If you’re looking to add a little spooky fun to your Outer Banks trip, OBX Ghost Tours might be just what you need. This walking tour promises to reveal the eerie stories and haunting legends of Manteo, all while giving you a chance to see some of the area’s most iconic landmarks. With a focus on local lore, history, and ghostly encounters, it’s a compelling experience for those intrigued by the paranormal or just looking for a different way to explore.
What we really appreciate about this tour is its blend of storytelling and history—it’s not just about ghost stories, but also about understanding the town’s past. Plus, the guide’s use of an EMF detector adds a fun, TV-show vibe that keeps things lively. On the flip side, some might find the group size a bit large, which can make it hard to catch every story, especially in poor lighting.
This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy walking through historic areas with a side of mystery. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost enthusiast, or just looking for an entertaining evening, OBX Ghost Tours offers a reasonably priced way to learn about Manteo in a fun, engaging way.
Key Points
- Engaging storytelling that combines local history with ghostly legends
- Accessible for most travelers with a central meeting point and mobile ticket
- Good value at $25 per person for an approximately 75-minute tour
- Use of paranormal tools like an EMF detector adds a TV-style thrill
- Beautiful, historic stops like the Pioneer Theatre and Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse
- Large group size (up to 120) can sometimes make it tricky to hear everything clearly
What You Can Expect from OBX Ghost Tours
We’re here to give you a detailed look at what this tour involves—what makes each stop special, what you might experience, and whether it’s worth your time.
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Easy and Convenient Meeting Point
The tour starts at 307 Queen Elizabeth Ave in Manteo, which is handy for most visitors. The meeting point makes it easy to find, especially after a day of exploring Manteo’s charming streets. The tour kicks off at 7 pm, so it’s perfect for an evening activity, and it wraps back at the same spot, making logistics simple.
The Duration and Group Size
Clocking in at around 1 hour and 15 minutes, it’s a manageable walk, even for those with kids or less stamina. However, a few reviews point out that the group can be quite large—up to 120 people—which might make it harder to hear the guide or see the landmarks clearly in dim lighting. If you prefer smaller groups, keep this in mind, but for most, it’s still a fun and lively experience.
The Landmark Stops and Stories
The tour’s itinerary is focused on a handful of iconic sites, each packed with stories and legends:
- Pioneer Theater: This historic spot is more than just a venue for movies. It has a ghostly reputation, partly thanks to its long history and a few spooky tales. One highlight is that Andy Griffith himself once hung his own marquee for a screening of A Face in the Crowd. Visitors have reported ghostly activity here, which adds an authentic scare factor. As one review states, “Really interesting tour with great stories and history.” The theater’s age and significance make it a natural focal point for ghost lore.
- Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse: Standing on the dock overlooking the water, this lighthouse isn’t just picturesque but also steeped in legend. Here, you’ll hear about the mysterious Legend of Theodosia Burr and the infamous Graveyard of the Atlantic. It’s a peaceful spot during the day, but the stories about hauntings and shipwrecks give it a haunting twist at night. Plus, the view of the Roanoke Island Inn and its ghost of Roscoe Jones, a former Postmaster, makes this stop visually appealing and atmospheric.
- Elizabethan II Replica Ship: Walking past this ship, which mimics the vessel that brought the Lost Colony of Roanoke to the New World, adds a historic element. It’s a reminder of the area’s early days and the mysterious disappearance of the colony, which fuels many ghost stories.
The Paranormal Element
What sets this tour apart from just a regular historic walk is the use of an EMF detector, similar to devices often featured on paranormal TV shows. The guide explains that they use this tool to “search for spirits,” which adds an interactive, playful layer to the experience. Several reviews mention how this aspect made the tour fun and engaging, especially for those who are fans of ghost hunting.
The Atmosphere and Guides
Reviews highlight the importance of the guide’s storytelling skills. Almost everyone agrees that knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides make all the difference. For example, BJ and Lara are frequently praised for their storytelling prowess, blending humor and history seamlessly. One reviewer noted, “BJ gave a fantastic tour! We appreciated her knowledge and her engaging stories,” which is a good sign that your guide can elevate the experience.
Weather Considerations and Comfort
Most of the tour takes place outdoors, along docks, streets, and waterfronts, so dressing appropriately is wise—especially if it’s chilly or windy. One reviewer advised to dress warmly since most of the tour is at the docks. This is a typical consideration for evening outdoor activities, but it’s worth noting if you tend to get cold easily.
Family-Friendliness and Accessibility
While the reviews don’t explicitly market it as a family tour, many mention that kids enjoyed hearing stories and sitting down at times. The pace is gentle and the stories aren’t overly graphic, making it suitable for older children or teens. However, the overall tone is more about ghost stories and local legends than scares, so it appeals to a broad age range.
Price and Value
At $25 per person, the tour is reasonably priced, especially given the duration and content. Several reviewers felt it offered good value, praising the guides’ knowledge and the quality of storytelling. Since it includes multiple landmarks and an interactive element with the ghost-hunting tools, it’s a fun way to spend an evening without breaking the bank.
What Could Be Improved?
A common concern is the large group size, which can make it difficult to hear or see clearly, especially in low light conditions. Some people suggested smaller groups could enhance the experience. Also, if you’re looking for a genuinely spooky, haunted house kind of experience, this tour leans more toward atmospheric storytelling and historic legends, rather than pure frights.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is best suited for history buffs interested in local legends, fans of ghost stories, or anyone looking for a fun, relaxed evening activity. It’s accessible enough for most travelers, and the scenic, historic stops add visual appeal. If you’re traveling with kids who enjoy stories but aren’t easily scared, they’ll likely enjoy the walk and tales. However, if you prefer a smaller, more intimate tour or a truly spooky experience, this might not fully satisfy that craving.
Final Thoughts
OBX Ghost Tours offers a well-rounded, engaging look into Manteo’s haunted reputation paired with historical insights. The guides’ storytelling and the use of paranormal tools make it more than just a walk around town; it’s an interactive experience that balances fun with learning. The stops at landmarks like the Pioneer Theatre and Roanoke Marshes Lighthouse make the stories come alive amid scenic surroundings.
For $25, you get a solid, hour-and-a-quarter stroll through one of the Outer Banks’ most charming towns, with plenty of ghostly talk to keep you entertained. It’s especially ideal if you enjoy stories of old ships, lost colonies, and local legends—plus, the chance to learn about the town’s dark corners in an approachable way. If you’re in Manteo and want an evening that mixes history, mystery, and a dash of the supernatural, this tour is worth considering.
OBX Ghost Tours
“Really interesting tour with great stories and history. Our guide was Tamma who was very knowledgeable and extremely entertaining. My family and I …”
FAQs
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention that kids enjoyed the stories, and the tour isn’t overly scary or graphic. It’s gentle enough for older children or teens interested in ghosts or history.
How long does the tour last?
About 1 hour and 15 minutes, which is a manageable length for most visitors and allows for a relaxed pace.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at 307 Queen Elizabeth Ave in Manteo. The location is easy to find and central.
What should I wear?
Since most of the tour is outdoors at dusk and into the evening, dressing warmly is recommended, especially if it’s chilly or windy.
Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.
What is the group size?
The maximum is 120 travelers, so expect a large group, which might sometimes affect how well you can hear or see.
What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
If you’re curious about Manteo’s spooky stories and enjoy guided walks with an interactive twist, OBX Ghost Tours provides a fun, intriguing, and affordable way to spend an evening soaking up the local lore. Just remember to dress warmly and brace yourself for some ghostly tales.