If you’re visiting Arizona’s historic Tombstone, a town famous for the O.K. Corral gunfight and its rugged past, then the Tombstone Ghost Tours offered by US Ghost Adventures is worth considering. At just $24 per person for an hour-long evening walk, it promises a blend of Wild West legends and paranormal tales in a setting where history and ghost stories collide. The tour begins near the corner of 6th Street and E Allen Street, conveniently close to the Birdcage Theater and Hotel Tombstone, with guides dressed in black and lantern in hand, ready to spin eerie stories.
What we love about this tour is how it balances history with ghostly encounters—you’re not just told ghost stories; you get a sense of the turbulent past of Tombstone. For example, walking through Schieffelin Hall and Boothill Graveyard offers tangible links to the old mining town’s dark days. The expert guides bring history to life, making each story feel authentic and compelling. Plus, the tour’s focus on haunted locations like Big Nose Kate’s Saloon adds a spooky thrill that’s perfect for fans of the supernatural.
A possible consideration is that at just one hour, the tour may feel brief, especially if you’re eager to explore more of Tombstone’s many haunted sites. Some reviews mention that not all locations are covered in-depth, and the pace might be a little slow at times, lingering at each site longer than expected. If you’re seeking a comprehensive all-day ghostly adventure, this might be more of an introduction than an exhaustive exploration.
This tour suits travelers interested in a short, atmospheric evening walk with knowledgeable guides and a touch of spooky fun. It’s particularly ideal if you enjoy local legends, historic ghost stories, and visiting Tombstone’s most iconic haunted spots.
Key Points
- Balanced mix of history and ghost stories provides a genuine sense of Tombstone’s past.
- Expert guides make the stories engaging and authentic.
- Visiting iconic sites like Boothill Graveyard and O.K. Corral enhances the experience.
- Eerie tales of hauntings and paranormal activity add a spooky twist.
- Affordable price point makes it accessible for many travelers.
- Brief duration means it’s a quick introduction rather than an exhaustive tour.
An In-Depth Look at Tombstone Ghost Tours
The Itinerary and Sites Visited
This one-hour walking tour packs in some of Tombstone’s most haunted and historically significant sites. Starting at the corner of 6th Street and E Allen Street, the guide—wearing a black US Ghost Adventures shirt and carrying a lantern—immediately sets an atmospheric tone. From there, the tour typically visits Big Nose Kate’s Saloon, the O.K. Corral, Schieffelin Hall, and Boothill Graveyard.
Big Nose Kate’s Saloon isn’t just the oldest bar in town; it’s also a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors have reported furniture moving on its own, doors opening and closing without explanation, and even hearing screams in the night. Our guides seem to relish telling these stories, making the spooky energy feel palpable.
The O.K. Corral, of course, is the most famous Wild West gunfight site. Beyond the history, the area’s reputation as a haunted spot adds to its mystique. Guides often recount tales of ghostly figures seen lurking around, and some visitors claim to have captured phantom photos in its vicinity.
Schieffelin Hall, known for its historic architecture, is a quieter stop that enriches the narrative with tales of Tombstone’s early days and the spirits said to linger within its walls. Finally, the tour culminates at Boothill Graveyard, a haunt of many ghost stories and a place where some visitors report unexplainable phenomena, especially at night.
What Makes It Special
The guides’ storytelling skills stand out, with many reviews praising guides like Brandon and Ethan for their knowledge and enthusiasm. One reviewer notes that Ethan was “very informative” and took the time to allow guests to capture photos, emphasizing a family-friendly atmosphere.
Another highlight is the authenticity of the stories. The guides weave in tales of haunted children from the Buford family who died of diphtheria, as well as the legendary Swamper miner who still “resides” at Big Nose Kate’s. These vivid stories help visitors feel connected to the rough-and-tumble history of Tombstone while adding a haunting layer.
The setting itself—the historic streets and aged buildings—amplifies the spooky ambiance. Knowing that the tour operates rain or shine means you’re prepared for whatever weather, and many find that the cool evening air enhances the ghostly vibe.
Practical Details and Value
For $24, you get a professional guide leading you through Tombstone’s haunted sites in a comfortable, 1-hour walk. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and you’re encouraged to bring comfortable shoes, water, and an umbrella if needed. It’s a great budget option for those who want a quick but atmospheric peek into Tombstone’s ghostly reputation.
Keep in mind, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the designated corner early. Parking is available nearby, and arriving 15 minutes early helps ensure you don’t miss anything.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Experience and Atmosphere
Walking through Tombstone at dusk, hearing the twisted tales of gunfights and ghostly hauntings, creates an immersive experience. The guides’ storytelling often includes eerie whispers, phantom apparitions, and paranormal phenomena that keep the group engaged. Some guests mention “screams in the night” and furniture that “moves on its own”, giving a sense that Tombstone’s ghosts are still very much alive.
Reviews frequently emphasize the knowledge of the guides—calling Ethan and Brandon “very informative” and “passionate”—which greatly enhances the experience. The stories about hauntings are often detailed and believable, making the tour a fun mix of history and ghostly fun.
Who Will Love This Tour?
If you’re interested in Wild West history, ghost stories, or simply want a short but spooky adventure, this tour is a good fit. It’s especially suitable for families and history buffs who enjoy a good story with their sightseeing. However, if you’re looking for a comprehensive ghost-hunting experience or want to visit more sites, you might find that this tour touches only the surface.
The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?
This Tombstone Ghost Tour offers a well-balanced taste of Wild West legends and paranormal tales for a very reasonable price. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the historic setting, make it an engaging and memorable activity for those curious about Tombstone’s haunted reputation.
It’s perfect for travelers who want a short, atmospheric experience that complements a day of exploring Tombstone’s historic streets. The 1-hour length allows you to easily add this to your evening plans without feeling overwhelmed or rushed. Since the tour is rain or shine, it’s flexible enough to fit into your schedule, regardless of weather.
While it might not be the most comprehensive ghost tour out there, what it does deliver—authentic stories, a spooky ambiance, and excellent guides—is more than enough for most visitors. If you enjoy history with a ghostly twist and appreciate professional storytelling, this tour will serve you well.
In short, it’s a value-packed, atmospheric experience that captures the spirit of Tombstone’s wild past and its enduring legends. Just remember to arrive early, wear comfortable shoes, and keep your camera ready—you might just catch a ghostly glimpse or two.
FAQ
- Where does the tour meet? It begins near the corner of 6th Street and E Allen Street, between the Birdcage Theater and T. Millers.
- How long does the tour last? It lasts about one hour, typically scheduled in the evening.
- Is the tour wheelchair accessible? Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible.
- What should I bring? Wear comfortable shoes, bring an umbrella if needed, a reusable water bottle, and your ID.
- Is there parking nearby? Yes, paid parking is available at the meeting point. It’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.
- Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- Are children allowed on this tour? The tour is family-friendly and suitable for all ages interested in the spooky stories.
- Are the guides knowledgeable? Absolutely, reviews highlight guides like Ethan and Brandon as very informative and passionate.
- Will I see actual ghosts? The tour promises stories of hauntings and paranormal activity, but actual ghost sightings depend on individual experience.
This tour offers a perfect blend of history, legend, and spooky fun—a great way to experience the haunted side of Tombstone without spending hours or breaking the bank.
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