Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries of St. Augustine

Travelers visiting St. Augustine often focus on the obvious highlights like the Castillo de San Marcos or the historic streets. But for those curious about the city’s quieter, haunted corners, the North City Cemeteries Walking Tour offers a compelling blend of history, mystery, and ghostly tales. With glowing reviews and a steady demand—booked on average 10 days in advance—this tour delivers a surprisingly rich experience for just $25 per person.

What makes this tour stand out? Its focus on the city’s oldest cemeteries, the engaging stories shared by a knowledgeable guide, and the chance to capture paranormal phenomena on camera. Yet, it’s worth noting that this is quite a walking-intensive experience—so good footwear and a reasonable level of mobility are important.

If you love history wrapped in spine-tingling stories, or simply want an active way to explore St. Augustine’s haunted past, this tour could be a perfect fit. However, those with mobility issues or who prefer a more relaxed sightseeing pace might want to consider alternatives.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 8 City Tours In St Augustine.

Key Points

• Authentic Historic Sites: Visits to Tolomato and Huguenot Cemeteries reveal the city’s oldest burial grounds.
• Engaging Guides: Tour guides share personal stories, historical context, and paranormal encounters.
• Photographic Opportunities: Learn how to use your camera to spot orbs, apparitions, and other anomalies.
• Small Group Atmosphere: With a maximum of 14 travelers, expect an intimate and personalized experience.
• Walking Adventure: The tour lasts about 1.5 to 2 hours, so good walking shoes are essential.
• Cost-Effective: At $25 per person, it offers excellent value for a mix of history, ghost stories, and physical activity.

An In-Depth Look at the Walking Tour Experience

Overview and Setting the Scene

The tour begins at Potter’s Wax Museum on Orange Street, a central and easily accessible location. After a brief orientation, your guide—who is often praised for being enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and personable—will explain what to expect, how to take good pictures, and share the legend of eternal love tied to the city’s history.

Expect the tour to take you through some of the oldest parts of St. Augustine, focusing on cemeteries and historic buildings. The guide’s storytelling skill is a highlight—many reviews mention Ephraim or Hippie as engaging guides who balance history with personal anecdotes and paranormal encounters.

The Stops and Their Value

Stop 1: San Marco Avenue
This charming uptown street is notable because it was developed by a woman in the 1800s—an unusual feat at the time. You’ll hear stories of the original owner still living in her home today, giving a personal touch to the historical narrative. Reviewers note this stop as a fascinating insight into local architecture and gender roles of the era.

Stop 2: Huguenot Cemetery
This is one of the most atmospheric sites on the tour, where many who succumbed to early pandemics are buried. The review mentions that the cemetery contains a “lot of people to count” beneath its grounds, from children to lawyers, and even a figure still visible to some visitors. It’s a place that feels charged with history—and perhaps a little ghostly presence. While the cemetery visit might be brief, the stories shared here elevate the experience.

Stop 3: Casa de Suenos Bed and Breakfast
This historic building has seen many lives, and the guide discusses the first encounter with its past residents. The personal tales add a layer of intimacy to the tour, making history feel alive.

Stop 4: 18 Cordova Street
Known as the Southern Winds Bed and Breakfast, this stop features the story of Rose, a woman seeking comfort among her male guests. It’s another example of how personal stories and local legends are woven into the tour narrative, keeping the experience lively and memorable.

Stop 5: Tolomato Cemetery
Perhaps the highlight for many, this sacred ground holds the remains of children and adults from the 1700s. Visitors often mention feeling a special connection here and even attempting to capture paranormal activity on their phones. The guide might use dowsing rods or suggest using ghost apps—adding a fun, interactive element.

Paranormal and Photo Opportunities

Many reviewers have been thrilled to share that they captured orbs, apparitions, or unexplained lights during the tour. One even caught a full-bodied apparition on camera. The guide encourages using your phone’s camera or reputable ghost detection apps, making it a playful and interactive experience. This aspect resonates well, especially with guests who enjoy photography or ghost-hunting.

The Walking and Group Dynamics

With a maximum of 14 travelers and a duration of around 1.5 to 2 hours, the tour feels intimate and relaxed. Guests often praise the small group size for its ability to foster personal stories and allow everyone to hear clearly. The route includes walking on lawns and streets with uneven surfaces—so sturdy shoes and good mobility are advised.

From reviews, the pacing is comfortable, and the guide’s storytelling skill keeps everyone engaged. Some guests mention that the guide often shares personal encounters with spirits, which adds authenticity and a fun thrill to the experience.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes an orientation about photography and paranormal contact. Occasionally, dowsing rods are used, and guests are encouraged to bring their own ghost apps. No alcohol is permitted, and the experience is suitable for most travelers, including service animals and dogs. The tour is weather-dependent, with a full refund if canceled due to poor conditions, and requires booking at least 24 hours in advance.

Cost and Value

At just $25 per person, this tour delivers excellent value. You’re not just paying for a walk; you’re gaining a nuanced understanding of St. Augustine’s cemeteries and history, combined with the thrill of ghost stories and the chance to take some fun paranormal photos. The reviews repeatedly mention that guides go beyond surface info, sharing personal stories and rare insights that elevate the experience.

Practical Tips for Participants

• Wear comfortable, sturdy footwear suitable for walking on uneven surfaces.
• Arrive at the meeting point a few minutes early to settle in.
• Bring your phone and ghost apps if you’re into paranormal photography.
• Keep an open mind and enjoy the storytelling—no need to take everything at face value.
• Consider booking early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure your spot.

This walking tour is perfect for those interested in local history, ghost stories, or paranormal photography. It suits curious travelers who enjoy active experiences and small-group interactions. Families with older children, couples, or solo travelers seeking an engaging way to see the city will find this tour both fun and educational.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, bus-based sightseeing experience or have mobility challenges, this might not be the best fit. It’s best for those comfortable walking on varied surfaces and eager to listen to stories that often blend fact with folklore.

The North City Cemeteries Walking Tour offers a rare glimpse into St. Augustine’s hidden stories—both haunting and historical. With passionate guides, a focus on authentic sites, and the fun integration of paranormal photography, it’s a memorable addition to any visit. For just $25, you get more than a sightseeing walk—you get a taste of the city’s soul, with a side of ghostly intrigue.

If you’re eager to learn about forgotten lives, hear spooky legends, and explore at a lively pace, this tour is a fantastic choice. Its small size and knowledgeable guides guarantee an experience that feels both personal and genuinely fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most reviews indicate that it’s appropriate for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in history or ghost stories. The pace and content are engaging without being overly frightening.

How long does the tour last?
Expect around 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours of walking and storytelling.

Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are welcome, making it a great activity for pet owners.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes suitable for uneven surfaces are highly recommended, as the tour involves walking on lawns and streets.

Are the cemeteries included in the tour?
Yes, stops at Tolomato and Huguenot Cemeteries are key highlights along with historic buildings.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Absolutely. The guide encourages photography and even offers tips on capturing paranormal phenomena.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Since the tour involves walking on lawns and streets with uneven surfaces, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are alcohol or drinks allowed?
No, alcohol is prohibited during the tour.

What’s the best time to book?
Bookings close at 6 pm the day before, so it’s best to plan ahead, especially in busy seasons.

All in all, the Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries of St. Augustine offers a well-rounded blend of history, ghostly tales, and active exploration. Ideal for curious minds and those craving a lively, authentic experience, it proves that sometimes the best stories are buried just beneath the surface.