Pensacola True Crime Tour: Sweet Tea Murders with a Detective

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. Its 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.

Pensacola Museum of History! Housed inside a stunning, 1907 Mediterranean Revival building that once served as City Hall, this three-story flagship museum brings Florida’s 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.

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.

Built in 1912, this impressive Neoclassical building originally served as the Escambia County Court of Record, Sheriff’s Office, and county jail. It was one of the region’s 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. After 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 Pensacola’s ability to preserve its history while giving historic landmarks a new purpose.

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.

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. Surrounded by historic buildings, mature oak trees and monuments, the plaza has witnessed celebrations, political gatherings, community events—and some of the darker episodes in Pensacola’s past. Today, it provides a beautiful and historically significant setting for beginning a journey into the crimes, mysteries and people that helped shape America’s First Settlement.