St. Augustine Ghost Tour: A Ghostly Encounter

If you’re considering a ghost tour in St. Augustine, you’re in for a treat—whether you’re a lover of ghost stories, a history buff, or just looking for a fun evening out. While I haven’t personally taken this specific tour, the reviews and itinerary provide a clear picture of what to expect. And honestly, it seems like a solid choice for anyone wanting a mix of spooky tales and a taste of this historic city’s dark corners.

One of the things I love about this tour is how it balances light-hearted humor with spine-tingling stories. The guides are praised for their knowledge and entertaining storytelling, making it accessible and fun for all ages. Another highlight is the focus on visiting iconic haunted sites like cemeteries and the Old Fort, which add authenticity and atmosphere. The only potential downside? If you’re looking for a truly chilling, haunted-by-ghosts experience, some might find it a tad more family-friendly and less intense than other ghost tours.

This tour is well-suited for families, history lovers, and those new to ghost tours. It’s approachable, educational, and not overly frightening, making it perfect for travelers who want just enough spooky without the sleepless night. Now, let’s break down what makes this tour tick, what you’ll see, and whether it’s worth your time and money.

Key Points

• Duration & Price: At around 1 hour 30 minutes and costing $30 per person, it offers good value for an engaging experience.
• Guides & Atmosphere: Knowledgeable, friendly guides bring history and ghost stories to life in a small-group setting.
• Notable Sites Visited: Cemeteries, Old Fort grounds, city gates, and historic landmarks with rumored hauntings.
• Experience Level: Light enough for families, with a balance of humor and spooky stories. Not intensely haunted but atmospheric.
• Weather & Cancellations: Tours operate rain or shine, with policies in place for lightning delays or rescheduling.
• Booking & Accessibility: Mobile tickets; booked typically 10 days in advance; meeting point is central, near the Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse.

What to Expect from the Ghost Tour in St. Augustine

This tour is designed to give you a stroll through the darker, more mysterious side of St. Augustine, blending history with ghostly tales. Starting at 12 St. George Street, right next to the historic Wooden Schoolhouse, you’ll meet your guide and immediately feel the eerie ambiance that makes this city famous for its ghost stories.

The guide, often dressed in costume, leads you through dimly lit streets, setting a ghostly tone. You’ll visit cemeteries, which are believed to be haunted, and listen to stories of restless spirits that refuse to leave. The tour also includes visits to the grounds of the Old Fort Castillo de San Marcos and the historic city gates, each of which has its own legends of paranormal activity.

Throughout the walk, the guide shares stories of ghost sightings, spooky encounters, and haunted histories. The night setting makes the experience even more immersive, and many reviews rave about how engaging and knowledgeable the guides are. As some reviews mention, guides like Jennifer, Hippie, and Dion are praised for their storytelling, humor, and ability to keep guests captivated—whether kids or adults.

The tour wraps back at the starting point, so you’re never far from your car or hotel. With most tours lasting about 1.5 hours, it’s a manageable but immersive experience. And if you’re into photography, you might find some spots where the ambiance lends itself to capturing a ghostly image—though, of course, sightings are left up to your imagination.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: 12 St. George Street

This central location is ideal for easy access, and the tour begins promptly here. The meeting spot itself exudes historic charm and helps set the tone right from the start.

Cemeteries & Haunted Grounds

You’ll visit two cemeteries during the tour—places with long-standing stories of ghostly sightings. These are traditional spots to hear about restless souls and paranormal activity. Some guests have shared that the stories are both creepy and humorous, making it a perfect balance for most.

Old Fort & City Gates

A significant part of the tour involves walking around the grounds of Castillo de San Marcos, which is often cited as one of the most haunted places in town. The guide shares tales of ghostly apparitions and unexplained happenings that have been reported here over the years. Similarly, the city gates have their own legends to tell, often involving historical figures and mysterious encounters.

The Cemeteries

Guests have the chance to creep through two cemeteries, listening to stories of apparitions and paranormal activity. One review notes, “Keep your eyes peeled for restless souls,” which adds an element of fun and anticipation.

End of Tour

You’ll return to the starting point, perhaps with a new appreciation for the city’s haunted past—or a few spooky stories to tell friends. Many reviews mention that the tour is well-paced and the stories are delivered in a way that keeps everyone engaged from start to finish.

Guides & Storytelling

The success of any ghost tour hinges on the guides. From reviews, it’s clear that guides like Jennifer, Hippie, Dion, and Rob are favorites. They’re described as knowledgeable, entertaining, and passionate about St. Augustine’s haunted lore.

Jennifer, in particular, is praised for her storytelling skills, sharing photos from previous tours that add a visual element to her tales. Hippie’s energetic narration keeps guests engaged, while Rob’s mix of humor and history makes for a memorable experience. One reviewer even notes, “He knows his stuff,” emphasizing the value of a guide who’s both well-informed and personable.

Guides also tailor their storytelling to be accessible—whether you’re a history enthusiast or just in this for a fun night out, you’re likely to enjoy their approach.

Cost & Value

At $30 per person, this tour offers reasonable value considering the duration and quality of storytelling. Guests commonly mention that it’s an entertaining and educational experience, not just a scare fest. The small-group setting—limited to 25 travelers—ensures a more intimate and personalized experience, allowing your guide to engage directly with everyone.

For an evening of walking through historic streets with spooky stories, this price point seems fair, especially since most reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and the atmospheric locations.

Weather & Cancellation Policy

This tour operates rain or shine, which is great if you’re flexible with weather. In case of thunderstorms or lightning, the tour might be delayed by 20 minutes or rescheduled. If rescheduling isn’t possible, guests receive a voucher for a future tour, which adds peace of mind. Cancellations are free if made more than 24 hours in advance, with full refunds, making it easy to plan without worry.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is ideal for families, history enthusiasts, and casual ghost story lovers. It’s light enough to keep children captivated, thanks to engaging guides and spooky yet fun stories. It might not satisfy those looking for a truly terrifying, haunter-by-ghosts experience, but it perfectly balances entertainment with education.

If you’re in St. Augustine and want a memorable way to explore its haunted past, this tour could be a highlight of your trip. It’s particularly suited for anyone who appreciates storytelling, historic sites, and a touch of the supernatural.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews highlight that guides keep the stories engaging for kids and adults alike. It’s a family-friendly experience with a good mix of spooky and fun.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity without feeling too rushed or drawn out.

What locations do we visit?
You’ll explore cemeteries, the grounds of Castillo de San Marcos, city gates, and other haunted spots within walking distance of the starting point.

Are the stories scary?
The tour balances humor and spooky tales, making it fun rather than terrifying. It’s designed to entertain rather than frighten.

Is the tour available rain or shine?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions. Delays or rescheduling may occur if lightning is present, but you’ll be informed and options provided.

Can I rent ghost-hunting tools?
Yes, for $5, you can rent ghost-hunting tools if you want to add a little extra fun to your experience.

What is the group size?
Limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience with better interaction with your guide.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a well-rounded ghost tour in a historic city, this experience from A Ghostly Encounter ticks many boxes. It offers a great mix of history, humor, and atmospheric storytelling that appeals to a broad audience. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making the walk both fun and informative.

While it may not be the most intense ghost-hunting experience, it’s perfect for those wanting to learn about St. Augustine’s spooky lore without getting too scared. The reasonable price, engaging guides, and charming setting make it an activity worth considering for your trip.

Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or flying solo, this tour provides a memorable glimpse into the city’s haunted past—one story at a time. Just remember to dress comfortably, bring your curiosity, and maybe a camera to catch some spooky sights along the way.

Happy haunting!