If you’re considering a ghost tour in Virginia Beach, Buried Beneath the Boardwalk by US Ghost Adventures offers an intriguing peek into the town’s darker side. This one-hour walk takes you through historic streets, sharing stories of pirates, witches, and restless spirits that supposedly linger in the shadows. It’s a casual, accessible way to add some spooky fun to your seaside trip—especially if you love local tales with a dash of the supernatural.
What we genuinely appreciate about this tour is how knowledgeable guides bring history to life, making the stories more engaging than just spooky legends. Plus, the price point at $24 per person makes it a fairly affordable evening activity without feeling like a gamble. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the experience can be a bit underwhelming if you’re expecting high scares or elaborate sights. It’s more about stories and atmosphere than haunted house thrills.
This tour is well-suited for visitors who enjoy historical stories with a spooky twist and don’t mind walking through dimly lit streets after dark. If you’re traveling with family or friends who appreciate storytelling and local lore, it’s a relaxing yet intriguing way to spend an hour. However, those looking for an intense scare or very interactive experience might find it somewhat tame.
Key Points
- Engaging storytelling from local guides makes the history feel alive.
- Affordable price point allows for easy addition to your Virginia Beach itinerary.
- Short duration (1 hour) makes it accessible without taking up your whole evening.
- Accessible to most with wheelchair-friendly options and a central meeting point.
- Stories focus on local history and ghosts, not major sights or elaborate scares.
- Not suitable for those with mobility issues or seeking a high-intensity haunted experience.
What Is Buried Beneath the Boardwalk All About?
This ghost tour offers a guided walk through Virginia Beach’s historic district, but don’t expect a horror movie experience. Instead, it’s a curated collection of local legends, ghostly encounters, and dark secrets tied to the town’s past. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour covers about a mile of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must.
The tour’s core charm lies in its stories—think of tales of sirens, pirates, and witches that have supposedly haunted this coastal city for centuries. The guide shares authentic, well-researched ghost stories that deepen your understanding of Virginia Beach’s shadowy side. The stories are delivered in a friendly, conversational tone, making it easy to follow along even if you’re not typically a history buff.
Planning more time in Virginia Beach? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
The Itinerary Breakdown
Meeting Point and First Impressions
The tour starts at the iconic King Neptune Statue on Atlantic Avenue. The guide, easily identifiable with a lantern and a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt, sets a welcoming tone. Arrive about 15 minutes early to settle in and get comfortable before the walk begins.
Exploring the Haunted Streets
The route takes you through the historic district, where the dim lighting sets a perfect eerie ambiance. The guide points out various buildings and locations that carry ghost stories and legends. While some reviews mention that many of the stops are along the boardwalk rather than far-off landmarks, this keeps the experience intimate and easy to follow.
More Great Tours NearbyStops and Stories
Each stop is packed with gruesome tales of spirits, witches, and pirates. For example, one highlight is the story of the Ghosts of 1891 Shipwreck, a tragic event that still haunts the area. You’ll also hear stories of murderous sirens and restless witches that add a mythic, supernatural flavor to the tour.
Some travelers note that the sights are limited and that the stories can sometimes become lengthy or TMI, but overall, most find the guides knowledgeable and engaging. One reviewer said, “William was very knowledgeable, TMI at times. He kept your attention. ALL on the boardwalk.”
Atmosphere and Experience
The tour’s atmospheric setting—walking through dark, quiet streets—can really enhance the spooky mood. Be prepared to keep your eyes peeled and ears open for the chilling tales that make Virginia Beach’s haunted reputation quite believable. However, a reviewer mentioned that the tour “was very little ‘sights’ along the boardwalk,” emphasizing that the focus is on storytelling rather than visual thrills.
What’s Included and What’s Not
For $24, you get a well-researched, credible history shared by a local guide, along with authentic ghost stories. It’s a straightforward package that doesn’t include transportation or tips, but the affordability makes it worthwhile.
Keep in mind that transportation isn’t included, so if you’re staying far from the meeting point, plan accordingly. The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for most, but those who cannot walk more than a mile might find it a bit taxing.
The Experience: Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Knowledgeable guides who make the stories engaging
– Affordable price for a quick, themed experience
– The central meeting point makes it easy to find and join
– Authentic stories rooted in local history
Cons:
– Sometimes less focus on visually interesting sights
– The stories can be lengthy or “TMI” according to some reviews
– Not suitable for those with mobility impairments or seeking scares
What the Tour Feels Like
Imagine strolling down Virginia Beach’s quiet streets after sunset, feeling a chill as the guide shares grisly stories of pirates and witches. The narrated tales, combined with the dim lighting and ocean breeze, create a slow-burning sense of mystery. It’s not a jump-scare haunted house, but rather an atmospheric storytelling session that stirs the imagination.
Some travelers, like one who enjoyed the tour “very much,” found the experience more fun than frightening. Others have pointed out that it’s “more history than ghostly,” so if you’re after a scare, this might not fully satisfy that craving. Still, the stories are well-told, and the overall vibe makes for a memorable, low-pressure adventure.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you enjoy local history with a spooky twist, this tour is a good pick. It’s especially ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone intrigued by ghost stories, but not necessarily looking for high adrenaline or elaborate haunted attractions. The focus on storytelling makes it accessible to a broad audience, and the price makes it an easy addition to your Virginia Beach plans.
It’s also worth noting that if you’re traveling with friends or family who appreciate mild thrills and local lore, this tour offers a relaxed but engaging experience. However, if you’re seeking a super scary or high-energy ghost adventure, you might want to look elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Buried Beneath the Boardwalk by US Ghost Adventures offers a solid, budget-friendly way to explore Virginia Beach’s haunted side. The stories are well-researched and told by friendly, knowledgeable guides, making it a worthwhile choice for those interested in local legends without the need for adrenaline-pumping scares.
While it’s not going to blow your mind with sights or scares, it provides a charming, atmospheric glimpse into the city’s mysterious past. The tour’s affordability, accessibility, and engaging storytelling make it a great evening option for travelers who want a taste of ghostly history without a long commitment.
Overall, if you enjoy stories of pirates, witches, and restless spirits—told with local flavor—you’ll find this tour offers a fun, atmospheric ride through Virginia Beach’s shadowy past.
Buried Beneath the Boardwalk: Neptune Ghouls and Ghost Tours
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally suitable for most, but keep in mind it involves walking about a mile and listening to spooky stories. It’s best for older children or teenagers who enjoy ghost tales.
How long is the tour?
It lasts for about one hour, making it perfect for a quick, entertaining evening activity.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot. You can cancel up to 24 hours ahead for a full refund.
Where does the tour start?
All tours meet at the King Neptune Statue at 3001 Atlantic Avenue. Arrive 15 minutes early to find your guide.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair friendly.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are a good idea—be prepared for an outdoor walk.
What’s not included?
Transportation and tips for the guide aren’t included in the price.
Can I pay on the day of the tour?
Reservation and payment are flexible; you can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel if needed.
If you’re looking for a fun, local storytelling experience that adds some eerie charm to your Virginia Beach trip, Buried Beneath the Boardwalk offers good value and engaging tales—just what you need for a memorable evening.
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