Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour

If you’re heading to Charlotte and love a good spooky story mixed with some local history, this tour might be just what you’re looking for. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed info available, it seems to offer a lively, entertaining look at Charlotte’s haunted spots and true crime past—all from the comfort of an open-air golf cart.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it’s the knowledgeable guides who really know their way around the city’s spooky tales and dark secrets, making the stories come alive. Second, the fast-paced golf cart ride lets you cover a lot of ground quickly, so you get a comprehensive feel for the city’s more mysterious side.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that since it’s a relatively short tour—about an hour and a half—you might not get tons of time at each stop to explore on your own. This isn’t the tour to wander freely; it’s designed more for storytelling on the go.

This tour would suit anyone who enjoys ghost stories, true crime, and city legends, especially if you’re after a fun, slightly spooky experience that’s still informative. Families 13 and older will find it suitable, especially those who can handle a little eerie content. Now, let’s unpack everything you need to know to decide if this tour is right for your Charlotte trip.

Key Points

• Engaging Guides: The guides are praised for their knowledge and entertaining storytelling, making the tour lively and memorable.
• Quick City Coverage: The golf cart allows you to see many spots in a short amount of time, perfect for those on a schedule.
• Balanced Mix of Stories: Ghost tales blend with true crime and local history, offering a well-rounded experience.
• Accessible and Convenient: The tour is mobile, with a flexible meeting point and discounts like parking and meals included.
• Age Suitability: Recommended for ages 13 and up, making it family-friendly for older children and teenagers.
• Tour Length and Format: Lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, with stops at key haunted sites, but limited exploration time at each.

Exploring Charlotte’s Haunted and True Crime Side: What You Can Expect

This tour takes you through a side of Charlotte most visitors don’t see—its darker, more mysterious stories. Starting at 224 E 7th St, you hop onto an open-air electric golf cart, which zips through some of the city’s most haunted and historically significant neighborhoods. With a maximum group size of around 20, you’ll get more personal attention and plenty of opportunities to hear the stories up close.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Elmwood Cemetery
This 72-acre cemetery, established in 1853, is the tour’s first stop. It’s the second oldest in Charlotte and sets an atmospheric tone with its ancient gravestones and haunting ambiance. We loved the way the guide described the history while introducing some ghostly tales. As Nikki_H mentioned, “We have a picture of a face in the window at the old fire station,” highlighting the spooky vibes. Expect around 20 minutes here—enough to take some photos and get a feel for the eerie surroundings.

Stop 2: Rí Rá Irish Pub
Next, you’ll hear about the ghost lurking in this lively pub. It’s a fun twist, as the pub is a place you’d normally visit for drinks and socializing, but here it gains a ghostly reputation. The guide shares stories, and you might find this stop especially interesting if you enjoy a mix of history and pub culture. The tour’s motorized nature means you get to see it all without walking, which is a plus.

Stop 3: Old Settlers Cemetery
As the oldest cemetery in Charlotte, this site is rich with stories—both of the people buried there and the legends that surround it. Dorothy_M noted that the storytelling could have been a bit more dramatic, but overall, it’s a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past. About 10 minutes is allocated here, enough to soak in the atmosphere and snap a few photos.

Stop 4: Fourth Ward
The largest chunk of the tour, this neighborhood is packed with spooky tales of haunted houses and old gold mines. The guide spends about 30 minutes recounting ghost stories and local legends, making this the highlight for many. It’s a lively area, with beautiful historic architecture that contrasts with the eerie stories. Tom_M called it a “great way to see the city and learn at the same time,” and many reviewers echo that sentiment.

Stop 5: Overcarsh House
Here, we learn about a tragic event that still haunts the site today. This quick stop offers a chilling ending, with some stories that might give you a slight shiver if you’re prone to ghostly tales. Expect about 5 minutes at this location.

The Experience in Action

Throughout the tour, guides like Katrina, Mackey, and Peyton are lauded for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the stories engaging. Many reviews mention that guides often go beyond the script, sharing additional local facts or personal anecdotes, making each tour unique.

For instance, Scott_R appreciated that “guides were great,” and “they had a lot of great stories.” Tina_K liked how the guides combined knowledge with humor, making the stories fun without losing their creepy edge.

Some reviewers note the campy, theatrical element—like a guide wearing a metallic mask—which adds a playful touch to the spooky vibe. If you’re someone who appreciates a good story told with energy, you’ll definitely enjoy these elements.

What’s Included & Extras

Your ticket includes a professional guide, the golf cart ride, and the storytelling of legends and creepy tales. Plus, there are a few perks like discounted parking and a 15% meal discount at Rí Rá Irish Pub (no alcohol). It’s a nice touch to make the overall experience more affordable.

Tour Logistics & Practical Details

The tour runs most days with bookings averaging about 12 days in advance, so plan ahead to secure your spot. The experience is designed for most travelers, with confirmation received immediately upon booking. Service animals are permitted, and the tour is suitable for those 13 and older.

The tour is relatively short—about 1 hour 30 minutes—which makes it manageable even if you have a busy schedule. The group size is capped at 20, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience. The meeting point at 224 E 7th St is central, and the tour ends where it begins, making logistics straightforward.

The Worth of the Price

At $44 per person, this tour offers good value for those interested in a mix of ghost stories, true crime, and city sights. You get a lot of storytelling and city coverage in a short time, with the added bonus of fun extras like meal discounts and parking deals. If you’re a fan of spooky tales or want a lively way to explore Charlotte, many find this to be money well spent.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is especially well-suited for those who enjoy stories of ghosts and crime, with guides who are adept at making history both fun and slightly scary. It’s perfect if you want a quick, engaging way to see parts of Charlotte that most visitors miss, without the commitment of a longer, more traditional tour.

Families with teenagers or older kids who can handle a bit of spooky content will find it appropriate. It’s not a deep dive into Charlotte’s entire history, but rather a curated, story-driven experience that highlights its haunted and criminal legends.

The mix of history, humor, and chills makes it a lively evening activity. Plus, the golf cart makes touring easy and accessible, especially if walking long distances isn’t your thing or if you’re short on time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 13 and up, so older kids and teenagers who enjoy spooky stories should have a good time.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, which makes it a manageable outing for most schedules.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the guided golf cart ride, storytelling, discounts at parking and restaurants, and the fun experience of hearing legends and true crime stories.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The process is straightforward and free of charge if done on time.

Where do I meet for the tour?
The meeting point is at 224 E 7th St, Charlotte. The tour ends back at this location, making logistics simple.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, it requires good weather; if canceled due to rain or other weather issues, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. Many reviews highlight guides like Katrina, Mackey, and Peyton as fun, friendly, and full of local stories—they truly elevate the experience.

Can I explore more at each stop?
The tour does allocate about 10–20 minutes per stop, which is enough for photos and a quick look, but it’s not designed for long exploration. For more in-depth visits, consider a daytime historical tour.

All in all, Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour offers a spirited way to learn about the city’s darker side. It’s fun, fast, and full of character — a good pick for those who want a memorable evening with a touch of spooky storytelling. If you enjoy ghost tales, true crime, and lively guides, this might just be the highlight of your Charlotte trip.