Vice and Crime In the Prohibition Era

Downtown Champaign has seen many businesses, theatrics, and events over its history though no era was more chaotic than when the C-U went dry. For our true crime lovers, this tour explores the vices of the early 20th century including the brothels, illegal speakeasies and gambling halls, and corruption within the city government. Join us as we travel through downtown Champaign exploring the history of prohibition and its vices.

The tour travels around a mile and takes approximately an hour. We ask that guests park their vehicles in the police station parking lot to the North of the Champaign County History Museum. We will meet at the CCHM to begin the tour. The tour will start at the designated start time so please plan to arrive at the museum at least ten minutes before the tour is set to begin.