Spooks, Spirits and Speakeasy Ghost Tour

Exploring the Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour in Phoenix

If you’re into ghost stories, historical haunts, and a dash of Prohibition-era mystique, then the Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour in Phoenix might just be your next evening adventure. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it’s clearly a well-loved experience that combines a bit of history with some fun paranormal investigation.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances storytelling with hands-on ghost hunting. Plus, ending the night at a hidden speakeasy with craft cocktails sounds like a great way to wind down after some spooky exploration. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is about 1.5 hours long and involves moderate walking, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with some standing and moving around.

One thing to keep in mind—if you’re not a fan of ghost hunts or dark, potentially atmospheric settings, this might not be your perfect pick. But for those curious about Phoenix’s haunted past and looking for a unique night out, this tour offers a memorable mix of history, mystery, and cocktails.

Who will love this? It’s ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone who enjoys a little thrill mixed with storytelling. It’s also great for groups looking for a different way to experience downtown Phoenix after hours.

Key Points

• Interactive ghost hunting: Use EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods to explore Phoenix’s haunted sites.
• Historical insights: Learn about local legends and iconic buildings from knowledgeable guides.
• Unique setting: The final stop is a vintage speakeasy beneath the city’s original red-light district, with exclusive access and craft cocktails.
• Compact yet immersive: The 1 hour 30-minute tour covers five key locations with plenty of time for exploration.
• Small group size: Max of 18 travelers, making it more personal and engaging.
• Booking and cost: $39 per person, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours before.

The Experience in Detail

Starting Point: Rosson House Museum

Your journey begins at the Rosson House Museum, a historic home that’s clearly got some stories to tell—or so the guides suggest. The tour kicks off here with about 15 minutes of exploring the property and hearing about the spirits that are said to still linger. This site gives a great introduction to the haunted side of Phoenix, blending architecture with ghostly tales. Reviewers mention that the history and stories are engaging, and the guide’s knowledge makes it a compelling start.

St. Mary’s Basilica: A Spiritual Haunt

Next, you’ll head to St. Mary’s Basilica, a significant local church with its own ghost story involving the archways. The 15-minute stop offers a chance to hear about the church’s history and the legends tied to it. This stop feels like stepping into a mysterious scene, and the stories shared tend to captivate visitors. Some have noted the fascinating ghost story associated with the church, adding a layer of intrigue to the spiritual ambiance.

The Herberger Theater and Art Installation

While the details are less specific here, seeing the Herberger Theater and the art installation in front of it adds urban depth to the tour. Though no specific haunted tales are linked to this stop, it’s part of the downtown’s vibrant landscape, providing contrast to the older, haunted sites.

Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel: Legend of the Coal Man

The next stop takes you inside the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel, where history and ghost stories intertwine. The legend of the Coal Man haunting the hotel is a highlight for many. Expect about 15 minutes of learning about the hotel’s past and its ghostly legend. For those interested in haunted inns or historic hotels, this part feels especially relevant. Some reviews note the history of the hotel is interesting, and hearing about the Coal Man adds an extra layer of spookiness.

Melinda’s Alley: Phoenix’s Red-Light District

One of the most talked-about stops is Melinda’s Alley, a former red-light district notorious for its dark past. Here, you’ll learn about Melinda Curtis, a resident believed to still walk the alley. Since this stop lasts around 30 minutes, there’s plenty of time for exploration and feeling the atmosphere. Many reviews mention that this part of the tour is particularly evocative, with some feeling the presence of the ghostly resident. It’s the longest stop, making it the core of the ghost-hunting experience.

Hanny’s and the Haunted Basement

Your final stop before the speakeasy is Hanny’s, a historic restaurant with a basement art installation said to be haunted. The story here is creepy enough to give most a chill, and the 15-minute window allows for some final ghostly curiosity. Visitors often comment on the “creepy art installation,” which really adds to the haunted vibe.

The Hidden Speakeasy and Ghost Hunt Finale

After the city’s haunted spots, the tour concludes at Phoenix’s most haunted speakeasy beneath the original red-light district. This vintage setting offers an intimate experience with craft cocktails, perfectly suited for unwinding and sharing stories. The speakeasy is exclusive to tour participants before it opens to the public. It’s a memorable way to end the night, combining the thrill of ghost hunting with the relaxed ambiance of a Prohibition-era bar.

What to Expect at the Speakeasy

You can expect to enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a vintage environment, which feels like stepping back in time. The ghost hunt here is more of an intimate session, giving you a chance to reflect on the sites you’ve visited and maybe catch a whisper of Phoenix’s haunted past.

The Practicalities: What You Should Know

• Cost and Value: At $39 per person, this tour offers a lot of value—especially considering the inclusion of ghost-hunting equipment and access to a secret speakeasy. It’s a good price for an experience that combines history, spooky fun, and cocktails.
• Duration: About 1 hour 30 minutes, making it manageable even for those with tight evening schedules.
• Group Size: Limited to 18 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and interactive.
• Start Time: 6:45 pm, so plan to arrive a little early to settle in.
• Accessibility: The tour requires moderate physical activity—standing and walking around several locations—so it’s best suited for those comfortable with that.
• Booking and Cancellation: The experience offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, giving peace of mind if plans change.

What Reviewers Say

The standout praise from people who’ve taken the tour is their knowledgeable guides. One reviewer said, “Our tour guide was wonderful! Didn’t feel rushed, got time to use the equipment and wonder around a bit.” Clearly, the guides know their stuff and make the experience engaging. No one feels hurried, and there’s plenty of room for curiosity and interaction.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect if you’re looking for something different to do in Phoenix—especially if you enjoy ghost stories, historical sites, or craft cocktails. It’s particularly suited for small groups who want a personalized experience and are comfortable with some walking and dark environments. If you’re a fan of paranormal investigations or just want to hear some local legends in a lively, interactive setting, this is a solid pick.

Families with older children might also enjoy it—though younger kids or those sensitive to dark or spooky themes may want to consider if it’s suitable. The tour’s focus on storytelling and ghost hunting equipment makes it more engaging for adults or teens.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, the tour involves walking around haunted sites and some spooky stories. Older children or teens who enjoy ghost stories would likely find it fun, but younger kids might find it too dark or intense.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, which includes visiting five main locations and the finale at the speakeasy.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the guided tour, ghost-hunting equipment like EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods, and access to the secret speakeasy at the end.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour starts and get a full refund.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
It requires moderate physical activity, including standing and walking around several locations. If you have specific accessibility concerns, it’s best to check directly with the provider.

What kind of equipment is used during ghost hunts?
Participants get to use EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods—tools that add a fun, interactive element to the ghost-hunting experience.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Rosson House Museum and ends at Melinda’s Alley and Renaissance Hotel, with the final visit being at a secret speakeasy.

Is this experience suitable for large groups?
No, the max group size is 18, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and engaging.

Final Thoughts

The Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour in Phoenix offers a compelling mix of spooky storytelling, historic sites, and interactive ghost hunting. If you enjoy a little thrill with your history and love ending on a high note with craft cocktails, this tour fits the bill. The guides’ knowledge and the small group size ensure a personal and memorable experience. While it’s not a nighttime scare fest, it’s a fun, atmospheric way to learn about Phoenix’s haunted past while enjoying some intriguing equipment and a secret bar.

For those who appreciate history with a paranormal twist and a relaxed, intimate setting, this tour is a real treat. Just remember to bring your curiosity—and maybe a flashlight.