Key West, Florida's southernmost point, is known nationwide for its year-round sunshine, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant nightlife. But dive below the surface and you'll discover a side of the city that is steeped in mystery, intrigue and a touch of the macabre.

If you're looking to explore the darker side of the city, then check out one of the many ghost tours in Key West. These eerie excursions take you through some of the city's most haunted hotspots and are sure to send a shiver down your spine.

Here's all you need to know about ghost tours, one of the most mysterious options for sightseeing tours in Key West.

What are the best ghost tours in Key West?

Small group haunted Key West walking tours

A haunting experience awaits on one of the many small-group haunted walking tours in Key West. These guided adventures take you through some of the city's most iconic and mysterious locations, including cemeteries, old forts, creepy alleys and more.

Some of the highlights of these tours include exploring paranormal hotspots like Duval Cemetery, where you can visit the graves of many notorious Key West figures.

Walking through haunted buildings like the St. Paul's Episcopal Church, Marrero's Guest Mansion, the Artist House, the Dean-Lopez Funeral Home, the Hard Rock Café and Captain Tony's Saloon, to name a few.

Key West: Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl

Combining gothic architecture, spooky folklore and local legends with the city's vibrant nightlife scene, the Bone Island haunted pub crawl is a one-of-a-kind experience that blends pints with paranormality.

This after-dark bar crawl takes you to at least three of the most haunted watering holes in Key West, including Tattoos & Scars Saloon and Captain Tony's Saloon.

Key West Ghost Trolley

This tour is an excellent choice for those who want to see more of Key West than just its haunted hotspots. The Key West ghost trolley takes you through the city's most iconic neighborhoods, including Old Town and Bahama Village, while exploring historic cemeteries and local haunts along the way.

You won't have to walk much, and the live narration will keep you on the edge of your seat as you discover some of Key West's most spine-tingling spots, learning about the town's history of cursed treasure, voodoo, haunted mansions and more, unexplained crime.

Private Key West Haunted History Walking Tour

Escape the crowds and explore the city's haunted heritage with a private tour of Key West. This intimate experience is perfect for those looking for an in-depth and personalized exploration of some of the island's most mysterious places, including haunted cemeteries, historic buildings, and secret hideaways that only locals know about.

While more expensive than group tours, you get the full attention of your guide. In most cases, you'll stop at at least five haunted mansions and two haunted bars. However, since it's a private tour, you can customize your journey.

Civil War Fort Ghost Hunt & Robert the Doll Experience

Robert the Doll is one of Key West's most infamous residents — allegedly, the 120-year-old doll is haunted. Today, he lives at the Fort East Martello Museum.

On this tour, you can see the iconic doll and also explore the historic fort, where you'll learn about its association with paranormal activity and its relevance to the Civil War.

Which places are seen?

There are dozens of haunted locations that are visited or seen on a ghost tour in Key West. Some of the most popular include:

St. Paul's Episcopal Church

This old, 19th-century church has been at the center of many disasters over the years, including hurricanes and the Great Fire of Key West on March 31, 1886. As a result, it comes with reports of strange phenomena such as ghosts and spirits.

Marrero's Guest Mansion

This haunted bed and breakfast, built in 1889 by Francisco Marrero, is said to be home to the spirits of Marrero's family. The presence of his wife, Enriquetta, is felt strongest in and around room 18. Moreover, staff members have heard strange sounds like that of a baby crying.

Duval Cemetery

Located in downtown Key West, Duval Cemetery is a historic graveyard that holds the remains of many infamous figures from Key West's past, including pirates and other criminals.

The Haunted La Concha Hotel

Just around the corner from Mallory Square, the historic 100-year-old La Concha Hotel is known to be one of the most haunted places in Key West. More than thirteen guests have jumped from the hotel roof, with many reports of strange activity afoot.

Other notable spots include the Artist House, The Haunted Key West Lighthouse, the Hemingway Home, the Dean-Lopez Funeral Home, the Firehouse Museum, the Old Monroe County Jail and Captain Tony's Saloon.

How much does it cost?

The cost of a ghost tour in Key West varies depending on the length and type of tour.

Small group haunted Key West walking tours are from US$25 to US$30 per person. Discounts of 20-30% may be offered for kids and the military, depending on the tour.

Key West: Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl is from US$25 to US$30 per person, this usually does not include the price of drinks.

Key West Ghost Trolley is around US$50 per person

Private Key West Haunted History Walking Tour:

Option A: From US$130 per person, best suited to couples or individuals. Such as this option.
Option B: US$275 for a group of up to 5 people plus US$39 per additional person, best suited to families or bigger groups.

Civil War Fort Ghost Hunt & Robert the Doll Experience is around US$45 per person.

What is included?

All of these ghost tours in Key West include access to the haunted locations, as well as knowledgeable guides who can provide historical context and information about the paranormal activity at each site.

Some tours may also include snacks or drinks, transportation, or other extras such as special equipment for capturing ghostly phenomena on camera. Bar crawls include entry to the bar and a souvenir t-shirt but don't include drinks.

Ultimately, it is best to check individual tour listings before booking.

Where does it start?

Most ghost tours in Key West start at popular landmarks or meeting places, such as Mallory Square or Duval Street. Since the town is very small, the meeting location will typically be within walking distance of your accommodation.

How long does it last?

Key West ghost experiences last between 1.5 and 3 hours, depending on the tour. If you are joining a haunted pub crawl, you are welcome to stay as long as you like after the tour ends.

When is the best time for a ghost tour in Key West?

By day, Key West is a tropical paradise. But at night, it takes on a mysterious atmosphere that is perfect for exploring the town's haunted heritage. Therefore, the best time is at night, when the town comes alive with activity under the moonlight.

Are children allowed?

That depends on the type of tour. Children will not be allowed on pub crawls as you need to be 21+ to visit most of the pubs. Children over 6 are welcomed on many walking tours, however, be advised that the tours can be rather confronting for kids, so double-check the fear factor with the tour company before booking.

Travel tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as most tours are on foot.
Bring a light jacket. Even though Key West is warm year-round, it can get a little chilly after the sun goes down.
If you're booking a pub crawl, don't plan anything too early the following morning. The nightlife is famous, so you'll want to make the most of it.
Book your tour in advance to secure your spot and avoid disappointment. Many tours sell out quickly, especially during peak season.

Ghost Tours in Key West