Boston Haunted History Audio Walking Tour

A Self-Guided Ghostly Journey Through Boston’s Historic Streets

If you’re looking to add a spooky twist to your Boston visit without the hassle of large groups or nighttime crowds, the Boston Haunted History Audio Walking Tour could be just what you need. Starting at Boylston Street, this tour takes you through over 60 historic stories at your own pace, with a price tag of only $14.99 per group of up to four people. It’s a flexible, engaging way to experience the city’s more mysterious side — all from your phone.

What we love about this experience is how it combines history and ghost stories seamlessly, giving you a sense of the city’s darker past without the typical tour crowd. Plus, the self-guided nature allows you to linger at your favorite spots or move quickly past the less interesting—your schedule, your pace. Another highlight is the GPS-triggered audio, which makes the tour feel personal, as if you have your own ghostly guide whispering stories into your ear.

One consideration to keep in mind is that the tour doesn’t include attraction tickets or entry fees at these historic sites, so plan to visit some spots separately if you want to go inside. Also, since the tour is entirely self-guided, it’s best for travelers comfortable with using apps and managing their own pace.

This tour suits history buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and independent travelers who enjoy flexible exploration. It’s especially good for those who prefer a personal, immersive experience rather than a crowded group tour. If you love uncovering stories behind historic landmarks at your own rhythm, this tour offers a compelling, budget-friendly option.

Key Points

• Self-guided flexibility means you can explore at your own pace, pausing or speeding up as you wish.
• Engaging audio stories triggered by GPS provide an immersive experience without needing a guide.
• Historic sites and spooky tales blend seamlessly, revealing Boston’s darker past.
• Budget-friendly at $14.99, offering excellent value for a private, personalized tour.
• No attraction tickets included, so some sites may require separate entry fees.
• Ideal for independent travelers who appreciate history, ghost stories, and flexible scheduling.

In-Depth Review of the Boston Haunted History Audio Walking Tour

This tour is designed for those who want to explore Boston’s famously haunted spots without the constraints of a traditional group tour or the risks of wandering at night alone. Starting at Boylston Street, the tour begins with a dark chapter: the discovery of unmarked graves during the construction of Boylston Street Station. As you walk, your phone’s GPS triggers stories about the bodies buried there and the accidents that followed, creating a sense of walking through a ghostly crime scene.

One of the standout features of this tour is how it shifts seamlessly between historic facts and ghost stories. For example, at Central Burying Ground, you’re told about the unsettled spirits of British soldiers and the feeling of unease that hangs in the air—something many participants mention in reviews. One reviewer calls it “an absolute thrill,” emphasizing the storytelling’s ability to bring history to life (or death).

The Boston Common is next, a surprisingly sinister spot beneath its peaceful exterior. The stories of public hangings and ghostly women wandering at night remind us that even the most idyllic parks can hide dark secrets. With 10 minutes at this stop, you get a good mix of history and legend, and the audio guides you smoothly from one story to the next.

Moving along, the Boston Athenaeum adds a layer of supernatural lore involving a book bound in human skin and the ghost of a librarian. It’s a quick stop, but the stories are vivid enough for you to imagine the eerie aura surrounding this culture hub. The Granary Burying Ground is one of the oldest cemeteries in Boston, housing famous revolutionaries like Samuel Adams and Paul Revere, as well as unmarked graves. The stories about disturbed graves and restless spirits make this stop particularly memorable, especially since it’s a place with palpable historical weight.

The famous graves of Samuel Adams, Paul Revere, John Hancock, and James Otis each come with their own ghostly legends. For example, Paul Revere’s grave is said to be haunted by his friend Dr. Joseph Warren, and visitors sometimes report seeing figures or feeling an inexplicable presence. Just walking through this historic cemetery makes you feel like you’re strolling through a ghost story page.

The King’s Chapel Burying Ground predates even the Granary, dating back to 1630. Legend has it that someone was buried alive here, and visitors claim to hear scratching sounds at night. The Omni Parker House, built in 1927, lives up to its reputation as Boston’s most haunted hotel, with reports of mysterious fogging mirrors and ghostly figures. If you enjoy ghost stories about hotels, this stop will give you a sense of the supernatural lingering in its halls.

Beyond the historic cemeteries, the tour touches on sites like the Old State House, which houses a cursed ship figurehead, and the Boston Massacre Site, where you might still hear the cries of the fallen protestors echoing at night. The Old North Church—famous for its “one lantern, two if by sea” signal—has a crypt beneath, and some say restless spirits still linger there.

The last significant stop is Copp’s Hill Burying Ground, where most visitors report an overwhelming sense of unease, even if ghost sightings are rare. The stories here tend to focus on the emotional weight of the burial ground for everyday Bostonians and the lingering feeling of unresolved history.

What’s particularly charming about this tour is that it doesn’t just rely on storytelling—it’s interactive and flexible. You can pause to take photos, explore side streets, or linger at a site without worrying about holding up a group. Reviewers mention that the audio is “easy to use” and “works perfectly offline”, which is crucial when exploring a city’s historic streets.

On the practical side, the price point of $14.99 makes this an excellent value, especially considering the personalized experience it offers. It’s a private, self-guided tour—meaning you’re not stuck with strangers—ideal for couples, families, or small groups. You’ll need to bring your own headphones or earbuds, which most travelers already carry.

However, since admission tickets aren’t included, if you want to enter some sites — like museums or historic buildings — you’ll need to plan for additional costs. Also, it’s worth noting that the tour is best suited for daylight hours when walking around comfortably and safely.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is a perfect match for history aficionados who enjoy ghost stories and want to control their own sightseeing pace. It’s also ideal for independent travelers looking for a unique, budget-friendly activity without the pressure of a scheduled guide or large crowds. If you’re traveling with a small group and want to create your own spooky adventure, this tour offers both flexibility and a good dose of haunting tales.

It’s less suited for those who prefer guided tours with a lot of inside information or for visitors who want to visit interior sites with included entry. Still, if you enjoy walking through historic neighborhoods and hearing ghostly legends as you go, this tour will keep you engaged from start to finish.

The Sum Up

The Boston Haunted History Audio Walking Tour offers a compelling mix of history and ghost stories at an accessible price, perfectly suited to travelers who value flexibility and authenticity. With a carefully curated itinerary that covers iconic sites like the Boston Common, Granary Burying Ground, and Old North Church, you get a well-rounded, spine-tingling experience that can be tailored to your schedule.

Its self-guided format means you can take your time, soak in the stories, and explore some of Boston’s most storied landmarks without feeling rushed or crowded. The app’s GPS-triggered narration enhances the experience, making it feel personal and immersive. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of the storytelling and the value for money, making it a smart choice for those who want a taste of Boston’s haunted past without breaking the bank.

For adventure seekers, history lovers, and ghost story enthusiasts, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who prefer independent exploration and enjoy a little spooky storytelling along their day. If you’re up for a slightly eerie, deeply educational stroll through Boston’s haunted streets, this tour will not disappoint.

FAQ

Does the tour include any entrance fees?
No, it does not include attraction tickets or entry fees. You’ll explore the sites from the outside, but some locations may require separate tickets if you wish to go inside.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While the stories are generally suitable for most audiences, the haunted theme might be a bit spooky for very young children. Use your discretion based on your kids’ comfort levels with ghost stories.

Can I do this tour on any day?
Yes, the tour is available anytime, and you can start whenever you like within the opening hours. It’s flexible and designed for your convenience.

How do I access the tour?
After booking, you’ll receive an email and text with instructions and a password. Download the Actions Tour Guide App, enter the password, and start the tour onsite. The app works offline after download.

How long does the tour take?
The tour is designed to last approximately 1 to 2 hours, depending on how much you linger at each stop.

What should I bring?
Bring headphones or earbuds for a better experience, and wear comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be walking through historic streets, so dress for the weather, especially if it’s rainy or chilly.

In the end, the Boston Haunted History Audio Walking Tour delivers a memorable, flexible way to experience the city’s darker side. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want to explore at their own pace, enjoy engaging stories, and add a ghostly twist to their Boston adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story fanatic, or someone seeking a unique urban adventure, this tour offers a genuine and fun experience well worth the modest price.