Voted by the Austin Chronicle 2022 Critic's Choice "Best Nightlife Activity."
In 1885, America’s first serial killer terrorized the young city of Austin. This "midnight assassin" brutally murdered eight women with an ax over a year, leaving the city in fear. He was never apprehended, and his identity remains a mystery... or does it?
This 1 hour and 45-minute tour covers 2 miles of historic Austin, including West 6th Street, Guy Town, and the Warehouse District. Enjoy a leisurely pace with short rests and a drink stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel (drinks not included).
Join us for this true crime walking tour, investigating exact crime locations and exploring theories about the "midnight assassin." It's a "killer" tour.
✕ Alcoholic Beverages✕ Gratuities✕ Private transportation1 The Driskill
Our expert guides will detail the Driskill Hotel's connection to the "Servant Girl Annihilator" murders.
Built in 1885, the same year as the murders, you'll tour the hotel's lobby and see the portrait of its creator, Colonel William "Jessie" Driskill.
This stop is subject to the Driskill's policies and operating hours, and is usually available, though not every night. The hotel's exterior and history will still be showcased.
· 10 min
2 6th Street
Our true crime storytellers will guide you through parts of the historic 6th Street district in downtown Austin.
Witness 6th Street come alive as we view historical photographs from the time of the 1885 murders.
· 20 min
3 Speakeasy
The Speakeasy Tavern at 412 Congress Avenue is key to understanding a potential suspect in the servant girl murders.
Our guides will lead you inside to explain how this location fits into the true crime mystery.
While at the Speakeasy, you can purchase a drink and learn about the tavern's history.
· 20 min
Your mobile or paper ticket is accepted. One ticket is required per booking.
This tour will depart from the intersection of Bowie and West 6th, at the corner of Whole Foods in downtown Austin, Texas.
Service animals are permitted. Public transportation options are conveniently located nearby. This tour is suitable for individuals of all physical fitness levels. This experience is not recommended for children under 13 years of age. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour covers 2 miles. Bring a jacket as Austin evenings can be cool. Be prepared for a leisurely pace with some standing. Drinks at the Driskill and Speakeasy are not included in the tour price. For a full refund, please cancel at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time.
Product code: 53526P3
Activity offered by Walking Tours of Austin via Viator.
WizardTrip Help Center Adults History enthusiasts Fans of true crime Explore Austin's dark history and unsolved mysteries. Visit iconic locations like the Driskill Hotel and 6th Street. Led by expert true crime storytellers. Investigate real crime scenes and theories. Awarded "Best Nightlife Activity" by Austin Chronicle.
Population 961,855 (2020)
Elevation 149 m
Currency United States dollar
Driving on the right
Power plugs A, B · 120 V
Emergency number 911
Capital city Washington, D.C. Average temperatures 9° Jan 11° Feb 16° Mar 20° Apr 24° May 28° Jun 30° Jul 30° Aug 26° Sept 21° Oct 15° Nov 10° Dec Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.
What is the duration of the Austin Murder Walk? + The tour lasts for 1 hour and 45 minutes.
What is the maximum group size? + The maximum group size for this tour is 25 participants.
Is the tour cancelled in case of bad weather? + Yes, the tour may be cancelled if the weather is inclement.
Can I bring my service animal? + Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.
★★★★★ Viator review
Tyler was awesome!!
Jeremy_L, October 2026
The tour was amazing! Our guide Tyler was very enthusiastic and informative throughout the entire walk. We stopped at each murder spot and were given a lot of facts about how each one affected the entire city of Austin. I highly recommend to anyone visiting the city.
Response from the operator · Jim M Hi, Jeremy! Thank you so much for your fantastic review and recommendation! We're thrilled to hear that Tyler made your Murder Walk such an amazing experience! His enthusiasm, extensive knowledge, and passion for storytelling truly bring Austin's chilling true crime history to life. We love that you appreciated not only the details of each murder but also how these tragic events shaped the city of Austin. We'll be sure to share your kind words with Tyler! Thank you for joining us, and we hope to welcome you back for another unforgettable adventure!
Best regards,
Walking Tours of Austin
★★★★★ Viator review
Fun, informational tour...
Grace_V, September 2026
Fun, informational tour through a bit of Austin’s history. Tour guide was knowledgeable and passionate about the subject.
Response from the operator · Jim M Thank you for the great review! We’re so glad you enjoyed exploring Austin’s fascinating history with us. Our guides love sharing the stories that have shaped this incredible city, and we’re thrilled that their knowledge and passion came through. Thanks for joining Walking Tours of Austin!
Best regards,
Walking Tours of Austin
★★★★★ Viator review
Our tour guide was...
Robert_K, September 2026
Our tour guide was wonderful. Will was very knowledgeable and paced the tour well. He made sure to provide historical background to the facts. He was also personable and made sure that the tour members were comfortable. Provided a water and restroom stop. Will was warm and welcoming.
Response from the operator · Jim M Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We’re thrilled to hear that Will made your tour both informative and enjoyable. His ability to weave historical context into the stories while keeping everyone comfortable and engaged is exactly the kind of experience we strive to provide. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with him. Thank you for exploring Austin with us!
Best regards,
Walking Tours of Austin
★★★★★ Viator review
September tour
Jennifer_R, September 2026
It involves a couple miles of walking. Mostly flat but some people struggled with the hills and the heat. Will was a great tour guide who really seemed to enjoy the history and telling the story of the serial killer.
Response from the operator · Jim M Thank you for the review! The Murder Walk does cover about two miles of downtown Austin, and the Texas heat can definitely add to the adventure! We’re so glad Will made the journey worthwhile with his passion for Austin’s history and the chilling story of the Midnight Assassin. Thank you for walking with us!
Best regards,
Walking Tours of Austin
★★★★★ Viator review
Austin Murder Tour
Sam_M, September 2026
Very interesting history. Had no prior knowledge of this topic. Great way to see a very vibrant area of Austin as well. Wes was a great tour guide!
Response from the operator · Jim M Hi, Sam! Thank you so much for the wonderful review! We love hearing that you discovered a piece of Austin history you hadn’t known before while also getting to experience one of the city’s most vibrant areas. We’re especially glad your guide made the tour informative, engaging, and memorable. We’ll be sure to pass along your kind words to him!
Best regards,
Walking Tours of Austin
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