that happened in the area, possibly involving victims at or near their actual moments of downfall.

In this segment, we loved the way the guide brought the streets to life, sharing details about the cases that are usually not part of mainstream tourist narratives. It’s a reminder that even in a well-trodden historic district, dark secrets linger just beneath the surface.

Plaza de la Constitución & the Cathedral

Moving into the Plaza de la Constitución, the tour continues with a story linked to the nearby Cathedral. This spot provides a more atmospheric backdrop for the third case, with the guide weaving the story into the historic surroundings. Expect about 15 minutes here, and don’t be surprised if you feel a chill or two as you stand where history and mystery converge.

Flagler College & the Final Cases

If the tour extends into the area near Flagler College, your last stops will be around Cordova Street and Treasury Street. Here, the final cases are discussed, and the walking pace slows just enough for you to absorb the stories.

The tour concludes at Flagler College, a beautiful historic building that contrasts sharply with the dark tales you’ve just heard. The ending is flexible depending on how long each story takes, but generally, it wraps up near the college’s parking lot.

What’s Included & What’s Not

For $30, you get a guided walk led by a knowledgeable guide. The tour does not include entry to any sites (which are mostly just used as storytelling backdrops), nor does it include tips, so gratuity is extra if you feel the guide did a good job.

The small group size (maximum 12) is a real plus, ensuring you can hear the stories clearly and ask questions if you’d like. The mobile ticket makes it easy to join without fuss.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

Critics of similar tours might point out that the duration is brief, and some stories might be more atmospheric than deeply detailed. However, as a bite-sized glimpse into St. Augustine’s criminal history, it hits the mark well. It’s not a “deep dive,” but rather a fast-paced, storytelling-focused experience that emphasizes authentic locations and lesser-known stories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect if you’re looking for an engaging evening activity that combines history, storytelling, and a touch of mystery. It’s especially appealing for true crime fans eager to hear about stories they won’t find in typical guidebooks. It also suits those who prefer walking tours that are short but meaningful, with small groups that foster a more personal connection.

If you’re a history buff wanting a broad overview, or traveling with kids or those sensitive to graphic details, this may not be the best fit. But if you enjoy walking through historic streets with a storyteller, you’ll likely find this tour both entertaining and educational.

Final Evaluation: Is It Worth It?

At $30, this tour offers great value—a mix of local storytelling, historic scenery, and intriguing crime stories. The focus on real victims’ footprints and lesser-known cases injects a sense of authenticity that makes it stand apart from more generic ghost tours. It’s an interactive experience that encourages you to see St. Augustine through a different lens—one that acknowledges its darker chapters.

For travelers seeking a fun, slightly macabre evening walk with a friendly, knowledgeable guide, this tour hits the sweet spot. It’s a wonderful way to combine history, mystery, and a bit of local color in a compact, accessible format.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for an evening outing.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 111 Avenida Menendez and generally ends near the parking lot for Flagler College, around the intersection of Cordova and Treasury Streets.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s tailored for those interested in true crime stories. Small children and sensitive audiences might find some stories intense.

Do I need to purchase additional tickets for sites visited?
No, the tour mainly uses public locations for storytelling without requiring entrance fees.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as you’ll be on your feet for the duration of the tour. An umbrella or raincoat might be necessary in poor weather.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice will result in no refund.

Are there any tips for making the most of this experience?
Arrive a few minutes early, bring a sense of curiosity, and be ready to listen attentively. Asking questions can add to your understanding of each story.

In all, the Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine tour offers a compelling, authentic glimpse into the town’s darker stories—a perfect choice for those wanting to add a mysterious twist to their visit. Its small-group setting, focus on real locations, and lesser-known stories make it a worthwhile addition to any traveler’s itinerary interested in history with a hint of noir.