Self Guided Haunted Walking Tour in Portsmouth APP/GPS/EMF Reader

Introduction: Exploring Portsmouth’s Haunted Side

If you’re looking for a unique way to explore Portsmouth, New Hampshire, this self-guided haunted walking tour offers a fascinating mix of history, ghost stories, and authentic local sights—all at your own pace. Priced at just $7.75 per person, this tour lasts roughly 40 minutes to an hour and is accessible via a handy mobile app that uses GPS and an EMF reader to guide your journey.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it combines interactive technology with local storytelling—you decide when to stop, explore, or listen, making it perfect for those who want flexibility. Plus, the tour takes you past iconic landmarks like the Old Red Light District, the African Burial Grounds, and historic inns with a haunted reputation that adds a spine-chilling layer to your sightseeing.

One possible consideration is that some users have experienced difficulty with app setup or audio playback, so having a charged phone and patience for technical hiccups will make your experience smoother. This tour suits curious travelers who love history and ghost stories, enjoy self-paced exploration, and prefer avoiding large groups.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Walk at your own pace with the GPS-triggered audio descriptions.
• Rich stories: Learn about Portsmouth’s haunted buildings, underground tunnels, and buried histories.
• Affordable: At under $8, it’s a budget-friendly way to see many landmarks.
• Unique experience: Combines ghost tales with historic sites like the African Burial Grounds and the Old Red Light District.
• Technical aspect: Requires downloading an app; some reviews mention setup challenges.
• Ideal for: History buffs, ghost story enthusiasts, and independent travelers.

A Deep Dive into Portsmouth’s Haunted Past

Starting Point: Ceres Bakery

Your journey begins at Ceres Bakery on Penhallow Street, a local favorite where you’ll get your first taste of Portsmouth’s charm. This spot is a practical meeting point, close to parking and public transit, making it easy to find your way. From there, your app will guide you through a series of stops, each with its own spooky and historical story.

Historic Buildings and Ghostly Tales

One of the first sights is a building from 1814, notorious for its “ghostly activities” and frequent change of ownership. The review by Sheila notes, “The recorded tour speaker was great,” but mentions downloading a separate app with charges—highlighting that some setup may require a bit of patience.

Another notable stop is a building from 1815 that used to harbor one of Portsmouth’s most popular brothels. The stories here blend local gossip with supernatural whispers, making it a compelling start to understanding Portsmouth’s sometimes sordid past.

Pre-Revolutionary Roots and Underground Tunnels

Built in 1749, this is among the oldest structures still standing. It’s not just the age that makes it special—below its foundation ran tunnels linking various buildings in Portsmouth. These secret pathways add an air of mystery and intrigue, especially when paired with ghost stories of those who allegedly haunt these hidden corridors.

African Burial Grounds

A poignant stop is the African Burying Ground Memorial—believed to be the largest of its kind in the U.S. with over 200 burials of African Americans. Visitors often say this site offers a somber but important reminder of Portsmouth’s diverse past. It’s a free stop, only three minutes long, but deeply meaningful.

Iconic Hotels and Historic Residences

The Rockingham Hotel, built in 1785, hosted presidents and literary icons like Mark Twain. Its elegant façade and storied past are shadowed by ghostly tales of past guests—adding a touch of grandeur and mystery.

The John Paul Jones House, from 1758, is another highlight. Some say the spirit of John Paul Jones himself lingers here, while others report cabinet doors slamming and spirits opening cabinets. These stories add a lively layer to Portsmouth’s colonial heritage.

Theaters and Entertainment Venues

The tour also covers venues like a historic theater that hosted Harry Houdini, Buffalo Bill Cody, and Mark Twain. After the shows, the ghosts apparently decided not to leave, and their presence is felt during ghostly tales told in the dark.

The Portsmouth Brewery: A Haunted Final Stop

The last stop is the Portsmouth Brewery, a lively spot to unwind after your walk. According to reviews, it’s haunted by a “flirty ghost,” adding a playful end to your ghostly adventure. It’s also a great place to grab a drink or a bite while soaking in the local atmosphere.

What to Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary in Detail

This tour is designed for self-guided discovery, meaning you’ll follow the audio prompts at each location, which are triggered as you walk past. The stops include historic buildings, burial grounds, hotels, homes, theaters, and pubs—each with a ghost story or historical tidbit to bring Portsmouth’s past to life.

The App Experience

Most reviews mention that the app is intuitive once set up, but some users have faced initial hurdles, like downloading an additional app or entering codes. It’s advisable to ensure your phone is fully charged and that you’ve tested the audio beforehand. Many appreciate the pause feature which allows you to take a break for lunch or shopping without losing your place.

The Duration and Pace

With an estimated 40 to 60 minutes walking time, this tour is ideal for a leisurely afternoon. You can stop at any point and spend extra time exploring buildings or snapping photos. The flexibility is a major plus, especially if the weather turns or if you want to linger somewhere.

Accessibility and Practicality

The tour is private, with only your group participating, and service animals are allowed. It’s suitable for most travelers, but some reviews highlight that audio issues—like difficulty hearing or connecting—can detract from the experience. Be prepared with earbuds and patience if technical issues arise.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

The Stories and Their Delivery

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable narration, which combines historical facts with spooky legends. The stories are sometimes humorous, sometimes chilling, but always engaging. Reviewers mention that hearing about ghosts and history together makes Portsmouth feel like a living storybook.

Views and Landmarks

While the tour focuses on haunted sites, you’ll also enjoy views of Portsmouth’s charming streets, historic architecture, and waterfront. The route is well-chosen, allowing for stunning sights along the way, especially near the harbor.

Cost and Value

At just $7.75, this tour offers excellent value—a fraction of what a group tour would cost, and more flexible. Many reviewers agree that it’s a cost-effective way to learn about the city’s darker past without sacrificing depth or authenticity.

The Limitations

Some users found the setup process tricky or experienced issues with app connectivity. As one reviewer said, “The maps and directions were all over the place,” which underscores the importance of being tech-savvy or patient. Also, some people prefer guided in-person tours, feeling this format lacks the personal touch.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This haunted walking tour is perfect for independent travelers who enjoy history, ghost stories, and flexible itineraries. It’s especially suited for those on a budget, as it offers a lot of content for a minimal price. If you love uncovering local legends or exploring historic neighborhoods at your own pace, this tour will delight you.

It also works well for families, couples, or small groups who want to combine sightseeing with a spooky twist without the pressure of a scheduled, large-group tour. However, those who prefer personal guides or have difficulty with app setup may want to consider other options.

The Sum Up: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This self-guided haunted walking tour balances history, ghost stories, and local charm at a very reasonable price. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers eager to explore Portsmouth at their own pace, with the thrill of discovering haunted sites along the way. The interactive app makes it accessible and fun, especially if you’re comfortable with technology.

If you appreciate authentic local stories, enjoy free-flowing exploration, and are open to a mix of history and haunts, this tour offers a memorable way to experience Portsmouth’s darker side. Just keep your phone charged and earbuds handy, and you’re set for an entertaining, spooky afternoon.

FAQ

Is this a guided tour?
No, it’s a self-guided tour that uses a mobile app to provide audio descriptions as you walk.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes about 40 minutes to an hour, depending on your pace and how long you linger at each site.

What do I need to participate?
You’ll need a smartphone with the WalknTours app downloaded, a charged battery, and earbuds for better listening.

Can I pause and resume the tour?
Yes, the app allows you to pause the narration at any time and pick up where you left off.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate; the tour is suitable for adults and older children interested in ghosts and history.

Is there any physical challenge?
The tour involves walking a moderate distance through Portsmouth’s streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, full refunds are available up to 24 hours before your scheduled start time.

Are there any additional costs?
The tour costs $7.75 per person. However, note that some app features or extra downloads might incur charges.

What if I have trouble with the app?
You can contact the support team via the email provided, and most reviewers find that with a little patience, issues can be resolved.

Can I do this tour during the day or night?
While it’s designed to be enjoyed during daylight, many reviews mention it’s just as fun during the day—the spooky stories add atmosphere regardless of time.

This Portsmouth haunted walking tour blends history, ghostly legends, and flexible exploration into one affordable package. Whether you’re a history buff, ghost enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to see the city, it’s a memorable addition to any Portsmouth itinerary.