DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour

If you’re into true crime stories, ghost tales, or just want a different way to see downtown LA, this DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour might be right up your alley. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from what we’ve gathered, it offers a compelling combination of history, mystery, and a little spooky fun.

What really appeals to us is the way the tour combines historic sites with infamous crimes—think the Black Dahlia, Charles Manson, and the Hotel Cecil—making the city’s darker stories much more tangible. Plus, the stops at haunted bars like Clifton’s and the Alexandria Hotel add a social and atmospheric element that can make the stories come alive.

A potential drawback? The guide’s voice was described as sometimes hard to hear without a proper microphone or PA system, which might make it less engaging if you’re in a large or noisy group.

All in all, this tour seems well-suited for those curious about LA’s gritty past, fans of true crime, or anyone looking for an evening activity with both education and entertainment. If you enjoy stories that aren’t just surface-level, this could be a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Dark LA history comes alive through visits to iconic crime sites and haunted hotels.
• The guided storytelling is detailed and knowledgeable, especially about the city’s notorious past.
• The visit to haunted bars like Clifton’s and Alexandria Hotel adds an atmospheric touch.
• The duration is 3 hours, making it manageable without feeling overwhelming.
• The tour is suitable for those over 15, so it’s not suited for young children.
• Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended due to walking and weather considerations.

This guided walking tour takes you through some of downtown LA’s most infamous and mysterious landmarks, all wrapped in a gripping narrative of crime, haunting, and history. Starting at the Biltmore Hotel, you’ll see where the Black Dahlia was last seen, giving you a chance to stand on the very grounds linked to her tragic story.

From there, the tour shifts to stories of corruption and secrets behind Clifton’s, a bar with a storied past. The guide shares the intriguing history of its founder and the hidden truths behind the scenes. This creates a lively, storytelling atmosphere that feels more like a local’s secret than a typical tourist spot.

Next, you’ll visit the infamous Hotel Cecil—known for its dark past of murders, suicides, and recent notoriety as the hideout of the Night Stalker. This hotel has a reputation that fuels many ghost stories, making it a fascinating stop for anyone interested in haunted places. We hear that the history of the Cecil is particularly unsettling and makes for a memorable visit.

The Alexandria Hotel is another highlight, with the ghost of Rudolph Valentino reportedly haunting its old penthouse. This stop adds a touch of Hollywood glamour mixed with ghostly tales, giving you a taste of LA’s vintage charm paired with supernatural whispers.

Continuing on, the tour visits the Barclay Hotel, which was home to serial killers, and then the site of the Chinatown Massacre of 1871, the largest mass lynching in US history. This powerful moment underscores LA’s violent past and the dark chapters that aren’t often highlighted in traditional sightseeing tours.

Finally, you’ll finish at the Halls of Justice, a site associated with major trials like those of Bugsy Siegel and Charles Manson. The stories here wrap up the evening, leaving you with a sense of LA’s complex, often brutal history.

Guided Narration: We’ve read that the tour guide is quite knowledgeable, blending true crime, ghost stories, and local history seamlessly. One reviewer mentioned the guide was friendly and well-informed, although sometimes difficult to hear, suggesting a mic or speaker could improve the experience.

Visiting Haunted Hotspots: The stops at Clifton’s and the Alexandria Hotel are particularly atmospheric. Clifton’s, with its wild decor and history of anti-corruption campaigns, makes a memorable backdrop to ghost stories. The Alexandria Hotel, once grand, reportedly still echoes with the footsteps of Hollywood legends and ghosts alike.

Infamous Crime Sites: Seeing where Elizabeth Short was last seen alive, combined with stories of serial killers and the Chinatown Massacre, gives the tour a visceral edge. These stories aren’t just about crime—they’re about LA’s darker, often concealed, past.

Historical Context: Beyond just ghost stories, the guide offers insights into LA’s architecture and social history, making the tour educational as well as entertaining. One guest praised the guide’s broad knowledge about the area’s architecture and history, not just the crime stories.

Cost and Value: At $60 per person for three hours, this is a fair price considering the depth of storytelling, the notable landmarks visited, and the atmospheric stops. You’re paying for the storytelling, the sights, and the experience of walking through LA’s shadowy history.

Meeting Point: The tour starts on the corner of 2nd and Broadway, near the Metro station. It’s recommended to arrive 10-15 minutes early to settle in and find the guide easily. Parking can be tricky, so plan accordingly.

What to Bring: Wear comfortable shoes because there’s a moderate amount of walking involved, and dress warmly in case of cooler evenings. Bring a camera if you want to snap some spooky shots or capture the atmospheric sites.

Weather Considerations: The tour runs in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately. No flash photography or smoking is allowed, which helps keep the experience respectful and safe.

Age Restrictions: Not suitable for children under 15, given the mature themes and content. It’s mainly aimed at older teens and adults who can appreciate the darker stories.

Some reviews mention that the storytelling could be clearer with better amplification, but overall, the guide’s knowledge and friendly demeanor shine through. The stories are detailed and thoughtfully presented, which helps make the tour feel immersive.

The visit to sites like the Hotel Cecil and Chinatown adds a haunting, almost cinematic feel that appeals especially to those interested in true crime and haunted tales. The tour is well-paced, allowing enough time at each stop to soak in the atmosphere and hear the stories without feeling rushed.

While food and drinks are not included, the stops at haunted bars like Clifton’s add a social component, and you might find yourself wanting to linger for a drink after the tour ends. Just be aware that the focus remains on storytelling and history rather than a pub crawl.

This tour is perfect for history buffs, true crime enthusiasts, ghost story lovers, and anyone curious about LA’s more mysterious side. It suits those who enjoy walking through city streets while listening to engaging stories rather than sitting on a bus or in a museum.

It’s also a good option if you’re looking for an evening activity that combines entertainment and education with a spooky twist. Not ideal for small children or those seeking a lighthearted sightseeing tour, but if you’re comfortable with some darker themes and a bit of walking, you’ll find this a memorable experience.

The DTLA Murder Mystery Ghost Tour offers a compelling look at Los Angeles’ shadowy past through engaging storytelling, notable landmarks, and atmospheric stops. The knowledgeable guides and haunting sites make it a worthwhile experience for those interested in true crime, ghost stories, and LA history.

While the sound system could be better, the overall experience is immersive and thought-provoking. The tour’s price seems reasonable considering the depth of stories and the unique stops involved. Whether you’re a local wanting to see LA’s darker side or a visitor looking for something different, this tour can add a fascinating layer to your trip.

If you’re prepared for a mix of history, haunting tales, and a walk through some of LA’s most notorious sites, this tour probably belongs on your list. It’s a fun, slightly eerie way to spend an evening exploring the city’s less-glamorous, more mysterious side.

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is not recommended for children under 15 due to mature themes and content.

How long is the tour?
It runs for about 3 hours, mostly spent walking around downtown LA and visiting key sites.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a camera are recommended. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly.

Are food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included. You can choose to visit haunted bars like Clifton’s afterward if you wish.

Where does the tour start?
Meet on the corner of 2nd and Broadway near the Metro station. Arrive 10-15 minutes early.

Is the guide easy to hear?
Some reviews mention that hearing the guide might be difficult without a microphone or PA system, so consider bringing a personal speaker if possible.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Ghost and Crime Tour in downtown Los Angeles offers a well-rounded, atmospheric look at the city’s darker stories. It’s an engaging way to spend an evening if you’re into the spooky side of history, with knowledgeable guides and iconic sites that make the stories come alive. While not perfect, it’s a solid choice for anyone who enjoys true crime, ghost tales, and LA’s gritty past. Just remember to dress comfortably, come early, and keep an open mind.