If you’re wandering through tombstone, Arizona, and want to add a little spooky spice to your trip, the Dead Men’s Tales Walking Ghost Tour promises a mix of history, ghost stories, and a touch of the Wild West. While we haven’t personally joined this tour, plenty of travelers have, and their reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for those who enjoy ghostly tales combined with local history.
What we really like about this experience is how it balances paranormal stories with historical insights. The guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm, making the tour both entertaining and educational. Another plus: it’s family-friendly and stroller-accessible, making it a good option for those traveling with kids or anyone with mobility needs.
On the flip side, a few consider the tour’s vibe to be more historical than spooky, and some mention the weather can sometimes disrupt the experience—like getting caught in rain. So, if you’re expecting full-on ghostly encounters or are sensitive to weather interruptions, keep that in mind. This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a relaxed, engaging walk through Tombstone’s legendary sites, with some ghost stories sprinkled in.
Key Points
- Balanced mix of history and paranormal tales makes for an engaging experience.
- Knowledgeable guides are a highlight, with some reviews mentioning their friendly, tailored approach.
- The tour is family-friendly and stroller-accessible, good for all ages and mobility levels.
- Stops at iconic sites like O.K. Corral and Bird Cage Theatre deepen the storytelling.
- It’s a moderate-length tour, around 90 minutes—perfect for a relaxed evening activity.
- Weather can impact the experience, so check the forecast if rain is predicted.
What to Expect from the Dead Men’s Tales Walking Ghost Tour
This walking tour takes you through several famous and haunted locations in Tombstone, with a focus on stories connected to its wild western past, gunfights, and ghostly residents. It’s a structured experience, lasting about an hour and a half, that’s designed to be accessible and engaging for a broad audience.
Starting at 7:00 pm in downtown Tombstone, the tour kicks off at 311 E Allen St. and wraps back at the same spot. It’s operated by Ghost City Tours, a reputable provider, and the ticket price is $24.99 per person — a reasonable rate considering the mix of storytelling, site visits, and the chance to learn some lesser-known local tales.
If you're drawn to exploring Tombstone on foot, we've looked into these other walking experiences
Stop 1: O.K. Corral
The tour begins at the infamous O.K. Corral, home of the legendary gunfight. While you won’t need to pay for admission (those tickets are separate), standing here is enough to send a shiver down your spine, especially when your guide shares the stories of what really went down. As one reviewer pointed out, it’s a place where history and legend collide, and the guide’s enthusiasm really helps bring it to life.
Stop 2: Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park
Next, you’ll head over to the courthouse, once the hub of justice and now a museum. The guide shares stories of old-time justice, murders, and the ghosts that might still linger in these historic halls. Covering about 20 minutes here, it’s a good chance to understand the town’s gritty past — and maybe catch a glimpse of something unexplainable, as some visitors have claimed to see a green orb outside the courthouse later.
Stop 3: Schieffelin Hall
This former theater is part of the haunted charm, with tales of a lady in red and the tragic story of a suicide victim. It’s a beautifully restored building with an eerie vibe, especially when the guide tells stories of spectral sightings. The 25-minute stop allows for some storytelling and photo opportunities, and those interested in paranormal activity will find plenty to discuss afterward.
Stop 4: Bird Cage Theatre
The last stop is the Bird Cage Theatre, reputed for hosting the longest poker game in history and haunted by its original patrons. Reviewers love peppering the guide with questions here, especially since some have reported seeing orbs or ghostly activity, adding to the fun. The guide’s descriptions of the theatre’s history and hauntings make this a memorable finale.
What Travelers Say About the Tour
Most reviews highlight the knowledgeable and friendly guides. Digger, Tess, Pepper, and Belle all get shoutouts for their ability to weave history and ghost stories seamlessly, making the experience both fun and informative. For example, one reviewer praised Digger for his passion for Tombstone’s tales, while others enjoyed Tess’s sharing of photos and videos that brought ghost stories to life.
Some reviews mention the stunning historical detail, with guides answering all sorts of questions and providing insights that you might not find in your average guidebook. Others appreciated the personalized touch, as guides tailored the tour for families or made sure everyone was comfortable, including those with mobility issues.
A few travelers enjoyed the paranormal anecdotes, like the sighting of a green orb outside the courthouse or the stories of ghostly inhabitants in the theater. One reviewer humorously noted seeing flying lights—maybe UFOs?—adding a fun twist to their ghostly adventure.
Of course, not everyone found the tour spooky. A reviewer mentioned the experience being more of a history lesson than a ghost hunt, which is worth noting if your main goal is terrifying encounters. And weather can impact the experience—one unlucky group got caught in a sudden rainstorm, and some felt the guide didn’t have a backup plan.
Practical Details That Matter
The tour costs $24.99 per person, which is quite fair for the roughly 90-minute guided experience. Included in the price are all fees and taxes, plus wheelchair and stroller accessibility, making it open to a wider audience. Note that gratuities and hotel transportation are not included, so plan to tip your guide and arrange your own transport to the meeting point.
The group size is capped at 25 people, ensuring a more intimate and manageable experience. Booking about 17 days in advance is typical, so if you’re set on a specific date, it’s wise to reserve early. The tour runs rain or shine, but heavy weather may result in cancellations or altered experiences.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re a history buff who enjoys stories about the Old West, this tour’s storytelling will keep you engaged. Ghost enthusiasts will appreciate the haunted sites and spectral tales, especially since some reviews mention catching ghostly orbs and hearing mysterious sounds. It’s also a good pick for families or travelers with mobility needs, thanks to its stroller accessibility and relaxed pace.
However, if you’re expecting a full-blown haunted house experience or ghost hunting, this might be more subdued than you hope. It’s more about storytelling and understanding Tombstone’s past with some spooky elements sprinkled in.
Final Thoughts
The Dead Men’s Tales Walking Ghost Tour offers an approachable, well-told journey through Tombstone’s famous landmarks and ghost stories. The guides’ enthusiasm and knowledge shine through, making it an experience that feels both authentic and entertaining. Though it’s not a hardcore paranormal expedition, it’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, informative look at the haunted history of this legendary town.
If you’re in Tombstone and looking for an evening activity that combines culture, history, and a dash of spooky fun, this tour might be just what you need. While weather and expectations should be considered, most travelers come away with new stories, some chills, and a deeper appreciation for Tombstone’s wild past.
The Dead Men’s Tales Walking Ghost Tour in Tombstone
“Digger was an enthusiastic and knowledgeable guide. Bring your passion for history and listen to fascinating tales of Tombstone.”
FAQ
How long is the Dead Men’s Tales Walking Ghost Tour?
It lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a perfect evening activity without feeling too long or rushed.
Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at 311 E Allen St in Tombstone, AZ. It’s a central location, easy to find.
Is the tour suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and stroller-accessible, so most ages and mobility levels can comfortably enjoy it.
What’s included in the ticket price?
All fees and taxes are included. It’s a mobile ticket, so you can show it on your device. Gratuities and transportation are not included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, which gives some flexibility if your plans shift.
What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress appropriately for the weather—since it runs in the evening, layers are often a good idea.
Are there any ghost sightings reported during the tour?
While some reviews mention seeing ghostly orbs and mysterious lights, the experience is more storytelling-based, so don’t expect ghost hunts.
Is the tour affected by weather?
Yes, it requires good weather. Heavy rain may cause cancellations or changes, so check the forecast before booking.
Would you recommend this tour?
Absolutely, especially if you enjoy history with a spooky twist and want a relaxed, guided look at Tombstone’s storied past. Just be prepared for a less intense ghost experience and some weather considerations.
If you’re after a balanced walk through Tombstone’s haunted landmarks with a knowledgeable guide and some fun stories, this tour is a dependable choice. It’s a neat way to end your day, soaking in local legends and perhaps catching a glimpse of Tombstone’s ghostly residents.