Boston: Ghosts & Gravestones Nightwalk Tour

Are you looking for a way to add a spooky twist to your Boston visit? The Ghosts & Gravestones Nightwalk Tour offers a 90-minute journey through the dark corners of the city’s history, guided by knowledgeable storytellers. For just $30 per person, you’ll walk through some of Boston’s most haunted sites, uncover chilling tales of restless spirits, mysteries, and cursed artifacts that have intrigued locals for centuries. With a 4.6-star rating, this tour combines entertainment and history, making it a popular choice for thrill-seekers and history buffs alike.

What we love about this experience is the exclusive after-hours access to some of Boston’s oldest burial grounds and historic locations, giving you a rare peek into the city’s haunted past when the crowds are gone. The stories are delivered with a mix of humor and respect, brought to life by passionate guides like Susan or Mike, who seem genuinely eager to share Boston’s spooky secrets. The walking pace is manageable, and the 90-minute length keeps things engaging without becoming overwhelming.

A potential consideration is that the tour’s stories contain some gruesome details and true crime elements, making it PG-13—not suitable for very young children or those sensitive to scarier tales. Also, since it is a walking tour, comfortable shoes are advisable, especially if you’re visiting in cooler evenings. This experience is best suited for adults, teenagers, and anyone who enjoys a good ghost story with a historical twist.

If you’re someone who appreciates stories rooted in real history, enjoys a good scare, or just wants to see Boston from a different perspective after dark, this tour could be perfect for you. It’s especially appealing if you like immersive experiences that mix storytelling with some exploration of authentic haunted sites.

Key Points

• Authentic Haunted Sites: Explore Boston’s most haunted locations, including burial grounds and historic landmarks.
• Engaging Guides: Knowledgeable storytellers bring history and ghost stories to life with enthusiasm and detail.
• Exclusive Access: After-hours entry into historic burial sites adds a special, intimate dimension.
• Rich Stories: Tales of cursed artifacts, unsolved mysteries, and ghostly encounters keep the tour lively.
• Value for Price: At $30, it offers a unique, memorable experience that combines history, thrill, and local charm.
• Suitable for Adults: PG-13 stories and some gruesome details mean it’s best for older kids and adults.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deeper Look at the Boston Ghosts & Gravestones Nightwalk Tour

Walking through Boston’s streets at night has a different feel—and this tour captures that ambiance perfectly. The meeting point at the Boston Massacre Memorial sets the tone. From there, your guide—often someone like Susan, who has a knack for storytelling—leads you through historic sites, sharing tales that have been passed down for generations.

Duration and Group Size: The 90-minute walk is just enough time to visit a handful of sites without feeling rushed, and small group sizes mean you’re likely to get personalized storytelling and answers to your questions. Because it’s a walking tour, you’ll want to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera if you’re keen to snap photos of the sites or capture the eerie atmosphere.

Itinerary Breakdown

The Start at the Boston Massacre Memorial

The tour kicks off near the Old State House, where your guides set the scene with stories of early Boston unrest and ghostly legends attached to this historic spot. We loved the way the guide connected the site’s violent history with paranormal tales, making the past feel surprisingly close.

Haunted Burial Grounds

One of the highlights is the exclusive after-hours access to two of Boston’s oldest burial grounds. These sites are notoriously haunted; the dark silence and flickering lanterns create a spine-tingling atmosphere. You might find yourself pondering over stories of restless spirits wandering among the tombstones, or hearing about cursed artifacts like the figurehead of the Maritana—a story that combines maritime legend with a haunting twist.

The Omni Parker House

The tour also explores Boston’s most haunted hotel, the Omni Parker House. This historic inn has hosted numerous famous figures, but it’s also reputedly haunted by spirits who have stayed behind long after their last room service. The guides share stories of strange noises and unexplained occurrences, giving you a glimpse into the hotel’s ghostly reputation. Several reviews mention how the guide’s storytelling made the history genuinely immersive.

The Murder of George Parkman

A particularly gripping story covered during the walk is the murder of George Parkman—a case that shocked Boston in the 19th century. The guide recounts the details with vivid imagery, enhancing the eerie feeling of the city’s darker side. This story exemplifies how real crimes can intertwine with ghostly lore, making the tour more than just ghost stories.

The Perspective of Past Tour Participants

Many past visitors have praised the knowledgeable guides, describing them as engaging, respectful, and clearly passionate. One reviewer noted, “Our guide Susan was fantastic—she brought all the stories to life and made us feel like we were part of Boston’s haunted history.” Others appreciated the quiet, atmospheric walk that allowed for reflection amid the darkened streets.

What Makes the Tour Stand Out?

The after-hours access is a major plus, as it transforms what could be a simple walk into an intimate, haunting experience. The stories themselves are well-researched, blending local legends with actual historical events, which adds depth and authenticity. The inclusion of tales like the cursed figurehead or unsolved mysteries offers more than just spooky stories—they also reveal Boston’s layered history.

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Practical Considerations

While the price of $30 is reasonable for such a tailored experience, keep in mind that it is a walking tour—meaning you’ll be on your feet, often in uneven or cobbled streets. The tour is scheduled in the evening, so dress warmly and bring a flashlight or camera. Since the stories contain some gruesome details, it’s not ideal for very young children or those sensitive to horror.

Why You Should Consider This Tour

This tour is a fine choice if you’re eager for a dark, atmospheric exploration of Boston that combines history with a splash of the supernatural. It’s especially suited for adults and teenagers who enjoy true crime stories, ghost tales, or historic mysteries. If you have limited time but want an authentic, story-driven experience that goes beyond typical sightseeing, this 90-minute walk offers remarkable value.

On top of that, the small group size and exclusive access make it feel personal, and the expert guides ensure that the stories are delivered with both enthusiasm and respect. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for Boston’s hidden past—and perhaps a few chills along the way.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect evening activity without taking up your entire night.

Where do we meet for the tour?
You meet at the Boston Massacre Memorial Site, at the base of the Old State House, across from Old Town Trolley stop #5 on State and Congress Streets.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is considered PG-13 due to gruesome stories and adult themes. Children under 6 are not permitted, and it might be too intense for very young kids.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, as you’ll be walking over uneven streets. A camera is optional if you want to capture the eerie sights.

Are there any restrictions?
Yes, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed during the tour. People with mobility impairments or heart problems should consider their suitability, given the walking and dark setting.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility.

What’s included in the ticket price?
You get access to two of Boston’s oldest burial grounds after hours, and a portion of your ticket supports historic preservation. The tour also includes visits to notable sites like the Omni Parker House.

Is the tour offered in other languages?
Currently, the tour is conducted in English.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s best suited for older children, teenagers, and adults. The stories can be gruesome, so use your judgment based on your family’s preferences.

How many people typically join the tour?
The group size is kept small to maintain an intimate experience, usually no more than 15-20 participants.

To sum it up, the Boston Ghosts & Gravestones Nightwalk Tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, spine-tingling stories, and authentic haunted sites. With knowledgeable guides, exclusive access, and a manageable length, it’s a memorable way to experience Boston’s darker side after sunset. Whether you’re a fan of true crime, ghost stories, or just want to see a different side of the city, this tour delivers value and atmosphere in spades. Just remember to dress warmly, wear comfortable shoes, and get ready for a night of eerie tales and ghostly encounters—an experience you’ll likely remember long after dawn.

You can check availability for your dates here: