Asheville Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Riverside Cemetery & Montford Neighborhood

If you’re visiting Asheville and craving a different kind of adventure after your daytime explorations, this ghost tour might just be your cup of tea. It’s not your typical haunted walk—this one combines history, local legends, and a little spooky fun, all wrapped up in a two-hour stroll through Riverside Cemetery and the historic Montford neighborhood.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s the only Asheville ghost experience that actually stops at a cemetery, giving you the chance to get up close with some of the city’s most haunted spots. Second, the guides are known for their knowledgeable and lively storytelling, which keeps things engaging even when the stories turn a little eerie.

On the flip side, a potential consideration: hearing might be a challenge in parts of the tour, especially if the group is larger or if it gets noisy outside. Also, this experience is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of local history and ghost stories, not necessarily for folks looking for a purely scare-filled night.

Overall, if you’re into stories about haunted figures, wandering spirits, and learning about Asheville’s darker corners, this tour is a solid pick. It’s particularly good if you prefer walking and want some insider tips for your time in Asheville.

Key Points

• Unique cemetery stop sets this tour apart from other haunted walks.
• Knowledgeable guides keep stories engaging and educational.
• Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy Asheville itinerary.
• Affordable price offers good value for a two-hour experience.
• Family-friendly aspects include service animals and moderate physical activity.
• Highly rated with a 4.5/5 based on 10 reviews, indicating consistent satisfaction.

What to Expect from the Asheville Ghost Tour

This tour takes you through two of Asheville’s most storied areas—Riverside Cemetery and the Montford neighborhood—and offers a mix of history, local lore, and ghostly tales. It’s a relaxed, walkable experience designed to give you a taste of Asheville’s spooky side without feeling rushed or overly commercialized.

Starting Point: Riverside Cemetery

Your journey begins at Riverside Cemetery, where you’ll learn about notable folks buried here, including some authors and local legends. Perhaps the most intriguing part? The stories of wandering spirits who haven’t quite found peace. The guide will share tales of Will Harris, a mass murderer who caused chaos in Asheville’s past, and other spectral stories.

One of the highlights—mentioned in reviews—is the chance to enter the receiving vault and possibly snap a photo with the spirits of German POWs. While that sounds like a fun, if slightly spooky, photo op, it’s also a way to connect with the eerie history that’s woven into Asheville’s roots. The cemetery stop lasts about 45 minutes and, according to reviews, offers a good balance of storytelling and atmosphere.

Walking through Montford

After the graveyard, the tour explores Asheville’s historic Montford neighborhood and downtown. These areas are known for their beautiful old homes and historic significance, but under the moonlight, they take on an even more mysterious vibe. Expect to hear stories about the Pink Lady, Zelda Fitzgerald, and tales of spirits wandering among the streets.

Stories and Atmosphere

Most reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and their ability to make history come alive. Megan H. even said, “The tour guide kept the walk entertaining,” and Stephanie H. appreciated the upbeat personality of her guide, which made the spooky stories feel fun rather than frightening.

The stories aren’t over-the-top terrifying but rather atmospheric, blending local legend with historical tidbits. The guide’s storytelling style is lively and engaging, often peppered with interesting facts and anecdotes, making the two hours fly by.

The Practical Details

Cost-wise, at $27 per person, this tour offers solid value for an evening entertainment option. It’s recommended to book about 47 days in advance on average, so plan ahead if you’re visiting during peak season. The tour starts at 7 PM, making it a perfect way to wind down after a day of sightseeing.

The group size is limited to 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and easier to hear the stories. The tour is designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level—mainly walking and standing are involved, but no strenuous activity.

Accessibility & Convenience

The meeting point is centrally located at 53 Birch St, Asheville, with easy access to public transportation. The tour is mobile-ticket based, so no need to worry about printing tickets. Service animals are welcome, which is considerate for travelers who might need them.

If the weather turns sour, don’t fret—cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Keep in mind, the tour runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

Authentic Experiences from Reviewers

Megan H. shared, “Pretty sure my daughter caught a ghost on my phone,” which hints at making some fun, spooky memories. Mikaela G. appreciated the lack of wasted time and found her guide super sweet and funny, though she did note that hearing could be improved, suggesting a louder announcement system might help.

Stephanie H. highlighted the fun and upbeat personality of her guide, which kept the walk lively, and even mentioned a bear sighting—adding an unexpected twist to the evening. Meanwhile, other reviews mention the entertaining storytelling and the opportunity to learn Asheville’s local legends while enjoying a walk through historic streets and a cemetery.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given the price point and the positive reviews, this ghost tour offers a solid value for those interested in history, local legends, and a spooky atmosphere. The fact that it’s one of the few tours to incorporate a cemetery visit adds a layer of authenticity and interest that many haunted tours lack.

The tour’s ability to blend entertainment with historical nuggets makes it appealing for travelers who want to learn more about Asheville while having a little fun in the process. It’s not a scream-your-head-off kind of fright, but if you love ghost stories, mysterious tales, and exploring with knowledgeable guides, you’ll likely find this experience a highlight of your evening.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is best suited for those who enjoy storytelling, history, and a touch of the supernatural without feeling overwhelmed. It’s ideal for couples, groups of friends, or anyone curious about Asheville’s mysterious past. Given the historical focus, it also appeals to visitors interested in local lore and old neighborhoods.

While families with older children could enjoy it, it’s probably not overly suitable for very young kids, especially if they’re sensitive to spooky stories. The moderate physical activity, coupled with the evening timing, makes it perfect for those comfortable with walking and standing for a bit.

FAQs

Is there any age restriction for this tour?
While the tour is generally suitable for most ages, it’s best for older children who can handle walking and listening to stories in the dark, as some tales may be spooky.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience is about 2 hours, starting at 7 PM. It includes walking through Riverside Cemetery and Montford neighborhoods.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided tour itself. No extra fees are mentioned, and it’s a mobile ticket, so no printed voucher needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours won’t be refunded.

Is the tour accessible for people with limited mobility?
It’s designed for a moderate physical level, mainly walking and standing, so those with mobility issues might want to check specifics before booking.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress warmly for the evening, especially in the fall or winter. Bring a flashlight if you like, but the guide’s storytelling is the main highlight.

Final Thoughts

If you’re into local lore and enjoy a good ghost story, this Asheville ghost tour offers a compelling mix of history, humor, and spooky tales. The chance to wander through Riverside Cemetery and explore the historic Montford neighborhood under the guidance of a knowledgeable storyteller makes it a worthwhile experience.

While it’s not the most adrenaline-pumping haunted adventure out there, the authentic stories, atmospheric setting, and friendly guides make it a charming way to spend an evening in Asheville. It’s especially suited for those who love a blend of history and ghostly legends, and who enjoy walking through beautiful, historic neighborhoods with a little extra mystery.

For a modest price, you get a chance to see Asheville’s haunted side and maybe even capture a ghostly photo or two — just remember to keep an open mind and enjoy the walk.

Happy ghost hunting! Hope this helps you decide if Asheville’s haunted streets are calling your name.