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Gunfights & Grifters: A Historical Walk on the Wild Side
4.3
4 Ratings
Austin
Explore Austin’s wild past with tales of scandal, vice, and survival on this historical walking tour. Uncover secrets you won’t hear anywhere else.
Duration:
2 hours
Cancellation:
1 day
learn more
Highlights
- Texas State Capitol - Discover the explosive political bribery scandal and the consequential election known as “The year they threw the rascals out.”
- Texas Governor’s Mansion - Outside the Governor’s Mansion, learn about the husband and wife team who exploited the Governor’s office for personal gain, amassing millions.
- 106 E 6th St - Uncover the story of Austin’s own gunfighting, gambling wild west vigilante outlaw, a legendary figure even during his lifetime.
- The Driskill - The Driskill Hotel’s history is steeped in scandal. From fraudulent doctors and murderous sex workers to assassination attempts, lobby gunfights, and early desegregation, we’ll explore the beautiful and historic Driskill Hotel where history was made.
- Midnight Cowboy Modeling - Can you guess the history behind this unmarked door on 6th St known as Midnight Cowboy Modeling?
- O. Henry House Museum - At the turn of the 20th century, author “O Henry” gained worldwide fame for his wholesome, moralistic short stories. Only after his death did the truth about the 10 years he spent in Austin, Texas, before his rise to fame, come to light.
- 327 Congress Ave. suite 100 - In 1885, Austin was terrorized by a serial killer. The murders sparked a series of scandals involving politicians, police, madams, and dangerous racial prejudice.
- Halcyon - From 1871-1913, Austin’s red light district flourished. We visit what was once known as Madam’s Row and discuss the three wealthiest and most notorious women of Austin’s golden age.
What's Included
- All fees and/or taxes
- Knowledgeable Guide
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
- Drinking Water
Additional Information
Join us on a historical walk through the oldest part of the city, recounting important people and wild events which some would prefer we forget. These true historical stories will both charm and rattle you, and you’ll walk away with a more profound understanding of Austin’s history and the Texas tradition. Topics include financial scandal, political power grabs, quack doctors, duels, outlaws turned lawmen, and Austin’s two historic red light districts.
Our tour lasts up to 2 hours and includes plenty of opportunities to take pictures, ask questions, and interact with our knowledgeable guides. Private tours may add a bar stop.
Location
100 1/2 W 11th St
West 11th Street
We meet right outside the Capitol Gates on the south side of the building.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.3
(4 Ratings)
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1 star
V1982wmelizabethp
Dec 7, 2023
Interesting and fun tour - My organization took a tour that was crafted just for us based on our interests by the owner Emily. She was a wonderful guide who was clearly very passionate about the city, and I felt like I learned a lot of the hidden history of Austin. Our entire group has a fantastic time.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Thomas
May 1, 2023
Excellent tour by Emily - I was lucky enough to land a “private” tour because I was the only one who booked on.
After being recommended by a friend I was not let down.
Emily was great. She had a great storytelling ability and you could see the passion she had for what she does.
She has spent hundreds of hours researching these cases to find the truth. That alone is commendable.
Anyone taking a trip to Austin, this is a must do.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Amywa7981yj
Oct 8, 2023
Tour Guide Never Showed Up - The tour guide never showed up. The tour was supposed to start at 10AM & when no one was there by 10:05, I called them but no one picked up. I left a voicemail & sent an email, left after waiting 20 minutes. I got a call 1.5 hours later from the company apologizing & saying there was a technical error but they couldnt really explain what that meant. Im giving 2 stars because they offered to do another tour with me that day (I wasn't available) & were apologetic, but still. I even got a confirmation email the day before so I'm not sure what really happened, but at the very least someone should have picked up the phone when I called.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
