Bones Under Us, Ghost Tour with Archeology

Discovering the Bones Beneath St. Augustine: A Closer Look at the Ghost and Archeology Tour

If you’re curious about the spooky side of St. Augustine, this Bones Under Us Ghost Tour with Archeology offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s hidden, haunted history. It’s a tour that combines ghost stories, archaeological evidence, and a good dose of history—perfect for those who love a spooky story with some context.

What really draws us in are the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life, and the stunning locations with haunting tales that make history feel surprisingly alive. On the flip side, because it’s a walking tour that covers several historic sites, it might not be ideal if you’re looking for a very relaxed, sit-down experience.

This tour is well-suited to history buffs, ghost story lovers, or anyone interested in the less-known stories buried beneath St. Augustine’s streets. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy a mix of history and paranormal intrigue without the over-the-top theatrics.

Key Points

• Educational yet eerie: A solid blend of history and ghost stories, backed by archaeological evidence.
• Expert guide: Guides like Nicholas are praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills.
• Accessible and manageable: Around 1.5 hours, with moderate walking involved.
• Great value: At $29.99, it’s priced competitively for the quality of storytelling and site visits.
• Visually engaging: The stops include scenic views such as Aviles Street, the Bayfront, and historic forts.
• Small group: Limited to 22 travelers, making it more personal and interactive.

What to Expect from the Bones Under Us Ghost Tour

We really appreciate how this tour goes beyond just spooky stories. It’s rooted in real archeological findings and historical evidence, which adds credibility and depth to the tales. Over the course of 90 minutes, you’ll visit several key sites around St. Augustine, each with a story to tell.

The tour kicks off outside the Old Spanish Hospital. Here, the guide discusses hauntings from long ago—curious to ask, where are the spirits now? This initial stop sets the tone, blending ghostly legends with archaeological clues. The guide, like Nicholas, is praised for making history engaging and fun, helping to bring these stories off the page.

Next, you’ll visit the site of old burials beneath a forgotten church. This stop dives into the city’s burial history—over 800 burials are thought to be there, but many markers are lost, leaving many graves and stories hidden. The emotional weight here is palpable, especially when discussing those buried without markers or names.

Moving on, the tour takes you to the old jail and an antique shop, where ghost investigators have uncovered compelling evidence. It’s these locations that give the tour a thrill factor—visuals of ghost findings, stories of sightings, and the authenticity of real evidence.

An atmospheric stop on the pier near the bridge introduces you to the spirits of men murdered to create the city. Then, the bayfront offers stunning views while whispering tales of lost loves, misdeeds, and restless spirits. The fort, with sightings of long-dead soldiers missing jewelry or even their heads, makes for some vivid imagery. One guide mentioned a native leader’s face appearing in ghostly form, which adds a memorable touch.

The stops behind Milltop and through the city gates further deepen the experience. You’ll hear about a young girl’s spirit guarding the city, and the haunting of the Huguenot Cemetery, where over 600 graves are unmarked. The cemetery has a guardian figure who takes protecting the dead seriously—adding a layer of mystique and respect.

Finally, the tour concludes a short walk from the parking area, ending with a mysterious tale of lost love and potentially dangerous spirits. Throughout, the guide’s storytelling makes these stories feel immediate and real.

The Experience: What You’ll Really Get

Guides like Nicholas are a standout aspect. Their knowledge, engaging storytelling, and ability to answer questions make the experience memorable. As one reviewer said, “Nicholas was very knowledgeable. He gave us tons of information and adapted his tour to meet our needs.” That adaptability really helps if you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler.

The visuals—photos, videos, and archaeological evidence—play a crucial role in cementing the stories. Seeing images of ghost findings or artifacts can make the paranormal stories feel more tangible, especially when combined with the atmospheric settings.

The sites visited are varied, from historic cemeteries and old jails to scenic waterfronts and ancient forts. Each location adds its own flavor, whether it’s the tragedy of buried unknowns or the thrill of spotting a ghostly figure. The mix of outdoor walking, historic sites, and scenic views keeps the tour lively.

Price-wise, at $29.99, this tour offers good value considering the depth of stories, archaeological insights, and the small group setting. It’s an hour-and-a-half of storytelling that leaves you with a sense of the city’s haunted layers, rather than just surface-level ghost tales.

Reviews consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and storytelling prowess, often highlighting how the tour brings history to life. Several guests mentioned how Nicholas made learning fun and answered all their questions, which adds a personal touch. People also love the beautiful views and the eerie stories that linger long after the tour ends.

The Balance of History and Haunting

If you’re someone who appreciates meaningful stories backed by archaeology, this tour hits the mark. It’s not about flashy special effects but about genuine stories of the past, combined with the palpable sense of history in each location. The archaeological evidence offers a foundation that makes the ghostly tales feel more credible, which many guests find compelling.

However, it’s a walking tour with some uneven terrain to consider, so it’s best suited for travelers in moderate physical shape. The tour moves through various historic sites, some of which may have uneven surfaces or steps, but nothing overly strenuous. It’s a good pick for those who enjoy a mix of walking, storytelling, and scenic views.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, it’s suitable for older children or teenagers interested in history or ghost stories, especially because of the educational aspect. The stories are respectful and rooted in real archaeology, making it suitable for those wanting a more serious take on ghost lore.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bones Under Us Ghost Tour is ideal for travelers who want to explore St. Augustine’s dark corners in a meaningful way. If you enjoy stories about lost graves, haunted landmarks, and archaeological finds, this tour will keep you engaged. History buffs will appreciate the factual basis behind the tales, while anyone interested in ghost stories will get a healthy dose of chills.

It’s a thoughtful experience that balances the eerie with the educational, making it perfect for those who want to learn as they go. The small group size and guide’s expertise create an intimate environment that encourages questions and curiosity.

If you’re looking for a more lively, theatrical ghost tour, this might not be your best fit. But if you prefer stories grounded in real history and archaeological evidence, this tour delivers.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable, not-too-long walk through some of St. Augustine’s most haunted sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 3 Aviles Street and ends near the St. Augustine and St. Johns County Visitor Information Center, just a few steps from the parking garage.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as family-oriented, it’s suitable for older children or teens interested in history and ghost stories. The tour involves walking and some outdoor exposure.

What’s the price?
At $29.99 per person, it offers good value for the mix of storytelling, archaeological insights, and scenic stops.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

How many people usually join?
The tour is designed for a maximum of 22 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.

What kind of evidence is shared during the tour?
The guide shares archaeological evidence, ghost investigator findings, and visual media like images and videos to support the stories.

Is this tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I cancel in advance?
Absolutely. You can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

In summary, the Bones Under Us Ghost Tour offers a compelling mix of history, archaeology, and ghostly tales. It’s a thoughtful way to explore St. Augustine’s darker past, with knowledgeable guides and scenic stops that will satisfy both skeptics and believers alike. If you’re after an experience that marries facts with a touch of the supernatural, this tour might just be the highlight of your visit.