Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine

If you’re a true crime fanatic or someone curious about the darker corners of St. Augustine, this tour promises a compelling glimpse into the city’s hidden stories of tragedy and mystery. Offered by Freeedom Photo Adventure Experience, Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine is a walking adventure that dives into lesser-known cases, many of which happened right where you’ll stand. It’s a rare chance to walk the same streets as victims and hear the stories that often go untold on conventional sightseeing tours.

What makes this tour stand out are two key elements. First, it’s deeply local and authentic. The stories are not the usual ghostly legends but real, sometimes grisly, criminal cases that have left their mark on St. Augustine. Second, the focused, intimate setting allows for a more personal connection to these stories, as the group is small—max 12 people—and led by a licensed, city-certified guide.

Of course, a possible consideration is the dark subject matter—if you’re sensitive to gruesome details or prefer lighthearted sightseeing, this might not be your first choice. Also, the tour’s 1 hour 30 minutes duration is fairly short, and some might wish for a bit more depth or additional stops. Still, if you’re after an engaging, off-the-beaten-path experience, this tour hits the sweet spot.

This tour suits travelers who love true crime, enjoy walking historical streets, and are open to some darker stories woven into the fabric of the city’s past. It’s perfect for those seeking something more engaging than a basic sightseeing walk and who want to hear stories that aren’t typically part of standard guides.

Key Points

• Authentic Local Stories: Focuses on lesser-known criminal cases specific to St. Augustine.
• Short and Engaging: Approx. 1.5 hours, ideal for a quick but memorable experience.
• Small Group Setting: Max 12 travelers, fostering a more personal connection.
• Female and Certified Guide: Ensures professionalism and quality storytelling.
• Free Admission to Stops: No extra costs for entry fees, making it budget-friendly.
• Dark Subject Matter: Suitable for those interested in crime, not sensitive audiences.

The Itinerary in Detail

Start at Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf

The tour kicks off at Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf, a playful but surprisingly fitting starting point for a journey into darker tales. Here, the guide introduces the first case. Since this is the initial stop, it sets the tone—an intriguing mix of the town’s lighter tourist appeal with the darker stories lurking beneath. The stop is brief—about 15 minutes—and offers a chance to gather, orient yourself, and prepare for the stories ahead.

Bridge Street & Marine Street

Next, the tour moves to Bridge Street & Marine Street, a lively area packed with history and character. It’s here that the guide discusses a second case, delving into the details at a couple of locations along these streets. Expect to hear about a crime that left a mark on this area, told with local flavor and context. The 20-minute stop is just enough to give a vivid picture without feeling rushed or overly detailed.

Plaza de la Constitución & the Cathedral

The tour then heads to Plaza de la Constitución, a notable spot in the heart of the old town. Here, a case connected to the nearby Cathedral plays out. The guide’s narrative likely ties the story to the ambiance of the square—perhaps even hinting at secrets that the city’s historic streets hide. With 15 minutes allocated, it’s a compact yet engaging storytelling session that enhances the atmosphere of this historic hub.

Flagler College and Final Stops

The last part of the tour takes us around Flagler College, a gorgeous former hotel that’s now a prominent landmark. The final cases are linked to this area, and the tour concludes near Cordova Street and Treasury Street, close to the college’s entrance. The final 15-minute segment wraps up the stories, leaving you with a sense of the city’s layered history—where beauty and darkness have coexisted for centuries.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The licensed, city-certified guide is the star of this experience, bringing stories to life with local authority and enthusiasm. The tour’s price, at $30 per person, offers good value considering the focus on lesser-known stories and the small-group setting, which enhances intimacy and attentiveness.

Since admission to stops is free, you only pay for the experience itself. However, gratuities are not included, so if you enjoy the storytelling, tipping your guide would be appreciated—typically a few dollars per person.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: 111 Avenida Menendez, near the bayfront, easy to find and central.
• Start Time: 8:30 pm, making it suitable for those wanting an evening activity.
• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes—perfect for an after-dinner walk.
• Weather: Since it’s an outdoor walking tour, good weather is essential; a rainy night might cancel or alter the experience.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring an intimate atmosphere and better interaction.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate.

The Experience of Walking the Streets of Crime

What makes this tour compelling is how it transforms familiar streets into sites of tragedy and mystery. Walking through the historic core, you’ll notice how the stories add a haunting layer to the surroundings. Expect your guide to point out specific locations—perhaps a quiet alley or a corner where a victim fell—making the stories more visceral.

Since the tour follows the footsteps of victims “at the spot they actually fell,” it feels more immediate. You might find yourself examining the cobblestones or buildings more carefully, imagining the events that took place there. It’s a reminder that history is often more complex and darker than what a typical trolley or hop-on-hop-off might reveal.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

Our research indicates that guides are well-versed in local lore, and their storytelling is engaging yet respectful. They often include tidbits that aren’t in mainstream guides, giving you a behind-the-scenes peek at the city’s darker chapters. This makes the tour more than just a recounting; it’s a way to connect with St. Augustine’s hidden past.

Value for the Price

At $30, the tour provides an affordable alternative to more commercialized or lengthy ghost or trolley tours. You get focused storytelling, the opportunity to walk historic streets, and a chance to see a side of the city that few travelers experience. For true crime enthusiasts or those interested in local history with a twist, this is a well-priced, memorable option.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re curious about true crime stories and enjoy walking tours that take you off the typical tourist trail, this experience is ideal. It’s especially suitable for visitors who appreciate authentic stories over ghostly clichés, or those wanting a short, evening activity. Since it’s a small-group tour, it offers a personalized experience—perfect for travelers who prefer engaging storytelling in a relaxed setting.

However, if you’re sensitive to graphic details or prefer more lighthearted attractions, you should weigh this before booking. The dark subject matter, while fascinating, isn’t for everyone.

Final Thoughts

Torrid Tales Two More True Crime in St. Augustine offers a rare opportunity to see this charming city from a darker angle. Its focus on lesser-known cases, paired with a knowledgeable guide and a cozy group size, makes it a captivating experience for those interested in history, true crime, or both. At just $30, it’s a budget-friendly way to add some intrigue to your visit.

While the experience is brief, it packs in enough stories and atmosphere to leave a lasting impression. It’s a perfect choice for night owls, crime buffs, or anyone eager to explore the city’s secrets beyond the usual sights. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe a flashlight—you never know what secrets the streets might reveal.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it covers true crime stories, which can be dark and graphic, it might be more appropriate for older children or teenagers. It’s best to consider the maturity level of younger visitors.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 111 Avenida Menendez and concludes near the intersection of Cordova and Treasury Streets, close to Flagler College.

Is there an extra cost for admission to any stops?
No, all stops are free to enter; the tour fee covers the storytelling.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking through historic streets, so mobility considerations are important. Service animals are permitted.

Are there any weather considerations?
Yes, since it’s an outdoor walking tour, poor weather could lead to cancellation or rescheduling.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you enjoy the guide’s storytelling.

What makes this tour different from other St. Augustine tours?
Unlike standard sightseeing tours, this one focuses specifically on true crime cases, giving you a unique, darker perspective on the city’s history.

This tour is a thoughtful, engaging way to see St. Augustine through a different lens—one of mystery, tragedy, and real local stories. If you’re ready for an evening walk that’s both educational and slightly eerie, consider booking it—you might find that the city’s shadows tell the most memorable stories.