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Explore the Historic Soulard Neighborhood with a True Crime Twist
The True Crime Walking Tour in Soulard offers a compelling glimpse into St. Louis’s colorful and sometimes gruesome past. Priced at $30 per person and lasting about one hour, this tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors eager to learn about the city’s criminal stories and local lore. The tour departs Friday and Saturday evenings at 5:00 pm, with an additional Sunday afternoon option at 12 pm.
Led by Tim Metcalf, the tour begins at 816 Geyer Ave and wraps up in front of the Soulard Farmers Market. It includes a walk through the historic Soulard neighborhood, where travelers pass historic homes and the bustling Farmers Market, all while soaking in tales from the Prohibition era, armed bank robberies, and voting riots. The tour’s lively storytelling combined with props and visuals makes history engaging and accessible, especially for those interested in true crime stories.
Despite its brevity, this tour has earned a perfect 5-star rating from 44 reviews, with many appreciating the knowledgeable guide, entertaining stories, and friendly atmosphere. For just $30, it delivers a memorable experience that cleverly mixes local history with chilling tales from early 20th-century crime. Given its popularity, it’s wise to book at least 19 days in advance or simply show up and join the group—additional guests are very welcome.
Key Points
- Duration and Price: About one hour at $30 per person, offering great value for a lively storytelling experience.
- Led by Tim Metcalf: An extremely knowledgeable guide known for funny, detailed stories and engaging delivery.
- Historic Stops: The tour includes Soulard Farmers Market and historic homes, blending local flavor with tales of crime.
- Interactive Experience: Props and visuals enhance storytelling, making it especially appealing to those interested in true crime or local history.
- Flexible Schedule: Tours run Friday and Saturday evenings at 5 pm and Sunday at 12 pm, with no need to pre-book—just show up!
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, adding flexibility for planning.
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The Historic Soulard Neighborhood: Starting Point and End Location
The tour begins at 816 Geyer Ave and finishes in front of the Soulard Farmers Market at 816-818 Lafayette Ave. The meeting point is easily accessible near public transportation, making logistics straightforward. The walk covers significant parts of Soulard, with the International Taphouse serving as a recognizable landmark at the start, ensuring you know where to gather.
Pass by the Oldest Public Market West of the Mississippi
A highlight of the tour is passing the Soulard Farmers Market, a historic spot dating back to the earliest days of the city. This site is not only a vibrant marketplace but also a symbol of Soulard’s long-standing history. As the group strolls past, travelers can imagine the bustling activity of early market days intertwined with tales of crime and intrigue from decades past.
Historic Homes and Notorious Crime Stories
While walking through the neighborhood, the tour passes a dozen historic homes, many of which have stories of deaths, duels, or criminal activity. The tales include armed bank robberies, voting riots, and gangster activity during Prohibition. The stories are vivid, detailed, and illustrated with photos on an iPad by the guide, making the history feel immediate and real.
The Expertise and Style of Guide Tim Metcalf
Many reviews praise Tim Metcalf for his depth of knowledge and entertaining storytelling style. His ability to weave factual details with humor and props keeps the group engaged. Tour participants often mention how timing and pacing make the hour fly by, and how Tim’s professionalism shines through his familiarity with the area and research.
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Enjoying the Tour with a Drink in Hand
In a Mardi Gras spirit, the tour allows participants to bring their own alcoholic drinks to enjoy as they walk. This relaxed approach adds a fun, social element to the experience, making it suitable for date nights, group outings, or solo adventures looking to combine history with a casual beverage.
Practical Details and Accessibility
The tour operates during specific hours: Friday at 5 pm, Saturday at 5 pm, and Sunday at 12 pm. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring an intimate experience, and service animals are allowed. No special physical requirements are noted, and the easy walk makes it accessible for most participants.
Why This Tour Stands Out Among Similar Experiences
Compared to other options in St. Louis, this True Crime Walking Tour emphasizes local criminal history intertwined with Soulard’s vibrant culture. The small group format, engaging storytelling, and visual aids set it apart from more generic city tours. Its affordable price and flexibility to join without pre-booking make it highly accessible.
Final Thoughts on the Soulard Crime Tour
This one-hour strolling journey offers a memorable mix of history, crime stories, and neighborhood charm. It’s especially well-suited for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, and people looking for a unique evening activity in St. Louis. The expert guide, interactive storytelling, and historic ambiance give it a distinctive edge.
While the tour is concise, the depth of stories and entertaining presentation leave a lasting impression. The ability to enjoy a drink during the walk adds extra fun. For those who appreciate local history flavored with gory tales, this tour delivers great value and genuine entertainment.
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True Crime Walking Tour in Soulard Neighborhood
“Great stories of local criminals and duels! Time just flew by. It was a bit rainy, but we walked anyway.”
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s suitable for teenagers, especially given its engaging stories and casual atmosphere.
Can I join the tour last minute?
Yes, additional guests are very welcome to just show up at the scheduled times, although booking at least 19 days in advance is recommended for guaranteed spots.
What are the start and end points?
The tour starts at 816 Geyer Ave and ends in front of the Soulard Farmers Market at 816-818 Lafayette Ave.
How long does the tour last?
The walking tour takes approximately one hour.
What makes this tour special?
The combination of local historic homes, a vibrant market, and gruesome crime stories delivered with props and visuals makes it uniquely engaging.
Is there any flexibility in scheduling?
Yes, the tour operates Friday and Saturday evenings at 5 pm, and Sunday at 12 pm, with no need for pre-booking—just show up!