Hollywood Cocktails & True Crime 3 Drinks Included

A Spirited Journey Through Hollywood’s Dark Side

Imagine strolling through Hollywood not just to see the stars but to uncover its hidden, sinister stories. This True Crime Cocktail Tour offers just that — an intriguing blend of Hollywood’s infamous crimes, celebrity scandals, and mob legends, all experienced over three drinks at iconic local bars. For $105 per person, you’ll spend about 2 hours 30 minutes walking through history with an expert guide, visiting three carefully selected venues that each hold a piece of Hollywood’s dark past.

What we love most about this experience is how it effortlessly combines storytelling with a lively social atmosphere — you’re not just listening to tales from a distance, but actively engaging with them in lively, historic venues. The second highlight is the quality of the stories, which are delivered with a mixture of photos, insider details, and a charismatic guide, making the past come alive.

A possible consideration is that the tour’s focus on dark stories and spooky legends might not be ideal for travelers seeking a purely light-hearted pub crawl. Also, since most tours are booked about 23 days in advance, securing a spot might require planning ahead.

This tour is perfect for true crime enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone who loves Hollywood’s glamorous yet gritty side. If you’re curious about the city’s darker chapters, enjoy a good cocktail, and don’t mind walking short distances between historic spots, this experience promises a memorable night out.

Key Points

• Authentic Hollywood history: Visit legendary bars with stories tied to real crimes and famous personalities.
• Expert storytelling: Guides like Trevor or Wes bring history to life with photos and lively narration.
• Three included drinks: Sip at carefully chosen bars, with options for alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages.
• Rich ambiance: Explore venues like Boardner’s, Madame Tussauds rooftop bar, and Marilyn Monroe’s favorite haunt.
• Short, well-paced itinerary: The stops cover notable locations, each offering a unique piece of Hollywood’s crime lore.
• Small group size: Tours are capped at 12 travelers, ensuring a personal experience and plenty of interaction.

A Deep Dive Into the Hollywood Cocktails & True Crime Tour

Setting the Scene: From Mob Hangouts to Celebrity Haunts

The tour kicks off at Boardner’s, a bar with a storied past as a mob hangout and the site connected to the Black Dahlia’s mysterious disappearance. Expect a lively atmosphere and a drink in hand as you settle into the gritty history woven into the walls of this old haunt. The 30-minute stop includes an admission ticket, meaning you get more than just a drink — you’re stepping into a piece of Hollywood’s criminal past.

As one reviewer pointed out, “The true crime and cocktails tour puts you in the very setting that served as the background for some of the ill-fated stories.” We loved the way this stop immediately immerses you into the dark legend that shrouds Hollywood’s history, setting a tone of intrigue for the rest of the evening.

Rooftop Revelations at Madame Tussauds

Next, the tour takes you to Madame Tussauds Hollywood, where you’ll enjoy your second drink while soaking in panoramic views from a rooftop bar. The height gives a different perspective on the city, but it’s the stories that truly shine here. The guide’s knack for storytelling makes this stop memorable, as you learn about the darker tales that have unfolded in the shadows of Hollywood, all while sipping a cocktail with a view.

One guest remarked, “Wes was very funny and knowledgeable about Hollywood’s underbelly,” highlighting how the guide’s personality enhances the experience. This isn’t just a bar; it’s an atmospheric venue with a history as intriguing as the stories it hosts.

Marilyn Monroe’s Favorite Bar

The final stop is The Hollywood Roosevelt, renowned as Marilyn Monroe’s preferred watering hole. Here, you’ll enjoy your third cocktail in a setting infused with old Hollywood glamour and whispers of its ghosts. The mix of history, celebrity lore, and true crime stories creates a compelling, layered experience.

Guests have raved about the friendly, social vibe. One reviewer said, “Wes is a real gem and a master storyteller,” emphasizing how the guide’s charisma makes the stories resonate even more. As the tour wraps up just a few blocks from the start, you’ll leave with a better understanding of Hollywood’s glamorous and gritty history.

What Makes This Tour Special?

• Story-driven and immersive: It’s not just about drinking; it’s about experiencing Hollywood’s dark history firsthand, with visual aids like photos making the stories more tangible.
• Authentic venues: Each bar is historic and notable, offering a sense of place that elevates the storytelling.
• Expert guides: Consistently praised for their knowledge, charisma, and ability to keep the group engaged, guides like Trevor and Wes are a highlight.
• Balanced pace: The stops are well spaced out, allowing for both storytelling and mingling, which keeps the experience lively without feeling rushed.

The Value of the Experience

At $105, including three drinks and three immersive stops, this tour offers good value for money. You’re paying for more than just drinks; it’s about access to fascinating stories, historic venues, and a uniquely spooky night out. Plus, the small group size ensures personalized attention.

Potential Drawbacks

While this experience is engaging and well-paced, it’s tailored toward those who enjoy dark tales and a slightly eerie vibe. If you prefer a more straightforward pub crawl or lighter fare, this might not be your ideal choice. Also, the booking window of about 23 days in advance suggests it’s popular, so planning ahead is advised.

Best For

This tour suits history buffs, true crime fans, and Hollywood lovers who want a deeper understanding of the city’s more shadowy side. It’s perfect for those who appreciate storytelling with a historical touch, and for travelers seeking a fun, social evening with a twist of mystery.

Practical Details

What to Expect

• The tour begins at Boardner’s by La Belle at 6:00 pm, a location steeped in Hollywood lore.
• It lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, covering three key venues.
• The group size is limited to 12 travelers, keeping it intimate.
• The tour is near public transportation, making it accessible for most travelers.
• It features three included drinks, with options for alcohol or non-alcoholic beverages.
• The experience is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The tour is conducted by The Haunt Ghost Tours, a company with a positive reputation.

What You’ll Need to Know

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking short distances between venues.
• Be prepared for storytelling that involves dark themes — suitable for most, but not all.
• Book ahead of time, especially during peak travel season; most travelers book about three weeks in advance.
• The tour ends about three blocks from the starting point, close enough for a post-tour stroll or dinner.

Summing Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves a good story about Hollywood’s infamous past, enjoys a well-made cocktail in historic venues, and appreciates guides who can enliven the tales with humor and insight, this tour is a winner. It’s a unique way to see parts of Hollywood you might not explore on your own, all while uncovering some of the city’s most intriguing dark stories.

For adventurous spirits, true crime aficionados, or even those simply curious about Hollywood’s lesser-known history, this experience offers a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and social fun. It’s a nighttime tour that adds a layer of mystery to your Hollywood visit, making for an unforgettable evening.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While most of the stories are historical and fascinating, the dark themes and spooky tales might be more suitable for adults or older teens. It’s designed for those comfortable with slightly eerie content.

Are there non-alcoholic drink options?
Yes, the tour provides options for non-alcoholic beverages if you prefer not to drink alcohol.

How many drinks are included?
You get three drinks in total, one at each venue, included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility if needed.

What if I am not familiar with Hollywood’s history?
Guides like Trevor and Wes are praised for their engaging storytelling and ability to make complex history accessible and interesting for everyone.

How long is the walking part of the tour?
The tour involves walking between three venues, but the pace is manageable with short distances, making it suitable for most travelers.

Is the tour family-friendly?
Given the dark themes, it’s best suited for adults or older teens interested in true crime and Hollywood lore.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes about three blocks from the starting point, making it easy to find your way back or continue exploring Hollywood.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, most travelers book about 23 days in advance, as the tour is popular and fills up quickly.

Final Thoughts

The Hollywood Cocktails & True Crime Tour offers a distinctive way to explore Southern California’s entertainment capital by night. It combines history, storytelling, and social fun, making it a shining example of experiential travel. Whether you’re a true crime fan, a history buff, or just curious about Hollywood’s mysterious side, this tour delivers authentic insights with a splash of spirits and a dash of old-school glamour. It’s a great value for the experience, especially with small-group attention and expert guides ensuring your night is as engaging as it is educational. For those ready to see Hollywood through a different lens, this tour is well worth your consideration.