Have you ever wondered what dark secrets lurk behind Sacramento’s charming streets? We’ve taken a close look at the Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour, and it’s clear this experience offers a fascinating mix of history, spooky tales, and lively storytelling—all for just $24. If you love uncovering hidden stories while strolling through a historic district, this tour could be just the right mix of entertainment and education.
What makes this tour shine? First, the guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable—they bring Sacramento’s haunted history to life with humor and intriguing details. Second, the stops at iconic sites like the Delta King riverboat and the California Railway Museum add visual and atmospheric punch. Lastly, the stories shared are vivid enough to send shivers down your spine, making it a memorable night out.
One thing to consider is that the tour lasts only about an hour, which means it’s a quick, punchy experience rather than an exhaustive deep dive. Also, since it takes place outdoors, your experience depends on the weather—so dress appropriately. This tour is best suited for history buffs, thrill-seekers, or anyone curious about Sacramento’s darker past.
Key Points
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Lydia, Emma, and Ethan are praised for their storytelling skills and friendly approach.
- Iconic Haunted Spots: Stops include the Delta King riverboat, Sacramento History Museum, California Railway Museum, and more.
- Authentic Stories: The tour features chilling tales based on real events, from infamous deaths to haunted buildings.
- Great Value: At just $24 for an hour-long walk, it offers a fun, spooky glimpse into Sacramento’s history.
- Accessible and Convenient: Meeting point at Waterfront Park is easy to find, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
- Nighttime Atmosphere: The dimly lit streets and historic sites create an eerie mood that enhances storytelling.
An In-Depth Look at the Sacramento Ghost Tour
Into exploring Sacramento on foot? Check out these other walking experiences we've looked at
Starting Point and Accessibility
The tour kicks off at Waterfront Park, a public spot next to the Ferris wheel, making it straightforward to find. Guides wear black USGA-branded T-shirts and carry lanterns—adding to the spooky vibe and making them easy to spot. Arriving 15 minutes early is recommended to settle in and get ready for the hour-long journey. This walk is wheelchair accessible, so it’s inclusive for most visitors, though it’s worth noting that it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments if walking more than a mile is challenging.
What the Tour Covers: The Itinerary
Old Sacramento’s Haunted Secrets form the core of the tour. Your guide will lead you through the historic streets, sharing stories of ghosts and dark events linked to the city’s past. Each stop is chosen for its rich, sometimes chilling history and atmospheric appeal.
- River City Saloon: Known for its dark past, this historic watering hole is more than just a place to grab a drink. It’s steeped in stories of violent altercations, mysterious disappearances, and ghostly sightings.
- Delta King Riverboat: This iconic steamboat is reputedly haunted by spirits from its past. Guests often report feeling an eerie presence or hearing unexplained noises, especially at night. The boat’s unique setting makes it an especially atmospheric spot for ghost stories.
- Sacramento History Museum & California Railway Museum: These iconic buildings aren’t just about trains and artifacts—they hide stories of tragic deaths and restless spirits. Guides like Dain and Emma have been praised for their ability to relay history with humor and depth, keeping participants engaged.
Stories and Atmosphere
Expect to hear tales of mysterious deaths, long-lost spirits, and ghostly apparitions. One reviewer highlighted how guide Ethan made the stories come alive with his passion and detailed descriptions, which helped visualize the haunting scenes.
While you won’t enter private buildings, the outdoor ambiance and storytelling make you feel as if the spirits are watching over your group. The dim lighting, historic facades, and occasional sound effects set the tone for a genuinely spooky experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Guides: Knowledge and Entertainment
Reviewers rave about guides like Lydia, Emma, Ethan, and Evan. Their ability to blend history with ghostly tales is a standout feature. For example, Emma’s charm and knowledge made the tour especially memorable—she was praised for her engaging storytelling and friendly personality. Similarly, Ethan’s passionate narration kept everyone on the edge of their seats and made the ghosts feel real.
- Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+
- Pedal, Drink, and Bar Hop Through Sacramento on a 15 Seat Beer Bike
- Midtown Sacramento Walking Food Tour
- Rock the Yacht Cocktail Cruise Sacramento 21+
- Sacramento Sutter District History and Food Walking Tour
- Sacramento Indoor Skydiving Experience With 2 Flights & Personalized Certificate
The Experience: What Makes It Special
Authentic storytelling is a key strength. The tales are based on real events and local legends, giving the tour credibility and a sense of connection to Sacramento’s past. The outdoor setting and the eerie stories blend to create a perfect spooky atmosphere, especially if you’re visiting during cooler months or at night.
While the tour is only about an hour, many reviewers felt it was an ideal length—just enough time to enjoy the stories without losing interest. The value for money is notable, especially considering the quality of guides and the historic sites explored.
Is It Worth the Price?
At $24, this tour offers an affordable way to experience Sacramento’s haunted side. Compared to other city tours, it’s a focused, themed experience that balances entertainment with education. Reviewers found the tour to be a fair value, citing the guides’ knowledge, the atmospheric stops, and the engaging stories as highlights.
It’s not a long or exhaustive history lesson but rather a curated collection of spooky tales set against the city’s most haunted locations. The fact that it’s wheelchair accessible and includes a guide makes it an inclusive option for many visitors.
Why You Should Consider It
If you enjoy stories of ghostly encounters, historic buildings with a dark past, and lively storytelling, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suited for those looking for a fun, atmospheric evening—perfect for travelers interested in Sacramento’s darker history or those seeking a different night out in town.
Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?
This ghost tour offers more than just ghost stories. It’s about exploring Sacramento’s history through a spooky lens, making it ideal for thrill-seekers who appreciate a good story with historical context. The knowledgeable guides, engaging stops, and atmospheric setting create a memorable, authentic experience.
It’s perfect for history buffs who love a little supernatural flair, travelers seeking an inexpensive yet entertaining activity, or those wanting a unique way to see Sacramento’s historic district after dark. The stories, combined with the scenic, dimly lit streets, make for a captivating evening that’s both informative and fun.
While it might not be suited for those with mobility challenges or those who prefer daytime explorations, most others will find the mix of history, humor, and haunts a worthwhile addition to their Sacramento itinerary.
FAQ: Your Questions About the Sacramento Ghost Tour
Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour lasts about an hour and features spooky stories, so it’s better suited for older kids or teens who can handle ghost tales and walking outside in the dark.
Does the tour go inside any buildings?
No, it primarily takes place outdoors around historic sites. You won’t enter private buildings, but the stories make the locations feel haunted enough.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you’ll be walking around historic streets at night. Dress weather-appropriate, especially if you’re visiting in cooler months.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for most visitors.
Are food and drinks included?
No, the tour does not include food or drinks, so plan accordingly if you’re hungry or want to grab a snack before or after.
What is the meeting point?
You’ll meet your guide at Waterfront Park, across from the Ferris wheel, wearing black with a lantern for easy spotting.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
How long does the tour last?
The tour duration is approximately 1 hour, depending on the pace and group size.
Is this tour only available at night?
Yes, the tour starts at 8 PM, designed to maximize the spooky ambiance and storytelling atmosphere.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy times. You can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.
The Sacramento: Gunslingers Ghosts and Ghouls Walking Tour offers an engaging glimpse into the city’s haunted past through lively storytelling and atmospheric locations. It’s a smart choice for those looking to add a spooky twist to their Sacramento visit without breaking the bank. From knowledgeable guides to haunting tales, this tour balances fun and history beautifully—perfect for thrill-seekers, history lovers, or anyone curious about Sacramento’s darker side. If you’re after a night of chills and authentic stories, this experience might just be your new favorite ghost story told in a historic setting.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Sailing Experiences in Sacramento
More Boat Tours & Cruises in Sacramento
More Tour Reviews in Sacramento
- Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Sacramento by Wacky Walks
- Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour
- South Fork Half-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip from Lotus (Class 2-3+)
- Sacramento Ghosts: Gunslingers and Ghouls Tour
- Sacramento City to Sacramento Airport (SMF) – Departure Private Transfer
- Sacramento Airport to Northstar/Squaw Valley – Arrival Transfer
Still browsing? Here are more Sacramento experiences we've covered recently
- Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Sacramento by Wacky Walks
- Midtown Sacramento Arts and Food Tour
- South Fork Half-Day Whitewater Rafting Trip from Lotus (Class 2-3+)
- Sacramento Ghosts: Gunslingers and Ghouls Tour
- Sacramento City to Sacramento Airport (SMF) – Departure Private Transfer
- Sacramento Airport to Northstar/Squaw Valley – Arrival Transfer
- Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Sacramento Arrival Private Transfer
- Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Calistoga-Round-Trip Private Transfer
- Sacramento Airport (SMF) to Calistoga – Arrival Private Transfer
- Apple Hill Wine Tasting Tours And Placerville wine tasting tours
- Downtown Sacramento Historical Food Tour
- Our Picks For The 5 Best Workshops & Classes In Sacramento