Chattanooga isn’t just about scenic river views and charming neighborhoods—it’s also a city that loves to tell its stories, especially the spooky ones. Walking tours are a fantastic way to see the city at a relaxed pace while soaking up local legends and hidden secrets. Our favorite tours include a variety of experiences, from chilling ghost stories to family-friendly spookiness, making Chattanooga a perfect city for those who enjoy a good scare or a fascinating history walk.
One standout is the Chattanooga: Guided Ghost Walking Tour, which offers a spine-tingling glimpse into Chattanooga’s supernatural side. We also appreciate the Original Local Award-Winning Ghost Tour for its seasoned guides and impressive reviews. Lastly, the Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour provides a more accessible haunted experience for kids and families. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you choose the perfect ghostly adventure in Chattanooga.
1. Chattanooga: Guided Ghost Walking Tour
At number one, the Chattanooga: Guided Ghost Walking Tour stands out for its engaging storytelling and focus on Chattanooga’s supernatural past. For $23 per person, this 1.5-hour walk takes you through the historic district, where you’ll visit notable sites like the Old Courthouse and the Dome Building, all while hearing local ghost stories. The tour is led by a knowledgeable local guide who brings the city’s darker side to life with chilling tales that will make your spine tingle.
What makes this tour unique is its emphasis on uncovering Chattanooga’s hidden and supernatural history. You’ll stop at ghost-riddled hot spots and even get opportunities to take pictures of supernatural locations. The tour’s atmosphere is perfect for those who love history mixed with a bit of terror. With an impressive 4.8-star rating based on nine reviews, many visitors praise the engaging guide and the atmosphere. The hour-and-a-half format makes it easy to fit into a downtown afternoon or evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for curious travelers who want a well-paced, spooky walk with a local flavor. It’s one of the best ways to get a ghostly taste of Chattanooga’s dark past.
2. Chattanooga: Original Local Award-Winning Walking Ghost Tour
Coming in at number two, this Original Local Award-Winning Ghost Tour has earned accolades from TripAdvisor and USA Today as one of the top ghost tours in the country. Priced at $25 per person, this 1.5-hour tour offers a deep dive into Chattanooga’s most haunted spots, guided by a well-seasoned local who has written the book on ghosts here. The reviews highlight Jason as a fun, entertaining, and informative guide—some even mention him sharing personal, first-hand experiences of paranormal encounters.
What sets this tour apart is its reputation for authenticity and the chance to see actual photos of local apparitions. Tour participants often get to try capturing paranormal activity on film, adding a fun, interactive element. The tour also offers the opportunity to buy an autographed copy of the guidebook Haunted Chattanooga for those wanting to learn more about the spirits lurking in the city. The consistent five-star reviews reflect its popularity among visitors seeking a genuine and spirited experience.
Bottom Line: If you want a ghost tour backed by awards and glowing reviews, this one offers a mix of storytelling, photo opportunities, and local authenticity that is hard to beat.
3. Chattanooga: A Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour
For travelers with kids or those looking for a lighter, more accessible haunted experience, the Spooky and Family-Friendly Walking Tour is a good choice. Priced at $25 per person and lasting about 1.5 hours, this tour introduces you to Chattanooga’s most haunted sites in a way that’s suitable for all ages. It covers notable spots like the Tennessee Riverwalk, May’s Urban Mansion, and the Hunter Museum of American Art, sharing eerie stories behind what might seem like ordinary locations.
While this tour has a more modest 3.5-star rating based on just four reviews, its focus on storytelling rather than scares makes it ideal for families or anyone wanting a spooky history walk without the adrenaline rush. Visitors appreciate the chance to see top sights like the Tennessee Aquarium and learn about dark tales hidden behind the city’s charming facades. It’s a perfect option for those who want to blend sightseeing with some supernatural storytelling.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a fun, less intense haunted experience for families and newer ghost explorers, making Chattanooga’s spooky side accessible to all ages.
How to Choose the Best Walking Tour for You
When selecting a ghost tour in Chattanooga, consider your interests, budget, and whether you prefer a more intense or family-friendly experience. The Guided Ghost Walking Tour offers a classic, spooky experience, suitable for those wanting a deeper dive into Chattanooga’s supernatural stories. If you’re after a tour with lots of local accolades and a proven track record, the Award-Winning Ghost Tour is a safe bet.
For families or those new to ghost stories, the Family-Friendly Tour provides a lighter, more relaxed experience. Keep in mind that booking early is wise, especially in the peak tourist seasons, to ensure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Chattanooga offers a variety of walking tours that appeal to different interests—whether you’re seeking a spine-chilling ghost experience or a lighthearted, spooky walk with the family. The top picks include the immersive Guided Ghost Walking Tour, the award-winning Ghost Tour, and the family-friendly Spooky Tour.
Each provides a different flavor of Chattanooga’s haunted tales, so consider what fits your style and schedule best. With their reasonable prices and unique stories, these tours will give you a memorable glimpse into the city’s darker side. Be sure to book ahead and prepare for a fun, possibly chilly, adventure into Chattanooga’s ghostly history.