Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour of Austin

The "Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour" takes visitors on a captivating 2-hour journey through the city’s dark past. Explore the chilling murders of eight women in 1885, attributed to America’s first documented serial killer. As you weave through historic areas like Guy Town and the Warehouse District, uncover gripping anecdotes that shed light on the fear and societal challenges of that era. With a stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel, this tour blends history and intrigue, leaving you eager to discover more.

This experience made our article of Austin’s 11 Best Historical Tours.

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Key Points

This 2-hour guided walking tour explores Austin’s dark history, focusing on the "midnight assassin" murders that occurred in 1885.
The tour visits historic areas like West 6th Street and Guy Town, where the serial killings took place, providing insights into the social climate of 1880s Austin.
Guests will learn about the eight women brutally murdered by the "midnight assassin," the challenges faced by law enforcement, and the lasting impact on the city’s psyche.
The tour includes a stop at the Driskill Hotel, where participants can purchase drinks and further enjoy the era’s atmosphere.
The tour is led by a professional local expert and provides a captivating exploration of Austin’s dark past, blending historical facts with haunting anecdotes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour is a 2-hour guided walking exploration that delves into the city’s dark past.

Starting at the corner of Bowie Street and W. 6th Street, the tour takes participants through historic areas like West 6th Street, Guy Town, and the Warehouse District.

Along the way, guests investigate the gruesome history of America’s first serial killer, the "midnight assassin," who murdered eight women in 1885.

The tour includes a stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel, where guests can enjoy a drink on their own.

A stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel allows guests to enjoy a drink on their own during the tour.

Priced from $40 per person, the tour is led by a professional local guide.

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Exploring Austin’s Historic Areas

As the tour begins, guests explore Austin’s historic West 6th Street, uncovering the area’s rich past. This iconic district showcases the city’s cultural heritage, with Victorian-era buildings and landmarks that tell the stories of the "midnight assassin" murders. The tour then ventures into Guy Town and the Warehouse District, revealing how these neighborhoods evolved over time. Participants marvel at the juxtaposition of old and new, as modern development blends with historic architecture. Through the guide’s captivating anecdotes, the tour transports guests back to the late 1800s, painting a vivid picture of Austin’s tumultuous past.

| Landmark | Significance |

|———-|————–|

| West 6th Street | Historic district showcasing Victorian-era architecture |

| Guy Town | Neighborhood with ties to the "midnight assassin" case |

| Warehouse District | Area that evolved from its industrial roots |

| Driskill Hotel | Iconic watering hole where guests can enjoy a drink |

| Historic Buildings | Preserved structures that echo Austin’s storied past |

The "Midnight Assassin" Murders

Eight women were brutally murdered in Austin in 1885, marking the first documented serial killings in American history.

The killer, dubbed the "Midnight Assassin," would strike at night, targeting women living alone. The murders caused widespread panic and fear among Austin’s residents.

Law enforcement struggled to catch the elusive killer, who managed to evade capture despite an extensive manhunt.

The grisly details of the killings and the city’s inability to stop the murderer have become the stuff of local legend.

This dark chapter in Austin’s past continues to haunt the city to this day.

Cultural Insights and Stories

What cultural insights and stories does the "Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour" uncover about this dark period in the city’s past? The tour explores:

The social climate of 1880s Austin, when the city was transitioning from frontier town to modern metropolis.
The role of the media in fueling public fear and hysteria around the murders.
The class divisions and tensions between the elite and the working-class residents of "Guy Town".
The challenges faced by law enforcement in investigating the crimes with limited forensic resources.
The lasting impact of the "Midnight Assassin" murders on Austin’s psyche and the community’s efforts to cope with the trauma.

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Drink Stop at the Driskill Hotel

The tour provides a welcome drink stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel, a historic landmark in downtown Austin. Established in 1886, the Driskill exudes Old West charm and elegance.

Guests can explore the hotel’s grand lobby, decorated with marble floors and intricate woodwork. While drinks aren’t included in the tour price, participants are free to purchase beverages at the hotel’s bar or one of the dining establishments.

This break offers a chance to relax, reflect on the tour’s dark history, and soak in the ambiance of one of Austin’s most iconic buildings.

There's plenty more to explore in Austin

Booking Information

For those interested in booking the Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour, there are a few flexible options available.

The tour offers:

The tour offers free cancellation, reserve now & pay later, and a guided experience by a local expert.

Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Reserve now & pay later, allowing booking without immediate payment
Guided by a professional local expert
2-hour duration covering 2 miles at a leisurely pace
Comfortable shoes and money for optional treats/beverages recommended

This combination of booking flexibility, knowledgeable guides, and a thoughtful tour experience makes the Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour an attractive option for those seeking a unique glimpse into the city’s chilling past.

Tour Experience

Guided by a professional local guide, the Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour offers participants a unique and immersive experience.

The tour covers 2 miles at a leisurely pace, including short rests, allowing visitors to explore Austin’s historic areas. Along the way, they’ll investigate the gruesome history of the "midnight assassin" and discover cultural insights from the 1800s.

Participants are encouraged to wear comfortable shoes and bring money for treats or beverages, as the tour includes a drink stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel.

Whether rain or shine, this captivating tour provides a glimpse into Austin’s dark past.

Important Notes

Although the tour operates rain or shine, participants are encouraged to bring an umbrella if necessary.

The tour operates rain or shine, so participants are advised to bring an umbrella if the weather calls for it.

Other important notes for the Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour include:

Gratuity for the guide is appreciated but not required.
Participants should wear comfortable shoes as the tour covers 2 miles at a leisurely pace with short rest breaks.
Participants are welcome to bring money to purchase treats or beverages, such as at the iconic Driskill Hotel during the tour.
The tour takes place regardless of weather conditions, so dressing appropriately for the day’s forecast is advised.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour may not be suitable for children due to its focus on the gruesome history of the "midnight assassin" murders. The content and themes could be disturbing or inappropriate for younger audiences.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Private Groups?

The tour can be customized for private groups. The tour operator offers flexible scheduling and content to accommodate the specific interests and needs of private bookings. Private tours provide a more personalized experience for groups.

Are There Any Restroom Breaks During the Tour?

The tour includes short rest stops, but there are no specific restroom breaks scheduled. Participants are encouraged to use restrooms before or after the tour, as needed. The pace is leisurely, allowing time for comfort during the 2-hour experience.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour is not explicitly wheelchair accessible. Participants should expect a 2-mile walking tour with short rests, so those requiring wheelchair access may find the experience challenging. It’s best to inquire directly with the tour provider about accessibility accommodations.

What Happens if the Tour Is Cancelled Due to Weather?

If the tour is cancelled due to weather, guests will receive a full refund. The tour operates rain or shine, but the company understands weather can be unpredictable, so they provide a flexible cancellation policy in such cases.

The Sum Up

The Austin: Midnight Assassin History Tour offers a captivating look into the city’s haunting past. Guests will explore historic districts, uncover chilling details of the "Midnight Assassin" murders, and enjoy a drink at the iconic Driskill Hotel. This unique blend of history and intrigue provides a must-experience opportunity for those seeking to explore Austin’s darkest chapters.