Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour

Exploring Houston’s Dark Side: The Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour

If you’re intrigued by stories of notorious crimes and infamous figures from history, the Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour in Houston might just pique your interest. This five-hour journey takes you through some of the city’s most chilling sites, offering a glimpse into the lives of murderers, cult leaders, and their victims. While it’s definitely not your typical sightseeing experience, it’s a unique way for true crime enthusiasts to connect with Houston’s darker stories.

What sets this tour apart? First, it’s highly detailed, covering a wide range of cases from the 1960s onward, including some lesser-known but equally disturbing tales. Second, it’s guided by experts who help contextualize each site, making the stories more than just a list of crimes. On the flip side, a potential downside is that some stops involve brief visits without entry, which could feel a bit superficial if you’re expecting a more immersive experience.

This tour is best suited for those who have a genuine interest in true crime history and aren’t squeamish about the darker aspects of human behavior. It’s not a family-friendly walk, but for adults fascinated by the criminal mind, it offers a compelling, if unsettling, perspective on Houston’s past.

Key Points

• Focus on true crime stories from Houston, spanning from 1965 to recent years.
• Mostly outdoor stops with brief visits, some without entry, making it more about storytelling than exploring inside buildings.
• Expert guide enhances the experience with informative commentary.
• Cost of $150 per person is reasonable considering the detailed itinerary, but some may find the stops short.
• Good for serious true crime fans interested in Houston’s notorious history.
• Free cancellation makes booking less risky.

Deep Dive into the Houston Crime Tour

When we think of a crime tour, we often imagine something dark and intense. And this tour does not shy away from the grim realities of Houston’s most infamous cases. It’s a five-hour jaunt covering various sites linked to murders, cults, and chilling crimes spanning decades.

Starting Point: Houston City Hall

The tour kicks off at Houston City Hall, a central and convenient location. From there, you’ll head to the Londale Hotel, where Ana Trujillo once lived. She’s remembered for her boast that she could kill someone with her shoe—a statement that hints at her dangerous personality. You only see the location from outside, but it’s enough to set the tone.

Discovery Green and the 1982 Murder

Next, the guide takes you to Discovery Green, a popular park that has witnessed its share of history. Notably, in 1982, the body of 16-year-old Sherry Lynn Strait was found nearby. She fell victim to Carl Eugene Watts, one of Houston’s most notorious serial killers. The site is just a quick stop, but it ties the city’s modern recreational space to its darker past.

Tragedies and Crimes of Domestic Violence

Several stops focus on tragic crimes involving families and individuals. For instance, in 2016, Sheborah Latrice Thomas drowned her young children and then hid their bodies under her neighbor’s house. It’s a stark reminder that horror isn’t always linked to strangers—sometimes, it’s rooted in personal despair. These stops are brief—just a couple of minutes—but impactful, as they reveal the disturbing realities some Houstonians have faced.

Notorious Cult and Serial Killer Figures

One of the more chilling aspects of the tour is visiting the childhood home of Dr. Larry Schacht, who was involved in the Jonestown mass murder in 1978. While not directly involved, his connection to the event adds a layer of eerie context. Later, you’ll see the house where Marshall Herff Applewhite, the leader of the Heaven’s Gate cult, lived in 1968. Applewhite’s story remains a haunting chapter in Houston’s history, especially considering the cult’s mass suicide in 1997.

The Houston Serial Killers and the Corll Murders

One of the main draws is the detailed recounting of Dean Corll, known as the “Candy Man,” who, along with accomplices, murdered numerous boys in the early 1970s. The tour includes stops at the house where Corll lived, the old candy store location, and Helms Elementary School, which some of his victims attended. These sites offer a chilling look at how his crimes intersected with everyday Houston life.

Crime Scenes and Notorious Sites

Throughout the tour, you’ll see various addresses linked to these gruesome stories, like the location where Angel Maturino Resendiz, the Railroad Killer, committed several murders, including the stabbing of Dr. Claudia Benton. While you aren’t allowed inside, the outside views and historical notes make the stories very real and tangible.

The Lunch Break at Yale Street Grill

A highlight is breaking for lunch at Yale Street Grill, possibly the oldest restaurant in Houston. Interestingly, Corll used to pick up victims there, adding a macabre layer to your meal. The guide shares stories of how he lured victims near this seemingly normal spot, illustrating how evil can hide behind familiar facades.

Final Stops: Quiet Neighborhoods and Old Houses

The last stops take you through quiet neighborhoods, including the homes of victims and perpetrators. For example, you’ll see where Mary Cerruti lived—a seemingly peaceful place that hid terrible secrets. Another poignant site is the house where Dean Corll once lived, and the site of the infamous Candy Store.

What’s the Experience Like?

The tour is mostly outdoor, with very brief stops—usually just a couple of minutes per site. Some locations are only viewed from outside, which might disappoint those expecting more immersive access. But the guide’s narration fills in the gaps, providing detailed context about each case, often drawing from actual stories and quotes.

Expect a no-frills journey—the focus is on storytelling rather than inside visits or interactive exhibits. The atmosphere is somber but engaging, and the guide’s insights are clear and well-informed. If you’re a serious true crime buff, you’ll appreciate the depth of detail and the chance to see the physical locations behind some of these stories.

Price and Value

At $150 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest, but considering the extensive itinerary and expert guide, it offers good value for those with a serious interest in Houston’s crime history. Plus, the tour is private, so you won’t be part of a huge crowd, which allows for a more personalized experience.

Practical Considerations

• The entire tour lasts about five hours, so wear comfortable shoes and prepare for some outdoor walking.
• Since it’s mostly outside, check the weather forecast—rain or extreme heat could impact your experience.
• The stops are mostly quick, with just a few minutes at each site, so patience is key if you want to absorb all the stories.
• Lunch isn’t included, but the Yale Street Grill provides a unique setting linked to the tour’s themes.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This experience is ideal for true crime enthusiasts or anyone fascinated by Houston’s darker history. If you find yourself drawn to crime stories, cults, or serial killers, this detailed, story-rich tour will satisfy that curiosity. It’s less about sightseeing and more about understanding the stories behind the headlines.

It’s probably not suitable for kids or those seeking a lighthearted experience. The tone is serious and sometimes unsettling, so discretion is advised. If you’re sensitive to detailed crime stories, consider whether this is the right fit.

Final Thoughts

The Psychos, Killers, and Victims Tour in Houston offers an unfiltered look at some of the city’s most infamous and disturbing stories. It’s a compelling experience if you value narrative detail and want to connect physical locations with chilling tales. While it’s not a tour for everyone—thanks to its brief stops and grim content—it’s definitely a memorable journey for those with a fascination for true crime.

For travelers who are curious about the dark chapters of Houston’s past and don’t mind a somber tone, this tour provides a thought-provoking, well-guided exploration. It’s a different way to see the city, one that mixes history with a heavy dose of human darkness. Just remember to go in with an open mind and a respectful attitude toward the stories and people involved.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour covers very serious and sometimes disturbing crime stories, so it’s generally not recommended for children or young teens.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes approximately five hours, including brief stops at each site.

Are entry tickets included?
No, most locations are viewed from outside, and entry tickets are not included or necessary at most stops.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included. The tour stops at Yale Street Grill, where you can choose to eat on your own.

Can I cancel the tour easily?
Yes, the tour has a free cancellation policy if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, only your group will participate, making it more personalized.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since most stops are outdoor and brief.

If you’re interested in the darker side of Houston’s history and enjoy stories of infamous figures, this tour could be exactly what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for a sobering, fact-filled walk through some of the city’s most unsettling stories.