If you’re visiting Newport, Rhode Island, and have a penchant for ghost stories, then the Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour is a truly entertaining way to spend an evening. For about $24 per person, you get an hour-long walking experience through the historic streets, where a knowledgeable local guide shares chilling tales rooted in the city’s dark past. Led by guides like Joe—who impresses with their mix of humor and historical insight—you’ll visit iconic spots like Washington Square and stand on grounds where spirits are said to still linger.
What we really love about this tour is its balance of history and supernatural storytelling. The stories are well-researched, credible, and vividly recounted, making the past come alive with ghostly whispers. Plus, the tour’s central meeting point in Eisenhower Park makes it easy to find and start on time, with guides easily recognizable by their lanterns and black T-shirts. The tour is short and sweet—just one hour—making it perfect for an evening activity after exploring Newport’s other attractions.
One thing to keep in mind is that since the tour is about a mile long, it involves walking through Newport’s historic district in the evening, which might be a consideration for those with mobility issues or if you’re traveling with very young children. Also, it’s held rain or shine, so dress accordingly. Overall, if you enjoy eerie stories, historic ambiance, and a guided walk that offers a mix of fun and fright, this tour is likely to be a highlight of your Newport visit.
This experience suits travelers who appreciate authentic local stories, want a lighthearted spooky adventure, or are curious about the city’s mysterious side. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or anyone looking for a different way to experience Newport after dark.
Key Points
- Authentic ghost stories rooted in Newport’s history
- Knowledgeable guides who add humor and insight
- Eerie locations like Washington Square and Queen Anne Square
- 1-hour walking tour in Newport’s historic district
- Rain or shine experience—dress accordingly
- Suitable for those comfortable walking about a mile and able to stand during the tour
What to Expect from this Haunted Walk
This one-hour ghost tour offers a window into Newport’s shadowy past, blending local history with ghostly tales. The meeting point is in the heart of Eisenhower Park, where guides like Joe—who many reviews praise for their knowledge and humor—gather groups and prepare for the walk. You’ll begin by passing through the core of Newport’s historic district, a charming area during the day but noticeably more mysterious at night.
The tour is designed to be informative and fun. While you may not get access to private buildings, the guides make sure you’re standing on haunted ground, with stories of shipwrecks, executions, and disappearances that still echo through the streets. Expect to hear about ghostly encounters, tragic events, and historical mysteries that have left their mark.
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Key Locations and Stories
Washington Square and Queen Anne Square
These central spots are packed with history. Washington Square, in particular, is often described as a mysterious place, shrouded in legends of spirits and tragic tales. The stories shared here are a highlight for visitors, capturing the imagination with tales of long-gone residents and spectral sightings.
The Artillery Co of Newport
While you won’t enter private buildings, passing by sites like the Artillery Co of Newport allows you to imagine the history that took place there—stories of soldiers and sailors entwined with the city’s maritime past. The proximity to the water makes Newport ideal for ghost stories of shipwrecks and haunted harbors.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Water and Graves
This tour emphasizes the coastal environment and cemeteries, where legends of ghost ships and spirits wandering along the cliffs abound. The haunting atmosphere is heightened by the views of the Newport Bridge and the waters nearby, adding to the overall spooky vibe.
The Guide’s Role
Guests consistently praise the guides, especially for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to weave humor into chilling tales. One reviewer mentioned how Joe “added a bit of humor” which kept the storytelling lively and engaging. This balance is crucial because ghost tours can sometimes veer into being overly serious or too silly; here, guides seem to hit the sweet spot.
The Experience in Practice
During the tour, you’ll enjoy strolling through historic streets, with stops that allow for storytelling and photo opportunities. Some reviews mention wandering around after the official end of the tour, soaking in more sights and capturing pictures of Newport’s scenic and haunted spots. As it’s held at 8 PM in the summer or early evening, expect cool air and maybe a gentle breeze—perfect for stirring ghost stories.
Practical Details and Value
For $24, the tour offers a credible, well-researched collection of ghost stories delivered by passionate guides. It’s a short but immersive experience, ideal if you’re seeking an entertaining evening activity that complements Newport’s other attractions like its historic mansions or waterfront.
The tour’s walkable route and friendly group size make it accessible and personal. However, since it’s about a mile long and involves some standing, it may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges. Also, because it’s rain or shine, bring an umbrella or raincoat if the weather looks uncertain.
Authenticity and Atmosphere
One of the strengths of this tour is how genuine the stories feel—many are rooted in actual events or local legends passed down through generations. The guide’s storytelling, combined with Newport’s atmospheric streetscapes, creates a feeling of walking through a living ghost story.
The lighting, setting, and historical context all combine to make this a memorable experience. It’s not about “paranormal activity,” but rather about exploring the mystery and history that makes Newport such a haunted place.
Final Thoughts on Value
At $24, this ghost tour provides a low-cost, high-value evening activity. It’s a great way to learn about Newport’s dark history while being entertained by local storytellers. If you enjoy history, ghost stories, or just want a fun, spooky walk, you’ll find this tour well worth your time.
This ghost tour is ideal for history buffs who love a good story, travelers seeking a unique evening activity, or anyone curious about Newport’s more mysterious side. It’s particularly suitable for those who enjoy guided storytelling in atmospheric locations. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children, given the walking distance and evening timing.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, the combination of local legends, scenic streets, and engaging guides makes this a memorable way to experience Newport after dark.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Most likely, yes, but it depends on the child’s comfort with spooky stories and walking. Since the tour involves about a mile of walking and engaging ghost tales, very young children or those sensitive to frightening stories might want to consider this.
Do I need to prepare anything for the tour?
Just bring comfortable shoes, a sense of curiosity, and possibly a flashlight if you want to explore some of the darker corners afterward. The guide suggests arriving 15 minutes early in Eisenhower Park.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves walking roughly a mile and standing during storytelling, so it may not be ideal for those with mobility challenges. It’s best to assess your comfort with walking in the evening before booking.
What should I wear?
Dress in comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, especially since the tour is held rain or shine. Layers are recommended for cooler evenings.
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your plans.
What does the tour include?
The ticket covers a 1-hour walking tour, led by a knowledgeable guide with credible, well-researched stories. It does not include transportation or access to private buildings.
Will we see actual ghosts?
The tour focuses on stories and legends—it’s about exploring the haunted side of Newport through storytelling, not paranormal investigations. It’s designed to entertain and intrigue, not to promise ghost sightings.
The Newport Ghosts: Seaside Hauntings and Hags Tour offers a well-crafted, engaging look into the city’s haunted history. With knowledgeable guides and atmospheric locations, it balances storytelling with historical context, making it a standout for those interested in local legends. Its value for money and the chance to walk through historic streets at night make it a perfect choice for travelers seeking an authentic, spooky experience.
While it’s not designed for mobility-impaired visitors or very young children, it’s a fun, reasonably priced way to explore Newport’s darker side. Whether you’re a believer in spirits or simply love a good ghost story, this tour promises an evening filled with intrigue, laughter, and a touch of the supernatural.
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