Phoenix is a city that surprises many visitors. Beyond its reputation as a sprawling desert metropolis, Phoenix offers a surprising number of historical tours that reveal its layered past—from haunted buildings to ancient ruins. We’re particularly fond of the Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts Tour, which combines engaging storytelling with ghost-hunting equipment, making history feel alive—and sometimes, a little spooky. For a more traditional but equally compelling stroll, the Ultimate Phoenix Historic Walking Tour offers a lively dive into Phoenix’s transformation from wild frontier town to modern city.
Whether you’re into ghost stories, architectural beauty, or full-day excursions into Southern Arizona’s past, Phoenix has something to suit your interests. Below, we highlight five of the best historical tours, each with their own unique appeal and character.
1. Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (77 reviews) | Price: $45 | Duration: approx. 2 hours | Location: Phoenix, USA
This haunted walking tour offers a different way to explore Phoenix’s storied past. What makes it stand out is the integration of ghost-hunting equipment like EMF detectors, dowsing rods, and spirit boxes, which are used at several historic stops. The tour covers six key sites, including the Teeter House, Rosson House Museum, St. Mary’s Basilica, Hotel San Carlos, Melindas Alley, and Hanny’s. Each location has its ghostly reputation, from Mrs. Teeter’s haunted legacy to the spirits believed to linger in Hanny’s basement. This tour is capped at 18 participants, ensuring a lively, interactive experience.
What really sets this tour apart is the storytelling combined with tangible ghost hunting. Many reviews mention personal experiences that can’t be explained easily, like an encounter at the Rosson House. With high praise for guides like Sara and Arlena, who are both knowledgeable and enthusiastic, this tour guarantees a memorable night out. It’s perfect for those interested in history with a supernatural twist.
Bottom line: If you enjoy local lore, ghost stories, and hands-on ghost hunting, this tour is your best pick for an engaging, spooky evening.
2. Ultimate Phoenix Historic Walking Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (25 reviews) | Price: $28 | Duration: approx. 2 hours | Location: Phoenix, USA
For those who prefer a more traditional approach to history, the Ultimate Phoenix Historic Walking Tour offers a lively exploration of downtown Phoenix’s architectural and cultural highlights. Over two hours, your guide shares stories of the city’s transition from wild west outpost to modern hub, with personal anecdotes from local figures, including the former owner of Hotel San Carlos and a prominent crime detective.
The itinerary features stops like St. Mary’s Basilica, known for its stunning stained glass, and the Orpheum Theater, a beautiful example of Spanish Colonial architecture. The tour also includes the famous “Her Secret Is Patience” sculpture by Janet Echelmann, giving a touch of contemporary art to the historic mix. Many reviewers appreciate the relaxed pace, insider stories, and the opportunity to go inside some of the buildings.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a lively, informative walk with a personal touch, perfect for those new to Phoenix’s history or looking for a relaxed afternoon.
3. Southern Arizona Full-Day Historical Tour from Phoenix – Private Tour
Rating: 5.0/5 (3 reviews) | Price: $300 | Duration: 9-10 hours | Location: Phoenix, USA
If you’re craving a full immersion into the region’s deep history, this private day trip is hard to beat. The tour covers key sites such as Casa Grande Ruins, Picacho Peak, and San Xavier del Bac Mission, giving you a comprehensive look at Southern Arizona’s cultural and architectural evolution. Entry fees are included, and your guide will provide detailed historical commentary at each stop, making sense of the ancient Hohokam structures, Civil War battle sites, and historic churches.
The highlight is visiting Casa Grande, a prehistoric Hohokam complex listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The trip also includes a scenic stop at Picacho Peak, where you can appreciate the landscape and historical Civil War significance. The visit to San Xavier Del Bac Mission offers a chance to see intricate architecture and learn about its purpose in local community life.
Guests rave about the seamless organization and the opportunity to visit sites most travelers might skip on their own. It’s well-suited for history enthusiasts eager for a comprehensive, all-day experience that combines archaeology, military history, and religious architecture.
Bottom line: This tour is best for those wanting an in-depth, full-day experience with a private guide—ideal for history buffs and families alike.
4. Historical Flight in an Open Cockpit Biplane from WWII
Rating: 5.0/5 (1 review) | Price: $139.44 | Duration: approx. 1.5 hours | Location: Phoenix, USA
For something truly different, this historical flight experience puts you in the pilot’s seat of a WWII-era Stearman biplane. You’ll start with a preflight inspection, then take to the skies over the McDowell Mountains in an authentic open cockpit aircraft. It’s a rare chance to learn about WWII aviation history firsthand while enjoying spectacular views.
The flight lasts about 20 minutes, but the experience of actually flying in a vintage plane is what makes this tour special. Reviews highlight the knowledgeable instructor and the thrill of flying in a genuine training plane used to teach WWII cadets. Limited to just two passengers, this is a personal, back-in-time adventure.
This experience is perfect for aviation enthusiasts or anyone looking to add a once-in-a-lifetime story to their trip. It’s less about history narration and more about experiential history—living it.
Bottom line: If you want a memorable, hands-on history lesson combined with breathtaking views, this open cockpit biplane flight is a must-try.
$139.44 per person
5. Phoenix: History, Mystery and Ghost Hunting Tour
Rating: 4.4/5 (7 reviews) | Price: $45 | Duration: 1 hour | Location: Arizona, USA
This quick-paced walking tour offers a fun, paranormal spin on Phoenix’s past. You’ll visit downtown landmarks, learning about their dark secrets and ghost stories while using professional ghost-hunting equipment. The tour combines history, mystery, and interactive investigations into Phoenix’s haunted spots.
It’s a shorter experience than the first ghost tour, but the focus on paranormal investigations makes it appealing if you’re after something lively and different. The tour covers prominent landmarks and includes storytelling that brings Phoenix’s less-known stories to light. The reviews mention the engaging atmosphere and the thrill of participating in mini investigations.
Ideal for travelers wanting a light-hearted look at ghostly legends and a taste of Phoenix’s darker side without a long commitment. It’s a fun option for an evening activity or for those new to ghost tours.
Bottom line: Perfect if you want an interactive, spirits-communicating ghost walk in downtown Phoenix, especially if short on time.
How to Choose Your Perfect Phoenix Historical Tour
When selecting the right tour, consider your budget, time availability, and specific interests. If you’re fascinated by ghosts and supernatural stories, the Phoenix History, Mystery and Ghosts Tour or the Ghost Hunting Tour are good bets. For a comprehensive look at Phoenix’s buildings and personalities, the Ultimate Historic Walking Tour offers great value at a lower price. Those eager for an immersive, full-day experience should consider the Southern Arizona Full-Day Tour, which covers archaeological sites, missions, and scenic spots.
If you’re into aviation history and want a story you can tell forever, the WWII open cockpit flight provides a unique perspective on 20th-century history in an unforgettable way. And for a quick, lively paranormal experience, the shorter ghost tour is a fun choice.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours in peak seasons. Check availability and tailor your choice to what excites you most—history, ghost stories, or unique adventures.
Phoenix’s history is surprisingly diverse, and there’s a tour for nearly every interest. Whether you want ghostly encounters, architectural stories, or a full-day archaeological outing, these options give you a great starting point. Pick one that fits your schedule and curiosity—and don’t forget to book ahead!