If you’re curious about the hidden stories behind Adelaide’s tranquil streets, this True Crime Tour offers an intriguing glimpse into the city’s darker past. While Adelaide is often celebrated for its historic churches and peaceful CBD, this tour reveals a side few travelers get to see—one filled with scandal, mystery, and unforgotten crimes. It’s a compact, 105-minute guided walk that takes you through some of the city’s most notorious crime scenes and tells the stories of criminals, scandals, and secrets that have long been tucked away.
What we love about this experience is how engaging and informative the guides are—they bring the stories to life with passion and detail. Plus, the tour’s mix of history, mystery, and photo opportunities makes it a fun, memorable way to explore Adelaide’s core. However, it’s worth noting that some might find the darker themes and storytelling a bit gritty if they prefer lighthearted sightseeing. This tour is ideal for history buffs, crime enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the lesser-known tales that echo beneath Adelaide’s calm exterior.
One possible consideration: The walk lasts just under two hours, so comfortable shoes are a must, and a dark sense of curiosity helps. If you’re looking for a straightforward sightseeing tour of Adelaide’s landmarks, this might not be your best fit—it’s more of a niche experience for those interested in the city’s shadowy stories.
All in all, this tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy mixings history with a touch of the macabre, especially if you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable, engaging, and passionate about Adelaide’s stories.
Key Points

- Authentic storytelling by knowledgeable guides brings Adelaide’s crime history vividly to life
- Short but impactful 105-minute tour with plenty of photo opportunities around historic crime scenes
- Accessible for all with wheelchair-friendly routes and easy meeting points
- Great value for those interested in dark stories, history, and city exploration in one compact walk
- Ideal for history buffs, mystery lovers, and curious travelers wanting a different perspective on Adelaide
- Uncovers lesser-known stories lurking behind the city’s serene facade, adding depth to your visit
A Walk Through Adelaide’s Dark Past

While Adelaide often earns praise as the “City of Churches,” beneath its peaceful surface lies a history riddled with crime, scandal, and intrigue. This guided walk offers a chance to see the city anew—through the lens of its notorious episodes and shadowy alleyways. The experience is designed for those who crave a little excitement and are eager to uncover stories they might never stumble upon on their own.
Starting at the corner of North Terrace and Station Road, just outside the Adelaide Railway Station, the tour is easy to find. From there, your guide will lead you through locations connected to some of Adelaide’s most infamous crimes—stories that reveal a darker side of the city’s past that locals and visitors alike often overlook.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Adelaide.
What to Expect at Each Stop

The highlights of the tour focus on walking past significant crime scenes and historic buildings while your guide shares detailed stories. We loved the way guides like Sarah and Emma captivate their groups with well-researched tales and engaging storytelling techniques, making even the grisliest crimes fascinating rather than disturbing.
You’ll pass by locations that have seen scandals, murders, and mysterious disappearances. The tour takes you into alleyways and hidden corners that, while not always visible on standard city tours, hold the secrets of Adelaide’s crime-riddled history. Photographers will appreciate the chance to capture these atmospheric scenes—think old buildings, narrow lanes, and street corners that seem to whisper tales from the past.
The Guides and Their Stories

Guides such as Sarah and Emma receive high praise for their extensive knowledge and storytelling skills. One reviewer raved, “Sarah was nice, it was exciting and worth the money,” highlighting how genuine enthusiasm makes the experience more immersive. Others appreciated that guides go into detail, making the stories both informative and entertaining.
Many reviews mention the feeling of being welcomed and looked after, which adds an inviting tone to what could otherwise be a grim subject matter. Guides also mention lesser-known facts and surprising details, ensuring every participant leaves with new insights into Adelaide’s darker episodes.
The Experience and Atmosphere

As you walk through Adelaide’s streets, you’ll be struck by the stark contrast between its peaceful appearance and the stories that echo beneath. The tour’s duration—just under two hours—means it’s doable even during a busy sightseeing day. Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it available to a broader range of travelers.
The atmosphere is a mixture of intrigue and respect. While some stories are quite chilling, guides handle them with sensitivity, ensuring the experience remains engaging but not overly disturbing. The walk’s pacing is relaxed, giving you time to absorb each story and snap photos along the way.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat You’ll Gain

Besides fascinating stories, you’ll gain an appreciation for Adelaide’s complex history. You’ll see the city through a different lens—one that acknowledges its dark episodes without diminishing its charm. This tour is especially rewarding for those who enjoy uncovering secrets and exploring the city beyond its polished surface.
On top of that, the stories are often local legends or lesser-known facts, so you’ll leave with a deeper understanding of Adelaide’s history, something that adds depth to any visit.
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The Value Proposition
At a little over an hour and a half, the tour offers excellent value for the price, especially considering the personalized storytelling and the quality of local insights. Many reviewers have pointed out the guides’ passion and knowledge as standout features, making the experience well worth the modest ticket price.
While it’s not a grand, sprawling tour, its focus on quality storytelling and authentic locations makes those 105 minutes a worthwhile investment. Plus, it’s a memorable way to see parts of the city most travelers miss, adding an unusual twist to your Adelaide itinerary.
Final Thoughts

If you’re after a different way to explore Adelaide—one that combines history, mystery, and a touch of the macabre—this True Crime Tour fits the bill. It’s a walk that balances engaging storytelling with authentic locations, all led by guides who truly know their stuff. It’s perfect for curious travelers, history buffs, or those simply looking for a memorable, offbeat experience.
While it’s not suited for those seeking lighthearted sightseeing, it offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s hidden stories. You’ll leave with a greater appreciation of Adelaide’s layered past and a few chilling tales to impress friends back home.
Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for travelers who enjoy stories of crime, history, and mystery. If you appreciate guides with a passion for storytelling and don’t mind exploring darker facets of a city’s past, you’ll find this tour captivating. It’s also great for those who want a manageable, informative walk that fits into a busy day without overextending.
Families with older children might also enjoy the stories, but younger kids or those sensitive to spooky themes might find it a little intense. Overall, it’s a compelling way to see Adelaide from a different perspective—a side rarely featured in typical city tours.
FAQ

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good option for those with mobility needs.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as you’ll be walking through streets and alleyways.
How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 105 minutes, making it a short but impactful experience.
Where does the tour meet?
It begins at the corner of North Terrace and Station Road, just outside the Adelaide Railway Station.
Are there any age restrictions?
The information doesn’t specify age limits, but given the dark themes, best suited for older children and adults.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is there a guide included?
Yes, a live English-speaking guide leads the tour, sharing stories and answering questions.
What’s the price point like?
While not specified here, the reviews highlight this as a good value experience considering the storytelling quality.
Are photos allowed?
Absolutely, the tour provides ample opportunities for pictures of the historic streets and crime scenes.
Is this tour offered in languages other than English?
No, it’s only available in English.
To sum it up, Adelaide’s True Crime Tour offers a compelling, authentic way to see a different side of the city—one filled with stories that are often forgotten but never fade. Whether you’re a history lover, a mystery seeker, or just curious about Adelaide’s hidden stories, this guided walk makes for an engaging and memorable experience. Its blend of storytelling, historic sites, and local insights provides excellent value in a compact format. For those with a taste for the darker side of travel, it’s hard to go wrong with this well-reviewed, expertly guided tour.
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