Hollow in the Hills: Buried in Burlington Ghost Tours offers a unique way to experience downtown Burlington after dark. For just about an hour, you’ll walk through the historic streets, visiting spooky sites like the Flynn Theatre, Church Street Tavern, and former locations tied to tragic events. Led by guides whose energy and humor keep things lively, this tour promises a fun mix of history and ghostly tales—perfect for those curious about Burlington’s darker side.
What we really like about this tour is how it combines local history with ghost stories, making the experience both educational and entertaining. Plus, the meeting point at the First Unitarian Universalist Society sets a fittingly somber, atmospheric tone right at the heart of Burlington’s historic district. One thing to keep in mind is that the tour is only an hour long, which might leave some craving a deeper dive into the city’s haunted past.
This tour suits those who enjoy a mix of light-hearted storytelling and spooky legends, especially if you’re in town for a short visit or want an evening activity that’s different from the usual. It’s also ideal for travelers who don’t mind walking about a mile, as that’s roughly the distance covered in the hour. If you’re looking for a casual, fun, and slightly eerie jaunt through Burlington’s streets, this could be just the ticket.
Key Points
- Historic Focus: The tour visits notable landmarks like the Flynn Theater and Church Street Tavern, blending history with ghost stories.
- Duration & Flexibility: A concise one-hour experience, ideal for travelers with limited time.
- Guide Quality: Guides are described as energetic and humorous, making the experience engaging.
- Weather & Accessibility: Rain or shine, and not suitable for those with mobility issues or who can’t walk about a mile.
- Storytelling Style: Mix of legends, tragic tales, and local secrets, often told with a spirited touch.
- Value: Affordable price point for a guided walking experience, but some may wish for more depth.
A Closer Look at the Burlington Ghost Tour
When considering a ghost tour like this, it’s important to understand what makes it appealing—and where it might fall short. We think this tour offers a lively, accessible peek into Burlington’s haunted history, but it is somewhat brief. With only an hour to explore 10 locations, the depth of each story might be limited, but the tour compensates with spirited narration and a lively group dynamic.
The Itinerary & Highlights
Starting Point at the First Unitarian Universalist Society provides a fitting introduction, setting a tone that mixes reverence with curiosity. From there, the guide leads you through downtown Burlington’s historic district, a lively area packed with Victorian-era architecture, storefronts, and the kind of atmosphere that’s perfect for ghost stories.
The first stop often involves Lake Champlain Chocolates, a name well known in Vermont, but the tour hints that working at a chocolate factory isn’t always as sweet as it seems—an intriguing teaser that sparks curiosity about Burlington’s darker chocolate secrets. You’ll also visit the Flynn Theatre, a favorite haunt for photos, and learn about its ghostly legends. According to one review, the guide’s energy and humor make the stories enjoyable, even for those who might be skeptical.
Next, you’ll visit Church Street Tavern, where a chill might run up your spine, especially if you’re sensitive to the eerie atmosphere of old taverns with long histories. The guide supposedly shares tales of local tragedies, such as the 160 Bank Street explosion, a story that adds a tragic layer to the city’s haunted reputation. Some visitors find these stories especially compelling because they connect the ghostly legends to real events that shaped the city.
What You Can Expect at Each Stop
Each location promises a new story—whether it’s about a ghostly presence, a tragic incident, or a legendary figure haunting the city. The stories are told with a mix of humor and respect, making it accessible to a wide audience. Since the tour is relatively short, you won’t be overwhelmed with details but will come away with enough spooky tales to share back home.
The Guide & Group Atmosphere
Reviews echo that guides like “Mike,” who led one tour, bring a lot of energy and humor that keep the mood lively. This approach makes the ghost stories more engaging and less intimidating—ideal for those new to ghost tours or casual ghost enthusiasts. The group size is likely small to medium, which helps keep things intimate and allows for some friendly interaction.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Details & Considerations
The tour accommodates most people who can walk a mile in about an hour, but it’s not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers. It takes place rain or shine, so packing weather-appropriate clothing is a must. The meeting point at 152 Pearl Street is central and easy to find, especially since the guide wears a recognizable US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carries a lantern, adding a touch of authentic ghost-hunting flair.
The cost is reasonable for a guided experience, especially considering the insider stories and local legends you’ll hear. The flexibility of “reserve now, pay later” and full refund up to 24 hours before offers peace of mind for travelers wary of scheduling changes.
Authenticity & Authentic Experience
While some might hope for in-depth paranormal investigations or contact with spirits, this tour’s main strength lies in its storytelling and historical context. The stories are based on local legends, tragic events, and ghostly folklore, which many find compelling. Authenticity is more about the atmosphere and narrative than actual ghost encounters.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a history buff with a penchant for spooky stories, or simply looking for a fun way to spend an evening in Burlington, this ghost tour offers a lively, reasonably priced experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a light-hearted ghost story with some local flavor—especially if you’re in town for a short visit and want a quick, memorable activity. However, if you’re seeking a deep dive into paranormal investigations or need accessible options, this tour might not fully meet expectations.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Ghost Tour?
This one-hour Burlington ghost tour offers a spirited mix of history, legend, and entertainment. With guides who keep the mood lively and stories rooted in local tragedies and legends, it’s a good choice for travelers wanting to add a little spooky flair to their Burlington visit. It’s especially appealing for those on a budget or short on time, providing an authentic glimpse of Burlington’s haunted past without overextending.
While it might not satisfy die-hard ghost hunters or those seeking an in-depth haunted experience, it’s a genuinely fun, accessible introduction to Burlington’s shadowy side. Expect amusing anecdotes, atmospheric locations, and a few chills along the way—perfect for a relaxed evening adventure.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is generally family-friendly, but it focuses on ghost stories and local tragedies that might be intense for very young children. Parents should decide based on their child’s sensitivity.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour, walking through downtown Burlington and visiting around 10 historic haunted locations.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since you’ll be walking outside in various conditions.
Is this tour accessible for people with mobility impairments?
No, this experience is not suitable for those with mobility issues, as it involves walking about a mile and navigating uneven historic streets.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, which helps with flexible planning.
What makes the guide engaging?
Guides like “Mike” are noted for their energetic delivery and sense of humor, making the stories more fun and memorable.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, 152 Pearl Street, where the guide will be wearing a lantern and a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt.
Is this tour weather-dependent?
No, it takes place rain or shine. Be sure to dress accordingly.
What kind of stories will I hear?
Expect legends of haunted theaters, tragic accidents, local legends involving spirits, and ghostly tales tied to Burlington’s history.
In exploring the “Hollow in the Hills” tour, you’re signing up for a lively walk through Burlington’s haunted corners—stories that blend history and legend, told with humor and a touch of spookiness. It’s a fun, accessible way to experience the city’s darker side, especially if you appreciate a good story and a little ghostly intrigue.
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