Ghosts of St. Augustine Walking Tour

Strolling through the Haunted Streets of St. Augustine

When it comes to historic towns with a haunted reputation, St. Augustine in Florida is hard to beat. This Ghosts of St. Augustine Walking Tour offers an evening journey through the city’s darker side, guiding you for roughly an hour and a half through some of its most storied landmarks. For just $24.99, you’ll explore landmark sites like Castillo de San Marcos, Huguenot Cemetery, and Tolomato Cemetery, all illuminated by the soft glow of lamplight and told through local legends.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines history and storytelling—the guides are knowledgeable and passionate, making the ghost stories feel authentic and rooted in true events. Plus, visiting places like the Oldest Wooden School House adds a charming, historical dimension that keeps the experience engaging, whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a spooky night out.

One thing to consider is that the tour is scheduled for 8:00 pm, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with night walks and who enjoy a bit of chill in the air. It’s family-friendly, too, making it a good choice for a broad range of travelers. The group typically stays within 25 people, ensuring a personal experience without feeling crowded. If you enjoy discovering local legends and haunted sites with a knowledgeable guide, this tour should definitely be on your list.

Key Points

• Affordable and well-rated at 4.5/5 based on 83 reviews, with 93% recommending it.
• Visiting historic sites like Castillo de San Marcos and cemeteries offers a mix of history and ghost stories.
• Guides are knowledgeable and known for sharing detailed, engaging stories.
• Suitable for families and history enthusiasts looking for a fun, spooky outing.
• Tour length is just right at about 90 minutes, perfect for an evening activity.
• Free cancellation makes it flexible if plans change.

Discovering St. Augustine’s Haunted Corners

St. Augustine, founded in 1565, is not just America’s oldest city but also one with stories darker than most. This tour takes you through these tales, starting at the Castillo de San Marcos, where we learn about the imprisonment of the Seminole Tribe and the ghosts of lovers who supposedly linger around the fortress. The guide weaves in stories of decapitation, betrayal, and war, making history come alive with a spooky twist.

The 20-minute stop at the Castillo is more than just a photo opportunity; it’s an engaging storytelling session. We loved how our guide discussed the imprisonment of Osceola, the famous Seminole leader, and how his ghost is said to haunt the site. The stories of Doombed Lovers add a romantic yet eerie touch—perfect for those who enjoy a mix of love and tragedy in ghost lore.

Next, the tour moves to the Huguenot Cemetery, where the story of John Stickney and his missing teeth from beyond the grave fascinates visitors. It’s a small but powerful stop, especially if you appreciate the spooky stories that have a basis in local legend.

The Tolomato Cemetery introduces us to the “Exploding Bishop” and the ghost of Little James, a five-year-old who died nearby. These tales are vividly recounted, making it easy to picture the ghostly whispers among the tombstones. The guide’s storytelling ability shines here, blending history with ghostly intrigue.

The Oldest Wooden School House provides a charming contrast to the darker stories, highlighting the city’s early architecture and educational history. It’s a reminder that even in haunted towns, the past is preserved in more ways than one. The last stop, the Old City Gates, offers a haunting look at the city’s original defenses, topped off with stories of tragedy and resilience.

The Experience of the Tour

The beauty of this tour lies not just in the locations visited but in how it’s presented. Walking through lamplighted streets under the night sky, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a ghost story yourself. The group size remains intimate—usually around 25 travelers—which means the guide can adapt stories and answer questions along the way.

Guides like Brook and Corina receive high praise from reviews for their knowledge, sincerity, and engaging storytelling. One reviewer appreciated how their guide, Brooke, “gave more details than we had ever heard before,” making the experience both educational and entertaining. Others noted how the stories included great photo opportunities, like capturing a ghostly figure or an eerie shadow at the cemeteries.

The tour’s timing at 8 pm is ideal, as the city’s historic streets cast long shadows, and the atmosphere is just right for ghost stories. The group size keeps it personal, fostering a cozy, sometimes spine-tingling environment. Since all fees are included, there are no hidden costs, and you can focus on soaking up the stories and the views.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At under $25, this ghost walk delivers more than just spooky stories. It’s a cost-effective way to see some of St. Augustine’s most iconic historical landmarks at night, when their stories feel even more alive. The knowledgeable guides elevate the experience, turning simple landmarks into vivid tales of love, betrayal, death, and the supernatural.

The free cancellation policy adds flexibility—ideal if your travel plans are still fluid. Plus, the tour’s short duration makes it manageable even if you’re on a tight schedule, and the lamplight ambiance lends a romantic, old-world charm to the experience.

This tour is perfect for families, singles, couples, and history buffs who appreciate a good story, a lovely evening stroll, and a touch of spooky fun. It’s especially suited for those who like their history served with a side of ghostly intrigue, and who want to experience St. Augustine’s unique atmosphere after dark.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Take This Tour?

If you’re looking for a fun, approachable, and informative ghost tour that combines history with storytelling, this tour checks all boxes. It’s ideal for travelers who want to explore at night, learn about the city’s past, and enjoy some local legends.

The small group setting and knowledgeable guides make it feel personal and authentic, while the historic sites and cemeteries add a tangible connection to the city’s past. Whether you’re a history lover, a fan of ghost stories, or just curious about St. Augustine’s darker side, this tour offers a compelling and well-priced way to experience the city differently.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, making it suitable for kids who aren’t easily scared. It’s a relaxed walk with stories appropriate for a broad age range.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and enjoyable evening activity.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at Ghost City Tours of St. Augustine, 32 Charlotte St, which is accessible and near public transportation.

What is included in the ticket price?
All fees and taxes are covered, plus a knowledgeable guide to tell the stories.

Is it safe to walk at night in St. Augustine?
Yes, the city is generally safe, and the tour is conducted in well-lit, historic streets designed for visitors.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially since some stops involve standing or walking outdoors at night.

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

Will I see actual ghosts?
The tour is based on stories and legends; actual ghost sightings are not guaranteed but part of the fun is in the storytelling.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour typically hosts up to 25 travelers, keeping it intimate and engaging.

To sum it up, the Ghosts of St. Augustine Walking Tour offers an engaging way to explore America’s oldest city after dark. It balances history and legend with storytelling, making it a memorable experience for curious travelers and ghost enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re seeking spooky stories, fascinating local lore, or simply a different way to see the city, this tour provides great value and authentic charm.