St. Augustine: True Crime Guided Pub Crawl

Discover the dark secrets of St. Augustine on this engaging True Crime Guided Pub Crawl. For just $35 per person, you’ll spend two hours hopping between historic pubs and bars, soaking in the city’s eerie past and enjoying a local drink or two. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this tour offers a mix of chilling stories and relaxed socializing in some of the most iconic spots in the city.

What we love about this experience is the intimate size of the group, limited to nine participants, which means you’ll get plenty of personalized storytelling. Plus, the tour’s focus on local, authentic venues like Forgotten Tonic and Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila ensures you’re not just sitting in tourist traps but experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife and dark history firsthand.

One potential consideration is that since it’s a pub crawl, some guests might arrive with different drinking levels, which can affect the flow of the stories and overall vibe. For those who appreciate a good story with a side of local flavor, and don’t mind a bit of drinking along the way, this tour hits the right note.

This tour suits travelers who enjoy history, crime tales, or simply want a fun, relaxed evening exploring St. Augustine’s unique past. It’s ideal for adults comfortable with drinking in a social setting and curious about the city’s darker stories.

Key Points

• Authentic Venues: The tour visits well-known local pubs like Forgotten Tonic and Casa Reina.
• Chilling Stories: Learn about unsolved murders, serial killers, and grisly local crimes.
• Informative Guides: Rob, among others, keeps the tales lively and detailed.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to nine participants for a more personalized experience.
• Duration & Flexibility: Two hours long, usually in the evening, rain or shine.
• Age Restriction: Not suitable for those under 21.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the St. Augustine True Crime Pub Crawl

Starting Point and Overall Atmosphere

The tour begins at Pizalley’s Chianti Room, a cozy spot filled with an eclectic brew selection, setting a relaxed tone for the evening. We appreciated how the guide, Rob, immediately made everyone feel comfortable, ready to share stories that are both fascinating and unsettling. The small group size allows for a more intimate experience — a key difference from larger, more generic tours — where everyone feels involved and can ask questions.

The Route and Venues

The walk covers approximately 0.9 miles, mostly within the historic art and downtown districts, including Saint George Street and Cathedral Place. Each stop is carefully chosen, combining historic ambiance with a sense of local authenticity. For example, Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila combines a lively setting with stories of notable locals, like Father Rene Robert, whose murder shocked the community.

Other venues, such as Forgotten Tonic, offer a vintage feel that transports you back in time, which enhances the storytelling. Here, you’ll hear about crimes dating back to the 1800s, like a murder on Aviles Street in 1800. It’s fascinating how each site adds a layer of history and drama, making the stories more vivid.

Stories and Themes

The tales are a mix of well-documented crimes and unsolved mysteries. You’ll hear about William Darrell Lindsey, a serial killer targeting vulnerable populations between 1983 and 1996, and the murder of Lieutenant Guillermo Delaney, an unsolved case that has intrigued locals for years.

Rob, the guide, has a knack for storytelling, weaving details with a relaxed yet engaging style. Reviewers note that Rob’s enthusiasm makes the tour memorable, and many appreciate the way he invites questions that deepen the experience. One guest said, “Rob is the man! Amazing and knowledgeable,” which highlights the importance of a passionate guide.

Drinks and Socializing

While drinks aren’t included, participants have the opportunity to purchase beverages at each stop, adding a casual, social element. Some reviews note that the tour is somewhat laid-back regarding drinking, with some guests sipping slowly and others more quickly, creating a mixed but lively atmosphere. This can be a plus or a drawback depending on your preference for paced storytelling versus social buzz.

The Experience’s Educational Value

Beyond the thrill of the stories, the tour prompts reflective questions about morality, justice, and local history, which many guests find thought-provoking. It’s not just entertainment but also a window into the city’s sometimes dark past, seen through the lens of real crimes that shaped local lore.

Practical Details and Value

At $35, the tour offers good value considering the mix of storytelling, historic venues, and the personal guidance you receive. It’s a well-paced experience that respects your time — two hours — and keeps you engaged without feeling rushed. The small group size ensures you’re not lost in the crowd, allowing for better interaction and a more authentic experience.

The tour operates rain or shine, which is helpful to know, especially since the walk covers outdoor streets. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advisable. On top of that, the tour ends near the starting point, making it convenient for dinner plans afterward or the option to continue exploring St. Augustine’s nightlife.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This pub crawl is perfect for adults who enjoy history, true crime, and local culture. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate storytelling and a relaxed atmosphere, rather than high-energy nightlife. If you’re interested in the darker side of St. Augustine’s past, this tour offers intriguing insights that are less common in standard sightseeing options.

It’s also a good option if you’re traveling with a small group — perhaps friends or a couple — and want a personalized, memorable evening. Keep in mind it’s not suitable for those under 21, and if you prefer a more structured, less drinking-focused experience, this might not be your best choice.

Final Thoughts

The St. Augustine True Crime Guided Pub Crawl presents a unique way to explore the city’s less-glamorous history by blending storytelling with local drinking spots. The guide’s enthusiasm and the carefully curated venues make it an engaging experience. It offers a different perspective on St. Augustine, revealing stories of crime and mystery that add depth to your visit.

While it’s primarily about the stories and the ambiance, the inclusion of authentic, historic venues makes it more than just a typical pub crawl. For travelers who love a good story, enjoy a drink or two, and appreciate a small, friendly group, this tour offers solid entertainment and insight into a shadowy side of the city.

If you’re looking for an evening that’s equal parts history, storytelling, and social fun, and you don’t mind a bit of alcohol, then this tour is worth considering. It’s a memorable way to see a different side of St. Augustine — one full of suspense, history, and local color.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is intended for adults over 21 due to alcohol consumption and mature content.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, usually in the evening.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included but you will have the opportunity to purchase beverages at each stop.

Where do we meet the guide?
You meet your guide at the Ghost City Tours store, located at 32 Charlotte St.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, and your driver’s license. Video recording is not allowed.

Is the tour canceled if it rains?
No, the tour takes place rain or shine.

How far do we walk?
The walk covers about 0.9 miles, mostly within the historic downtown area.

Can I bring my own alcohol?
It’s best to purchase drinks at the venues as outside alcohol isn’t typically allowed.

Is this tour available in other languages?
No, it is conducted in English.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this True Crime Guided Pub Crawl offers a distinctive way to experience St. Augustine’s historic streets. With engaging storytelling, intimate venues, and a relaxed social atmosphere, it’s ideal for those curious about the city’s darker stories and looking for a fun, memorable evening. Whether you’re a crime buff, history lover, or simply seeking a different flavor of nightlife, this tour delivers a mix of intrigue and local charm worth exploring.

You can check availability for your dates here: