Pensacola True Crime Tour: Sweet Tea Murders with a Detective
Overview
Pensacola’s history is deep—but beneath its charm lies a legacy of frontier violence and forgotten trials. Forget theatrical ghost lore. The Sweet Tea Murders Walking Tour explores documented local crimes through the eyes of someone who investigated them for a living.
Led by Michael Earl Simmons—retired 30-year Pensacola Police officer, homicide investigator, and author of 15 local crime and history books—this 70-minute walk unpacks five authentic killings, including the 1833 assassination of Mayor Salvador Alba, maritime violence, and a mother’s 1914 vengeance.
• Meeting Spot: Starts and ends outside The Bodacious Olive (407 S. Palafox St). Arrive early to grab coffee or food inside!
• Low-Mobility Route: Stroll just steps away to the flat perimeter of historic Plaza Ferdinand VII and back. Under one city block total—zero strenuous trekking and fully accessible.
• Schedule: Saturdays at 4:00 PM.
Reserve early; groups are kept small for live Q&A.
Itinerary
-
1
5 min ✓ Admission included
Bodacious Olive is a locally owned specialty shop in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Located near historic Palafox Street and Plaza Ferdinand VII, the shop offers an inviting selection of premium olive oils, balsamic vinegars, seasonings, kitchen accessories and specialty foods.nnIts warm atmosphere and central location make Bodacious Olive an excellent gathering place for visitors exploring downtown Pensacola. It is also a convenient starting point for discovering the historic streets, memorable characters and true-crime stories featured on a Sweet Tea Murders walking tour.
-
2
Pensacola Museum of History! Housed inside a stunning, 1907 Mediterranean Revival building that once served as City Hall, this three-story flagship museum brings Floridau2019s Panhandle past to life through interactive galleries, rare artifacts, and immersive local lore. Whether you are a dedicated history buff or a family looking for an engaging downtown activity, this self-guided experience is the perfect anchor for your Pensacola vacation.
-
3
Discover one of downtown Pensacola's most grand historic landmarks at 223 S. Palafox Street. Built in 1887, this striking Renaissance Revival building once served as the city's U.S. Customs House, Post Office, and Escambia County Courthouse. Today, its historic limestone walls and majestic arches house the vibrant, non-profit Artel Gallery. It seamlessly blends 19th-century architecture with cutting-edge contemporary art.
-
4
Built in 1912, this impressive Neoclassical building originally served as the Escambia County Court of Record, Sheriffu2019s Office, and county jail. It was one of the regionu2019s largest law enforcement complexes, where prisoners were held, tried, and sentenced under one roof. The building even contained a third-floor gallows, with the last execution taking place in 1920.nnAfter the court moved to a new facility in 1978, the structure was preserved and transformed into the Pensacola Cultural Center, home to Pensacola Little Theatre and a thriving arts community. Today, it stands as a remarkable example of Pensacolau2019s ability to preserve its history while giving historic landmarks a new purpose.
-
5
Uncover the hidden history behind the historic facades during this 2-hour guided walking tour around the vibrant downtown Pensacola and plaza districts. Your guide leads you through the bustling streets while sharing chilling accounts of historical criminal cases, regional outlaw operations, and high-profile local mysteries associated with the area. This is a fully outdoor walking experience spanning approximately 1.5 miles on flat, paved sidewalks, so comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
-
6
50 min ✓ Admission included
Plaza Ferdinand VII is a historic public square in the heart of downtown Pensacola. Named for King Ferdinand VII of Spain, the plaza is best known as the site where General Andrew Jackson formally accepted West Florida from Spain on July 17, 1821.nnSurrounded by historic buildings, mature oak trees and monuments, the plaza has witnessed celebrations, political gatherings, community eventsu2014and some of the darker episodes in Pensacolau2019s past. Today, it provides a beautiful and historically significant setting for beginning a journey into the crimes, mysteries and people that helped shape Americau2019s First Settlement.
What's included
- 75-minute guided walking tour
- Commemorative Tour Cards
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- ✓ 100% refund24 hours or more before the start time
- ✕ 0% refundLess than 24 hours before the start time