


Walk St. Augustine’s hidden vice history with an author-guide
90 minutes
Explore the dark side of St. Augustine history on a 90-minute walking tour focused on bootleggers, brothels, and gambling. Learn how the city prospered through its hidden history of vice.
Ages 13+ only. Arrive 10 minutes early to check in, and plan extra time to find parking.
In the event of cancellation due to weather etc, by Spyglass Travel, guests will receive a full refund within 48 hours.
Your guide is Blanche Altavilla, the alter ego of Wicked St. Augustine author Ann Colby. She leads the tour in period-appropriate apparel.
Arrive 10 minutes before your start time to check in with your guide.
Give yourself plenty of time to find parking before the tour starts.
courtyard of the Lightner Museum (75 King Street)
Kevin clearly knows his stuff when it comes to St. Augustine history, and reviewers can't stop talking about how engaging he makes these tours. Multiple visitors mention he regularly goes over the allotted time because he's genuinely passionate about sharing the city's story, from Henry Flagler's influence on Florida to the architectural details that bring centuries past to life. His background as a paranormal investigator adds credibility to the ghost tours, which guests appreciate for being fact-based rather than gimmicky. Several reviews recommend booking early in your trip so you can use Kevin's insights to plan the rest of your visit. The personal touches stand out too. Kevin (who owns the company with his wife) is flexible with weather-related rescheduling, provides ponchos when needed, and even follows up after tours with additional historical context. The walking pace is described as slow and mobility-friendly. One reviewer mentions a tour with Angie that was equally delightful, though Kevin leads most experiences. Guests consistently say these walking tours beat the trolley alternatives for depth and completeness, making this a solid choice for anyone wanting to truly understand the oldest city in America.
Guide Kevin Rose delivered an insightful walking tour of St. Augustine on the occasion of my sister’s birthday. Along the route, Kevin peppered his meticulously researched content about St. Augustine, the oldest settlement in America, with humorous anecdotes and restaurant recommendations. He painted a colorful, detailed picture of St. Augustine with each stop, like charms on a souvenir bracelet. Henry Flagler’s “charm” would be the greatest of all, given that the Robber Baron built St. Augustine’s railroads, hotels, and churches. Kevin also unveiled the reasons for the Moorish influences on local architecture. Influences by the Spanish and Native Peoples received equal billing on this tour as well. He also honored our special request to learn more about St. Augustine’s seminal events surrounding the Civil Rights movement. I’ve been on many walking tours and Kevin’s was among the best! He was charming, kind, and knowledgeable—highly recommended Spyglass Tours!
Sara Durkacs
a year ago
Guide Kevin Rose delivered an insightful walking tour of St. Augustine on the occasion of my sister’s birthday. Along the route, Kevin peppered his meticulously researched content about St. Augustine, the oldest settlement in America, with humorous anecdotes and restaurant recommendations. He painted a colorful, detailed picture of St. Augustine with each stop, like charms on a souvenir bracelet. Henry Flagler’s “charm” would be the greatest of all, given that the Robber Baron built St. Augustine’s railroads, hotels, and churches. Kevin also unveiled the reasons for the Moorish influences on local architecture. Influences by the Spanish and Native Peoples received equal billing on this tour as well. He also honored our special request to learn more about St. Augustine’s seminal events surrounding the Civil Rights movement. I’ve been on many walking tours and Kevin’s was among the best! He was charming, kind, and knowledgeable—highly recommended Spyglass Tours!
Sara Durkacs
a year ago