Austin Murder Walk

Overview

In the year 1885 America’s first serial killer stalked the streets and alleyways of the young, emerging city of Austin. More terrifying than any ghost story, this monster brutally and systematically hacked eight women to death using an ax. For one calendar year, he terrified a city and came to be known as the “midnight assassin”. He was never captured and his identity remains a mystery or does it...?

This tour is our longest at 1 hour 45 minutes and covers 2 miles of historic Austin including West 6th street, Guy Town, the Warehouse District and a drink stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel. The pace is leisurely and, in addition to a drink stop at the Driskill, (drinks not included), there are short rests along the journey.

Join us on this exceptional true crime walking tour investigating exact crime locations and the various theories surrounding the midnight assassin. It’s a “killer” tour.

City: Austin

Sun 23 Feb

Other dates

You can choose the date already on the booking website

Starting at $45.00

Make a reservation

Sun 23 Feb

Starting at $45.00

Make a reservation

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What's Included

Professional Guide

Additional Info

Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Not recommended for ages under 13.
Face masks required for travellers in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Texas does not require masks to be worn outside and the vast majority of our toru is outside in the great downtown area of Austin! That said, this tour includes a stop into the historic Driskill Hotel and the Driskill does require masks until we are seated for drink service.

What To Expect

The Driskill

Our expert guides will explain in detail how the iconic Driskill Hotel fits into the story of the "Servant Girl Annihilator". Built in the very year of the murders, 1885, you will be able to tour the lobby of this magnificent hotel and view the impressive portrait of its creator, Colonel William "Jessie" Driskill. (This stop is subject to the Driskill's rules and hours of operation and is available most, but not every night. However, all tours will see up close this beautiful hotel and learn of its history.)

6th Street

Our expert true crime storytellers will escort your group through parts of the historic 6th street district in downtown Austin. Watch 6th street come to life as you view old photographs of how the street appeared during the time of the murders in 1885.

Speakeasy

The Speakeasy Tavern at 412 Congress Avenue is a crucial stop to understanding one of the possible suspects of the servant girl murders. Our expert guides will escort you inside and explain how this location weaves into the tapestry of this true crime mystery. While at the Speakeasy, you have an opportunity to grab a drink from the bar and enjoy the history of the tavern. (Drinks not included)

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Traveler Photos

Reviews (152)

michelleantoinettep

Dec 2022

William was a GREAT tour guide and the tour was awesome. We even learned about some cool Austin gems to check out while we’re out here. 10 out of 10!

Response from Host

Dec 2022

Thank you so much for your review! Can’t beat 10/10!! We love to get reviews from our true crime friends;) honestly, the murder walk Austin tour is quickly becoming our most sought after tour covering the real life events that transpired in Austin in 1885. America’s first serial killer,…? we think so! Thanks again, Walking Tours of Austin

BostonPugLover

Dec 2022

Not only is this a must for true crime fans, it's a fantastic tour of this great city! Be sure to ask for Daelen if you can - he's engaging, knowledgeable and will ensure your group has an excellent time.

Response from Host

Dec 2022

We are getting more and more requests for Daelen on this tour! We agree, Daelen is a fantastic storyteller and really captures the essence of the true crime nightmare that transpired in Austin in 1885. America’s first serial killer…? We think so! We appreciate your business and your review, please come back and see us in the future! Best regards, Jim Miles, owner WTA

Margurette_A

Dec 2022

Great storytelling and brings Austin to life in a different way than your normal ghost story type of tour. I've never done a tour like this before and would highly recommend it to others!

Response from Host

Dec 2022

Thank you for your review! We agree that Murder Walk Austin is a fun and unique way to see the city. Please come back and see us again soon!