If you’re planning a trip to Helen, Georgia, and have an interest in spooky stories, dark history, or just want a different way to learn about the town, the Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour might catch your eye. From what reviews suggest, this is a lively, engaging experience that mixes storytelling with a bit of paranormal intrigue—all within a compact two-hour walk.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances history and ghostly tales, making it appealing whether you’re a believer or just a curious traveler. Plus, the chance to visit the basement of Helen’s most haunted building with electronic ghost-hunting gear sounds like a fun bonus for those interested in the paranormal. On the flip side, it’s worth noting that the tour is adult-oriented, with some narratives involving violence and adult language, so it’s not suitable for children under 13.
This tour is ideal if you enjoy stories that send a chill down your spine but also want a solid dose of local history. It suits folks who love a bit of mystery, enjoy walking tours, and don’t mind a slightly spooky vibe mixed with some fun facts about Helen’s past.
Key Points
- Engaging storytelling blends hauntings with historical details.
- Guides are praised for their knowledge and personality.
- Includes exclusive access to the basement of Helen’s most haunted building.
- Two-hour duration makes it a concise but memorable experience.
- Adult content means it’s best for travelers 13+.
- Affordable at $28.50, offering good value for a unique experience.
What to Expect from the Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour
This tour offers a two-hour exploration into Helen’s darker side, starting at the Two Tire Tavern. Originally built as a hospital in 1913, this site now functions as a tavern, but its history as a hospital and its haunted reputation make it the perfect starting point. From the moment you gather here, your guide will lead you through stories of ghost sightings, murders, and mysteries that have lingered around the town.
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First Stop: Two Tire Tavern
The tour kicks off at Two Tire Tavern, where you’ll get a quick 10-minute introduction to the haunted tales associated with this building. Since it was once a hospital, many believe it’s been haunted by spirits connected to that past. The fact that this location is both a tavern and a historic site adds a friendly, approachable vibe, even as the stories turn a little darker.
Second Stop: Alpine Fun Factory
Next, the group moves on to the Alpine Fun Factory, a landmark industrial building with its own share of eerie stories. This stop lasts about 15 minutes, during which your guide will share the building’s history and some of its darker tales. While the admission isn’t included here, it’s the perfect chance to learn about a more industrial side of Helen’s past, with stories that might make you look at the building a little differently.
The Highlight: Basement Access at Two Tire Tavern
The tour concludes with a 30-minute visit to the basement of the Two Tire Tavern—the most anticipated part. Here, guests get to use electronic ghost-hunting equipment and possibly capture paranormal activity firsthand. This exclusive access really stands out and gives the experience a tangible thrill, especially if you’re into haunting investigations or just enjoy a spooky adventure.
The Group and Logistics
The tour is designed for up to 25 travelers, which keeps it intimate enough to enjoy storytelling without feeling crowded. The meeting point is at the Two Tire Tavern, making it easy to find and convenient for walking around downtown Helen. The tour is mobile-ticket based, so you can book and access it easily, and most travelers find they need to book about 26 days in advance, showing some popularity.
Practical Info: Pricing and Length
At $28.50 per person, this experience offers a solid bang-for-your-buck. It’s not an overly expensive way to add some intrigue to your trip, especially considering the exclusive basement visit and guided storytelling. With a 2-hour duration, it fits well into a day of sightseeing, leaving time for lunch or other activities.
The Guides: Why They Matter
Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ personality and knowledge as key strengths. One reviewer mentioned that the guide, Peter, has a great personality, though they suggested a microphone would improve storytelling clarity. Ultimately, the guides seem to bring the stories to life and make the tour enjoyable, which is crucial when dealing with spooky tales that can be more compelling with good narration.
Authentic Experiences and Honest Feedback
Reviewers consistently praise this tour, especially the guided storytelling and paranormal activity at the basement. For example, Kim_C described it as, “Wonderful, very informative and fun,” while Hunter_P called it “a great experience.” People also appreciate that the stories are not just ghostly legends but are supported with documented accounts and local lore.
However, some feedback points to the need for a better sound system; one reviewer felt that a microphone would enhance the experience, especially in the larger group setting. That’s a small consideration, but worth keeping in mind if you’re particularly sensitive to hearing or if you’re attending with a bigger group.
Is This Tour Worth It?
Given the price point and the reviews, it seems like a good value, especially if you enjoy stories that mix history with supernatural tales. The exclusive access to the haunted basement makes it a standout feature, and the knowledgeable guides help bring the stories alive. If you’re looking for a quick yet spooky way to understand more about Helen’s past and enjoy a bit of paranormal fun, this tour could be just right.
2-Hour Helen Haunts and History Walk Tour
“Wonderful tour. Very informative and fun!”
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for adults and teens over 13 who enjoy history, ghost stories, or haunted adventures. It’s perfect if you’re in Helen for a day and want a different perspective on the town’s past, especially if you’re curious about paranormal activity. If you’re traveling with children under 13 or prefer a more family-friendly, less spooky outing, this might not be the best fit.
If you’re after an experience that blends local history with ghostly tales, this walking tour offers a unique snapshot of Helen’s mysterious side. The stories are engaging and well-presented, especially thanks to guides who know their stuff. The chance to visit the haunted basement and try ghost-hunting equipment adds an interactive element that few tours offer.
While the experience is on the spooky side, it’s handled with a good sense of fun and authenticity. The adult content and haunting themes mean it’s best suited to those comfortable with a darker, more mature storytelling style—perfect for thrill-seekers or history buffs with a taste for the supernatural.
Overall, for just over $28, you get a memorable, atmospheric walk through Helen’s haunted spots—something that will leave you with stories to tell long after you leave town.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Not really. It’s adult-oriented, with stories involving violence, death, and adult language, and is not recommended for children under 13.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 2 hours, giving you enough time for storytelling, exploration, and the basement visit without feeling rushed.
What’s included in the price?
The tour costs $28.50 per person and includes a guided walk, access to the haunted basement of the Two Tire Tavern, and the use of electronic ghost-hunting equipment. Admission to the Alpine Fun Factory is not included.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While the tour is walking-based, specific details about accessibility aren’t provided. It’s best to contact Georgia Walking Tours for more info if you have mobility concerns.
Are reservations needed?
Yes, most travelers book about 26 days in advance, and booking is recommended since it’s popular.
What’s the best time to do this tour?
Since the tour requires good weather, a clear day will enhance the experience. Evening might amplify the spooky mood, but check local weather and tour timings.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Full refunds are available if canceled in time.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are advised. If you’re into ghost-hunting, bringing your own device might be fun, but the tour provides equipment.
How do I find the meeting point?
It’s at the Two Tire Tavern, located at 8735 N Main St, Helen. It’s easy to find and central to downtown.
If you’re ready to add some spooky stories and eerie history to your Helen trip, this walk offers a blend of fun, fear, and fascinating tales. Just remember to keep an open mind—and maybe leave the little ones at home for this one.
