Tour of haunted locations with ghost hunting gear.

Tour of Haunted Locations with Ghost Hunting Gear
Location: Texas, United States
Country: United States
Rating: 3/5 (based on 4 reviews)
Price: $20 per person
Supplier: Zombie Tours Inc

First Impressions: What You Need to Know
If you’re curious about ghost stories and haunted history, this 90-minute tour in Galveston offers a fun way to explore the city’s spooky past. It’s priced quite reasonably at just $20 per person, making it accessible for many travelers looking for a quick thrill. The tour takes you through the historic Strand district, a part of town famous for its old buildings, pirates, murders, and even a few ghosts. You’ll visit notable sites like Execution Square, the Hutchings-Sealy Building, and the Tremont House Hotel, each with its own ghostly tale.

Two things we particularly like about this experience are the inclusion of ghost hunting gear, which adds a hands-on element many ghost tours lack, and the rich storytelling that makes the history come alive, especially around the 1900 hurricane. The tour’s focus on “haunted” spots helps elevate it from a simple walk to a spooky adventure.

However, a key consideration is the mixed reviews about punctuality and reliability. Several travelers have reported issues with guides not showing up or delays, so if timing is critical for you, it’s worth keeping that in mind. This tour seems best suited for those wanting a budget-friendly, engaging ghostly experience that combines history with paranormal fun.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At $20, it offers good value for a ghost tour in a historic district.
• Hands-on Experience: Ghost hunting equipment (EMF detectors) are provided, adding an active element.
• Historic Landmarks: Visits include notable sites like Execution Square and an old opera house with spooky stories.
• Expert Guide: The guide is knowledgeable about Galveston’s haunted past, enhancing the storytelling.
• Multiple Stops: The tour covers several locations linked to ghost legends and dark history.
• Mixed Reviews: Be aware of potential issues with punctuality and guide availability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Ghost Tour Experience

Exploring Galveston’s Haunted Streets

The tour begins outside Pelican Island gift shop on Strand and Kepner, where your guide (possibly a local with a knack for storytelling) will meet you. The costumed or knowledgeable guide is a key part of the experience—telling stories that bring the ghostly tales and historical facts to life.

Walking through the Strand district, you’ll feel transported back to 1900, a pivotal year for Galveston. This area, with its well-preserved buildings, is an ideal setting for ghost stories related to pirates, executions, and a devastating hurricane. As you stroll, your guide shares stories about the 1900 hurricane—the storm that claimed thousands of lives overnight—and how it still echoes through the city’s haunted sites.

Visiting Iconic Haunted Spots

Execution Square is a highlight—this was once the site of public hangings, and it’s easy to imagine the grim atmosphere from centuries past. Standing here, you might get a sense of the intense emotions that once filled the place.

Next, you’ll visit the Hutchings-Sealy Building, used as a makeshift morgue after the storm, which amplifies its haunted reputation. You’ll also pass the Old Time Photo Building, rumored to be haunted by a clerk and robber who shot themselves, and the Ritter’s Saloon, where the first storm-related deaths occurred.

The Tremont House Hotel is nationally recognized for its paranormal activity, often featured in ghost documentaries. Here, you could hear stories of mysterious noises, unexplained movements, or apparitions—classic ghost tour material.

The former Galveston Opera House and the Railroad Museum are other stops, each with ghost stories involving ghostly apparitions or unusual sounds—like the spirit of a woman who allegedly jumped from the 5th floor of the Railroad Museum.

Using Ghost Hunting Equipment

One of the tour’s standout features is that each group receives EMF detectors—a staple in ghost hunting—that are used to detect electromagnetic fields, which some believe indicate paranormal activity. While this gear is meant to add fun and authenticity, keep in mind that the results are anecdotal, and scientific consensus on ghost detection remains elusive. Still, it’s a neat way to get involved and feel like a ghost hunter.

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Photo Opportunities and Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, you’ll have chances for photos at some of the most atmospheric spots—perfect for capturing the eerie vibe. Whether it’s the streetlights casting shadows or the historic buildings, these moments add a visual reminder of the spooky night.

Weighing the Value: Is It Worth It?

At $20, this tour offers excellent value if you’re interested in ghost stories and local history. The inclusion of ghost hunting gear and visits to multiple haunted sites make it a more interactive experience than many similar tours. Plus, the storytelling by a knowledgeable guide adds depth to the ghostly tales.

However, the mixed reviews about punctuality are an important consideration. Reports of guides not showing up, or delays of up to 40 minutes, could impact your experience, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or expect a polished service. If punctuality is a deal-breaker, you might want to confirm your reservation or consider alternative options.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for budget-conscious travelers, history buffs with an interest in the paranormal, or those wanting a lively, interactive evening in Galveston. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a fun, spooky activity without a hefty price tag, and you’re flexible on timing and guide consistency.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This ghost tour in Galveston offers a charming blend of history, local legends, and ghost-hunting fun. The hands-on approach with EMF detectors makes it engaging, especially for younger visitors or those who enjoy a bit of adventure. It’s a great way to see the city’s historic district after dark, with plenty of creepy stories to tell later.

While the price point is attractive and the stops are thoughtfully chosen, the inconsistent reviews about guide punctuality mean you should set your expectations accordingly. If you’re a flexible traveler looking for an affordable, lively ghostly adventure, this tour is worth considering. Just arrive early and stay aware that things might not always run perfectly.

In sum, it’s a fun, reasonably priced way to explore Galveston’s haunted history—especially if you’re prepared for a few surprises along the way.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 90 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

Where do we meet?
Outside Pelican Island gift shop on the corner of Strand and Kepner, 2124 Strand St.

What’s included in the price?
The tour, ghost hunting gear (EMF detectors), and photo opportunities at haunted sites.

Are guides available in different languages?
No, the tour is conducted in English only.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible.

Can I record videos or use flash photography?
No, video recording and flash photography are not allowed.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, and a charged smartphone for photos and possibly ghost-hunting apps.

What if it rains?
The tour takes place rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

To sum it up, this ghost tour in Galveston offers a reasonably priced, engaging way to explore the city’s haunted past. With a good mix of stories, historic sites, and hands-on ghost hunting, it’s perfect for travelers seeking a spooky, fun experience without breaking the bank. Just be aware of the potential for schedule hiccups, and arrive early to ensure you get the most out of your evening.

You can check availability for your dates here: