Galveston Island Tour: Exploring Mob History

Step back in time and explore the fascinating mob history of Galveston Island. Discover the glamorous era of world-class entertainers, casinos, and the infamous mob rules that governed the island.

Duration: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Antique Warehouse - 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.
  • Maceo Spice & Import Company - The starting point of the Mace Empire. Formally Sam and Rosarrio first barber shop where they bootlegged…
What's Included
  • Experienced Tour Guide
Additional Information

Travel back to a period when the mafia ruled Galveston, and their patrons were valued like kin. Crossing the bridge, you entered ‘The Free State of Galveston,’ a place governed solely by mob law. The luminaries of the time were top-tier performers invited to entertain in the casinos, such as Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Jr., and Dean Martin. Everyone was living their own version of a ‘Vegas Dream,’ right in Galveston.

Location
2711 Market St
Market Street
We will meet outside of Leeland House.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(20 Ratings)
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H2413pxevas
Jul 6, 2025
History is awesome - Larry was very knowledgeable. We had a great time and learned so much. I would suggest this history walk for anyone. Galveston is full of rich history.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Dr.
Jul 5, 2025
We had a great time with coworkers! It is one of the best tourist attractions on the island. - We loved to come with coworkers when on the island. It is one of the best tourist attractions here in Galveston. Go and learn about history and buildings.
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C1280dqjennyc
Jul 5, 2025
An EXPERIENCE - The tour was AMAZING!!!! The guide was VERY informative and the whole tour was DEFINITELY worth it!!!! :) definitely something that I would recommend for all new tourists that are coming to Galveston!!! If you want to get an authentic Galveston experience, this is definitely the place to go!!
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Mobile10498969526
Feb 5, 2025
Who knew red light district history was so intriguing? - Enjoyed the afternoon with our guide Charles. He was knowledgeable of the red light district history and stories. Very interesting slice of history. Will take in other tours on our next Galveston visit!
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Delraes2025
Feb 5, 2025
Red Light! - Loved all the interesting historical information on Galveston, who knew?? Charlie knew his stuff and added humor as well!
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327fabianaj
Jan 10, 2025
Excellent light district tour! What happens in Galveston… - I was looking for things to do in Galveston and glad I found this tour. I loved learning about the red light district’s history and the rise and fall of the infamous Maceo brothers. Our guide was knowledgeable and entertaining! Don’t miss out on this tour
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Cosmopolitan268549
Oct 12, 2024
Great and nice - Great tour Mike was a great guide I would do this tour before any thing else in Galveston it gives you back story and history that kinda lets every thing else fall in place.
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Valerietv8678eb
Sep 9, 2024
Red Light District - Loved this tour. It was my first ghost tour. Tour guide had so much information that was interesting and fascinating in the Red Light District. I am definitely going to sign up for other tours. We had so much fun.
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Jamespx3066tx
Nov 29, 2023
Excellent introduction to Galveston awesome history. - Excellent experience Tour guide was fun and incredibly knowledgeable. Everybody in our group had a great time. Highly recommended
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Anne
Mar 8, 2023
Great experience! - Tour guide was very informative and great answering questions. He was able to provide historical information as well as current updates. Definitely recommended 👍
Review provided by Tripadvisor
From $30
up to 15 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).