Ipswich, Australia, isn’t just a city with charming streets and historic buildings; it’s a place where stories of the past—both spooky and fascinating—are alive and well. Whether you’re into ghost stories, historic cemeteries, or personalized excursions, Ipswich offers a variety of tours that make exploring this old city both fun and memorable. The tours we highlight here stand out for their unique themes and the local knowledge they bring, such as the Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour or the Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour. If you’re intrigued by ghostly tales or want a tailored experience around Brisbane and the Gold Coast, there’s something for all.
One thing we love about Ipswich is how it combines history with a touch of the supernatural, making it a perfect destination for curious travelers. The Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour is a favorite for its eerie stories, while the Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast Personal Tours offer flexibility and personalized adventures. Whatever your interest, these tours showcase Ipswich’s character—dark, charming, and full of stories waiting to be uncovered.
1. Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour
This guided 2-hour ghost tour takes you through the historic heart of Ipswich, revealing its haunted past and spooky legends. You’ll explore sites like The Baby in the Well, the Mystery of the Skulls, Ginn Cottage, and The Old Flour Mill. The tour hits some of the city’s most atmospheric spots, including tales of a woman in an attic window and a secret beneath the police station, making it perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history and ghost stories.
The guide weaves a compelling narrative, sharing stories of the creepy Cribb house and the man who is said to be watching from the museum. What makes this tour stand out is its focus on Ipswich’s gothic side—local legends that have been passed down through generations. Reviewers love the storytelling, with one calling it a “really enjoyable night” that gave a fresh perspective on the city’s past. At just over $27 per person, it offers excellent value for an engaging, spooky evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for anyone interested in ghost stories with a historical twist, especially if you’re keen on exploring Ipswich’s darker past in a fun, guided setting.
2. Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour
At number 2, the Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour offers a 2-hour walk through one of Australia’s most haunted graveyards. This tour dives into legends like the Headless Angel, tales of children who leave handprints on cars, and stories of black magic and tragic crimes. The cemetery itself is older than Queensland, adding a layer of authenticity and eeriness to the experience.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on the mysteries of the graveyard and stories of the asylum graves, making it ideal for those fascinated by urban legends and spooky folklore. The tour’s reviews highlight its compelling storytelling—one reviewer mentions how they appreciated hearing about “the terrible crime and the mystery of the asylum graves.” For around $27, you get an atmospheric exploration of a site where the past seems alive with stories of convicts, bushrangers, and restless spirits.
Bottom Line: This is a solid choice for lovers of ghost stories rooted in real historical settings, especially those interested in Australia’s darker legends.
3. Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast Personal Tours
If you prefer a flexible, tailor-made experience, the Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast is a fantastic option. For around $896.55, up to 13 people can enjoy an 8-hour customized tour designed around your interests. You set the schedule, choosing destinations like the Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Springbrook National Park, or the Sunshine Coast.
This tour is excellent for families, groups of friends, or anyone wanting a semi-private experience without the hassle of planning. The guide offers local insights and can include specific places like Byron Bay or Toowoomba depending on your preferences. It’s perfect if you want to avoid the crowds and see a broader area with a flexible itinerary. Guests have praised it for its personalized service and the ability to visit lesser-known spots.
For those in a hurry or preferring a curated experience, this is an excellent way to see both urban and natural attractions in one day. Keep in mind the higher price point, but for a group, it often works out cheaper per person than booking multiple individual tours.
Bottom Line: Best suited for groups seeking a tailored, private day trip with flexible stops, especially if you’re traveling with friends or family.
4. Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour
The Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour is a 2-hour walk through the city’s ancient cemetery, focusing on stories of The Boy, the Ghost of the Walloon Saloon, Dan Kelly, and a haunted castle. The tour is run by Jack Sim, a haunted-historian with decades of experience, adding credibility to the spooky stories. It’s a classic ghost walk that combines history with ghostly encounters, perfect for those wanting a deeper look into Ipswich’s darker side.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on forgotten graves and local legends, and the storytelling style of Jack Sim, who has been running Ipswich ghost tours since 1998. Reviewers note how reading old tombstones offers a glimpse into lives long gone, and the stories are both chilling and educational. The tour is very reasonably priced at just over $27, making it a solid choice for history and ghost story enthusiasts alike.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those interested in exploring Ipswich’s oldest graves and learning about local legends from a seasoned storyteller.
How to Choose
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests and how much time you want to spend. If ghost stories and haunted sites are your main focus, the Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour or the Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour will give you rich stories rooted in local history. For more eerie legends in a historic graveyard, the Goodna Cemetery Haunted History Tour offers a spooky but authentic experience.
For travelers who want a broader, more personalized experience, the Private Group Tour Brisbane & Gold Coast provides flexibility and access to multiple destinations, including natural parks and city sights. It’s ideal if you’re traveling with a group and prefer a custom itinerary.
If you’re on a budget, all four tours are similarly priced around $27, but the private tour costs more upfront—though it offers more options. Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time and ensure a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Ipswich’s tours offer a mix of spooky stories, historic insights, and personalized adventures that cater to different preferences. If you’re into ghostly tales, the Haunted Ipswich CBD Ghost Tour or the Ipswich Cemetery Ghost Tour are excellent choices—both provide compelling stories with authentic local flavor. For a comprehensive day exploring Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Private Group Tour gives you the flexibility to tailor your trip.
No matter which tour you choose, Ipswich’s blend of history and ghost stories promises an engaging experience that will leave you with a new appreciation for this old city. Remember to book early if you can, and enjoy discovering Ipswich’s secrets firsthand.