Austin Ripper 1885
True Crime Walking Tour in Downtown Austin
Explore the Real Austin Crime Story That Predates Jack the Ripper
Tour Overview
Price: $45/ea pubic, $55/ea private
Start: Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta, 701 Congress
Length: 2 hrs, 15 min, 1.5 miles.
Content: 4 murder sites, bar stop, Congress Ave, 6th St, Driskill Hotel.
Warning: Graphic Historical Content, 14+ only
Why This True Crime Tour Is Different
Based on two years of research.
Covers a real, unsolved crime spree from 1885
By the creator of the Austin Ripper 1885 series on Nitty Gritty ATX podcast
Small groups for a personal, interactive experience
Blends true crime, local history, and atmosphere
No gimmicks—just facts, mystery, and storytelling
Austin Ripper 1885 Tour Overview
Walk the streets of 1885 Austin in this 2-hour true crime tour based on real events and original research. Visit actual locations tied to a year-long wave of mysterious and terrible crimes that left the city in fear and the case unsolved. With a local bar stop and interactive storytelling, this immersive downtown tour is perfect for history lovers and true crime fans alike. Designed for adults 14+, this unforgettable night starts at the Stephen F. Austin Hotel and ends at the legendary Driskill.
What You'll See and Experience
Walk the alleys where the 1885 attacks took place
Hear true stories from Austin’s darkest year
See how the city spiraled into fear and confusion
Stop for a break at a local downtown bar
Discuss suspects and theories as the mystery unfolds
End inside the historic and haunted Driskill Hotel
About the Austin Ripper Case
In 1885, Austin was a fast-growing city with no idea how to handle what would become one of the most disturbing unsolved crime waves in Texas history. Over 50 incidents—ranging from harassment to break-ins and tragic killings—shook the community over the course of a single year. The attacks targeted servant women in alley-accessed quarters behind Austin homes, and despite more than 400 arrests, no one was ever convicted. This story remains one of the earliest known examples of serial murder in America.
Need a different time? Just send a quick request—we’ll make it happen if we can.
Austin Ripper 1885 Tour – What to Know Before You Go
Where does the tour start?
At the Stephen F. Austin Royal Sonesta Hotel on 7th Street. You'll meet your guide right outside the entrance.
How intense is the content?
This tour deals with real 19th-century crimes. The facts are graphic and sometimes unsettling, but they're presented respectfully, with no sensationalism or embellishment.
What’s different about this true crime tour?
It’s not a jump-scare ghost walk — it’s a historical mystery. You’ll follow clues, explore multiple theories, and learn the facts behind one of Austin’s most disturbing unsolved cases.
Are restrooms available?
Yes — you can use the facilities at the starting point (Royal Sonesta Hotel), there’s a restroom stop midway through, and another at the end.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
No. Due to steep hills and inaccessible sidewalks, this tour is not recommended for wheelchairs or strollers.
What should I bring for the Austin Ripper 1885 tour?
Water, good walking shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing.
Does this true crime walking tour run in the rain?
Yes — we go rain or shine. If weather might be an issue for you, please cancel with 24+ hours’ notice.
Will there be places to sit?
Very few. There’s one bar stop with seating, but otherwise plan to stand and walk throughout.
What’s your cancellation policy?
Public tours: Full refund with 24+ hours’ notice
Private/custom tours: 15% deposit is non-refundable; the rest refundable with 24+ hours’ notice
You’re always welcome to reschedule
Is transportation included?
No. All guests must arrange their own transportation.