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Galveston Red Light District: Mob History Tour
4.8
143 Ratings
Galveston
Step back in time and explore the dark and intriguing history of Galveston's Red Light District. Discover the secrets of the mob-run casinos and the world-class entertainers who graced their stages.
Duration:
1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation:
1 day
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Highlights
- Antique Warehouse - Originally the Oleander Hotel in 1913. Listed in the Green Book as safe haven in the Jim Crow south. A place where the African American travelers could stay their journey to Galveston.
- Maceo Spice & Import Company - The starting point of the Mace Empire. Formally Sam and Rosarrio first barber shop where they bootlegged wine and spirits for their thirsty guest.
- Island Carriages - Formally the home of Molly Waters. One of the most famous houses on the island. Molly is Galveston’s most infamous Madam as she retired a millionaire. The house is currently being restored.
- Galveston Railroad Museum - At the height of the Red Light district, the railroad brought in 40,000 men a day all looking for love.
What's Included
- Guided tour of Galveston’s red light district
What's Not Included
- Gratuities
Additional Information
Experience the days when Galveston was under mob control, and guests were cherished like family members. Across the bridge lay ‘The Free State of Galveston,’ a land abiding solely by mob laws. A-list personalities like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin were some of the elite entertainers invited to perform in its casinos. Everyone indulged in their version of the ‘Vegas Dream’ within Galveston itself.
- Active military personnel free
Location
2711 Market St
Market Street
Your tour will begin with our famous Red Light District. At its height there were 55 houses of prostitution on Post Office Street alone. The authenticity of this tour is the result of extensive research and firsthand information from our consultants including former FBI special agents, documentaries, newspaper clips, books, and interviews. We'll visit the sites of the brothels, casinos, and were the gangsters lived. Al Capone came to Galveston with an eye to take things over. He lasted a week and was escorted off the island never to return.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Customer Ratings
4.8
(143 Ratings)
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Crystaleo5091hw
May 31, 2024
Interesting perspective on history - Very fun time, interesting back history to Galveston. We chose to do a late night tour which to me would have been prime time for these kinds of activities. Dave did a great job, I would recommend him.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Victorianl7276nc
May 30, 2024
Loved David! - David did a great job on the tour and did well explaining all the history!!! He seemed very interested in being knowledgeable for the customers.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
317mckenziew
May 27, 2024
So entertaining! - Learned so much history! Such a cool tour! So glad we did this on our trip! I’ve been to Galveston before and never noticed all the things he pointed out! I don’t want to give anything away but book the tour!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
G8001pbjc
May 27, 2024
Interesting Tour - Very interesting, learned some history of Galveston that we have not heard before and it was fun. Dave did a good job. It is an easy walkable tour with a few places to sit as well.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
105sammanthan
May 26, 2024
Haunting Heat - An interesting historical experience. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable about the area and its history. He also suggested some great places to check out.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sally_s
May 20, 2024
The history of Galveston that was never taught in schools - fun Friday walk thru the historic red light district with Jeff. He was a great guide and told some very colorful tales. Especially liked the oldest drugstore in Texas. Off beat journey into little known history near the strand. Adults only.
Review provided by Viator
Paradise818583
May 19, 2024
Lady of the night - 5. Very knowledgeable of the history. Never knew so much about the ladies and the activities. The birthing tables was very interesting
Review provided by Tripadvisor
A3299hmshannond
May 19, 2024
#GIRLSTRIP2024 - JEFF IS ABSOLUTELY AMAZING!!! BEST TOUR IVE HAD!! I have learned so much!! And hit all the best spots!! LOVE ❤️ #GIRLSTRIP2024
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Paradise00897684438
May 19, 2024
Girls Trip! - Great job! Very flexible and great information. Was a slow night but he made the most of it with us and cater to what we wanted!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
R9265nsamberl
May 30, 2024
Fun walking tour experience - We booked our tour last minute, I love that we were able to do so through viator! We were surprised that we wound up with a private experience which was pretty cool. Nothing spooky in my photos sadly, but a fun walking tour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
