Galveston Red Light District Tour
Trip32678346216
Step into Galveston’s most scandalous secret, where the police stopped at the bridge and vice ruled the island. Return to an era where Galveston was known as "America’s Playground", a wide-open paradise of sin where gambling, booze, brothels, and back-room deals flourished under the protection of organized crime. As long as the money flowed, visitors were treated like family and indulgence came without consequence. Casinos pulsed through the night, and The Red Light District thrived behind unmarked doors. Corruption was no longer whispered, it was expected. This was Galveston’s own Vegas dream, complete with world-class entertainers like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin performing just steps away from prostitution, payoffs, and illicit pleasures. On this tour, you’ll uncover the stories they tried to bury, the places where power was bought with favors, and how Galveston became one of the most notorious Red Light Districts in America, all hiding in plain sight.
Departure Point
- We will meet outside of the Leeland House.
Return Details
- We will meet outside of the Leeland House.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Antique Warehouse
423 25th St, , Galveston, Texas
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Maceo Spice & Import Company
2706 Market Street, Galveston, TX 77550
The starting point of the Mace Empire. Formally Sam and Rosarrio first barber shop where they bootlegged wine and spirits for their thirsty guest.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Island Carriages
2528 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Galveston Railroad Museum
2602 Santa Fe Place, Galveston, TX 77550
At the height of the Red Light district, the railroad brought in 40,000 men a day all looking for love.
Duration: 20 minutes
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Active military personnel free
- Guided tour of Galveston's red light district
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Historic Galveston Ghost Tours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Step into Galveston’s most scandalous secret, where the police stopped at the bridge and vice ruled the island. Return to an era where Galveston was known as "America’s Playground", a wide-open paradise of sin where gambling, booze, brothels, and back-room deals flourished under the protection of organized crime. As long as the money flowed, visitors were treated like family and indulgence came without consequence. Casinos pulsed through the night, and The Red Light District thrived behind unmarked doors. Corruption was no longer whispered, it was expected. This was Galveston’s own Vegas dream, complete with world-class entertainers like Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin performing just steps away from prostitution, payoffs, and illicit pleasures. On this tour, you’ll uncover the stories they tried to bury, the places where power was bought with favors, and how Galveston became one of the most notorious Red Light Districts in America, all hiding in plain sight.
Departure Point
- We will meet outside of the Leeland House.
Return Details
- We will meet outside of the Leeland House.
Duration
1 hour and 30 minutes
Languages Available
- Human tour guide - English
Points of Interest
Stop At: Antique Warehouse
423 25th St, , Galveston, Texas
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Maceo Spice & Import Company
2706 Market Street, Galveston, TX 77550
The starting point of the Mace Empire. Formally Sam and Rosarrio first barber shop where they bootlegged wine and spirits for their thirsty guest.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Island Carriages
2528 Postoffice St, Galveston, TX 77550
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.
Duration: 20 minutes
Stop At: Galveston Railroad Museum
2602 Santa Fe Place, Galveston, TX 77550
At the height of the Red Light district, the railroad brought in 40,000 men a day all looking for love.
Duration: 20 minutes
Additional Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Active military personnel free
- Guided tour of Galveston's red light district
Voucher Info
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
The tour identified in this promotion is made available through Viator. Groupon is not affiliated with or sponsored by the Historic Galveston Ghost Tours in connection with this deal. Please contact Groupon customer service for all inquiries related to this offer. Inquiries placed to Viator will be directed back to Groupon.
This offer is not eligible for promo codes.
Need To Know Info
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Merchant is solely responsible to purchasers for the care and quality of the advertised goods and services. Offer is not eligible for our promo codes or other discounts. Learn about Strike-Through Pricing and Savings