Ghost Tours in Richmond, Virginia

Tales of jilted brides, menacing children and famous poets running riot from beyond the grave are the norm in the spooky city of Richmond.

The city has seen its fair share of tragedies since it was founded in 1737, each of which has left a string of ghosts in its wake. You can learn about each haunted landmark and the eerie sights, and sounds of the city on a ghost tour in Richmond.

Here's all you need to know about ghost tours, one of the most chilling sightseeing tours in Richmond.

What are the best ghost tours in Richmond?

Phantoms of Franklin ghost tour in Richmond

On this ghost tour, you'll explore the paranormal hotspot of Franklin Street, which is home to some of the city's most historic landmarks.

Itinerary

You'll pay a visit to the grand Jefferson Hotel, which was built in 1895 and still hosts guests today. The hotel's influx of guests isn't the only thing keeping the staff busy.

There's also the ghost of Elizabeth — a guest who hung herself in the hotel after being abandoned at the altar. Continuing on, you'll learn about Linden Row Inn, where the spirit of Edgar Allen Poe's mother is said to reside.

You'll visit several other fascinating haunts as you travel down the 19th-century street.

Haunts of Richmond: Shadows of Shockoe tour

Discover the most haunted neighborhood in the city — Shockoe Bottom — on this Richmond ghost tour.

Itinerary

Starting your excursion at the Old Stone House — now home to the Poe Museum — you'll learn about the tragic life and mysterious death of Edgar Allen Poe.

The museum that celebrates his work is said to be haunted by three ghosts — two blond-haired children and a black shadow thought to belong to Poe.

You'll also visit the Pohlig Box Factory, which served as a hospital during the Civil War. Here, dark figures lurk in one of the units, making strange sounds.

Another point of interest on your ghost tour in Richmond is the Masons Hall — the oldest masonic meeting place in America — built in 1785.

Lights are seen flickering from the windows of the building and loud arguments are often heard deep into the night. Come the morning, the building rests peacefully, however, no one is ever seen to leave in between.

Haunted Capitol Hill ghost tour in Richmond

Alternatively, stroll up Capitol Hill to learn about the disasters that have occurred there over the centuries.

Itinerary

Begin your ghost tour in Richmond at the Berkeley Hotel, where the owner continues to reside, long after his death. Then, begin your journey up Capitol Hill. As you journey toward the Capitol Building, you'll hear tales of the paranormal activity that often occurs in this political seat of Virginia.

The Capitol Building was the sight of a disastrous event in 1879, in which part of the structure collapsed, killing over 60 people. You'll also learn about the great fire that destroyed Richmond Theater at what has now become Monumental Church.

The 76 individuals who perished in the fire are buried under the church although some still like to mess with workmen and clergymen alike. Many feel a sense of unease as they step into the church, and personal items have a habit of disappearing, only to turn up elsewhere on-site.

Which places are seen on a ghost tour in Richmond?

Jefferson Hotel

The Jefferson Hotel opened on Halloween of 1895, perhaps as an omen to the paranormal activity that would fill its rooms centuries later.

The ghost of Elizabeth is the most well known phantom to reside in the hotel. Historians believe that Elizabeth was likely pregnant and saw no other way out for herself as an unmarried woman.

There have also been sightings of a pair of children, who like to play jokes on guests and staff by moving items, and tinkering with the light switches.

As you walk down the halls, you may see the tall man clad in a duster coat who disappears into thin air before guests can catch up to him.

Old Stone House

The Old Stone House is home to the Poe Museum — dedicated to the life of Edgar Allen Poe. The museum houses original artifacts including letters, manuscripts and images.

The Old Stone House is where the genius was taken in by his adoptive family — the Allen's — after he became orphaned at the tender age of 3.

A pair of black cats are often seen roaming the garden, thought to be the spirits of Poe and his wife, Virginia. Other spooky happenings at the Old Stone House include Poe's pen moving location on his writing desk each day.

How much do ghost tours in Richmond cost?

Generally, ghost tours in Richmond cost between US$20 and US$30 per person, depending on the length of the tour.

What is included?

Richmond ghost tours include a professional guide to peak your interest in the paranormal and share thrilling tales from beyond the grave.

Where does it start?

Haunted tours in Richmond meet at a variety of locations, depending on which part of the city you'll be exploring. Before booking, you'll be able to see each tour's departure point so that you can plan your journey beforehand.

How long does it last?

You can expect a ghost tour in Richmond to last between 1 and 1.5 hours.

There are several different haunted areas in the city, and you will be able to explore one of them on your tour. While ghost tours are relatively short, you'll be able to capture the essence of the city's colorful past during one of these excursions.

When is the best time for a ghost tour in Richmond?

The only time to participate in a ghost tour in Richmond is at night time, when you have a better chance of witnessing mysterious happenings. Night time tours also set the scene for an evening of frightening thrills, seeking out the most haunted spots in the city.

Are children allowed?

Yes, usually children of all ages are allowed on ghost tours in Richmond. Please beware that if the children on your group are too young or frightened easily they might not enjoy the tour.

Travel tips

• There is no need to feel uneasy during a ghost tour in Richmond. While paranormal activity is rife in the city, there have been no cases of anyone coming to harm after a brush with the metaphysical.
• Ghost excursions take place on foot, so ensure you wear comfortable shoes.
• Do a little research on Richmond's past before booking your trip, so that you can decide which part of the city you wish to explore further on your ghost tour.