Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime & Ghost Tour

Overview of the Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime & Ghost Tour

If you’re drawn to stories of the past that linger in the shadows, this 75-minute walking tour of Flagstaff’s Southside is an intriguing choice. Led by lively guides whose names aren’t specified but whose enthusiasm is contagious, you’ll explore historic sites once part of the notorious Red Light District before Route 66 transformed the area. For $28 per person, you get a compact, engaging experience packed with tales of ghosts, crime, and colorful history.

What we love about this tour is how it mixes authentic history with spooky storytelling—the stories of Dutch May Prescott and spectral encounters at the Old Anderson Building give a real sense of stepping into a past that refuses to stay buried. Plus, walking through a lively neighborhood now filled with restaurants and breweries makes for a fascinating contrast.

A consideration is that, due to the length and storytelling style, the tour doesn’t include entry into any historic buildings. If you’re expecting to step inside haunted sites, this tour might be more about storytelling and outdoor exploration. It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Flagstaff’s colorful, sometimes dark, past.

This tour suits those who appreciate authentic stories, a lively guide, and an evening stroll that blends history with a dash of mystery. It’s also a good pick for travelers with limited time, as the 75-minute duration keeps things manageable while still delivering a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historical depth: Focuses on Flagstaff’s Red Light District and its ghostly echoes.
• Unique stories: Includes tales of Dutch May Prescott, a fascinating local figure.
• No inside access: The tour doesn’t enter any buildings but emphasizes outdoor storytelling.
• Vivid storytelling: Guides share folklore, true crime, and spectral legends with enthusiasm.
• Accessible and flexible: Wheelchair accessible, with options to cancel or reserve with flexibility.
• Great for evening outings: Usually available at night, perfect for a spooky, atmospheric experience.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Exploring Flagstaff’s Shadowy Past

This tour begins next to a large mural opposite Mother Road Brewing Company, a location easy to find with ample street parking nearby. From the start, your guide kicks off the evening with a lively introduction, setting the tone for a mix of history, crime, and ghost stories. As you walk the streets of the Southside, you’ll learn how before the famous Route 66, this area was famous (or infamous) as a Red Light District full of gamblers, outlaws, and lively characters.

Uncovering Historic Sites and Ghostly Secrets

The tour covers landmarks like the Hicks Boarding House and the historic brewing barrel house, where the boundary between past and present blurs. While you won’t enter these sites, standing outside allows you to imagine the bustling scenes from decades past, now quiet except for the whispers of spirits and old legends. The stories shared here aren’t just ghost tales—they also include true crime aspects, giving a fuller picture of Flagstaff’s colorful history.

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The Old Anderson Building and Its Haunting Legacy

One highlight is the Old Anderson Building, reputed to be a hotspot of spectral encounters. As your guide narrates unexplained phenomena reported by witnesses, it’s easy to feel a shiver run down your spine while standing in the shadows of this historic site. The guide’s storytelling skill makes these tales come alive, offering just enough detail to spark your imagination without overdoing the theatrics.

The Tragic Tale of Dutch May Prescott

Part of what makes this tour stand out is its focus on Dutch May Prescott, a revered madame whose life story is intertwined with Flagstaff’s nightlife and mystery. Her story is exclusive to this tour, providing a rare glimpse into a figure who was both prosperous and shadowed in secrecy. The guide recounts her tragic, unresolved story with care, making it both a historical and ghostly highlight.

Ghosts, Crime, and the Eerie Atmosphere

Throughout the walk, you’ll visit several key sites linked to notorious gunfights and violent episodes. Though the tour doesn’t enter buildings, standing outside these historic locales, you can almost hear the echoes of gunfire or see the flicker of old lanterns. Many reviews mention how the atmosphere and storytelling create a vivid sense of walking through a haunted past.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is designed for comfort and accessibility. It lasts about 75 minutes, covering roughly 1 mile (1.6 km). It’s a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for Flagstaff’s variable weather—quickly changing and often cold, even in summer. Bringing a water bottle is recommended, especially at higher elevations (Flagstaff sits at 7,000 feet).

The meeting point is easy to find, right across from Mother Road Brewing, with options for street parking and nearby bus depots. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it a good choice for a variety of travelers.

What’s Not Included

Since the tour emphasizes storytelling outdoors, there’s no inside access to historic buildings or haunted houses. This might be a downside if you’re hoping for a more immersive inside experience, but for many, the outdoor tales and atmospheric walk make up for it.

Booking and Cancellation

Reservations are flexible—you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the booking process allows you to reserve now and pay later, offering peace of mind and flexibility.

Why This Tour Offers Real Value

For the price of $28, you’re getting an entertaining, well-narrated 75-minute walk that combines history, ghost stories, and true crime in a lively neighborhood setting. The storytelling is engaging without being overly sensational, making it suitable for curious travelers of all ages. Plus, the guide’s enthusiasm helps bring the stories to life, making the past feel immediate and vivid.

While it does not include inside visits, the outdoor exploration and storytelling create a hauntingly memorable atmosphere, especially for those who enjoy a good ghost story mixed with local history.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, ghost story lovers, and night wanderers interested in Flagstaff’s colorful past. It suits travelers who appreciate authentic storytelling and atmospheric walks rather than inside tours of haunted sites. It’s also great for those with limited time or who prefer a cost-effective, engaging outdoor experience.

If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, and enjoy a mix of history and spooky tales, this tour offers an accessible and fun way to spend an evening in Flagstaff.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for travelers with mobility needs.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 75 minutes, covering about 1 mile (1.6 km). Wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

Are inside visits included?
No, the tour focuses on outdoor storytelling and does not include entry into any buildings.

What is the meeting point?
You meet next to the large mural across from Mother Road Brewing Company, with parking available nearby.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
While the description doesn’t specify age restrictions, the stories are suitable for most audiences interested in history and ghost tales.

When is the tour usually available?
Typically in the evening, perfect for experiencing the spooky ambiance of Flagstaff’s historic streets.

In summary, the Southside Flagstaff Haunted History, True Crime & Ghost Tour offers an engaging blend of local history, ghost stories, and true crime tales that will appeal to those interested in the darker corners of Flagstaff’s past. For a modest price, you get a well-told, atmospheric walk that leaves you with a little shiver and a lot more knowledge about this intriguing corner of Arizona.

You can check availability for your dates here: