Discovering the Haunted Side of LA’s Chinatown: A Ghost Hunting Tour

For those of us intrigued by the supernatural, a ghost hunting experience in LA’s Chinatown offers a fascinating blend of history, mystery, and adrenaline. This 1.5-hour tour, led by a seasoned paranormal investigator, takes you through the neon-lit streets, historic alleys, and haunted sites of this culturally rich neighborhood. Costing just $55 per person, it’s a surprisingly affordable way to combine Los Angeles’s vibrant history with a spooky night out.
What we love most about this tour is the use of actual paranormal equipment—like EMF meters and spirit boxes—that make the experience feel authentic and hands-on. Plus, walking through Chinatown’s twilight-lit streets, with their colorful neon signs casting strange shadows, really enhances the eerie atmosphere. That said, the short duration means it’s more of an introductory experience rather than an in-depth ghost investigation, so if you’re craving a full-night haunt, you might want to look elsewhere.
This tour suits history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone curious about LA’s lesser-known spooky tales. It’s also family-friendly for those over 9, making it a fun, educational experience for a range of travelers.
Key Points

- Authentic paranormal tools give you a tangible connection to ghostly encounters.
 - Historic sites like the Victorian home of Philip Fritz add a real sense of history and tragedy.
 - The tour’s expert guide combines humor, storytelling, and knowledge for an engaging experience.
 - The neon-lit streets of Chinatown create an atmospheric backdrop that amplifies the spooky vibe.
 - It’s a private group experience, which makes it more intimate and personalized.
 - Free post-tour email tips help you reflect on the experience or explore further.
 
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An In-depth Look at the Ghost Hunting Adventure in LA’s Chinatown
The Perfect Neighborhood for a Ghostly Night Out
LA’s Chinatown isn’t just a hub of bustling markets and colorful architecture; after sunset, it transforms into a place that whispers stories of the past. The tour begins at 913 N Broadway, where you meet your guide and start exploring the alleys and plazas of this historic neighborhood. Walkers are treated to the glow of neon signs and shadows flickering along the narrow streets—a setting that immediately sets the mood for ghost stories.
What Makes the Experience Stand Out?
First, the paranormal equipment is a highlight. Each participant receives an EMF meter, a dowsing rod, and a spirit box radio sweeper—tools used by ghost hunters to detect spirits and unseen energies. As you walk, your guide demonstrates how these tools work and shares stories of past supernatural encounters. According to reviews, this interactive element “really gets you involved,” making the night both fun and informative.
Second, the narratives woven by your guide add depth to the tour. Many guests mention that guides like Trevor and Rory kept the atmosphere lively with humor and captivating storytelling. One reviewer noted, “Trevor was our guide and was fun and knowledgeable,” while another said, “His humor, storytelling, and novelty made the experience memorable.” This combination of history and storytelling helps bring the neighborhood’s haunted stories to life.
The Haunted Victorian Home of Philip Fritz
One of the tour’s key stops is the haunted Victorian home linked to Philip Fritz. This site, once a private residence, is reputed to be haunted due to tragic events that occurred there. The tour’s brief stop allows you to hear tales of tragedy and ghostly activity, adding a layer of historical intrigue. Guests describe feeling a “chill” walking past this site, which underscores the effectiveness of the storytelling and atmospheric setting.
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Strolling Through Neon-Lit Streets
The tour continues through Chinatown’s otherworldly streetscape, where neon signs cast an ethereal glow. This visual element enhances the spooky experience, especially as shadows dance in the corner of your eye. Guests have shared that this setting “really amplifies the eerie feelings,” and many appreciate how the neon-lit streets give the adventure a distinctly LA flavor.
The Overall Atmosphere and Group Size
What sets this experience apart is its intimacy—it’s a private tour with only your group. This makes sharing eerie moments and asking questions more comfortable. The group size tends to be small, which helps maintain a close, personal atmosphere. Plus, the tour is designed to be accessible, with most travelers able to participate, though it’s not recommended for children under 9.
What to Expect and How to Prepare
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, starting at noon and ending near 475 Gin Ling Wy. It involves walking through alleys and historic sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended. The tour is scheduled based on weather conditions, and cancellations due to poor weather are possible with a full refund if necessary.
Reviews from Ghost Hunters
Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the entertaining storytelling. Donna from October 2024 said, “Enjoyed the local stories, history, and new Chinatown encounter,” while others highlight Rory and Trevor’s humor and professionalism. Many reviewers mention that they felt the experience was “good value” and “lots of fun,” making it a memorable night for those seeking a spooky adventure with a historical twist.
Practicalities and Value
At $55, this tour offers a high-value experience, especially considering the personalized guidance and paranormal equipment provided. The post-tour email with recommendations adds a thoughtful touch, helping you reflect or explore further if haunted Los Angeles piques your interest.
Accessibility & Booking
The tour is near public transportation and allows service animals. It’s best to book at least 10 days in advance since it tends to fill up quickly. Cancellation is free if made 24 hours ahead, which offers peace of mind.
Who This Tour Is Perfect For

If you enjoy ghost stories, appreciate local history, or simply want a unique nighttime activity that mixes culture with the supernatural, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s ideal for adventurous families (over 9), small groups, and anyone curious about LA’s haunted past. The guides’ engaging storytelling makes it enjoyable even for those skeptical of the supernatural.
The Sum Up: A Spooky Yet Authentic Night Out

This ghost hunting tour in LA’s Chinatown balances history, humor, and a touch of the supernatural. The guided experience, with its use of paranormal tools and atmospheric setting, makes it more immersive than just listening to ghost stories around a campfire.
The small group size and expert guides ensure you get a personalized, engaging experience. Plus, the tour’s affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers looking to add a spooky twist to their LA visit. Whether you’re a true believer or just a lover of local lore, this adventure offers an authentic taste of LA’s haunted side.
While it’s not a full-night investigation, it provides just enough spooky fun to leave you slightly creeped out and eager to learn more about Chinatown’s darker tales. It’s an experience that’s both entertaining and educational, combining LA’s vibrant culture with ghostly legends—an ideal outing for a cool evening in the city.
FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 9 due to the spooky nature of the stories and haunted sites.
How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, walking through Chinatown’s streets and historic sites.
What’s included in the price?
You’ll receive paranormal tools such as EMF meters, dowsing rods, and spirit box radios. You’ll also get a post-tour email with recommendations.
Can I participate if I don’t believe in ghosts?
Absolutely! Many guests enjoy the storytelling, atmosphere, and experience regardless of their beliefs.
Is the tour private?
Yes, it’s conducted solely with your group, offering a more intimate and personalized experience.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, as walking is involved. Dress according to the weather, especially if it’s cool or rainy.
Are there any special accessibility considerations?
The tour is generally accessible, and service animals are allowed. However, it’s best to check directly if you have specific needs.
How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least 10 days ahead is advisable since the tour is popular and tends to fill up quickly.
This ghost hunting experience in LA’s Chinatown is a fun, well-reviewed way to combine local history with a spooky thrill. Whether you’re a ghost enthusiast or simply after an unusual night out, it promises a memorable, atmospheric adventure that’ll leave you with stories to tell long after the shadows fade.
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