If you’re curious about Reno beyond its casinos and nightlife, a ghost tour might just be the perfect way to see a different side of this lively city. The Reno Ghosts Tour claims a top spot among local experiences, boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from over 120 reviews. It promises roughly an hour of ghostly tales, dark history, and scenic city sights—all delivered by passionate local guides who know how to keep you on the edge of your seat.
What we love about this tour is how it blends storytelling with sightseeing, making it more than just a haunted walk. First, the guides are clearly well-researched and enthusiastic, which makes all the difference when you’re absorbing tales of ghosts and legends. Second, the price point—$32—is surprisingly reasonable for a guided experience that offers such a mix of history and spine-tingling stories.
One thing to keep in mind is that this is a walking tour that doesn’t go inside the buildings. If you’re expecting a true ghost-hunting experience with access to haunted interiors, you might find it a bit light on the supernatural theatrics. But if you’re comfortable with outdoor storytelling and enjoy learning about local lore, this tour hits the sweet spot.
This experience suits a wide range of travelers—history lovers, thrill-seekers, or even those just looking for a unique way to spend an evening in Reno. It’s especially great if you’re interested in uncovering the city’s lesser-known past or if you simply enjoy a good spooky story while strolling through a city with character.
Key Points
- Well-Researched Guides: Guides are passionate and knowledgeable, adding credibility and energy to the stories.
- Affordable Price: At $32, it’s a good value for an hour of entertainment and local insight.
- Scenic and Historic Stops: The tour includes notable sites like the Washoe County Courthouse and the Lake Mansion with intriguing historical backgrounds.
- Focus on Outside Stories: The tour is conducted outdoors, sharing stories about buildings and areas rather than entering interiors.
- Suitable for Most Travelers: Most guests, including those with varying interests, find something to enjoy here.
- Booking & Cancellation: Easy mobile ticket booking, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
A Closer Look at the Reno Ghosts Tour
If you’re considering this ghost tour, you’ll want to know what to expect from start to finish. The experience lasts about an hour and covers six key stops around Reno, each with its own spooky story or historical tidbit.
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Meeting Point and Duration
The tour kicks off at 250 Court St, right in the heart of downtown Reno. From there, you’ll head out on foot, walking through the city streets. The entire experience takes around 1 hour, which makes it easy to fit into an evening without feeling rushed.
The Itinerary: What’s Included?
Stop 1: Lake Mansion
Built in 1877, this mansion was a symbol of Reno’s upper-middle-class life back in the day. Interestingly, the house was never lived in by its original owner, Myron Lake, and is believed to be haunted by his restless spirit and Jane Lake’s sorrowful apparition. One reviewer pointed out that this spot reflects a tragic history, adding depth to the ghost stories. The setting is quite atmospheric, especially with the dark night sky overhead.
Stop 2: Sundance Books and Music
This location, with its own dark past—where at least two people have died—serves as a perfect spine-tingler. According to guides, the house remains a hotspot for ghostly activity, and the nearby stories keep visitors engaged and slightly on edge.
Stop 3: Washoe County Courthouse
Built in 1912, this landmark is not only full of legal history but also reputedly haunted by spirits of past litigants and judges, with reports of unexplainable phenomena. The stories of courtroom encounters and long-standing legends make it more than just a building—it’s a piece of Reno’s ghostly lore.
Stop 4: Pioneer Center’s Underground Theater
This cultural hub beneath the bustling city is also a site for ghostly sightings—spectral figures, strange sounds, and unexplainable happenings. The contrast of vibrant performances with chilling tales creates a layered experience that adds to the mystique.
Stop 5: Lake Street & East 1st Street (Chinatown & Red-Light District)
Once a lively, colorful area, the remnants of Reno’s Chinatown and vice district are said to be haunted by the ghosts of past inhabitants. Eerie occurrences here bring the area’s tumultuous history to life in a different way, showing how the city’s darker corners still whisper their stories.
Stop 6: North Virginia Street & E 1st Street (Mapes Hotel Site)
Once a symbol of luxury, the site where the Mapes Hotel once stood has legends tied to it—rumored to be built over an ancient burial ground. Many believe spirits still linger, especially around the hotel’s former location, adding a layer of historical eeriness.
The Experience: What You’ll Actually Encounter
From the reviews, it’s clear that the guides excel at storytelling. One reviewer praised Paul for his passion and research, which makes the experience more engaging. Others noted the stories are well-focused on the local history intertwined with ghost tales, making it both spooky and informative.
The tour is primarily an outdoor walk, meaning you should dress warmly if visiting during cooler months—several reviewers mentioned the cold as a factor. The walk is not designed to enter buildings, but the stories make you feel like you’re stepping into Reno’s haunted past.
Guests have appreciated the authenticity of the stories and the enthusiasm of guides. For example, one reviewer appreciated that their guide “did his own deep dive for extra details,” making the tour feel personalized and well-crafted.
Group Size and Booking
The tour is designed for up to 35 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate yet lively. Most travelers book about 10 days in advance, signaling good demand. The mobile ticketing makes it easy to secure your spot, and if plans change, you can cancel free of charge more than 24 hours before the start.
Value and Cost: Is It Worth It?
At $32 per person, this tour offers a surprisingly good deal for what you get—a mix of history, ghost stories, and city views. Reviewers consistently mention the guide’s knowledge and the tour’s entertainment value, making it clear that most find it worth the price.
Some talk about the tour as “great value,” especially for those interested in local lore without paying for inside museum visits or longer excursions. That said, it’s important to remember it’s a walking outdoor experience—no inside access, which might be a downside if you’re expecting a more immersive, haunted house type of experience.
Considerations
If you’re visiting during winter or cooler months, dress warmly. Also, be prepared that the tour ends in the city center, which might require you to find your way back to your starting point or hotel on your own.
Who Will Enjoy This Tour?
This experience is ideal for anyone interested in local history and ghost stories. It’s perfect if you love walking around cities at night, listening to engaging storytelling, and soaking up the vibe of Reno’s darker past. Families with older children, teens, or groups of friends tend to enjoy it most, especially those curious about haunted legends.
It’s less suitable for visitors expecting inside access or intense haunted house thrills, but if you’re comfortable with outdoor walking and story-based scares, this tour will leave you with plenty of memorable tales—and maybe a little chill down your spine.
FAQs
Is the Reno Ghosts Tour suitable for children?
While most of the stories are family-friendly, the tour involves walking outside at night so older kids or teenagers will get the best experience. It’s generally not designed specifically for young children.
How long does the tour last?
It runs for about 1 hour, making it a manageable activity in your evening plans.
Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
Yes, dress warmly especially if you’re visiting in colder months. The tour is walking-based, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
Are the buildings inside or just outside?
The tour is conducted outside, with stories told about buildings and sites around Reno. You won’t go inside any buildings.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before your scheduled tour.
What is the group size?
A maximum of 35 participants helps keep the experience intimate and engaging.
Reno Ghosts Tour
“Interesting evening walk. Never knew Reno used to have a China town! All kinds of interesting bits and pieces.”
Final Thoughts
If you’re seeking an evening that combines a bit of history, a bit of thrill, and a generous dose of local color, the Reno Ghosts Tour is a solid choice. It’s clearly well-loved, thanks to passionate guides and intriguing stories that resonate with both history buffs and ghost-story fans alike.
While it’s not a supernatural extravaganza inside haunted houses, it offers a fun, atmospheric walk through Reno’s darker past—perfect for those who appreciate storytelling, scenic city streets, and a good scare with a side of history.
This tour offers real value for the price, especially if you enjoy outdoor adventures and engaging guides. If you’re in Reno and looking for something memorable that’s a little different from the usual, this ghost tour might just be your perfect nighttime activity.
Enjoy your spooky stroll through Reno’s haunted streets!