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SPIES & BOMBINGS & MURDERS
When you think of Salida, murders and spies and mob-activity aren't the first things to come to mind--but they should be! Our criminal history is as rich and fascinating as our wild west days. We'll share all the incredible tales, complete with an entertaining, costumed guide.
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A Russian spy operated in a downtown boarding house
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A famous movie documents the exploits of his clandestine works
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Learn of a grisly lynching involving over 100 vigilantes
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Discover the details of the first murder committed in town
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Hear about bootlegging and an operator who blew up his home
"Have been wanting to do this walking tour for some time and it did not disappoint! I loved learning about Salida history and local lore! ...will never look at some of the buildings the same again. Only regret is not doing this tour sooner!
~Melinda Gonzalez
BOOTLEGGING & PROSTITUTION
The oldest profession thrived in Salida until 1949! That's right. Ladies of the evening were prevalent, along with illegal gambling, and speakeasies. Of course, organized crime was involved along with countless criminals.
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A 1940s mob-related bombing occurred downtown
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An unsolved murder from 1980 is discussed in detail
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Despite attempts by locals, a crafty madam operated in plain site for over 50 years
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Hear the horrific true story of Salida's serial killer, a prominent businessman, who killed at least three wives
"I am a native of Salida and each time I take one of the tours (I've done 3), I learn something new. It is the perfect combination of entertainment and history."
~Ruth Price
OVER 900 5-STAR REVIEWS
Experience our newest tour. Guests from around the world rate this a 5-star experience on every travel platform. Real crimes, intriguing stories. Not what you'd expect in such an idyllic town.
Read hundreds of great reviews!
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Learn about a newlywed husband who murdered his wife
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A famous madam was repeatedly arrested for selling illegal liquor--until her nephew murdered her
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Over 100 men were arrested in the area's largest bust on illegal gambling
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You'll laugh about the bank robber throwing his money to the wind
"What an awesome experience learning about Salida. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the history and lifestyle during the early setting of the area. I’d recommend the tour to anyone over a holiday weekend or just a lazy weekend where you have time to take it all in."
~Ishmael Darjean
Summer Schedule
May 15 - September 1
PG-13 tour covering graphic murders and adult topics. Not recommended for children.
The tour route covers about 12 blocks and is usually held regardless of weather conditions. Please dress appropriately.
Monday, Wednesday, Saturday & Sunday
5:00 p.m.
~$32
90 minutes
Fall & Spring Schedule
September 1 - November 1
March 1 - May 15
*For the safety & health of all, tours are NOT held if the temperature/wind chill is low enough to be dangerous.
PG-13 tour covering graphic murders and adult topics. Not recommended for children.
The tour route covers about 12 blocks and is usually held regardless of weather conditions. Please dress appropriately.
Saturday & Sunday
5:00 p.m.
~ $32
90 minutes
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
KRISTINE THORPE
My daughter and I did the Ghost & Murder Tour. We had a ton of fun.
NICK LUNA
We did the Ghost & Murder Tour and our guide was extremely knowledgeable and well-spoken. He kept us laughing the entire time and had a lot of cool information on the local history of the town!
EIMY GARCIA
The tour guide was fun, outgoing, funny and knowledgeable. What made it more interesting was that he made sure he could answer all of your questions and had more information to add. He made sure everyone was enjoying the tour and of course we did !