Los Angeles: Cocktails & True Crime Tour of Old Hollywood

Imagine sipping a carefully crafted cocktail while hearing about Hollywood’s most infamous crimes—mob hits, celebrity scandals, and unsolved mysteries. That’s exactly what you get on the Los Angeles: Cocktails & True Crime Tour of Old Hollywood. Led by knowledgeable guides like Kara (if reviews are anything to go by), this 2.5-hour journey takes you through the streets where Hollywood’s shadows still linger, visiting three iconic bars in the heart of the city.

We love that this tour isn’t just about drinking—it’s a storytelling adventure that combines history, crime, and cocktails in a way that feels both educational and entertaining. The inclusion of crime scene photos displayed on an iPad adds a visual punch, making the stories stick in your mind long after the last sip. Plus, the fact that parking is free at the meeting point makes logistics straightforward—no hunting around for parking meters or lots.

One possible downside? The tour’s focus on acts over ages 21 and over means it’s not suitable for younger fans or families. But if you’re a true crime aficionado or someone who loves a good spooky story with a cocktail in hand, this experience is tailored for you. Perfect for couples, friends, or solo travelers wanting a night of unforgettable tales with a spirited twist.

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Who should consider this tour?

If you enjoy learning about Hollywood’s darker side, appreciate well-made drinks, and don’t mind a small group setting, this tour offers a unique peek into the city’s sinister side. It’s especially appealing to those who want a story-driven experience that goes beyond your typical bar crawl.

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Key Points

Historical stories combined with expertly crafted cocktails at three historic bars
Visiting iconic Hollywood locations connected to famous crimes and scandals
Small group settings ensure personalized storytelling and interaction
Visually engaging with crime scene photos displayed on iPads
Free parking at the meeting point simplifies logistics
Age restriction (21+) keeps the experience mature and focused

An In-Depth Look at the True Crime Cocktail Tour of Old Hollywood

If you’re someone who loves a good story, especially if it’s dark or mysterious, this tour offers a rare chance to see Hollywood’s glamorous streets through a grim lens. It’s a story-driven, immersive experience—not just a pub crawl—designed for those who find the twisted, scandalous tales of Hollywood as fascinating as the city’s bright lights.

The Itinerary and Setting

The tour begins outside Boardner’s, a renowned Hollywood bar located at 1652 N Cherokee Ave. This spot isn’t just a convenient meeting point with free parking; it’s a part of Hollywood’s historic fabric. From there, your guide, often personable and enthusiastic, will introduce you to a lineup of three iconic bars—each with its own character and history—where you’ll enjoy a specific craft cocktail crafted especially with the theme of the night in mind.

Throughout the evening, each stop is carefully chosen for its connection to Hollywood’s darker stories. For example, you might visit a bar that once hosted mobsters or where infamous celebrities once drank and scandalized. The setting is intimate—limited to 10 people—which encourages conversation and allows your guide to share details that larger tours might miss.

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The Stories and Visuals

What makes this experience stand out are the true crime stories. Your guide, possibly Kara, will take you deep into Hollywood’s secret past—from the haunting disappearance of the Black Dahlia to the reign of terror by the Manson Family, and the mobsters who once ruled the Sunset Strip. These tales aren’t just told—they’re illustrated with crime scene photos on an iPad, making the stories visceral and real.

Several reviews highlight how well-researched and engaging the stories are. One reviewer praised how the guide “brought the stories to life with vivid descriptions and photos,” making the chilling tales stick with you. This visual component adds a layer of authenticity that many typical tours lack.

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The Drinks

No matter how dark the stories, the cocktails are crafted with care—three drinks in total—each aligning with the theme of the tale being told. The emphasis on quality means you won’t find generic pub fare. Instead, the drinks are well-made, and the price with a code (“LADRINKS” for $15 off) offers good value for a memorable experience.

The Atmosphere

What we loved is how the tour blends history, mystery, and mixology seamlessly. The small group setting fosters a cozy, chatty atmosphere, perfect for sharing personal stories or hearing others’ reactions. The twisted tales are delivered with a mix of humor and seriousness that keeps the mood lively without diminishing the gravity of the crimes.

Practical Details and Considerations

The tour lasts 2.5 hours, making it easy to fit into an evening without feeling rushed. The meeting point is easy to locate, with free parking making logistics simple—no stress about city parking fees or parking garages. The tour is wheelchair accessible, which is a thoughtful feature for those with mobility needs.

However, keep in mind that you must be 21 or older to participate, which makes this experience unsuitable for families or those under legal drinking age. Also, because it’s a small group tour, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot.

Authentic Reviews

One reviewer mentioned that the tour “feels like stepping into a Hollywood noir film,” emphasizing the immersive storytelling. Another appreciated the visual aids on the iPad, noting it made the stories more vivid and gripping. The fact that the tour is not hurried gives everyone time to soak in the stories and enjoy their drinks.

The Value of This Experience

For couples or friends interested in Hollywood’s hidden stories, this tour offers a unique blend of history and entertainment. The cost might seem higher than a typical pub crawl, but considering the quality of cocktails, the personalized storytelling, and the visual presentation, it delivers solid value. You’re not just drinking; you’re learning about a darker side of Hollywood that many travelers never see.

Who will love this tour?

True crime enthusiasts eager to hear about Hollywood’s darkest moments
History buffs interested in the city’s underground stories
Cocktail lovers who enjoy quality drinks and themed nights
Small groups looking for an intimate, storytelling experience
Anyone who appreciates visual storytelling with crime scene photos

The Sum Up

The Los Angeles: Cocktails & True Crime Tour of Old Hollywood offers a rare chance to combine history, mystery, and mixology into one compact evening. It’s perfect for those who want to indulge in spooky stories while enjoying expertly crafted drinks in a cozy, small-group environment. The stories are vivid, the visuals compelling, and the setting undeniably atmospheric.

While it’s not suitable for under-21s and requires some planning (like booking ahead), it provides a memorable night that goes beyond the usual Hollywood sightseeing. Whether you’re a true crime fanatic, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply curious about Hollywood’s shadowy past, this tour makes for a compelling, authentic experience that’s worth seeking out.

FAQs

Is parking available at the meeting point? Yes, there’s free parking at Boardner’s, making it easy to start the tour without city parking hassles.

How long does the tour last? The experience runs approximately 2.5 hours, perfect for an evening outing without feeling too long.

What is the age requirement? Participants must be 21 or older to join, due to alcohol consumption.

Are the drinks included in the price? The description suggests a focus on quality cocktails, but it’s best to check if the drinks are included or if you’ll pay separately—generally, three drinks are part of the experience.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, accommodating guests with mobility needs.

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

What makes this tour different from other Hollywood experiences? Unlike standard sightseeing, this tour blends true crime storytelling with authentic bar visits and visual aids, creating a richer, more immersive experience.

Is this suitable for groups or solo travelers? It’s designed for small groups, making it ideal for those who prefer intimate settings, but solo travelers will also find it friendly and engaging.

How do I book this experience? You can reserve your spot online, with options to pay later and a discount code available for savings.

This tour is a standout choice for travelers looking to explore Hollywood’s dark side with a spirited twist. It offers a fun, authentic, and educational evening—perfect for those who crave stories as much as they love a good drink.