Walk the Oldest Streets of South St. Augustine Haunting Tour

St. Augustine, often called the oldest continually inhabited European-established settlement in the United States, offers a perfect setting for a haunted walking tour. For just $20, you get a one-hour to one-hour-ten-minute journey through some of the most historic and ghostly spots in this charming city. Led by knowledgeable guides—like Ephraim, who often gets high praise—you’ll explore South St. Augustine’s narrow streets by lantern light, listening to stories that blend history with spine-tingling tales of spirits lurking in the shadows.

Two things we love about this tour are the personal touch of walking through the streets at night, which brings a real sense of intimacy and authenticity, and the variety of haunted locations packed into just over an hour. From historic homes to old hospitals, each stop feels like a window into a past filled with secrets. The lantern-led approach adds a wonderfully atmospheric touch, creating shadows and flickering lights that make the stories even more compelling.

A possible consideration is that this tour involves walking less than a mile over uneven streets, which means good shoes are a must. Also, since the experience is limited to nighttime, it’s not suited for those sensitive to spooky tales or who prefer daytime tours. Still, if you’re intrigued by the paranormal or looking for a unique way to explore St. Augustine’s historic neighborhoods, this tour delivers plenty of value and surprises.

This haunting tour is especially well-suited for history buffs, ghost aficionados, and families wanting a memorable evening. It’s also ideal for travelers who appreciate guided storytelling that mixes history, local legend, and a touch of the supernatural—delivered by guides who genuinely seem passionate about their city’s haunted tales.

Key Points

• Authentic Nighttime Experience: Walking through historic streets with lanterns creates an atmospheric setting.
• Well-Informed Guides: Guides like Ephraim bring enthusiasm and detailed knowledge, making stories more engaging.
• Affordable and Concise: At only $20 and just over an hour long, it offers great value without feeling rushed.
• Historic and Haunting: The stops include iconic homes, old hospitals, and former jails, each with its own ghostly story.
• Interactive Element: Use of dowsing rods and ghost apps adds a fun, interactive layer to the experience.
• Suitable for Most: Walks less than a mile, but streets are uneven—good shoes recommended.

A Complete Review of the South St. Augustine Haunted History Tour

The Itinerary in Detail: What You’ll Really See and Hear

This tour takes you through South St. Augustine, starting at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa, where you’ll hear about the mysterious downfall of a wealthy Boston banker swindled by Henry Flagler—an intriguing tale blending high society with tragedy. This stop sets the tone for the night: exploring the city’s haunted side with a mix of history and ghost stories.

From there, you’ll visit the Old City House Inn & Restaurant, a building constructed of Coquina stone—a material that’s as old as the city itself. Here, you’ll find out about who might still be watching from the shadows, adding a layer of mystery to what’s now a cozy spot for visitors.

Next, we move to 214 St. George Street, home to the Casa de Horruytiner, a Spanish home from the early 1600s. The aroma of roses sometimes seems to linger here, perhaps a ghostly remnant of past residents. The guide’s storytelling makes it feel like you’re stepping back in time.

The Segui-Kirby Smith House is our next stop, home to a famous Confederate General, whose spirit is said to linger. Interestingly, the guide mentions that the mother of the general “still keeps watch,” bringing a personal touch to the ghostly tale.

The Spanish Military Hospital Museum is a particularly haunting spot—being on the oldest street in the U.S., it’s steeped in history and stories of suffering and death. Spending 10 minutes here, you’ll hear about its dark past, making it one of the most emotionally impactful stops.

The Old City Jail (now home to Antiques and Uniques Collectibles) is famous among paranormal investigators for its activity. Although the shop is closed now, the stories of ghostly activity are enough to keep seasoned investigators cautious. The guide notes that highly active investigators won’t enter—perhaps a sign of how intense the spirits are.

Finally, you’ll visit the Ximenez-Fatio House Museum, a beautiful three-story coquina stone home. Past residents and lingering spirits are said to still inhabit this historic property. This stop is often highlighted because, as one reviewer mentions, it “brings another side of St. Augustine and its paranormal history.”

Throughout the tour, guides like Ephraim infuse history, humor, and technology—including ghost apps and dowsing rods—making for an interactive experience that’s both informative and fun. You might even participate in feel-good (or spine-chilling) experiments, adding a playful element to the haunting tales.

The Atmosphere and Experience

The lantern-lit streets create a perfect eerie glow, making the stories come alive and heightening the sense of mystery. The walk is designed to be a visual and auditory experience, where shadows seem to flicker and the city’s old stones whisper secrets.

One reviewer describes the tour as “very informative and engaging,” noting that Ephraim’s enthusiasm made the stories come alive. Others particularly appreciated that the tour avoids the usual haunted spots and instead focuses on lesser-known, but equally spooky, locations—adding a fresh perspective for repeat visitors.

Group Size and Comfort

With a maximum of 14 travelers, the tour maintains an intimate atmosphere, allowing plenty of opportunity to ask questions and engage with your guide. The walk is less than a mile, but because streets are uneven, sturdy shoes are recommended. The timing at 7 p.m. allows you to experience the city at night, when the shadows deepen and ghost stories become even more compelling.

Value and Price

At just $20 per person, this tour offers fantastic value. When compared to other haunted experiences that might include transportation or longer durations, the focused, walkable format delivers a concentrated dose of history and hauntings. Reviewers consistently mention that guides like Ephraim are knowledgeable and entertaining, which further boosts the perceived value.

Practical Considerations

• Good shoes are a must due to uneven streets.
• The tour is weather-dependent; poor weather could lead to cancellations, but you’ll get a full refund if that happens.
• No food or beverages are included, and alcohol is not allowed on the tour.
• It’s open to service animals, making it suitable for all travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you enjoy history, ghost stories, and walking through historic neighborhoods at night, this tour is a wonderful choice. It’s particularly appealing to those who want a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides, and families with kids (since stories are spooky but not overly scary, based on reviews). It’s perfect for travelers who appreciate a blend of education and entertainment with a local flavor.

FAQs About the Haunted St. Augustine Walking Tour

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $20 per person, making it an affordable way to enjoy an evening exploring St. Augustine’s haunted spots.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 1 hour to 1 hour ten minutes, giving you a good taste of the city’s ghostly side without a long commitment.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins and ends at the Casa Monica Resort & Spa at 95 Cordova Street, right in the heart of historic St. Augustine.

What is included in the tour?
The experience includes guided storytelling by lantern light, use of ghost apps, and dowsing rods at times—adding an interactive element. The stops are all free to explore, with no additional admission fees.

Is this tour suitable for kids?
Yes, many reviews mention families and kids enjoyed it. The stories are spooky but generally appropriate for children; it’s not overly frightening.

Do I need special shoes?
Yes, because streets are uneven, comfortable, sturdy shoes are recommended to enjoy the walk comfortably.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If it’s canceled due to rain or storms, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. No specific age restrictions are noted, but keep in mind it’s a walking tour with spooky stories.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Final Thoughts

For those looking to add a little thrill to their visit to St. Augustine, this Walk the Oldest Streets of South St. Augustine Haunted Tour offers a charming, atmospheric way to experience the city’s history through a spooky lens. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy guided stories, historic architecture, and a touch of the supernatural—all delivered by guides passionate about their city’s haunted past. The combination of affordable pricing, personalized storytelling, and the unique nighttime ambiance makes it a strong choice for a memorable evening.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a ghost lover, or just looking for a different way to explore, this tour promises a night full of stories, shadows, and surprises. It’s a wonderful, small-group experience that brings St. Augustine’s haunted past vividly to life—perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers curious about the city’s ghostly secrets.