About this experience
This History Tour has been curated by heritage professionals to uncover the notorious secrets, stories & scandals of Kings Cross — Sydney's historic red-light strip.
Once a bourgeois neighbourhood boasting harbour-side mansions & Victorian villas, this bustling pocket of Sydney was transformed by bohemia, entertainment & modernist architecture during the roaring 1920's Jazz Age. Amidst the sparkling lights of its inter-war years, The Cross also became riddled with backstreet bordellos, sly-grog stores, razor-wielding gangs, crime-lords (and ladies), murders, mysteries & martinis.
By the 1960s, the streets teamed with revellers visiting its red-light strip of neon fantasies, nightclubs & local eccentrics — dubbed in the media as 'Sin City'. Crime and corruption continued as new heavyweights such as The Boss of The Cross took the reigns, and by 1975 the neighbourhood was embroiled in one of Sydney's most scandalous cold-case murder mysteries.
Uncover this unique story in style!
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Special behind-the-scenes entrance into hidden clubs, restaurants and cocktails bars
Itinerary and highlights
Your guide will uncover the 'Golden Mile' strip and back streets of Kings Cross — a former red light district and entertainment mecca lined with nightclubs, strip clubs, theatres, flashing bill boards and quirky Art Deco architecture.
Potts Point is the residential neighbourhood of Kings Cross, this tour will visit its eclectic mix of street markets and foodie alleys, Georgian Mansions, Victorian villas, Art deco apartments, Gothic convents, Harbour views, broad leafy avenues and artistic alley ways — while bringing to life the notorious tales of its historic residents and revellers.
Meeting and pickup information
- Our meeting place is beside the El-Alamein Fountain in Fitzroy Gardens Park in the centre of Potts Point / Kings Cross. This iconic fountain is shaped like a dandelion and is easy to find. Your guide be visible beside the fountain with a white tour folder that says KINGS CROSS WALKING TOUR
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Journey Walks
Accessibility and practical details
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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