8pm Beyond the Grave Tour

St. Augustine Beyond the Grave Tour: A Deep Dive into Haunted History

If you’re someone intrigued by ghost stories, eerie legends, or just the thrill of the unknown, the 8pm Beyond the Grave Tour in St. Augustine might be right up your alley. This tour promises a blend of spooky tales and real paranormal evidence, all set against the backdrop of one of America’s oldest cities. It’s designed for curious travelers who love a good scare but also appreciate a touch of history.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines local lore with tangible evidence—think EVP recordings and ghost sightings on camera. Plus, the relaxed, walking format means you get to see some of the city’s most haunted spots up close. On the other hand, a potential downside is that during busy times, some guests might find it hard to hear the guide clearly, especially when the group gets larger or the street noise picks up.

This tour is perfect for those who enjoy a mix of history and hauntings, want to see some famous locations, and don’t mind a little spooky fun after dark. It’s also great for groups of friends looking for a memorable night out in St. Augustine.

Key Points

• Rich mixture of history and paranormal stories makes this tour both fun and informative.
• Real paranormal evidence shared at each stop adds authenticity, from EVP recordings to ghostly images.
• Small group setting (max 30 people) ensures a more personal and engaging experience.
• Accessible meeting point and mobile ticket make planning easier, but parking can be tricky during busy times.
• Guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and storytelling skills, enhancing the overall experience.
• Locations visited are iconic and have been featured on TV, adding to the allure.

What to Expect from the Beyond the Grave Tour

This tour walks you through some of St. Augustine’s most haunted sites, blending local history with paranormal investigations. It lasts around 1 hour and 30 minutes—just enough time to get spooked without dragging on—and costs $25 per person, which we think offers reasonable value for a spooky night out.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Castillo de San Marcos National Monument

You start outside the old fort, where your guide dives into its tragic past. The fort is a key historical site, but the real treat is hearing about paranormal evidence captured during investigations here. If you love castles and old stone walls, you’ll appreciate the atmosphere that this location provides. One reviewer mentioned, “Bill was very knowledgeable about the history of St. Augustine,” and the paranormal evidence shared here really sets the tone.

Stop 2: Huguenot Cemetery

Next, your group pauses outside the gates of this historic cemetery. The guide discusses its haunted reputation, especially concerning Judge Stickney’s ghost sightings. Paranormal recordings are shared, giving you a taste of the spooky activity reported there. Some reviews note the stories are well-supported, with one saying, “Bill was an excellent guide and had lots of local history to back up his ghost stories.” The cemetery’s haunted reputation makes it a highlight for ghost fans.

Stop 3: Antiques and Uniques Collectibles

This old building, previously known as Antiques and Uniques, was featured on My Ghost Story: Caught on Camera. Paranormal evidence captured during investigations here is shared, and the building’s history adds flavor to the ghostly tales. The fact that this location has TV credentials makes it particularly intriguing for fans of paranormal media.

Stop 4: Casa de Suenos Bed and Breakfast

Once a funeral home, now a charming B&B, this spot is known for its haunting activity. Your guide explains why spirits may still linger, backed by paranormal evidence collected on site. The blend of beautiful architecture and ghost stories makes this stop both atmospheric and chilling.

Stop 5: Scarlett O’Hara’s

The tour concludes at this restaurant, where the original owner, George Colee, is said to haunt the space. Paranormal evidence shared here adds a layer of credibility. Tour guests often mention the guide’s storytelling—one review notes, “Bill was a great tour guide, very informative about the history of St. Augustine and the ghost stories.”

What Makes the Tour Stand Out

Many reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and storytelling skills. Several mention that guides like Bill and Tim are engaging, with reviews highlighting their ability to combine historical context with ghostly tales. One reviewer even shared, “Bill really did a great job of adding more to each story with audio and video documentation,” which heightens the authenticity.

The inclusion of paranormal evidence at each stop—like EVP recordings, videos, and ghost sightings—adds a layer of excitement. For many, hearing real recordings makes the tales more believable and memorable. This tour isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about sharing actual evidence the investigation team has collected.

The tour’s small group size (capped at 30 people) helps keep things intimate, allowing for easier conversations and better interaction. Many guests appreciated this personalized approach, especially when guides tailored the experience to individual interests—as one customer noted, “My grandson and I were the only ones on the tour, so Bill tailored it just for us.”

The Good and the Not-So-Good

On the plus side, most guests find this tour highly entertaining and informative. The blend of history and ghost stories appeals to a broad audience, and the paranormal evidence shared makes it more than just storytelling. Several reviews commend the tour for being “a great mix of spooky stories and history,” and for guides who are “very knowledgeable.”

However, some travelers mention that during busy times, it can be hard to hear clearly, especially if the group gets large or if street noise interferes. A few reviews pointed out that the meeting area could be better marked, which can cause some initial confusion. Also, if you’re expecting to go inside the buildings, keep in mind that the tour mainly involves walking outside and viewing from the street—no interior access.

Pricing at $25 is reasonable, especially considering the inclusion of paranormal evidence and the guided storytelling. For those who love to explore haunted history without overspending, this offers solid value.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Experience

• Arrive early to find parking, especially during weekends or holidays, as it can be busy.
• Bring a flashlight if you want to see your surroundings better during stops.
• Dress comfortably, as you’ll walk around for about an hour and a half, often outdoors.
• Stay attentive—guides share both stories and evidence, so paying attention enhances the experience.
• If you’re prone to fright, remember that paranormal evidence is shared at each stop, but the tour is more spooky than terrifying.
• Book in advance—on average, trips are booked about nine days ahead, and slots fill up quickly during peak seasons.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for history buffs who enjoy ghost stories, as it marries facts with spooky folklore. It’s also perfect for groups of friends or couples looking for an entertaining night out that combines a walk, some chills, and fascinating insights into St. Augustine’s haunted reputation. While families with older children interested in ghost stories might enjoy it, it’s not specifically designed as a family-friendly activity for young kids.

If you’re after a more immersive inside experience or want an activity geared specifically toward kids, you might need to look elsewhere. But if you love a good ghost story, enjoy real paranormal evidence, and want to learn about the city’s darker side, this tour delivers.

The Sum Up

The 8pm Beyond the Grave Tour in St. Augustine offers a compelling mix of history, local legends, and genuine paranormal evidence. It delivers an engaging, well-paced experience that caters to those curious about the city’s haunted reputation. With knowledgeable guides and a handful of iconic locations, it hits the sweet spot for fans of ghost stories who appreciate some authentic investigation evidence.

This tour is best suited for anyone who enjoys a walk through history with a spooky twist. It’s not overly commercialized or cheesy, and the sharing of real EVP recordings and ghost sightings adds credibility that many ghost tours lack. The small group setting means you get more personal attention and a chance to ask questions, making it a memorable way to spend an evening.

Overall, if you’re in St. Augustine and craving some paranormal fun, this tour is a solid pick—whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, it’s a fun way to see the city in a different, more mysterious light.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older kids and teenagers interested in ghost stories may enjoy it. It’s not overly scary, but some paranormal evidence might be unsettling for very young children.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at A1A Ale Works Restaurant & Taproom and concludes at Scarlett O’Hara’s, both located in central St. Augustine.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, but parking can be busy during holidays, weekends, and special events. It’s advisable to arrive early.

What does the tour include?
You’ll learn about haunted locations and hear paranormal evidence collected during investigations, including EVP recordings, videos, and ghost sightings.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund if canceled within that window.

Is the tour accessible via public transportation?
Yes, it’s near public transit options, making it easier to reach the starting point.

If you’re craving a spooky night in St. Augustine with a good dose of history and authentic ghostly evidence, this tour has a lot to offer. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe a flashlight!