Ghost Tours in Nashville, Tennessee

Originally dubbed “Music City” by Queen Victoria, Nashville, Tennessee is best known for its plethora of music venues and association with some of the most celebrated singers in the country.

However, there is a darker side to this vibrant destination, which you can explore on a ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee. Discover the brutal events of the Civil War, murders and paranormal activity on one of these excursions that will leave you both trembling, and exhilarated at the same time.

Here's all you need to know about ghost tours, one of the most captivating options for sightseeing tours in Nashville, Tennessee.

What are the best ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee?

Ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee

You’ll begin this ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee at the Tennessee State Capitol, the seat of the state’s government.

Here, you’ll learn all about the seventh president of the United States, Andrew Jackson, who is known to have kept over 150 slaves at a time in the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll also discover the bloody history of the Battle of Nashville, which shook the city in 1864.

Moving on, you’ll make your way to Cornerstone Square to hear about the murder committed by Dr. J. Herman Feist, for which he served just one year in prison before his sentence was overturned.

Wander along Printer's Alley, which is known as one of the most haunted spots in the city. It is believed that two ghosts roam this area, both of whom died in the historic Southern Turf building. Visitors often see a man walking a poodle with a sparkly leash here.

Dive into Nashville’s history with prostitution at the building once known as the Climax Saloon, which served as a hangout for gentlemen, with a theater, bar, gambling area and bedrooms.

Before wrapping up your walking tour in Nashville, Tennessee, you’ll learn about the Maxwell House Hotel, which was demolished in the 1960s. This landmark was the place where the Confederate general, Nathan Bedford Forrest, was inducted into the Ku Klux Klan and where the first meeting of the supremacist organization took place.

The group went on to commit multiple terrorist acts, such as the murder of numerous African Americans, including 14-year-old Emmett Till.

Haunted pub crawl in Nashville, Tennessee

If you’re looking for a more light-hearted Nashville, Tennessee ghost tour, why not opt for a bar crawl that covers the city’s spooky history?

After meeting at a popular bar, you’ll introduce yourself to your group and kick the excursion off with a drink. As you sip on a refreshing beer or cocktail, you’ll hear chilling tales about Nashville from your knowledgeable local guide. Then, you’ll amble through the city to reach Skull’s Rainbow Room, which opened in 1948.

The bar was a popular hangout for world-famous musicians, including Elvis Presley, Bob Dylan and Paul McCartney. However, its founder met a gruesome death after he was discovered with his throat slit and skull fractured in 1998. With cold spots common throughout the bar, it is believed by some that his ghost still roams the building and the alley outside.

You’ll also pass by the location of the city’s former Civil War hospital, now a record shop, and hear about the battle, during which more than 380 soldiers died and thousands more were injured.

Which places are visited?

Tennessee State Capitol

The Tennessee State Capitol is considered to be one of the most haunted buildings in the city. Alongside its use as a government office, the construct also doubles as a mausoleum.

It holds the remains of both the architect, William Strickland, and the Chairman of the Capitol Commission, Samuel D. Morgan, the pair of whom were known to argue repeatedly. It seems that their feud continued after their death as visitors often hear loud arguments coming from the building.

Other ghosts thought to be present in the Tennessee State Capitol including the wife of the seventh president of the U.S., Rachel Jackson, as well as James K. Polk — the country’s 11th president.

Southern Turf Building

The Southern Turf Building is known as the spot of two of the most notorious deaths in the city. The first is the murder of David Schulman — better known as “Skull” — who was murdered in his bar, inside the building.

This venue, called Skull’s Rainbow Room, was a favorite of musicians and is now a popular tourist haunt for those interested in the supernatural. The second death in the building is that of Ike Johnson, who committed suicide after having lived there for 20 years.

How much do ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee cost?

Ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee each have their own set prices.

A haunted bar crawl costs US$30 per person and you’ll be part of a small group, limited to nine participants, which enables you to have a more personal experience than on larger group trips.

A standard walking ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee costs between US$30 and US$40 per person, and you’ll also be part of a small group capped at nine guests.

What is included?

Ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee include the services of a professional guide who will lead you through the streets, providing you with an introduction to the city’s darker side. They will guide you to multiple destinations, each of which has a troubled past, and by the end of your tour, you’ll feel like an expert on Nashville.

It’s worth noting that bar crawls in Nashville, Tennessee do not include any beverages, so you should factor in this additional expense before booking.

Where does it start?

Haunted tours in Nashville, Tennessee begin at a multitude of destinations across the city. These are typically well-known landmarks, such as popular cafes or famed attractions, including the Tennessee State Capitol Building.

You’ll be able to see the meeting point of each excursion before booking so that you can plan your route and arrange any necessary transportation ahead of time. While exploring the city is easiest by car, you can also navigate its streets via an extensive network of buses, which are both reliable and regular.

How long does it last?

Ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee typically last between 1.5 and 2 hours, and take place in the evening, starting at 8 PM or 9 PM. This makes it easy to slip one of these excursions into your itinerary, no matter how limited your time in the city may be.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

While some paranormal tours in Nashville, Tennessee are suitable for wheelchair users, others are not. Each excursion has its own restrictions and you can find out whether your selected one will be appropriate for all members of your party by consulting the booking page.

If you can’t find a tour that checks all the boxes, you can instead choose from a wide range of city tours in Nashville, Tennessee that are more accessible for those with limited mobility.

When is the best time for a ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee?

The best time for a ghost tour in Nashville, Tennessee, is typically during the Halloween season in October.

Many tours and events focus on spooky and supernatural themes during this time, providing a more immersive and spine-tingling experience for those intrigued by ghostly stories and haunted lore

Is it safe?

Yes, ghost tours in Nashville, Tennessee are safe, as they provide expert guides and safety equipment. These excursions are not suitable for pregnant travelers or those with heart conditions, back problems or other serious medical concerns.

Notice that for the walking tours travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level. If in doubt, check with the tour provider before booking.

Are children allowed?

For tours including he pub crawls the minimum age is 21 years and must have valid photo ID. If in doubt, for other tours, check with the tour provider before booking.

Travel tips

• Book your tour in advance to secure your spot, especially during peak tourist seasons when ghost tours are very popular.
• Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes, as these tours typically involve walking through the city's historic areas.
• Arrive at the meeting point a little early to ensure you don't miss the start of the tour.
• Be respectful of the ghost stories and the historical locations you visit. Remember that these tales are part of local folklore, so respect the stories.
• Keep an open mind and enjoy the tour for the entertainment and historical insights it provides, even if you're not a firm believer in the supernatural.