Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour

Charlotte’s Only Southern Charm Haunted/True Crime Golf Cart Tour offers an engaging adventure through some of the city’s most storied and spooky spots. For $44 per person, you’ll enjoy a 1.5-hour ride that combines ghost stories, true crime tales, and a bit of Southern history, all narrated by guides passionate about Charlotte’s past. Led by friendly, knowledgeable guides like Mackey and Katrina, this tour whisks you through the city’s most haunted cemeteries and historic neighborhoods in an open-air golf cart — a perfect way to see more in less time.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it is; you’re not just hearing stories but also seeing the sights up close, with stops at places like Elmwood Cemetery and the Old Settlers Cemetery. And the fact that the tour includes discounts at local eateries and parking makes it a smart choice for those wanting good value. That said, keep in mind that the tour is about an hour and a half, so if you’re looking for a deep dive into every detail or extra exploration time, you might find it a little brisk.

This tour is best suited for those curious about local history, ghost stories, or true crime enthusiasts looking for a fun, slightly spooky way to explore Charlotte. It’s also family-friendly (ages 13+), making it a great option for groups, couples, or anyone wanting a lively mix of entertainment and education.

Key Points

Accessible and fun: The open-air golf cart allows quick movement through Charlotte’s historic areas and haunted sites.
Knowledgeable guides: Guides like Mackey, Katrina, and Todd bring local stories, humor, and energy that keep the tour engaging.
Variety of sights: From cemeteries to historic neighborhoods and haunted pubs, the tour covers many interesting locations.
Authentic stories: The mix of ghost tales and true crime adds a chilling and fascinating dimension.
Great value: The tour includes discounts at a local Irish pub and parking, making it a more budget-friendly outing.
Limited exploration time: Stops are brief (around 10-30 minutes), so if you prefer longer visits, this may not be ideal.

A Deep Dive into Charlotte’s Haunted & True Crime Tour

If you’re like us, you appreciate a tour that balances storytelling with sightseeing — and this golf cart experience hits that sweet spot. At just $44 per ticket, it offers a chance to see a different side of Charlotte, learning about its haunted past and crime stories without the long commitment or heavy walking involved.

The Experience and Its Vibe

The tour is designed to be lively and engaging, with guides who are eager to share their knowledge and add a bit of theatrical flair. Expect a friendly, informal atmosphere that encourages questions and reactions. Most travelers find the ride comfortable, with the open-air carts providing fresh air and a sense of freedom as you whiz past historic sites.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Elmwood Cemetery
Your journey begins at Elmwood Cemetery, Charlotte’s second oldest, covering a sprawling 72 acres since 1853. We loved the way the guide painted a picture of the past, describing the stories of those buried here, and how the winding paths lend an eerie charm, especially at dusk. Reviewers mention that this stop is a highlight, with one noting, “The face in the window at the fire station” as a memorable photo. Expect about 20 minutes here to take photos and listen to ghostly tales.

Stop 2: Rí Rá Irish Pub
Next, you’ll hear about the lurking ghost at Rí Rá Irish Pub — a favorite among guests who enjoy a good spooky story paired with a pub setting. While the tour doesn’t include a visit inside, the guide recounts tales of spirits said to haunt the pub, adding a lively local flavor. Many find this stop fun, especially if you’re a fan of haunted bars or Irish history.

Stop 3: Old Settlers Cemetery
The oldest cemetery in Charlotte, dating back to the early 1800s, offers a deeper look into the city’s early history. Here, the guide shares haunting tales of the cemetery’s former residents. One reviewer mentioned, “You never know what you’ll see,” making it clear that the stories and atmosphere can be quite compelling. Expect around 10 minutes here, with time to snap photos or simply absorb the spooky ambiance.

Stop 4: Fourth Ward
This neighborhood is the heart of the tour, where much of the storytelling about haunted houses and gold mines takes place. The guide recounts tales of ghostly encounters and historic events, creating a vivid picture of Charlotte’s mysterious side. With around 30 minutes allocated, this is the most substantial stop, giving you a good sense of the area’s blend of beauty and eeriness.

Stop 5: Overcarsh House
Finally, the tour visits the Overcarsh House to explore a tragic story that continues to haunt the site. The brief stop (about 5 minutes) leaves you with impactful stories of tragedy and lingering spirits. Reviewers note that guides make these stories come alive, enhancing the emotional impact.

The Guides and Their Style

Many reviews highlight how guides like Kelley, Katrina, and Todd make the experience memorable. They’re described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging, often adding humor or theatrical elements to their storytelling. One guest raved, “Kelley was great — very friendly and full of info,” while others appreciated Katrina’s enthusiasm. This personal touch significantly boosts the tour’s entertainment value.

Additional Perks

The tour includes a discounted parking option and a 15% off meal (no alcohol) at Rí Rá Irish Pub, which adds to the overall value. Many guests appreciate these extras, especially since they can extend their time in Charlotte without breaking the bank.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is popular and well-loved, some travelers mention that the stops are brief. If you’re looking for in-depth exploration or time to wander and photograph, be aware that you’ll only get around 10 minutes at each point. The tour’s focus is on storytelling and quick visits, making it perfect for those who enjoy a fast-paced, story-rich experience rather than a leisurely exploration.

Why This Tour Works Well

This tour is especially suited for history buffs, ghost lovers, true crime fans, and curious travelers who want a lively, informative, and somewhat spooky way to see Charlotte’s historic districts. It’s perfect for families with teens (13+), groups of friends, or couples looking for a fun night out. The small group size (up to 20 travelers) ensures a personal experience, and the open-air carts provide a breezy way to enjoy the city’s evening ambiance.

Final Thoughts on Value & Experience

For $44, this tour offers an engaging blend of history, ghost stories, and true crime, all delivered with enthusiasm by guides who genuinely love Charlotte’s past. The combination of quick-moving golf carts and brief stops allows you to cover a lot of ground without feeling rushed. The stories are vivid, some spooky enough to give you chills, and many reviews praise the guides’ storytelling skills and local knowledge.

The inclusion of discounts at a historic pub and parking makes it a good deal, especially for those wanting to maximize their evening without overspending. It’s a great way to learn about the city’s hidden stories, see some beautiful historic neighborhoods, and enjoy a bit of playful haunted lore.

However, if your idea of a tour involves longer explorations or walking, you might find the stops a little too brief. Also, if you’re a skeptic or prefer purely historical tours without theatrics, the ghost and true crime stories may seem a bit stylized.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for adventurers, history enthusiasts, and those looking for a fun, spooky night in Charlotte. It’s perfect for families with teenagers, couples on a date night, or groups of friends who enjoy storytelling and a lively atmosphere. If you’re curious about local lore, haunted spots, or true crime tales, this tour will satisfy your appetite for the mysterious and macabre, all while exploring some of Charlotte’s most iconic neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s recommended for ages 13 and up, making it a good option for teens and families with older kids interested in ghost stories and history.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including brief stops at five different sights.

What does the tour include?
You’ll get commentary from guides, an open-air golf cart ride, stories about legends, ghosts, and past crimes, plus discounts for parking and meals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation if done at least 24 hours in advance, with a full refund.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 224 E 7th St, Charlotte, and returns to the same location after the tour.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

In all, this haunted and true crime golf cart tour offers a unique, engaging way to experience Charlotte’s dark corners and storied past. Whether you’re a local wanting to see your city differently or a visitor eager for some spooky tales, it provides fun, education, and a dash of ghostly excitement — all in a lively, fast-paced package.