Exploring the Chattanooga Cemetery Ghost Hunt: A Unique Night Out
If you’re intrigued by the supernatural and love a touch of history, this 1.5-hour cemetery ghost hunt in Chattanooga offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s haunted past. Starting across from the First Christian Church on McCallie Avenue, this tour takes you through UTC’s campus and Citizens Cemetery, where stories of restless spirits and eerie encounters are woven into the local lore. For $33.95 per person, you get a guided walk that’s packed with stories, spooky legends, and the chance to use high-tech ghost hunting equipment.
What we really appreciate about this experience is how it balances history and supernatural intrigue. The guides are passionate and knowledgeable, sharing tales that add depth and context to the haunted locations. Plus, the use of modern tools like EMF meters, laser grids, and talking boxes makes the chase for spirits feel interactive and engaging. On the flip side, keep in mind that this is a quiet, low-impact experience, so if you’re expecting a loud, theatrical haunt, you might be a little disappointed.
This tour is best suited for adults or older teens who are comfortable with darkness and are genuinely interested in the supernatural. It’s a small group experience—max 10 people—which means more personal attention and fewer distractions. If you’re a skeptic or prefer a fast-paced adventure, the slow, story-rich style may be perfect for you.
Key Points
- Authentic haunted locations: Explore UTC’s campus and Citizens Cemetery, both steeped in local ghost stories.
- Interactive experience: Use advanced ghost-hunting tools like EMF meters, laser grids, and talking devices.
- Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Dale, lead the way and share detailed stories and debunking insights.
- Small-group format: Intimate setting ensures a more personal, engaging experience.
- Age restrictions: Minimum age is 18, making it suitable for serious ghost enthusiasts.
- Weather dependent: The tour is subject to favorable weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds in case of cancellation.
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The Experience in Detail: What You Can Expect

Starting your ghost hunt in Chattanooga is straightforward—your meeting point is right across from the First Christian Church on McCallie Avenue. Once gathered, your guide will introduce you to the high-tech equipment that will be your tools for the night, explaining how each works and what it’s looking for. This educational aspect is something many reviews highlight as a big plus: “Great experience with very knowledgeable hosts,” says Kyle, who appreciated the detailed walkthrough.
The first stop is Patten Chapel, a small yet storied building reputed for encounters with Anna, a spirit who has reportedly opened the chapel’s locked door. As you peer into the darkness, your guide will recount stories of past sightings and explain why this location is considered haunted. Several guests have reported electromagnetic field (EMF) activity here, adding an extra layer of thrill.
Next, the tour moves on to Hooper Hall, where a maintenance man’s tragic death has left a lingering presence. Here, some visitors have experienced subtle readings or odd sensations, which the guide will help interpret. The stories of spirits who have been seen or heard in these spaces lend the experience a sense of authenticity, especially as you use your equipment in real-time.
The cemetery portion of the tour is often described as the highlight. “Interaction with a confederate soldier” and footsteps heard on gravel paths are some of the moments that leave participants both intrigued and a little spooked. The cemetery is dark, quiet, and atmospheric—perfect for those looking for a genuinely spooky setting. Several reviews mention that “nothing really spooky happened” but that the fun was in the equipment and stories, while others have had more active encounters.
Throughout the tour, your guide shares stories of local legends and historic figures, weaving in tales like the tragic suicide in Hooper Hall or sightings of Tim, a restless spirit seen regularly. The guides also tend to debunk some ghostly readings, which adds a layer of credibility and makes the experience feel less like a staged show and more like a real investigation.
The tour wraps back at the starting point, leaving you with a sense of having experienced something both entertaining and a bit mysterious. Many guests leave feeling more open to the idea that there might be more beyond what we see.
Detailed Breakdown of the Stops and Highlights

UTC Campus: The Haunted Hotspots
Spanning about 45 minutes, the campus portion includes some of Chattanooga’s most haunted spots. Our guides are well-versed in local lore, pointing out locations where ghost sightings or EMF readings have been reported. One reviewer mentioned, “We saw some of the most haunted spots on campus and used EMF devices,” emphasizing how the tools add a tangible element to the stories.
Citizens Cemetery: The Final Resting Ground
The last segment, about 35 minutes long, takes you through the adjoining cemeteries, which many consider the most atmospheric part of the tour. It’s here that some guests have interacted with spirits, heard footsteps, or seen lights flicker. The quiet, dark environment enhances the chance for subtle paranormal activity, making it ideal for those who want to test their nerves.
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Equipment and Stories
Expect to handle equipment like EMF meters, laser grids, and talking boxes. Guides like Dale are praised for explaining how these tools work and sharing stories of their use in past investigations. The equipment creates a sense of participation, which many reviews describe as “a great addition” to the experience.
Pricing and Value: Is It Worth It?

At $33.95 per person, this ghost hunt offers a good value for those interested in combining history, supernatural stories, and hands-on equipment use. Many reviewers mention that they enjoyed the interactive element and the knowledgeable guides, which elevate the experience beyond just listening to stories. The small group size means you’re not just a face in the crowd, allowing for more personalized storytelling and interaction.
While it’s not a jump-scare, theatrical haunted experience**, it’s ideal if you want an authentic, story-rich exploration of Chattanooga’s haunted sites. If you’re a skeptic, the equipment and stories might just make you reconsider what’s possible.
Practical Tips for Your Ghost Hunt Adventure

- Arrive on time at the meeting point, as latecomers may miss the introduction.
- Wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing; the tour is outdoors and can be chilly or damp.
- This experience is not suitable for children or sensitive individuals—it’s geared for adults or mature teens.
- Book in advance, as most trips are booked about 10 days ahead.
- Bring a sense of curiosity and a willingness to enjoy the stories, whether you believe or not.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you enjoy mystery, history, or storytelling, you’ll find plenty to love here. Many reviews mention the knowledgeable guides, especially those who have been doing this for years, like Dale. It’s perfect for adults seeking a fun, slightly spooky experience and those who want to try ghost hunting with professional-grade equipment. It’s also great for couples or small groups wanting a memorable night out with a mysterious twist.
However, if you’re looking for loud, theatrical scares or are easily disturbed by darkness or quiet environments, this may not be the right fit. It’s a subdued, story-driven experience—more atmospheric than adrenaline-pumping.
The Sum Up: Is the Chattanooga Cemetery Ghost Hunt Worth It?

This ghost hunt offers a balanced mix of local history, spooky storytelling, and hands-on ghost hunting. The guides’ expertise, especially Dale’s, along with the well-chosen haunted sites, make it a worthwhile outing for those curious about the supernatural. It’s particularly valuable for travelers who appreciate an authentic, educational experience rather than a staged haunted house.
For history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, or small groups seeking a unique Chattanooga adventure, this tour provides a memorable, intriguing evening. The price is reasonable, especially given the personalized nature and the use of professional equipment. Just remember to keep an open mind—and maybe leave a little room for a chill or two.
FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, the minimum age is 18, primarily because it’s aimed at adult curiosity and involves dark, quiet environments that may not be appropriate for kids.
What should I wear?
Dress comfortably and appropriately for outdoor conditions, as the tour takes place partly outdoors in potentially cool or damp weather.
How long does the ghost hunt last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering both UTC campus and Citizens Cemetery.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
What equipment is used during the tour?
Guides provide and explain devices like EMF meters, laser grids, and talking boxes to help detect spirits.
Is this a guided tour with a small group?
Yes, the maximum group size is 10, which allows for more interaction and a personal experience.
If you’re ready for a night where history and mystery collide, this Chattanooga ghost hunt could be just the eerie adventure you’re after. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a good story, enjoy a little suspense, and want to try ghost hunting like a pro—at least for a night.
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