Ghost Tour of St. Augustine: The Original Haunted History Tour

Introduction

Our review focuses on the Ghost Tour of St. Augustine: The Original Haunted History Tour, a highly-rated experience that promises an authentic glimpse into the city’s haunted corners. While we haven’t personally taken the tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a standout for anyone looking for genuine ghost stories backed by history and evidence.

What sets this tour apart? First, the guides are true paranormal investigators—not just actors or storytellers but people with real experience and a serious interest in uncovering the truth. Second, the focus on factual history intertwined with ghost tales makes it an educational yet thrilling experience. And third, the tour offers proof of paranormal activity, including photographs and eyewitness accounts, which adds an exciting layer of credibility.

A possible consideration is the timing—it begins at 9:00 pm, which may not be ideal for families with young children or travelers early in the evening. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of history, spooky stories, and a bit of investigation, especially if you’re interested in authentic, evidence-based ghost tales rather than theatrical performances.

If you’re curious about St. Augustine’s haunted corners and want a tour that combines history, real stories, and evidence, this tour is likely to meet and even exceed your expectations.

Key Points

• Authentic guides: Led by a paranormal investigator who shares personal experiences and real evidence.
• Historical depth: The tour covers key sites with interesting stories about their haunted pasts.
• Educational focus: Guides teach about paranormal investigation methods, adding a hands-on flavor.
• Value for money: At $25 per person, it offers a thorough experience and access to additional ghost maps for independent exploring.
• Small group size: Max of 25 travelers ensures personalized attention and a more intimate vibe.
• Recommended early booking: On average, it’s booked 11 days in advance, so planning ahead is wise.

A Thorough Look at the Haunted Tour Experience

Meeting and Timing

The tour kicks off at 10 S Castillo Dr at 9:00 pm, making it a perfect late-evening activity for night owls and those wanting to experience the city after dark. It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, which is a reasonable length for anyone wary of overly long or tiring excursions. The tour is conducted with mobile tickets, adding convenience for modern travelers.

Group Size and Atmosphere

With up to 25 participants, the tour strikes a nice balance—small enough to feel personal but large enough to enjoy shared stories and evidence. Reviewers consistently mention the engaging and knowledgeable guides, especially Kevin, who is praised for blending thorough historical context with compelling ghost stories. One reviewer even called him “a true treasure,” noting his ability to intertwine city history with paranormal tales seamlessly.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Huguenot Cemetery: This is the first stop, where you’ll walk through the historic burial ground. Expect to hear about its founding, the incidents that have haunted it, and ghostly encounters. While admission isn’t included, the cemetery’s story sets a chilling tone for the evening.

• St. George Street: As the city’s main thoroughfare, this site’s gate often features in spooky tales. The guide recounts the haunted history linked to this busy street and its significance as a key city fortress.

• Castillo de San Marcos: Visiting the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S., this site is rich with ghost stories involving soldiers and visitors. The guide shares tales of hauntings tied to the old fort, along with some of the most compelling evidence, including photographs.

• Tolomato Cemetery: The final stop is the state’s oldest Catholic Cemetery, renowned for its ghost stories. Reviewers highlight this as a “famous haunted cemetery,” with tales still happening today, making it a fitting end to the tour.

Guides and Evidence

According to reviewers, guides like Kevin are experienced paranormal investigators who aren’t just repeating stories—they’re sharing personal experiences and photographic evidence. One reviewer mentions seeing proof of paranormal activity, which adds a layer of authenticity many ghost tours lack. Kevin’s knowledge extends beyond the supernatural; he provides historical facts and demonstrates investigation techniques, making the tour both educational and exciting.

The Value Proposition

At $25, this tour offers excellent value, especially considering it includes not only the guided experience but also a ghost map of St. Augustine, allowing independent exploration afterward. Many reviews mention that this is a much better deal than larger, more theatrical ghost tours, which tend to be more scripted and less credible.

Accessibility and Convenience

The tour’s location is conveniently close to public transportation, and it’s suitable for most travelers, including service animals, which reviewers mention. The late start also helps avoid daytime crowds, immersing you more deeply in the spooky atmosphere.

Why Travelers Love This Tour

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Kevin, who not only share stories but also show evidence collected from previous investigations. Comments like “Kevin was excellent” and “the best guide I’ve had in the city” underscore how much personality and expertise matter here.

Many mention how the stories are factually based rather than theatrical or cheesy, with some saying the tour is educational and respectful toward the ghosts and history. This makes it more appealing to those interested in the truth behind the tales rather than just entertainment.

Others highlight the small group setting, which enables more interaction and detailed explanations. The evidence shared—photographs, eyewitness accounts—adds credibility and excitement for those interested in paranormal investigation.

What to Expect at Each Site

• Huguenot Cemetery: Expect a quiet walk through a historic burial ground filled with stories of hauntings. Guides will recount incidents and ghostly encounters from the past, making it a perfect introductory site for the evening.

• St. George Street: The entrance to this historic street is steeped with stories of haunted happenings. You might hear about specific incidents or paranormal activity tied to the city’s most lively area.

• Castillo de San Marcos: This ancient fort is where ghost tales of soldiers and visitors come alive. Expect to hear about actual hauntings and see photographs that suggest paranormal activity.

• Tolomato Cemetery: The oldest Catholic cemetery in the state, where spirits are rumored to still walk among the graves. Reviewers describe it as “famous haunted,” with ongoing paranormal reports.

Practical Details

Booking and Cancellation

Most travelers book about 11 days in advance, so planning ahead is practical. The tour is free to cancel up to 24 hours before, providing flexibility if plans change. The activity requires good weather, but if canceled due to rain, you can reschedule or get a full refund.

Group Size and Accessibility

Limited to 25 guests, it’s a cozy experience that allows for individual attention. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility issues, as it’s a walking tour with manageable distances.

Price and Value

At $25 per person, the tour offers great value for a mix of history, evidence, and storytelling. Compared to other haunted experiences, many reviewers agree it’s a budget-friendly and substantive choice.

The Sum Up

The Ghost Tour of St. Augustine is ideal for those seeking an authentic, evidence-based ghost experience led by knowledgeable and passionate guides. It’s a fantastic choice for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and travelers who appreciate a respectful, fact-focused approach. The small-group setting and real evidence shared by guides like Kevin make it stand out from more theatrical options, offering a genuine peek into the city’s haunted past.

If you’re after a well-rounded, educational ghost tour that balances storytelling with proof, this tour should be on your list. It’s a great way to add some spooky intrigue to your St. Augustine visit without breaking the bank.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, because it starts at 9:00 pm and involves walking through cemeteries and historic sites, it might be better suited for older children or teenagers interested in ghost stories and history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, giving enough time for storytelling, walking between sites, and exploring without feeling rushed.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, as it’s popular and often booked 11 days ahead. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and dress appropriately for the evening weather.

Are the sites included in the ticket price?
No, admission to sites like Huguenot Cemetery and Castillo de San Marcos is not included, but the tour offers compelling stories and evidence that make the visit worthwhile.

What makes this tour different from others?
It’s led by a true paranormal investigator who shares personal experiences and show photographic evidence, making it more authentic and credible than theatrical or scripted ghost tours.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the walking tour is designed to be manageable for most people, and reviewers mention that it’s a good option for travelers with minor mobility concerns.

How should I dress for the tour?
Comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised since you’ll be outdoors and on your feet for most of the tour.

By choosing this ghost tour, you’re signing up for an experience grounded in real history, evidence, and the enthusiasm of guides passionate about the paranormal. It’s a great way to add a spooky yet respectful dimension to your St. Augustine adventure.