Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour

Memphis Haunted Walking Ghost Tour: A Genuine Spook-Fest in the Heart of Music City

Looking for an experience that blends history with a dash of the supernatural? The Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour offers just that. Starting at Alfred’s on Beale Street, for around $29.63 per person, you’ll spend about 90 minutes wandering through the city’s dark corners, listening to tales of spirits and eerie happenings. It’s a guided adventure that takes you past some of Memphis’s most haunted spots, including the legendary Orpheum Theatre, the John Alexander Austin House, and the famously creepy Earnestine & Hazel’s.

What really sets this tour apart are the passionate local guides who bring stories to life, and the chance to see haunted sites that have been part of Memphis’s soul for decades. We love how the tour combines spooky storytelling with historical context, making it more than just a haunted house story—it’s real Memphis. Plus, the option to stay at Earnestine & Hazel’s afterward for drinks or a bite adds a fun, social element to the evening.

One thing to keep in mind is that this tour is mostly outdoors and on city sidewalks, so dressing appropriately for the weather and walking about two miles is a must. Also, since it’s a walking tour, it’s best suited for those with moderate physical fitness. If you’re craving a spooky yet authentic look at Memphis, this tour hits the mark perfectly—especially for those who enjoy ghost stories mixed with a bit of local flavor.

Key Points

• Engaging storytelling from experienced local guides makes the history come alive.
• Eerie sites like the Orpheum Theatre and Earnestine & Hazel’s add authentic haunted charm.
• It offers great value with a reasonable price, especially considering the stories and sites covered.
• The tour is mostly outside, so weather considerations are important.
• It concludes near Beale Street, providing an excellent opportunity to continue your night with food, drinks, or more music.
• The group size is limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

An Immersive Walk through Memphis’s Haunted Heritage

We loved the way this tour blends history, local lore, and ghostly tales into a compact walk through downtown Memphis. The walking format means you get a real feel for the city’s atmosphere—and with many stops just outside buildings, the experience feels casual yet immersive.

Starting at Alfred’s on Beale Street, the tour immediately places you in the vibrant heart of Memphis’s musical and cultural scene. From there, your guide leads you on a path that highlights some of the city’s most haunted landmarks. The outside-only stops like the John Alexander Austin House provide picturesque moments—an elegant, haunted love story—while the Orpheum Theatre offers a glimpse into Memphis’s entertainment past with ghostly tales that have persisted for years.

The highlight for many is Earnestine & Hazel’s, which isn’t just a haunted spot but also a lively bar with history. Visitors have praised the guide’s storytelling, describing Daniel as professional and entertaining, adding humor and making the stories truly come alive. Multiple reviews mention how guides are very knowledgeable, willing to adjust the tour for smaller groups, and capable of spinning haunting tales that stick with you—some even capturing “apparitions” in photos.

While the price point seems modest, it’s worth noting that drinks and food at Earnestine & Hazel’s are not included, so plan to buy a drink or snack if you want to soak in the atmosphere. The admission tickets for the sites themselves are not included, but since most are outside, this doesn’t add much to the experience.

Detailed Tour Breakdown

The Orpheum Theatre – Memphis’s Haunted Landmark

Your ghostly journey begins outside this iconic venue, which is said to be home to Mary, the 12-year-old ghost. It’s a brief stop, but the theatre’s reputation as one of Memphis’s most haunted buildings makes it a compelling first encounter. Expect to hear stories about the theatre’s long history and the spirits that still seem to linger in its shadows.

John Alexander Austin House – A Love Story from the Past

Next, you’ll visit a beautiful but haunted historic home. The guide shares tales of love and loss, and the ghostly activity reported here. The outside-only approach offers visual intrigue—imagine the stories that these walls could tell if only they could speak.

Earnestine & Hazel’s – The Haunted Bar

Here, the tour gets more social. Not only do you hear about the “most haunted” location on the route, but you also get an opportunity to step inside. Though the ticket doesn’t include drinks, many unmissable stories are shared, and you can enjoy the lively atmosphere afterward. Folks have reported supernatural encounters and even captured “orbs” or apparitions on their cameras, adding an authentic thrill.

The Green Beetle and Puck Food Hall – Crime and Hoodoo

From haunted gangster hideouts to voodoo tales, these stops highlight Memphis’s darker, mystical side. The Green Beetle is outside-only, but if you’re into the gangster lore of Memphis, it’s a quick but fascinating snapshot. Similarly, Puck Food Hall offers a cultural taste of voodoo and hoodoo, with outside views and stories that deepen your understanding of Memphis’s spiritual traditions.

The National Civil Rights Museum – Lorraine Motel

Finally, the tour passes by the site of the Morris Cemetery, Memphis’s oldest, adding a sobering historical layer to the spooky stories. While not specifically haunted, it’s a reminder of the city’s complex past, blending history with ghostly tales.

Authenticity and Value

This tour has earned a solid 4.5-star rating from over 760 reviews, with many travelers praising the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life with humor, professionalism, and sensitivity. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the outdoor focus makes it flexible and atmospheric.

At around $30, the tour offers good value considering the stories, the walking experience, and the chance to explore Memphis’s haunted sites firsthand. The optional stay at Earnestine & Hazel’s afterward adds a relaxed, social element, letting you soak in local flavor after the spooky tales.

Why it’s worth it

If you enjoy history with a ghost story twist, this tour offers a fun, engaging way to explore Memphis’s darker side. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic storytelling and don’t mind a little walking. The stories are suitable for most ages, and the guides’ entertaining style keeps things lively.

Who should skip it

Those seeking indoor attractions or detailed museum visits might find this tour too outdoor-focused. If you’re not comfortable walking or prefer guided experiences with entrance fees included, this might not be the perfect fit. Also, if you’re sensitive to ghost stories or spooky tales, it’s worth noting the tour’s eerie themes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Since it’s a ghost-themed walking tour with outdoor stops, it’s generally family-friendly, but parents should consider the spooky stories and age-appropriateness.

Are tickets included in the price?
No, the tour price covers the guided experience, but admission tickets for the sites are not included, mostly because the stops are outside.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, covering about 2 miles on city sidewalks, so wear comfortable shoes.

Can I join the tour without booking in advance?
Bookings are usually made 10 days in advance, but it’s best to secure your spot early, especially during peak times.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Alfred’s on Beale Street and ends at Earnestine & Hazel’s, both centrally located in Memphis.

What should I wear?
Dress for the weather; since most of the tour is outside, comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended.

Is there an option to stay at Earnestine & Hazel’s afterward?
Yes, guests are welcome to linger for drinks or food after the tour, making it a nice way to extend the experience.

Final Thoughts

The Haunted Memphis Walking Ghost Tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into the spirits and stories that haunt this vibrant city. With knowledgeable guides, an engaging mix of history and ghost tales, and the chance to experience some of Memphis’s most storied sites, it’s a fun option for those interested in the city’s darker side.

Perfect for history buffs, ghost story lovers, or anyone curious about Memphis’s mysterious legends, this tour balances entertainment with education. If you’re prepared to walk a couple of miles outdoors and enjoy lively storytelling, it promises a memorable night of chills and local color.

For an evening that combines history, a touch of the supernatural, and an introduction to Memphis’s iconic spots, this tour is well worth considering. Just remember to dress appropriately, book in advance, and be ready for some spooky surprises along the way.