Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour By US Ghost Adventures

When it comes to adding a little thrill to your trip, a ghost tour can be a surprisingly fun way to explore a city’s darker tales. The Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour by US Ghost Adventures promises a balance of spooky stories, historical insights, and atmospheric stops. We’ve looked into what this experience offers, and it’s clear this tour can be a good pick for history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Monterey’s mysterious past.

What we especially like about this tour is the focus on well-researched stories delivered by a passionate guide, and the fact that it’s still family-friendly. Plus, at just $24 per person, it’s a relatively affordable way to spend an hour enjoying ghostly legends and local lore.

However, potential visitors should be aware that the experience is mainly about storytelling and atmosphere. If you’re hoping for an inside look at the haunted sites or a highly polished guide, you might find it a bit hit-or-miss. Still, for those who enjoy a casual, engaging walk with spooky tales, this tour offers plenty of charm.

This tour is best suited for travelers seeking something fun and different, especially if they enjoy history with a paranormal twist. It’s ideal for those who appreciate local stories, enjoy walking around historic sites, and want a light but intriguing experience.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from knowledgeable guides makes the experience engaging.
• Multiple haunted sites in Monterey, each with its own eerie legend and history.
• Family-friendly atmosphere, making it accessible for all ages.
• Affordable price point for a one-hour guided tour with spooky tales.
• Spectral tales are often based on local reports, adding a sense of authenticity.
• Some reviews mention inconsistency, so guide quality and organization may vary.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour is designed to be a quick, engaging introduction to the city’s haunted past. It lasts about one hour and covers roughly six sites, each with stories of spirits, history, and ghostly sightings. The tour is conducted on foot, starting at 570 Pacific St and ending at the Monterey Hotel, a historic spot where the guide will wrap up with some chilling tales.

The Stops and Their Stories

Larkin House: Built in the 1830s by Thomas Larkin, this is one of Montereys oldest and most haunted landmarks. Visitors have reported cold spots and footsteps when no one’s around, attributed to the spirit of Larkin’s wife. The house’s role as a social hub during California’s early days seems to have left behind some lingering guests.

General Sherman Quarters: Once home to a Civil War general, this site is said to be haunted by his ghostly figure, dressed in full military uniform. Some guests have even claimed to see him surveying his old quarters, adding a spine-tingling touch to this stop.

Colton Hall Museum and Jail: Known as the place where California’s first constitution was drafted, the basement jail has a reputation for restless spirits and strange noises. The blend of historic significance and ghostly tales makes this a compelling stop.

Monterey Public Library: As one of California’s oldest libraries, it’s believed to be haunted by a former librarian’s spirit. Reports include books moving on their own and the scent of old perfume—small details that add to its eerie charm.

Stokes Adobe Restaurant: Now a dining spot, this building was once the home of Dr. James Stokes. Staff and patrons have seen shadowy figures and heard disembodied voices, especially upstairs, which lends a ghostly ambiance to your meal.

Stevenson House: The house where Robert Louis Stevenson once stayed carries its own supernatural stories, with ghostly apparitions and cold patches reported by visitors. Its literary history mingles well with the spooky tales.

Monterey Hotel Spa: This historic boutique hotel has a reputation for ghostly residents. Guests sometimes hear footsteps and feel like they’re being watched, which adds a Victorian-era ghost story to your walk.

The Atmosphere and Experience

Most reviews describe the tour as family-friendly and fun, with guides who are passionate about sharing the stories. For example, one reviewer mentioned that the guide answered questions with intensity, making the dark tales come alive. Others have appreciated the well-researched history paired with ghostly rumors, giving this a balanced vibe of fact and folklore.

Several guests noted the storytelling quality—a guide who can craft a spooky atmosphere while keeping it light. Adam, one of the guides, is praised for his engaging storytelling, humor, and passion, which helps hold everyone’s attention during the walk.

While some reviews mention inconsistency—like a guide who was difficult to understand or a guide not showing up—most feedback is positive. The tours seem generally well-organized, with a maximum group size of around 35 people, making for an intimate experience.

The Value for Money

At $24 per person for about an hour, this tour offers pretty good value. You get a mix of history, local stories, and a dash of the supernatural—all delivered in a relaxed, walkable format. Since no extra charges are usually involved (beyond optional tips), it’s a straightforward way to add some spooky fun to your Monterey visit.

Considerations and Tips

• Timing: Book at least 9 days in advance as most travelers do to secure a spot.
• Weather: Be prepared for outdoor walking—layers are advised, especially if it’s cooler.
• Guide Variability: Expect some variation in guide presentation; read recent reviews to gauge current quality.
• Pace: The tour is light on walking, so it’s suitable for most fitness levels.
• Booking: Since it’s mobile ticketed, arriving on time is essential to avoid missing out.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who loves mystery, history, and a touch of the supernatural, you’ll likely enjoy this experience. It’s particularly good for those traveling with older children or teens who can appreciate storytelling without needing inside access or high-tech gadgets. The tour is casual but engaging, perfect for a laid-back evening or a unique daytime activity.

Travelers who want a cost-effective way to learn about Monterey’s darker past** will find this a worthwhile option. It’s not a hardcore paranormal investigation—more of a storytelling walk with spooky overtones—making it accessible and fun.

For those expecting a polished, highly organized experience or inside access to haunted sites, this might fall short. Also, if you’re sensitive to cold or outdoor conditions, dress appropriately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, with spooky but not overly intense stories. It’s suitable for most ages, but parents should consider children’s comfort with dark tales and outdoor walking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately one hour. It’s a quick but immersive experience through several historic and allegedly haunted sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 570 Pacific St, Monterey, and ends at the Monterey Hotel on Calle Principal, both in Monterey.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers a knowledgeable guide, spooky stories, and well-researched history. No additional charges typically apply.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time. Cancellations made within that window are non-refundable.

What should I wear or bring?
Since the tour is outdoor, dress in layers and wear comfortable shoes. Bringing a flashlight or a camera with a flash might be fun, but don’t expect high-tech paranormal tools.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, but since it’s a walking tour, those with mobility issues should consider the terrain and pace.

What if the guide is difficult to understand?
While most reviews praise the guides, a few mention inconsistency. If this happens, don’t hesitate to ask questions or clarify during the walk.

What is the overall value of this tour?
At $24, you get a lively hour of storytelling, historic insights, and spooky tales—offering a solid experience for those interested in Monterey’s haunted past without breaking the bank.

Wrapping It Up

The Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour offers a relaxed, engaging look at the city’s haunted sites and darker stories. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a good ghost story, history, and a bit of outdoor walking. The guides’ passion and storytelling ability shine through, making it a memorable, if not perfectly polished, experience.

While it’s not a tour for those seeking high-end inside access or supernatural investigation tech, it provides a charming glimpse into Monterey’s mysterious side. Perfect for a casual evening out or a fun way to learn about local legends, this tour captures the essence of ghost stories that have been whispered through Monterey’s streets for generations.

If you’re up for a spooky stroll filled with stories that blend history and legend, this could be just the right fit. Just remember to dress for the weather, arrive on time, and enjoy the tales that have haunted Monterey for decades.