Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour (All Ages)

A Friendly Guide to the Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour

If you’re considering adding a spooky twist to your visit to Virginia’s historic Old Town, the Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t been on this tour ourselves, but after reading through traveler reviews and the details, it’s clear this experience offers a fun, family-friendly stroll through some of Alexandria’s most haunted spots.

What we love about this tour is how it balances history and ghost stories in a way that feels accessible for all ages. Plus, it’s a relatively short and affordable outing, which makes it a nice option if you’re looking for something casual and entertaining. That said, it’s worth noting that some visitors felt the stops were a bit limited and that the tour ended slightly earlier than expected—something to keep in mind if you’re craving a deep dive into more historic buildings or spooky tales.

Overall, if you’re after an easygoing, engaging night walk filled with stories both eerie and fascinating, this tour might be a good pick. It’s especially suitable if you enjoy stories that mix history with supernatural legends, and if you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate a good ghost tale without it being too intense.

Key Points

• Family-Friendly: Suitable for all ages, with storytelling that’s fun and spooky without being scary.
• Concise Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes—a manageable length for most visitors.
• Historic Venues: Passes by well-known sites like Carlyle House and local landmarks with tales to tell.
• Engaging Guides: Friendly, costumed guides add fun and authenticity.
• Affordable Price: At just $26.50 per person, it offers good value for a themed evening out.
• Weather-Dependent: The tour requires good weather; cancellations are possible if the weather turns poor.

Exploring Alexandria’s Haunted Streets

When it comes to choosing a ghost tour, what really matters is how well it combines storytelling, atmosphere, and a sense of history. The Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour does all three reasonably well. It’s designed to be accessible and fun for everyone, making it a good option whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or even a solo explorer looking for an intriguing evening.

The tour meets at 480 King St around 6:30 pm, making it a comfortable evening activity. It lasts about 90 minutes and takes you through Old Town Alexandria’s cobblestone streets, passing by historic sites that seem almost built for ghost stories. The guides are dressed in costumes, which adds a little theatrical flair that kids and adults alike tend to enjoy. The limited group size (max 12 travelers) helps keep things intimate and engaging, allowing everyone to hear the stories comfortably.

The Itinerary – What to Expect at Each Stop

Start at Carlyle House:
The tour kicks off outside the impressive Carlyle House, where your guide will tell ghost stories about its ghostly residents. Travelers have mentioned the possibility of capturing eerie orb-like images here, adding a fun, spooky souvenir to the experience. The setting is perfect—an historic mansion with a commanding presence, set against the evening sky. The story-telling here is a great way to set the tone for the rest of the tour.

King & Rye at The Alexandrian:
Next, you’ll stroll towards the chic hotel, which blends historic charm with modern style. The tour includes a stop inside the hotel’s lobby, giving you a glimpse of Alexandria’s past and present. Here, stories of hauntings are shared, and the ambiance is cozy, making it feel like a secret peek into the mysterious side of Alexandria.

Union Street Public House:
This 1790 Colonial warehouse turned restaurant is another highlight. Your guide will share tales of ghostly activity rooted in the building’s long history. Guests have enjoyed the outdoor storytelling here, with some even snapping photos of spirits or orbs in the vicinity—something you’d probably want to look out for if you’re into paranormal photography.

Chadwicks:
The final stop is near the Waterfront at Chadwicks, a great spot for grabbing a late-night bite after the tour. The water itself is part of the story, with tales of ghostly secrets hidden beneath the surface. The tour ends here, with plenty of atmosphere and stories to linger over.

Dolci Gelati:
On the way back, you’ll stop in front of this local gelato shop, known for the tragic ghost story of Laura Schafer, aka the Burning Bride. The story is chilling and well-known locally, adding a poignant ending to the evening. Travelers have mentioned the potential for spooky reflections in the shop windows—an extra little thrill.

The Experience – What You’ll Take Away

Throughout the tour, your guide will weave together stories of siren voices heard along the waterfront, Revolutionary soldiers still marching the streets, and tragic tales like that of Laura Schafer. It’s a mix of historical facts and ghostly legends, delivered in a lively, engaging manner.

Travelers have appreciated the knowledgeable guides who keep things lively and fun. As one reviewer put it, “Joe was great—enthusiastic and engaging, mixing history with myths.” While some thought the tour was a bit brief and outside-focused, most found it to be a fun, atmospheric way to explore Old Town after dark.

The stories are meant to be spooky but not frightening—perfect if you want a ghostly experience that’s suitable for all ages. The outdoor route also means you’ll be enjoying the cool evening air, with plenty of opportunities for photos and soaking in the historic scenery.

The Value – How Does It Stack Up?

At $26.50 per person, the Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour offers good value, especially considering it includes visits to iconic venues and stories delivered by an enthusiastic, costumed guide. The short duration makes it accessible and not too time-consuming, ideal for an early evening activity or a quick evening adventure during your trip.

It’s worth noting that some reviews mention the tour ending a bit early—about 15 minutes before the scheduled time. Others expressed interest in more indoor visits, but the outdoor focus keeps the experience relaxed and accessible. The price point also makes it an appealing option compared to more expensive, longer ghost tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for those who enjoy light-hearted ghost stories woven into historic settings. It’s perfect for families with older children or anyone who appreciates a mix of history and the supernatural without it feeling too intense. The short length and outdoor stops make it suitable for most fitness levels, provided you’re comfortable walking cobblestone streets in the evening.

If you’re after an atmospheric, guided walk that mixes storytelling with glimpses into Alexandria’s haunted past, this tour hits the mark. However, if you’re looking for in-depth historic exploration or indoor visits, you might find it a tad limited.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as all-ages friendly, with stories that are fun and spooky without being frightening.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 90 minutes, which makes it a manageable activity for most travelers.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts at 480 King St and ends at Chadwicks on 203 Strand St in Alexandria.

What’s the cost?
$26.50 per person, providing a good value for a themed, guided walk.

Is there anything I should bring?
Comfortable walking shoes and a camera for photos—especially since some past visitors have captured orbs or other spooky images.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each tour?
A maximum of 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re intrigued by Alexandria’s haunted past and want a casual, family-friendly way to experience it, the Alexandria Spooktacular Ghost Walking Tour offers a lively, accessible introduction. The engaging guides, scenic streets, and spooky stories make for a memorable evening—whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or just looking for something different to do after dark.

While it’s not a deep dive into every historic corner, it’s a well-paced, fun experience that balances storytelling with sightseeing. It’s especially suitable if you’re traveling with friends or family who enjoy a good ghost story without it feeling too intense or overly commercial. For the price and length, it’s certainly worth considering during your stay in Old Town Alexandria.

Happy ghost hunting, and I hope you capture some mysterious orbs of your own!