If you’re curious about the darker side of Monterey’s charming streets and waterfront, the Mist, Mayhem & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours might just be your cup of tea. This walk promises to bring you stories of sea monsters, murderous doctors, and exorcisms, all wrapped in a spooky, fun package. While we haven’t taken the tour ourselves, we’ve pulled together a clear picture based on reviews, details from the provider, and what you can expect.
What we really like about this tour is its compact one-hour duration — perfect if you’re short on time but still want a taste of Monterey’s eerie side. Also, the knowledgeable guides and well-researched stories are consistently praised, adding credibility and fun to the experience. On the flip side, a possible caveat is that this tour isn’t suited for those with mobility issues or those who dislike walking, as it involves a bit of a trek through downtown Monterey.
This tour is a great pick for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, or travelers looking for a different kind of evening activity. It’s suitable for those who enjoy a mix of storytelling, history, and a dash of spookiness — just don’t expect a ghost-hunting adventure for the ages. It’s more of a lively storytelling walk that leaves plenty to your imagination.
Mist, Mayhem & Murder: Monterey Ghost Tours
Key Points
- Duration & Price: Just about an hour long, costing $24 per person, making it an accessible and affordable way to explore Monterey’s haunted side.
- Storytelling & Guides: Guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and friendliness, making the stories engaging without feeling overly scripted.
- Historic & Haunted Sites: The tour hits key locations like the Monterey Hotel, Stokes Adobe, and an art museum that used to be a morgue, adding local flavor.
- Unique Stories: Tales of sea monsters, a famous exorcism, and murderers give this walk an intriguing edge.
- Weather & Accessibility: It takes place rain or shine, and proper footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
- Group & Atmosphere: Small, fun-loving groups and a lantern-wielding guide make for an intimate, atmospheric experience.
The tour begins at 570 Pacific Street, outside Colton Hall Museum and Jail, where your guide will be easy to spot in a black US Ghost Adventures shirt, wielding a lantern. Arriving 15 minutes early is a good idea so you can settle in and get ready for the spooky stories ahead.
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What to Expect During the Tour
Once underway, you’ll stroll through Monterey’s historic streets, visiting some of its most iconic sites. The Monterey Hotel and Stokes Adobe are notable stops, each with their own dark stories. For example, the Stokes Adobe is linked to tales of murder and mystery that add a sense of lurking history.
A particularly interesting stop is the art museum, which used to be a morgue — a chilling detail that appeals to ghost enthusiasts. The guide will share stories of spirits lingering in these spaces, blending factual history with local legends. Several reviews mention the guide’s ability to weave entertaining, credible tales, adding to the atmosphere.
The Bay and Sea Monster Tales
A highlight of the tour is the chance to scan the bay for the legendary Moores Beach Monster, which adds a fun, interactive element. It’s one of those stories that sparks imagination and keeps the atmosphere lively, especially as the evening wears on.
The Walk & Group Dynamics
You can expect a leisurely pace, allowing plenty of time to absorb each story and take photos if you want. The group size is generally small, making it more personal and more comfortable for those who prefer a less crowd-driven experience.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Value of the Experience
At $24, the tour offers a reasonably priced, fun evening of storytelling, history, and local legends. The 1-hour length keeps it light and manageable, especially after a day of sightseeing. Many reviews praise the knowledge and friendliness of the guides, making the stories come alive.
Considerations & Tips
Since the tour is not recommended for those unable to walk a mile or with mobility impairments, be prepared for some walking on uneven sidewalks. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are advised, particularly because it takes place rain or shine.
It’s also worth noting that the stories are a mix of facts and legend, with some reviewers criticizing inaccuracies. For example, one review points out that some of the stories might have been exaggerated or fabricated; however, most found the tour entertaining regardless.
This ghost tour is best suited for those who appreciate storytelling, local history, and a spooky vibe without intense scares or haunted house experiences. It’s ideal for curious travelers interested in Monterey’s legends, or for those seeking a relaxed, short evening activity. It’s not geared towards people with mobility issues or families with very young children — the walking and themes may be better suited for adults or older kids.
Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly designed for kids, older children who enjoy spooky stories and walking tours might find it interesting. However, keep in mind the walking distance and the dark, atmospheric setting.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended. You can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, along with weather-appropriate clothing as it takes place rain or shine.
Is transportation included?
No, transportation is not included. The tour begins at the meeting point outside Colton Hall Museum and Jail.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about one hour, making it a quick but engaging way to experience Monterey’s haunted history.
Are the stories fact or legend?
The stories are well-researched and credible, but like most ghost tales, they blend fact with local legend for entertainment.
Can I record the stories?
Video recording is not allowed, but you’re free to take photos during the walk.
If you’re in Monterey and have a curiosity for the mysterious and macabre, Mist, Mayhem & Murder offers a solid, well-reviewed introduction to the city’s ghostly tales. Guides are praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling, and the sites visited are both historic and atmospheric. While it’s not a heavy horror experience, it’s a fun, atmospheric walk that sparks the imagination and leaves you with plenty of stories to tell.
This tour is especially good for history buffs, lovers of local legends, or anyone looking for a quick, themed activity after a day of sightseeing. Overall, at just $24 for an hour of stories and walking, it offers good value — as long as you’re comfortable with some walking and the spooky theme.
Enjoy your spooky stroll through Monterey’s haunted streets — just watch out for those lurking sea monsters and ghostly apparitions!
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