Burlington’s Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour offers a fun and eerie way to explore this charming Vermont city’s shadowy past. For just $7.75 per person, you’ll get a self-guided experience that lasts around 1 to 1.25 hours, walking through historic streets and uncovering ghostly tales and dark history. Starting at the old Shanty on the Shore, the tour takes you through Downtown Burlington’s historic district, then onto the lively Church Street, ending near the city’s oldest buildings. The best part? It’s all accessible via your smartphone—no guides, no group schedules, just your pace and curiosity.
Two things we really appreciate about this tour: first, its flexibility. You can start it anytime, pause, replay, or redo as often as you like. Second, the depth of storytelling—the tour shares specific legends, from haunted buildings and tragic accidents to infamous figures like H.H. Holmes, giving you a well-rounded taste of Burlington’s haunted lore. A slight consideration? Since the tour is outdoor and relies on your device’s audio, traffic noise or busy streets might occasionally make it tricky to catch every whisper of the ghostly tales. Still, that’s part of the real-life ambiance that makes ghost stories more fun.
This tour suits curious travelers who enjoy history, local legends, and a dash of spooky storytelling. It’s perfect if you prefer exploring at your own pace, appreciate authentic stories rather than scripted bus tours, and want a budget-friendly experience that adapts to your schedule.
- Self-Guided Flexibility: Complete control over when and how often you explore the tour.
- Historical & Haunted Mix: A balanced look at Burlington’s history with ghostly stories from various sites.
- Affordable Price: At just $7.75, it offers excellent value for a personalized paranormal experience.
- Rich Storytelling: Detailed tales of the haunted buildings, historic figures, and local legends.
- Convenient Location: Starts at the historic Shanty on the Shore, ending near the city’s oldest buildings.
- Suitable for All: Easy to do solo, with friends, or family; no prior experience needed.
Exploring Burlington’s Haunted Streets: A Detailed Review
The Setting and Overall Experience
This ghost tour takes you through Burlington’s core neighborhoods, with a focus on historic sites and stories that have left a supernatural mark. The app-based format means you’re in charge—walking at your preferred speed, revisiting stories, and choosing your own adventure. We found that the tour’s price point—just $7.75—makes it an accessible, light-hearted way to spend an evening or afternoon, especially if you’re interested in local history with a spooky twist.
Starting point is the iconic Shanty On The Shore, a well-known local restaurant with a storied past. The app narrates its history and the ghostly rumors of its early owner, setting a fitting tone for the adventure. As you move through downtown Burlington, the stories of haunted buildings, tunnels, and tragic accidents unfold—making it feel like stepping into a ghostly documentary with your own eyes.
What We Like About the Tour
First, the narrative richness. Unlike many ghost walks that skim the surface, this tour offers detailed stories, like the legend of the Flying Monkeys on the Train Station—a memorable, slightly surreal tale that sticks with you. The stories about the old house haunted by tragedy and H.H. Holmes’ rented house lend historical depth, making the supernatural tales more meaningful rather than just jump scares.
Second, the practical design of the tour. As it’s a smartphone-guided experience, you can enjoy it anytime, anywhere, which means you can fit it into your schedule, whether that’s a quick evening stroll or a leisurely day. We also appreciate that the tour never expires, so if you want to revisit the stories, they’re always available.
Possible Drawbacks
One minor challenge is audio clarity. Several reviews mention that noise from traffic or downtown bustle can make it difficult to hear the narration clearly, so bringing earbuds is advisable. Also, as with any outdoor walking tour, weather and lighting conditions will affect your experience, especially if you’re walking after dark.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is ideal for history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and budget travelers seeking a fun, self-paced activity. It’s especially suitable for those who enjoy authentic storytelling and don’t mind walking outdoors with a smartphone in hand. Families, solo travelers, or couples looking for a casual evening activity will find this both entertaining and informative.
Breaking Down the Itinerary: What to Expect
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Stop 1: Downtown Burlington Historic District
This is where the tour begins, at the Shanty on the Shore. Here, you’ll learn about the building’s history and the ghost stories linked to its first owner. From there, your app guides you through various haunted sites, including buildings with tunnels, historic streets, and haunted streets like Church Street.
Highlights:
– The story of H.H. Holmes, one of America’s most notorious serial killers, linked to a house he rented while on the run.
– Tales of haunted buildings and street legends, adding a layer of historical intrigue to your walk.
– The train station, where stories of people hit by trains or flying monkeys make for memorable legends.
Stop 2: Church Street
Known for its charm and lively atmosphere, Church Street also harbors its share of ghostly tales. The tour shares stories about haunted restaurants and historic firehouses—adding a spooky twist to your stroll through this bustling area.
Highlights:
– An old building that’s now a restaurant but still whispers stories of its past tragedies.
– The haunted reputation of this lively street, blending day-to-night stories of city life with ghostly lore.
End Point: Near First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington
The tour concludes near one of the city’s oldest buildings, a historic church. Here, the stories of H.H. Holmes’ house and other haunted sites come together, leaving you with a sense of Burlington’s layered, sometimes spooky history.
What the Tour Includes and Doesn’t
You get the entire experience via the mobile app—no guides or groups, just you and your device. This means you can start and stop whenever you like, perfect for fitting into your schedule or adjusting for weather. The tour is completely private, meaning your group gets the run of it without strangers.
What’s not included? Food, drinks, or in-person guides. The entire experience is outdoors and app-guided, so it’s very flexible but also dependent on good phone service and weather.
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Practical Tips for Your Ghostly Adventure
- Bring earbuds if you want to hear the stories clearly, especially in busy areas.
- Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around historic streets and neighborhoods.
- Start in daylight if you prefer a less spooky experience, or after sunset for a more atmospheric adventure.
- Check the weather forecast—rain or dark nights may enhance the experience but could also make walking less pleasant.
- Since the tour “never expires,” you can plan multiple visits or revisit the stories later.
Final Thoughts
Burlington’s Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour offers a smart, affordable way to experience the city’s haunted history. Its self-paced nature makes it ideal for independent explorers who want control over their adventure, while its rich storytelling brings the city’s dark past to life in a memorable way. Whether you’re a local wanting to see Burlington in a spooky new light, or a visitor eager for a blend of history and legends, this tour provides a fun, engaging experience that’s hard to beat for value.
If you enjoy ghost stories, historic architecture, and walking tours that fit into your schedule, this is a perfect choice. Just remember to bring your earbuds and be prepared for some atmospheric tales that make Burlington’s streets a little more mysterious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s family-friendly as long as the kids are comfortable walking outdoors and interested in stories of history and ghosts.
Do I need to book in advance?
While you can start anytime, the tour is popular—most bookings are made about 12 days in advance—so planning ahead ensures you get your preferred start time.
How long does the tour take?
It generally lasts between 1 hour and 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each site.
Can I do this tour more than once?
Absolutely. The tour never expires, so you can revisit the stories as often as you like, at any time.
What if I have technical issues?
Since the tour relies on your smartphone, ensure your device has good battery and internet connection. Contact support if needed—though most users find it straightforward.
Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price is all-including, but remember, food or drinks are not included.
What’s the starting point?
The tour begins at Shanty On The Shore, located at 181 Battery St, Burlington, VT.
Is the tour accessible for service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed for those who need them.
In all, this ghost tour blends historical curiosity with a touch of supernatural fun, making it a memorable way to explore Burlington’s darker corners. Its affordability, flexibility, and storytelling depth make it a standout experience for those interested in local legends without the hassle of large groups or rigid schedules.