Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour offers a unique way to experience Memphis beyond its famous music scene and BBQ. This tour dives into the city’s eerie side, revealing haunted spots, ghostly tales, and spirits lurking in historic buildings. Whether you’re into spooky stories or just curious about the ghostly legends that linger in Memphis, this one-hour walk offers a ghostly glimpse into the city’s darker history.
What really caught our attention is how the guide shares engaging, chilling stories that bring these haunted locations to life. Plus, the option to rent ghost-hunting equipment adds a fun, interactive element for those who want to hunt spirits alongside the storytelling. On the flip side, some travelers mention that the tour doesn’t always include interior visits, which might disappoint those expecting more hands-on exploration.
This experience is best suited for those who enjoy history with a spooky twist and are comfortable walking through outdoor Memphis streets. If you’re intrigued by haunted legends or want a different perspective on the city’s past, this tour could be a memorable addition to your trip.
Key Points
- Engaging stories bring Memphis’ haunted sites to life.
- Short duration makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.
- Optional ghost-hunting gear adds a fun, interactive element.
- Historic locations with spooky reputations enhance the experience.
- Knowledgeable guides are highly appreciated, making stories more vivid.
- Free to enter most sites but no interior access, which some reviews note.
What to Expect from the Memphis Ghosts Tour
This walking tour offers a quick, immersive look into Memphis’s haunted past, packed into roughly an hour. It’s a guided experience, so you’ll be accompanied by someone who shares not only ghost stories but also insights into the city’s history. The tour starts at the corner of 450 Mulberry Street, a convenient location accessible by public transport, making it easy to join.
The atmosphere is part spooky, part educational. Expect to walk along historic streets while learning about the city’s haunted spots, like the Lorraine Motel—where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was tragically shot in 1968, and a place where visitors sometimes report faint echoes of his final words and a heavy sense of sadness. It’s a powerful starting point that sets the tone for the rest of the tour.
From there, the journey takes you past some of Memphis’s oldest and most storied establishments, each with their own ghostly legends. The Arcade Restaurant, the oldest café in Memphis, has been serving since 1919 and is said to have ghostly figures seen through its windows, along with unexplained cold drafts inside. Earnestine & Hazel’s, once a brothel and speakeasy, is rumored to host spirits from its colorful past, with reports of a jukebox playing on its own and strange upstairs activities. These stops are mostly just outside, meaning you’ll get a real feel for the ghostly activity without necessarily stepping inside.
Other stops include The Green Beetle, the oldest tavern in Memphis, where patrons have reported strange noises and shadows, and the Pontotoc Hotel, a former gambling and bootlegging hotspot where ghostly apparitions are said to peer from abandoned windows. The John Alexander Austin House, built in 1876, is believed to be haunted by its original owner, with visitors feeling chilly breezes and hearing footsteps. Lastly, the Orpheum Theatre—one of Memphis’s most haunted sites—hosts stories of a young girl named Mary whose ghostly presence is felt during performances, with some claiming to see her.
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What makes these stops special?
The variety of locations offers a layered experience—some are iconic landmarks, others are secretive backstreets with eerie histories. The stories shared here aren’t just ghost tales; they’re woven into Memphis’s fabric, revealing a city that’s been through a lot and still harbors its spirits.
The Guide and the Experience
Guests frequently praise the guides for their knowledge and storytelling ability. One reviewer called theirs “outstanding” and appreciated how much they knew about Memphis’s history and hauntings. Another liked the way stories were delivered with enthusiasm, making even the cold drafts and shadow sightings feel alive and meaningful.
A notable feature is the rental of EMF detectors, which adds an element of fun for those interested in ghost-hunting. You can use these devices to try and sense paranormal activity, making the experience more interactive and engaging—especially if you’re a skeptic or just want to add a little thrill.
The tour is designed to be accessible; most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. It’s a compact experience, lasting about an hour, which makes it perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Memphis’s spooky side. The group size is capped at 35, ensuring you won’t be lost in a crowd and that your guide can keep things personal.
What do people say?
Reviewers generally love the combination of storytelling, site visits, and the guide’s knowledge. One noted, “Vey knowledgeable and fun! Highly recommend tour, our guide knew all the great spots with tons of history,” emphasizing how much the guide adds to the experience.
However, some mention that the tour doesn’t always go inside buildings—mainly just outside or at the perimeters—which might leave some craving more hands-on exploration. Plus, there were comments about limited access to some sites, which does seem consistent with the tour’s outdoor-focused approach.
Cost, Value, and Practicalities
At $32 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering the depth of stories and location variety. The price includes the rental of ghost-hunting gadgets, a knowledgeable guide, and visits to some of Memphis’s most haunted landmarks. For those who love a bit of spooky history plus good value, it’s a solid choice.
You should also keep in mind that gratuities are not included, so if you enjoyed your guide’s storytelling, a tip is appreciated, as is common in guided tours.
The tour is booked an average of 16 days in advance, so it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak travel times. Confirmation is quick—within 48 hours—making it a flexible option for last-minute planners as well.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for travelers intrigued by the paranormal, history buffs with an interest in Memphis’s darker past, or anyone looking for a fun, short activity that combines storytelling with a bit of outdoor exploration. It’s suitable for most travelers, but those expecting in-depth interior access might find it a bit limited. It’s also a good intro for anyone new to ghost stories or Memphis’s haunted heritage.
The Sum Up
If you’re after an engaging, budget-friendly way to experience Memphis’s spooky side, this ghost tour hits the right notes. It’s well-paced, with stories that captivate and sites that inspire curiosity. The knowledgeable guides bring the city’s haunted tales to life, making this a memorable addition to your trip—especially if you enjoy a little thrill and mystery.
While it might not satisfy those looking for inside access or a more intense paranormal hunt, it offers a balanced, fun peek into Memphis’s eerie legends. Perfect for anyone who loves history, ghost stories, or just wants a different perspective on this vibrant city’s past.
This tour is especially suited for those who enjoy storytelling, outdoor walks, and interactive elements like ghost-hunting gear. It’s a nice way to break up a busy sightseeing itinerary, giving you both chills and insights.
Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour
“The guide was amazing. She had great stories about what she showed us. She was very knowledgeable about the city.”
FAQs
Is this tour suitable for children? While not explicitly mentioned, most travelers can participate. Keep in mind the spooky stories and outdoor nature may be best suited for older children or teens.
Are interior visits included? No, most sites are viewed from outside or their exteriors. Some guests wish they could go inside, but the tour focuses more on storytelling and external site viewing.
How long does the tour last? About an hour, making it easy to slot into a busy day.
What is the price? The tour costs $32 per person, including ghost-hunting equipment rental and a guide.
Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available if you cancel at least 24 hours in advance.
Where does the tour start? At 450 Mulberry Street in Memphis, a central spot accessible by public transportation.
Is the group size large? No, the maximum is 35 travelers, ensuring a comfortable experience.
What kind of stories will I hear? You’ll hear tales of haunted buildings, spirits of past residents, and legends like Mary in the Orpheum Theatre, all woven with Memphis’s history.
Is tipping expected? Tips are not included, but if you enjoyed the tour and guide, tipping is appreciated.
If you’re curious about Memphis’s spooky side and love a good ghost story, this tour offers a fun, insightful journey into the city’s haunted corners. Just remember to keep an open mind—sometimes, the greatest thrills are the stories we tell ourselves.
