Imagine cruising through the historic streets of St. Augustine at night, seated comfortably in an open-air electric cart, listening to chilling tales of ghosts, murders, and pirates. For just $39 per person and lasting about an hour, this tour offers a lively yet spooky dive into the city’s past that’s both entertaining and educational. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll explore the north side, south side, and the heart of downtown, uncovering stories that reveal the city’s darker side.
Two things we particularly appreciate about this tour are the carefully researched stories—which add credibility and depth—and the compact, small-group setting that makes the experience feel intimate and personalized. The electric cart ensures a smooth, quiet ride, allowing you to focus on the tales and the sights. One consideration to keep in mind is that this tour isn’t suitable for young children under six, mainly because of the spooky content, which might be too intense for little ones.
This tour suits travelers who love a good ghost story with a side of history, especially those interested in true crime, pirate lore, and haunted legends. It’s perfect for night owls, history buffs, or anyone looking for a fun, slightly spooky way to experience St. Augustine after dark.
Key Points
- Authentic Stories: All tales are thoroughly researched, based on real events, hauntings, murders, and pirate attacks.
- Comfortable Transportation: An open-air electric cart offers a smooth, quiet ride through historic streets.
- Small Group: Limited to 7 participants, making it easy to hear stories and ask questions.
- Flexible Meeting Points: Location varies depending on the time, with a central start at a haunted spirits store or street entrance.
- Value for Cost: At $39 for an hour, it provides a unique, engaging experience that combines storytelling with sightseeing.
- Nighttime Focus: Usually available in the evening, perfect for those who want to explore St. Augustine’s spooky side after sunset.
St. Augustine is famous for its old-world charm and ghosts, and this tour offers a fun, accessible way to tap into that spooky reputation. For just $39, you get a one-hour ride through some of the city’s most haunted streets, accompanied by a guide who spins tales that are both entertaining and rooted in history. It’s a great value for anyone wanting more than just a visual tour—here, stories bring the city’s past to life (or death).
You can check availability for your dates here:The Itinerary and What You’ll See
The tour covers multiple districts—the north, south, and central parts of historic downtown—each with its own ghostly secrets. It starts at a haunted spirits store called BEERHAMMER’S if your tour is before 9 pm, or directly on St. George Street afterward. Both meeting points are centrally located, making it easy to hop on after dinner or a daytime sightseeing session.
Once aboard the electric cart, which provides an open-air yet comfortable ride, you’ll cruise through narrow streets and dark corners that are perfect for ghost stories. The guide will narrate accounts of true hauntings, gruesome murders, and pirate attacks—all based on thorough research, not just legend.
Planning more time in St Augustine Florida? We've covered other experiences worth considering.
Specific Sights and Tales
One of the tour’s highlights is visiting the haunted site of a true crime murder mystery. You’ll learn about vile pirate attacks that once struck the city, giving you a sense of what life was like during the early days of St. Augustine. The stories aren’t just ghostly legends—they’re tied to real, documented events that remind you of the city’s dark side.
The guide’s storytelling is engaging, with many reviews noting that the stories are “true and well-researched”. For example, one reviewer highlights how the guide weaved blood-chilling tales that made the history feel alive, rather than just a series of dates and facts.
The Experience and Atmosphere
The small group size (limited to 7 people) ensures everyone can hear and participate, creating an intimate atmosphere. The open-air electric cart means you’re exposed to the evening air, adding to the eerie ambiance but also requiring you to dress accordingly for the weather.
While the ride is smooth, the dark streets and narrow alleys can be quite atmospheric. You’ll love the views of haunted buildings and historic landmarks, all illuminated softly at night. The stories are designed to evoke a sense of mystery without being overly frightening—more like an engaging walk through history with a spooky twist.
Reviews and Authentic Feedback
Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and the authenticity of the stories. One customer says, “The tales were thoroughly researched and really made the history come alive,” which is high praise for a ghost tour. Others appreciate the “cozy, small-group setting” that avoids the overwhelming feeling of larger, touristy tours.
Some travelers mention the timing — usually available in the evening or late at night—making it an ideal way to end a day of exploring. Since food and drinks are not included, it’s best to grab a snack beforehand, especially if you’re sensitive to spooky stories.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Practical Side
The price point is a strong selling point, considering the quality of storytelling and the authenticity of the tales. The tour is not suitable for children under 6, mainly because of the mature themes and haunted content. Also, no food or drinks are included, so plan accordingly.
The meeting points are straightforward to find, and the duration is just enough to give you a good scare without fatigue. The live narration enhances the experience, making it feel more personal and engaging.
If you enjoy ghost stories, have an interest in pirate history, or simply want a different way to experience St. Augustine by night, you’ll love this tour. It’s particularly suited for adults and older kids who can appreciate the spooky tales and the historic context. It’s a perfect choice for families with older children, couples, or small groups looking for a unique, fun evening that blends history with a little thrill.
The GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride Haunted Tour offers an authentic, entertaining glimpse into the darker side of this historic city. Its carefully researched stories and small-group setting make it stand out among typical ghost tours. While it won’t suit very young children or those sensitive to spooky themes, it provides a memorable experience for anyone craving a fun, slightly creepy exploration of St. Augustine’s haunted streets.
The value for the price is clear, especially considering the quality of storytelling and the atmospheric setting. It’s a great way to combine history, local legends, and the thrill of the unknown—all in just an hour of your evening. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost-story enthusiast, or simply looking for a different way to experience St. Augustine, this tour is worth considering.
Is this tour suitable for children?
This tour isn’t recommended for children under 6 due to its spooky content. Older children and teens who enjoy ghost stories might find it fun, but it’s primarily aimed at adults.
How long does the tour last?
It lasts about an hour, making it a manageable activity to fit into your evening plans without feeling rushed.
Where does the tour start?
If your tour is before 9 pm, it begins at BEERHAMMER’S at 162 St. George Street inside Heritage Walk Mall. After 9 pm, it starts on St. George Street at the mall entrance near the Tervis store.
What is included in the cost?
The price covers an electric cart ride, live narration by the guide, and visits to the north, south, and central historic districts. Food and drinks are not included.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility for your travel plans.
Is this tour mainly about ghost stories or history?
It’s a mix—stories are based on true events involving hauntings, murders, and pirate attacks, blending history and legend into a compelling narrative.
In short, if you’re after an engaging, authentic, and spooky night tour in St. Augustine, the GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride will likely hit the spot. It’s perfect for those wanting to experience the city’s haunted side without the fuss of walking or large crowds. Just remember to bring your camera—you might want to capture some of the atmospheric streets and, of course, the memories of some truly haunting stories.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in St Augustine Florida
- St. Augustine: Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour with Drinks
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Tour by Electric Cart
- St. Augustine: Devil’s Hour Paranormal Investigation Tour
- St Augustine: Sunset History Golf Cart Tour
- St.Augustine History Tour on Premium Golf Cart with PiCk Up
- St. Augustine: Advanced Paranormal Investigation Tour
More Tour Reviews in St Augustine Florida
- St. Augustine: Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour with Drinks
- Saint Augustine: Bourbon History and Tasting Experience
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Sunset Sail with Live Music
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Tour by Electric Cart
- St. Augustine: Devil’s Hour Paranormal Investigation Tour
- St Augustine: Sunset History Golf Cart Tour
More St Augustine Florida experiences we've covered
- St. Augustine: Dolphin Watching Harbor Tour with Drinks
- Saint Augustine: Bourbon History and Tasting Experience
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Sunset Sail with Live Music
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Tour by Electric Cart
- St. Augustine: Devil’s Hour Paranormal Investigation Tour
- St Augustine: Sunset History Golf Cart Tour
- St. Augustine: The Black Raven Rum Runners Pirate Show (21+)
- St.Augustine History Tour on Premium Golf Cart with PiCk Up
- St. Augustine: Advanced Paranormal Investigation Tour
- St. Augustine, FL: Everdark Express Shadow Shuttle Tour
- St Augustine: Nights of Lights Trolley Tour
- St. Augustine: Nights of Lights Cruise with Music and Drinks
