Austin Ripper 1885: Historical True Crime Walking Tour

Imagine walking through the streets of Austin and stepping back in time to an era of mystery, fear, and unresolved crimes. The Austin Ripper 1885 tour offers just that—a chance to explore one of the city’s darkest chapters, focused on a series of murders that terrorized the local population nearly 140 years ago.

This tour, priced at $55 per person, lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, and guides you through historic streets, notable landmarks, and secret corners, revealing the stories behind the infamous unsolved murders. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll visit key sites like Congress Avenue, the Austin History Center, and the historic Driskill Hotel—all while uncovering the intrigue around the 1885 serial killer.

What we love about this experience is how it combines historical context with true crime storytelling—making the past genuinely come alive. The tour’s stops include iconic locations like the Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel’s terrace, where you can picture the rumors swirling during the murders, and the scenic walk along San Jacinto Boulevard, where four of the murders took place.

A second highlight is the personal touch of the guides, who are praised for their expertise and engaging storytelling. The tour also offers a chance to look behind the scenes at the dark secrets of Austin’s history at the Austin History Center, which adds depth beyond just the crime stories.

However, one consideration is that the physical aspect involves walking around historic streets, so comfortable shoes and moderate fitness are recommended. Since the tour is limited to a maximum of 15 people, it feels intimate and allows for genuine questions and interaction.

This experience suits travelers who enjoy true crime stories, historical mysteries, and offbeat local tales. If you’re a fan of immersive storytelling and want to see Austin through a different lens, this tour offers an authentic, compelling adventure.

Key Points

• Historical focus: Learn about Austin’s 1885 serial killer targeting vulnerable women.
• Engaging storytelling: Guides are praised for their knowledge and captivating narration.
• Iconic locations: Visit Congress Avenue, the Stephen F. Austin Hotel, and the Driskill Hotel.
• Authentic atmosphere: The tour’s stops are carefully chosen to evoke the era and mystery.
• Concise but rich: Lasts about 90 minutes to 2 hours, fitting neatly into an evening.
• Limited group size: Up to 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience.

Detailed Review

Exploring Austin’s Dark Past on Foot

The Austin Ripper 1885 tour invites you to walk through the city’s streets, where history and mystery collide. It begins on Congress Avenue, one of Austin’s oldest roads, setting the scene for the chilling stories that unfolded here. We loved the way the guide set the tone, painting a picture of Austin in the late 1800s—without overwhelming us with facts, but enough to make the stories feel alive.

The stories center around a serial killer active in 1885, who preyed on vulnerable women. The guide walks us through the investigation, suspected culprits, and the social atmosphere at the time. The historical backdrop helps contextualize the murders, and the tour does a good job of balancing local history with the dark and unsettling details of the crimes.

Visiting the Austin History Center

A brief stop outside the Austin History Center gives us a peek at the city’s efforts to uncover the truth behind its darker chapters. The building itself, an art deco structure that was once Austin’s first library, adds a sense of historical gravity. Here, the guide discusses the secrets behind digging up the truth about the murders, making it a valuable stop for those interested in archival research and local history.

The Stephen F. Austin Hotel and Terrace

Halfway through, the tour pauses at the Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel. We love how this spot combines luxury with history, and the terrace overlooking Congress Avenue offers a perfect vantage point to soak in the city’s ambiance. The family-friendly bar is a great spot for a quick refreshment, and many choose to enjoy a drink as the guide discusses the rumors and theories circulating during the 1885 crimes.

Walking the Scene of the Murders

The most vivid part of the tour is along San Jacinto Boulevard, where four of the murders occurred. Walking these streets, you can almost hear echoes of the past, and the guide’s detailed account of the mysterious murders makes the stories stick. This portion lasts about 30 minutes and is the highlight for fans of true crime—though you should be comfortable with some walking and a bit of uneven terrain.

Wrapping Up Inside the Driskill Hotel

The tour concludes inside the historic Driskill Hotel, built in 1886. This grand, old hotel provides a fitting end, bringing together Austin’s history, architecture, and dark stories. The interior is beautiful, and it’s the perfect setting for reflection on the chilling tales shared. The included stop inside the Driskill provides not only a visual feast but also a final piece of the local story.

Overall Value and Experience

Given the $55 price point, this tour offers excellent value. The small group size guarantees a more personal experience, and the stops are carefully curated to evoke the period and the mystery. The knowledgeable guides receive high praise for their storytelling skills, which makes the history come alive in a way that a book or documentary simply can’t replicate.

The tour’s length—about 90 minutes to 2 hours—fits well into an evening itinerary, especially after a day of sightseeing. It’s perfect for those who want a narrative-driven, atmospheric exploration of Austin’s lesser-known stories. The focus on authentic locations like hotels, streets, and archives creates a tangible connection to Austin’s past.

What Could Be Better?

The main consideration is the physical aspect—walking around historic streets can be demanding for some. Also, since drinks are not included, if you want to enjoy that terrace view with a beverage, you’ll need to purchase something separately. The tour operates in the evening, which might be less suitable for travelers with young children or those less comfortable with dimly lit historic streets.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour will resonate most with history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and local history aficionados. If you enjoy storytelling that combines mystery, architecture, and social history, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s also a good choice for travelers seeking a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path perspective on Austin’s past.

The Sum Up

The Austin Ripper 1885: Historical True Crime Walking Tour offers a unique blend of history and mystery in a walkable, engaging format. The combination of expert guides, striking locations, and authentic storytelling makes it a standout experience for those interested in the city’s darker stories.

Whether you’re a history lover, a true crime fan, or just someone curious about Austin’s past, this tour promises an immersive, thought-provoking exploration that’s both entertaining and educational. The careful selection of stops, from historic streets to luxurious hotels, guarantees a well-rounded experience that leaves you with a deeper understanding of Austin’s complex and sometimes shadowy history.

For travelers eager to see a different side of Austin—beyond the music, food, and vibrant nightlife—this tour provides a compelling glimpse into its lesser-known stories. It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate authentic, story-driven experiences with a hint of suspense and history.

FAQ

• How long does the tour last?
  It runs approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, making it ideal for an evening activity.

• Where does the tour begin and end?
  It starts at 701 Congress Ave and concludes inside the Driskill Hotel at 6th and Brazos.

• Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
  Yes, but it involves walking around historic streets, so moderate physical fitness is recommended.

• Can I purchase drinks during the tour?
  Drinks are not included, but you’re welcome to buy beverages at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel bar.

• Is this a group tour?
  Yes, the maximum group size is 15 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

• Are tickets refundable?
  Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance.

• Is the tour family-friendly?
  The bar at the hotel is family-friendly, but due to the dark, sometimes unsettling subject matter, it’s best suited for adults or older teens.

• Do I need special tickets or reservations?
  Yes, booking in advance is recommended; on average, the tour is booked 21 days ahead.

• What themes are explored during the tour?
  Local murder investigations, suspect theories, and the social atmosphere of Austin in 1885 are key themes.

This detailed review aims to give you all the insight needed to decide if the Austin Ripper 1885 tour fits your interests. It’s an engaging way to uncover Austin’s mysterious past, connecting history, storytelling, and local legends in a walk-through experience that’s both entertaining and thought-provoking.