The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour

The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour in Bay St. Louis: A Spooky Stroll Through History

If you’re looking for a way to experience Bay St. Louis beyond its charming streets and waterfront views, the Spirit Ghost Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into its haunted past. Priced at just $29 per person, this 1.5-hour guided walk takes you through the historic district, visiting eerie sites like the Cedar Rest Cemetery, the old City Hall, and the Hancock County Courthouse, all while sharing stories of paranormal activity and local legends. It’s a small-group experience, capped at 20 participants, making it intimate and engaging.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the blend of history with ghostly tales and the opportunity to enjoy drinks along the route. The storytelling is delivered by knowledgeable guides, like the enthusiastic Molly, who makes the haunted history come alive with vivid descriptions and fun facts. Plus, the chance to visit places like the cemetery — which many tours don’t allow — offers an authentic connection to the past.

One possible consideration is the walking pace and outdoor setting, which relies on good weather and comfortable footwear. Since the tour is outside and involves some standing, it might not be suitable for those with mobility issues or very young children.

This tour best suits travelers who enjoy a mix of history, local lore, and a touch of the supernatural, especially if you’re interested in hearing spooky stories while soaking up the atmosphere of this historic town. It’s particularly appealing for those who want a relaxed, informative experience without rushing through.

Key Points

• Authentic haunted sites in Bay St. Louis, including cemeteries and historic buildings.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insightful and entertaining stories.
• Affordable price point offers good value for a 1.5-hour experience with drinks included.
• Limited group size enhances personal attention and interaction.
• Outdoor walking route, so weather can impact the experience.
• Suitable for adults and older children interested in history and ghost stories.

A Closer Look at the Spirit Ghost Walking Tour

The adventure begins at 126 Blaize Ave, a convenient starting point in the heart of Bay St. Louis. From there, the tour meanders through the historic district, focusing on sites that are both visually interesting and steeped in stories.

First Stop: Ghosts in the Gallery

The tour kicks off with a brief outside visit to Clay Creations, where your guide shares the story of Ghosts in the Gallery. This gives a taste of the town’s artistic side intertwined with ghostly legends. While just a quick 15-minute stop, it’s a good introduction to the spooky side of Bay St. Louis, setting the tone for the rest of the walk.

Cedar Rest Cemetery

Next, your group visits the Cedar Rest Cemetery, which is a highlight for many. Here, stories about the strange history of one of its former residents come to life. The reviews mention that the cemetery was “really neat” and that it added a meaningful layer to the experience. The opportunity to walk through a historic graveyard with a guide explaining its residents’ tales is quite rare for ghost tours, making it a memorable element.

Old City Hall and Hancock County Courthouse

The tour then moves to Old City Hall, where the legend of what might be lurking inside sparks curiosity. Our guide shares historical context alongside ghostly tales, making the architecture more than just old brick and mortar. The Hancock County Courthouse adds to the story with its ghostly tales and history, all experienced from outside as you walk along the street. This outdoor storytelling approach allows you to absorb the atmosphere without the distraction of indoor visits.

Beneath the Manor

The final stop involves a bit of daring — what might lie beneath the Manor? While details are scant, the name alone invites curiosity, and the stories shared tend to leave a chill or two.

Drinks and Stories: The Perfect Combo

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to enjoy drinks along the way, which adds a social element to the storytelling. While the tour isn’t a pub crawl in the traditional sense, it combines history, ghost tales, and a relaxed atmosphere — something appreciated by those who enjoy stories over a drink.

The Guide and the Experience

Guests frequently praise guides like Molly for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and storytelling skills. Reviewers mention that the tour is “not fast-paced” and that the historical information is “interesting,” making it accessible for most ages and walking speeds. One comment noted that the guide’s stories are “a deep part of Mississippi history,” giving the experience both entertainment and education.

Value for Money

At $29, the tour offers good value, especially considering the inclusion of all fees and taxes. For a relaxed, engaging walk through the town’s haunted sites, it’s a budget-friendly way to spend an evening. The ability to explore historic sites like cemeteries — which some tours don’t permit — adds to the appeal.

What Reviewers Say

While most reviews are positive, a few travelers have expressed disappointment, mainly due to misunderstandings. For instance, one reviewer thought it was a pub crawl and was surprised that the tour didn’t involve visiting multiple bars, which is clarified in the tour description. Others appreciated the knowledge of the guides and found the stories “interesting and fun,” especially for families and groups looking for lighthearted ghostly entertainment.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking outside for about 1.5 hours.
• Check the weather forecast and be prepared for rain or heat — the tour is outdoors.
• Bring bug spray if visiting during warmer months, as some reviews recommend.
• Parking is free, though parking fees may apply if the garage is full.
• Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in.
• If you’re traveling with children, consider their comfort and interest in ghost stories.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs who enjoy ghost stories or travelers interested in seeing a small, authentic part of Mississippi’s haunted past. It’s also well-suited for couples on a date night, groups of friends, or families with older children. If you’re curious about local legends and enjoy storytelling outdoors, you’ll find this experience both entertaining and informative.

The Sum Up

The Spirit Ghost Walking Tour in Bay St. Louis provides a unique blend of history and ghostly tales, delivered by guides who know their stuff. Its affordability, small group size, and outdoor route make it a charming and accessible way to see the town from a different perspective. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories and sites are compelling enough to make your evening memorable.

While it’s not a comprehensive haunted history tour, it’s a well-crafted experience that balances fun, facts, and a touch of spookiness. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic local stories and enjoy a relaxed, social atmosphere. For anyone looking to add a dash of supernatural intrigue to their trip, this tour offers a good, honest glimpse into Bay St. Louis’s haunted side.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, covering several historic and haunted sites around Bay St. Louis.

What is the price?
It costs $29 per person, which is quite reasonable given the guided storytelling and site visits.

Are drinks included?
While drinks are enjoyed along the route, they are not included in the ticket price. The tour offers the opportunity to enjoy drinks while listening to stories, not a bar crawl.

Does the tour involve indoor visits?
No, all stops are outside, including cemeteries and historic buildings, making it weather-dependent.

Is this suitable for children?
Most travelers found it appropriate for older children and teenagers, especially those interested in ghost stories and history.

What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, which helps maintain a more personal experience.

Is parking easy?
Parking is free, but if the garage fills up, there are paid parking options nearby.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and bug spray are recommended.

In short, if you’re eager for an engaging, affordable, and spooky way to explore Bay St. Louis’s history, the Spirit Ghost Walking Tour is a charming choice. It combines authentic sites, compelling stories, and a relaxed atmosphere — perfect for a memorable evening in this historic Mississippi town.