Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries of St. Augustine

Traveling through St. Augustine, you quickly realize it’s more than just a charming old town. It’s a place where every corner seems to whisper stories of the past, blending history and mystery in a way that keeps visitors captivated. This Walking Tour in North City Cemeteries is designed for those who want to see the city’s oldest sites, learn about its past, and maybe catch a glimpse of the supernatural along the way. For those interested in a mix of history and ghost stories, it’s quite the compelling experience.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things: the knowledgeable guide who brings history alive with stories that are both fascinating and sometimes spooky, and the small-group atmosphere that keeps everything intimate and personal. That said, since it’s a walking tour, it’s not ideal if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed pace. Still, if you’re up for some light walking and enjoy hearing tales of the unexplained, this could be just what you’re looking for.

The main consideration is the walking itself—streets can be uneven and lawns may have divets, so solid footwear is a must. This tour naturally suits curious travelers, history buffs, and those who like a touch of the paranormal. It’s also a good pick if you’re looking for something different from typical sightseeing.

Key Points

• In-depth storytelling from a passionate, knowledgeable guide
• Small group setting for a more personal experience
• Historic sites like Tolomato Cemetery, Huguenot Cemetery, and the Old Wooden School House
• Engaging mix of history, legends, and ghostly tales
• Good value at $25 per person for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours
• Photo opportunities at every stop, with chances to use paranormal detection tools

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This walking tour offers more than just a list of sights; it’s about weaving stories and history into a narrative that keeps you engaged. Starting at Potter’s Wax Museum, the tour kicks off with an overview of what to expect and tips on how to take great photos—important since many guests love capturing ghostly or unexplained phenomena with their phones or apps. The guide encourages everyone to share any paranormal captures, making it interactive and fun.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: San Marco Avenue – This spot is notable because a woman developed this uptown area in the 1800s, which was unusual at a time when men typically owned businesses. Hearing about her, and discovering she still resides in her home today, adds a personal touch to the story. The tour takes around 10 minutes here, and it’s a chance to get your bearings and snap some photos.

Stop 2: Huguenot Cemetery – This is one of the most evocative sites on the tour. It’s known as the cemetery of the first pandemic, with graves of children, lawyers, and even a figure still seen in the present day. Expect about 20 minutes here, and prepare for a quiet, reflective atmosphere. Many visitors find this site especially moving, and the guide weaves in tales of tragedy and resilience.

Stop 3: Casa de Suenos Bed and Breakfast – Here, the guide shares stories of the house’s history and its previous residents. It’s a quick 10-minute stop, but packed with interesting insights. Some guests find this stop particularly atmospheric, especially if they like hearing about haunted inns.

Stop 4: 18 Cordova Street (Southern Winds B & B) – A brief five-minute stop, focused on the story of Rose, who sought comfort from her male guests in this 20th-century inn. It’s a quick snippet but adds to the layered history of the city.

Stop 5: Tolomato Cemetery – This is one of the most sacred and oldest sites, dating back to the 1700s. The guide shares stories of children who still “walk” this ground, and many visitors find this stop both haunting and spiritually poignant. It’s about 10 minutes here, with opportunities to take photos or simply soak in the atmosphere.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The small group size, capped at 14 travelers, ensures you’re never lost in a crowd. Several reviewers highlighted how this makes the experience more engaging; you can ask questions and get personalized stories. The guide, Ephraim, is praised for his knowledge and enthusiasm, making the stories of hauntings, local legends, and historical facts feel genuine and compelling.

Another highlight is the use of dowsing rods—at times, the guide may utilize these paranormal tools, adding an interactive element to the experience. Guests are encouraged to bring their ghost apps or use their cameras to catch anomalies—several reviewers have shared photos of orbs and even apparitions they captured during the tour.

Pricing and Value

At just $25 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially given its engaging content, intimate setting, and the stories you’ll hear. For a 1.5 to 2-hour experience, it’s an affordable way to learn about the city’s darker stories and secret corners. Keep in mind, the tour is walkable over lawns and uneven streets, so sturdy footwear is highly recommended.

Practical Tips

• Book early, as most travelers book about 10 days in advance, and the tour closes at 6 pm the day prior.
• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be on your feet for most of the tour.
• Bring a flashlight if you want to see details at night or try to capture spirits in photos.
• It’s weather-dependent, so if rain or storms threaten, the tour could be canceled for safety reasons. You’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Authentic Guest Feedback

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the storytelling style that makes the history feel alive. Comments like “Ephraim has a genuine interest in all of the areas of unexplained occurrences in the Ancient city,” and “He knows so much about the history and haunts,” highlight how much guests appreciate the passion behind the narration.

Many mention how the tour is suitable for all ages, with one saying, “My 7-year-old had a blast.” The mix of history and supernatural tales appeals to a broad audience, making it a fun yet educational outing.

However, some reviewers note that the tour runs about 30 minutes late on occasion—so arriving a little early is wise. Also, if you’re sensitive to walking or uneven surfaces, this might not be the best fit.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a tour that combines history, legends, and a dash of the paranormal, this North City Cemeteries walking experience fits the bill. It’s a laid-back, engaging way to explore some of St. Augustine’s oldest sites while hearing stories that both entertain and intrigue. The guide’s enthusiasm and the small-group setting create a friendly atmosphere that feels personal and authentic.

This tour is especially worth considering if you enjoy storytelling, history with a spooky twist, and capturing photos of mysterious orbs. Its reasonable price point makes it accessible for most travelers wanting a memorable evening in one of America’s oldest cities.

While it’s not suited for those with mobility issues or those expecting a formal history lesson, it’s perfect for curious minds eager to see the city’s haunted corners and hear its ghostly legends. For a fun, slightly eerie stroll through time, this tour is a solid choice.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 10 days ahead, since it’s a popular tour and bookings close at 6 pm the day prior.

What’s the meeting point?
The tour starts at Potter’s Wax Museum, 31 Orange St, St. Augustine, FL.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the group and stops.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, it appears to be family-friendly, with some guests mentioning kids enjoyed the stories, but keep in mind the walking and outdoor elements.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, as you’ll be walking on lawns and uneven streets. Dress according to the weather.

Is there any paranormal activity involved?
While no guarantees, the guide may use dowsing rods, and many guests have captured interesting photos, including orbs and apparitions.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes storytelling, photo tips, and the chance to participate in paranormal detection. It’s $25 per person, with no additional costs for the stops.

Are drinks or snacks allowed?
The tour does not include drinks, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or storms, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This walking tour in St. Augustine offers a memorable way to see the city’s ancient sites while diving into stories of the supernatural. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a fun night activity, it’s a worthwhile addition to your itinerary.