Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells

If you’re curious about Wisconsin Dells beyond its famous water parks and tourist attractions, a haunted history tour might be just what you need. This trolley-based experience offers a glimpse into the town’s darker stories, with stops at cemeteries, haunted restaurants, and other eerie sites. While it’s not a full-blown ghost hunt, it provides a fun, spooky journey through some of the area’s most intriguing legends.

What we love about this tour is its accessible price point—$25 per person—and the fact that it’s a relaxed, family-friendly activity that anyone with a curiosity for the supernatural can enjoy. The vintage-style trolley adds a charming touch, making the ride feel cozy rather than creepy, and the guide’s storytelling is often a highlight, bringing local legends to life.

That said, a possible drawback is the variability in the guide’s delivery—some reviews mention distracted or vague narration, which can lessen the overall experience. Also, since it’s a short 1.5-hour tour, don’t expect an in-depth, investigative ghost hunt, but rather a lighthearted, spooky overview of local lore.

This tour will suit those looking for a fun, atmospheric adventure in Wisconsin Dells—whether you’re traveling with older kids, friends, or just want a different way to explore the town after sunset. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy storytelling and local legends, even if you’re not a hardcore ghost enthusiast.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible at just $25 per person.
• Family-friendly activity suitable for most travelers.
• Knowledgeable guides can make or break the experience.
• Multiple stops providing photo opportunities and local stories.
• Short duration makes it a perfect evening outing.
• Varied reviews highlight both the fun and the inconsistencies in delivery.

What to Expect from the Haunted History Trolley Tour

When you book this tour, you’re in for a 1 hour 30-minute ride around Wisconsin Dells, with a focus on spooky tales and haunted sites. The tour starts at Bobbers Island Grill, where you’ll hop onto a vintage-style trolley—think classic wood and brass accents, creating a nostalgic vibe that adds to the atmosphere. You’ll be traveling with a group of up to 34 people, making it a cozy but social experience.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Spring Hill Cemetery at 1680 Broadway

Your first stop is the cemetery, where you’ll get out to see the gravesite of Belle Boyd, a Confederate spy. This is a key highlight and the part of the tour most praised in reviews. Our source mentions that the cemetery walk is often considered the highlight—with one reviewer saying, “The cemetery was definitely the highlight. My kid LOVED playing with the dousing rods.” It’s a chance to explore a historic site that’s associated with some ghost stories.

While 10 minutes might seem brief, it’s enough to snap some photos and soak in the atmosphere. Be prepared for some storytelling about the figures buried there and the spooky legends tied to the site.

Stop 2: Brat House Grill

The next stop is a converted church-turned-restaurant, where you’ll get to hear about two local hauntings: a little girl haunting the restroom and an old Union soldier seen inside the building. The tour allocates around 20 minutes here, giving you time to explore and listen to the stories.

This stop is especially fun for those interested in haunted buildings with a bit of history behind them. Some reviews note that the stories are engaging, though a few mention the guide’s delivery could be more polished. Still, it’s a memorable part of the tour, with photo opportunities of the exterior and interior.

Driving by other haunted sites

The rest of the experience involves a drive-by narration of several additional haunted locations in town. Here, the guide shares frightening details and tales, although some reviews note that the storytelling can be inconsistent—ranging from very engaging to somewhat rambling or vague.

The Experience

The trolley itself is air-conditioned, making the ride comfortable even if the outdoor weather isn’t cooperating. Since you’ll be out of the vehicle at two stops, dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable shoes. The tour emphasizes storytelling, with the driver acting as an entertaining host, keeping the tone fun rather than overly spooky.

What Do Travelers Say?

The reviews paint a picture of a mixed experience. Many travelers, like Linda and Fred, found the tour informative and fun, praising the guides for their knowledge and friendliness. Linda mentions, “Our host was very polite and friendly,” and Fred highlights how much his family enjoyed the cemetery walk and the guide’s storytelling.

However, not everyone had a smooth ride. Some reviews point out issues like distractions, rambling narratives, or minimal guidance at stops. Sandy notes, “We didn’t like the stall in leaving the parking lot… and a very long story about an incident,” indicating that some moments may test your patience.

Despite these mixed reviews, a consensus is that the cemetery visit is often the most memorable part, with one reviewer remarking that it was “definitely the highlight.” The photo opportunities for mysterious orbs and paranormal signals are also a draw for those into ghost photography.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $25 per person, this tour is quite reasonably priced considering it includes multiple stops, storytelling, and a cozy trolley ride. It’s not a deeply investigative ghost tour but offers a light and enjoyable way to explore some of Wisconsin Dells’ haunted spots. If you’re interested in local legends and enjoy a storytelling tour that’s easygoing but atmospheric, most will find it good value.

Keep in mind that food and alcohol are not included, and the tour itself lasts just over an hour and a half. If you’re in town for a short evening activity or want something different from the usual attractions, this tour fits that bill.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adventure seekers who enjoy stories and legends rather than hardcore ghost hunters. It’s suitable for families with older kids, especially those who like a bit of spooky fun, and groups wanting a relaxed evening activity. Travelers interested in local history and haunted legends will find the stops and stories quite engaging, even if the delivery varies.

Since the tour is casual and not overly intense, it’s perfect for those looking to experience Wisconsin Dells’ darker side without a lot of commitment or expense.

The Sum Up

The Haunted History Trolley Tour in Wisconsin Dells offers a charming and inexpensive way to explore the town’s haunted past. With its vintage trolley, interesting stops, and storytelling focus, it provides a lighthearted take on local legends. While the guide’s delivery may not always hit the mark, the cemetery visit and photo opportunities stand out as memorable highlights.

If you enjoy stories of ghosts, legends, and spooky sites but prefer a relaxed, fun atmosphere over a serious investigation, this tour could be a good fit. It’s especially suited for those traveling with older kids or groups who want a different kind of experience after a day of sightseeing.

On the other hand, if you’re craving a highly polished, in-depth ghost adventure, you might find this tour a bit uneven. Still, for the price and the cozy vibe, it’s often a worthwhile way to add some mysterious fun to your Wisconsin Dells trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally family-friendly, especially since it’s more fun than frightening. Just keep in mind some stories may involve spooky legends or ghostly sightings.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience runs approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including all stops and driving time.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 6 days ahead, as it’s a popular activity, especially in peak seasons.

What’s included in the tour price?
The ticket covers the trolley ride, stops at the cemetery and haunted restaurant, and the stories told along the way. Parking and food are not included.

Are there any discounts or promotions?
The data doesn’t specify, but at $25 per person, it’s quite affordable. Check with the provider if you’re looking for group discounts or other deals.

What is the guide’s role during the tour?
The guide is the storyteller and host, sharing spooky legends, local history, and interesting anecdotes. Some reviews praise guides for their knowledge, while others mention moments of distraction.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking at stops, weather-appropriate clothing, and a camera or phone for photos are recommended.

If you’re curious about Wisconsin Dells’ haunted side and enjoy storytelling, this tour might be just your thing. It’s not perfect, but it’s fun, reasonably priced, and offers a different perspective on this lively town.