Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour in Saint Augustine

If you’re intrigued by stories of ghosts, serial killers, and dark histories, the Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour in St. Augustine could be just your thing. This tour promises a peek behind the charming facades of the oldest city in the U.S. to explore its unsettling and often grisly past. Whether you’re a history buff with a taste for the spooky or just looking for a different way to experience St. Augustine after dark, this tour offers a compelling mix of fact and folklore.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances storytelling with historical context, giving you more than just ghost tales. Plus, the guide’s knowledge and delivery seem to be a highlight for many visitors, making the stories more engaging. On the flip side, some reviews point out that the tour can feel a bit long-winded or overly focused on personal anecdotes, which might distract from the main creepy vibe. But if you’re someone who loves good storytelling and a touch of the macabre, you’ll likely find this tour intriguing.

This experience isn’t ideal if you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or if you’re easily disturbed by graphic or intense stories. It’s best suited for adults or those comfortable with darker historical tales. Overall, if you’re curious about St. Augustine’s haunted corners and want a guide who can spin a good yarn, this tour could be a memorable part of your visit.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: Guides are knowledgeable and deliver the haunted tales with a lively touch.
• Historic stops: The tour visits significant sites like Flagler College and St. George Street.
• Dark history focus: Includes stories of serial killers, suicides, and murders that add a chilling layer to the city’s past.
• Limited family-friendliness: Not recommended for young children or the faint of heart due to mature content.
• Affordable price point: At $34.99, it offers a decent value for a 1.5-hour guided experience.
• Group size: Small groups (up to 25) help keep the experience intimate and engaging.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

What to Expect and How It’s Structured

The Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour lasts roughly 90 minutes, taking you through some of St. Augustine’s most historic yet eerie spots. Starting at Ghost City Tours’ meeting point on Charlotte Street, your journey begins around 9:00 pm—prime time for spooky stories to come alive. The small group size, capped at 25 travelers, keeps the tour personable, allowing for a more relaxed experience and easier interaction with your guide.

The Stops and Their Stories

Stop 1: Flagler College
The tour kicks off here, where your guide discusses the “Ghost of Henry Flagler,” a figure who looms large in the city’s history. You’ll hear about Flagler’s personal tragedies, including the suicide of his mistress and his second wife’s institutionalization. This segment lasts about 20 minutes and is free of additional fees, making it a great introduction to the darker side of the city’s history. The stories provide a glimpse of how personal tragedy is woven into the fabric of local lore.

Stop 2: Trade Winds Tropical Lounge
Next up is the infamous Trade Winds Lounge, where the narrative shifts to discuss “Bad Bill,” a serial killer responsible for seven sadistic sex slayings. This part of the tour also lasts around 20 minutes. It’s a stark reminder that St. Augustine’s past isn’t just about ghosts but includes some truly grim episodes. Many visitors find this segment particularly chilling, as it details the real-life evil that once lurked in the city streets.

Stop 3: St. George Street
The final stop takes you to the bustling heart of the city on St. George Street, where stories of murder and ghostly encounters take center stage. Here, the guide recounts the tragic tale of Athalia Ponsell Lindsley, who was murdered on her front steps. It’s a vivid story that adds a personal touch to the ghostly ambiance, lasting around 20 minutes. This spot provides a good mix of history, storytelling, and the lively backdrop of the city’s main thoroughfare.

What Travelers Are Saying

Reviews highlight the guide’s ability to make history engaging. For example, one reviewer mentions, “Nick was an awesome tour guide, had a great time! You’re told who died there, why the area might be haunted, and some shared supernatural experiences.” This underscores the value of knowledgeable guides who can blend facts with a bit of flair.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some found the stories too long or felt that the guide’s narration was disjointed. For instance, a reviewer noted, “Sally was very long-winded and disjointed, distracting from the spookiness.” It’s a reminder that storytelling style can significantly impact your experience—some guides excel at keeping things lively, others might get too caught up in detail.

The Value for the Price

At just under $35, the tour offers a solid experience for those interested in haunted history. It’s not a long commitment, so it fits well into an evening plans. The fact that all fees and taxes are included makes it straightforward—no surprises at checkout. Considering the small-group vibe and the engaging stories, many find it worth the price, especially if guided storytelling is your thing.

Practical Tips

• Arrive on time. The tour starts promptly at 9:00 pm, and late arrivals might miss the initial stories.
• Dress comfortably. You’ll be walking outdoors, often in the dark, so wear suitable shoes and bring a flashlight if you’re wary of uneven pavement.
• Prepare for intense stories. If ghost stories or tales of violence bother you, consider whether this tour matches your comfort level.
• Book in advance. As it’s popular and booked an average of 5 days ahead, securing your spot early can prevent disappointment.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal for adults who enjoy stories with a darker tone, especially those interested in the more sinister side of St. Augustine’s past. History buffs who like their tales spiked with ghostly legends will appreciate how the guide weaves together fact and folklore. It’s also good for anyone wanting an evening activity that’s different from the typical sightseeing, offering a spooky twist on the city’s charm.

It’s less suitable for families with children or anyone sensitive to graphic or mature content, as some stories involve murder or violence. The tour’s tone is more serious than spooky fun, so it’s best if you’re comfortable with that.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the Telling Elegies Adults Walking Tour offers a memorable way to explore the hidden, darker corners of St. Augustine. If you appreciate guides who can tell a captivating story and aren’t easily disturbed by haunting tales of violence and death, you’ll probably find this tour well worth your time. It provides a good mix of history, ghost lore, and local legends — delivered in an intimate, small-group setting that makes for a personal experience.

While some reviews mention that the narration can sometimes feel a bit lengthy or exaggerated, the overall consensus is that the stories are compelling and the guide’s knowledge adds real value. For an evening filled with spooky stories and a touch of history, this tour stands out as an engaging option, especially if you’re looking to add some chills to your St. Augustine visit.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for young children due to the mature and sometimes grisly stories involved.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, walking through the historic parts of the city in the dark.

What’s the price?
The tour costs $34.99 per person, which is reasonable considering it includes all fees and taxes.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s advisable to book at least 5 days ahead, as it’s popular and tends to fill up.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is Ghost City Tours of St. Augustine at 32 Charlotte Street.

Is the tour fully outdoors?
Yes, you’ll be walking outside along St. George Street, Flagler College, and other historic spots, so dress accordingly.

If dark histories and ghost stories intrigue you, this tour can be a rewarding way to see a different side of St. Augustine. Just keep in mind your comfort level with the more intense stories, and book early to secure your spot. Happy ghost hunting!