Exploring Galveston's Historic Red Light District: A Step Back into Mobster Havens and Sinatra’s Stages
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as it involves mostly walking on flat city streets.
Overview
Step into Galveston's past with a tour through its infamous Red Light District, where mobsters reigned and Sinatra performed. Discover authentic sites and untold stories on this 1.5-hour guided journey through history.
Great Galveston Red Light District Tour
1.5 hours • Ages 21+ ID Required
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Step back in time on a captivating tour of Galveston's Red Light District, where mobsters ruled and legendary entertainers like Sinatra graced the casinos. Explore the authentic sites of brothels and gangsters, enriched by extensive research and firsthand accounts. Experience the thrill of a bygone era in this unique historical journey.
Red Light District Tour
Duration
1 Hour and 30 Minutes
About
Return to a time when the mob ran Galveston and their guests were treated as if they were family. When you crossed the bridge you enter "The Free State of Galveston," where the only rules were mob rules. The stars of the era were world class entertainers brought in to perform in the casinos, including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin. Everyone was enjoying their own "Vegas dream" right here in Galveston.
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.
Wheelchair accessible
Pet Friendly
Military Free
Adventure Tips
Bring Valid ID
This tour is for ages 21 and over, so make sure to carry valid identification when you attend.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour involves walking through historic streets, so comfortable footwear will enhance your experience.
Evening Tours Offer Atmosphere
Opt for evening tours to experience the ambiance that mirrors the nightlife of the historic period.
Book in Advance
Spaces fill quickly due to the tour's popularity, so reserve your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Gulls frequenting the nearby harbor
- Occasional dolphins spotted off the Galveston coast
History
Galveston’s Red Light District was one of the last legal gambling zones in the U.S. before prohibition in the 1950s.
Conservation
Tours emphasize respect for the historic sites, promoting preservation of Galveston’s architectural heritage and support for local cultural sustainability.
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Adventure Hotspots in Galveston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating urban streets comfortably during the tour.
Valid Photo ID
Required for age verification since this is a 21+ experience.
Light Jacket or Sweater
Spring evenings can be cool in Galveston, so a light layer is advisable.
spring specific
Phone or Camera
To capture unique historic sites and memories from the tour.