Huntsville Ghost Walk: Old Town Historic District
Meeting point
Harrison Brothers Hardware Store, 124 Southside Square
Huntsville, AL 35801
Duration
1.5 hours
Start time
6 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights in September, and every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 6 p.m. in October.
Tour Operator
info@huntsvilleghostwalk.com
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of America's First Settlement
As twilight descends upon the Victorian gables and silent porches of Alabama’s oldest residential neighborhood, the Huntsville Ghost Walk: Old Town Historic District begins. This isn't merely a stroll through beautiful 19th-century architecture; it is a premier haunted history tour that reveals the restless souls lingering behind the lace curtains of Federal and Victorian-style homes. On this ghost tour, you will step away from the modern "Rocket City" and into a neighborhood where the past refuses to stay buried.
Known for its high concentration of unexplained activity, the haunted Old Town walk takes you through streets where tragic deaths and unfinished business have left a permanent mark. Whether you are a local history buff or a thrill-seeker looking for Huntsville ghost tours, this journey offers a unique blend of local folklore and documented hauntings. From the phantom children seen playing in upstairs nurseries to the lingering spirits of former residents, this ghost walk provides an immersive look into the supernatural side of the Tennessee Valley, making it a must-see for anyone seeking paranormal tours near Harrison Brothers Hardware.
What to Expect
Your journey into the unknown begins at the historic Harrison Brothers Hardware on South Side Square. From there, your guide leads you into the quiet, tree-lined streets of the Old Town neighborhood, where the atmosphere shifts from the bustle of downtown to the eerie stillness of the past. This 90-minute haunted tour focuses on the residential history of Huntsville, specifically traversing Walker Avenue, Calhoun Street, and Clinton Avenue.
- Chilling Tales: Hear the verified story of the "Little Girl" on Walker Street, who is frequently spotted peering out of an upstairs window, and learn about the "Swearing Ghost" whose colorful language has startled modern homeowners during late-night renovations.
- Paranormal Evidence: Discover why these historic homes are considered hubs for paranormal experiences, with tales of cold spots, self-opening doors, and spectral handprints on windowpanes that refuse to be washed away.
- Tour Logistics: Tours generally depart at 6:00 PM on Saturday evenings during the peak season (September and October). The walk covers approximately one mile at a steady, conversational pace.
- Meeting Point: All tours convene at 124 South Side Square. It is recommended to arrive 15 minutes early for check-in and to browse the historic hardware store.
- Physical Requirements: Wear comfortable walking shoes, as these haunted walks involve navigating public sidewalks, some of which feature uneven historic brickwork.
- Parking & Accessibility: Convenient parking is available in the downtown parking garages or at street meters (free on weekends). While the tour is largely accessible, the historic terrain of Old Town may be challenging for some mobility devices.
Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Some stairs are mentioned in reviews so may NOT be wheelchair/stroller friendly (for more info contact tour operator)
This ghost tour is advertised as pet friendly, as longs dogs are on a leash (for more info contact tour operator)
No Building Entry on this tour (for more info contact tour operator)
This ghost tour is advertized as child-friendly (for more info, contact tour operator)
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FaQ's
what is a ghost tour
A ghost tour is a guided experience that explores haunted locations and shares stories of paranormal activity, local legends, and historical events. These tours often take place at night in historic towns, cemeteries, or old buildings, blending history with spine-tingling storytelling. Ghost tours offer a fun and immersive way to learn about a location’s past while enjoying a spooky adventure.
Why do people go on ghost tours?
People go on ghost tours to explore local history, hear chilling stories, and experience the thrill of the unknown. Ghost tours blend entertainment, folklore, and real historical events, making them popular with travelers, paranormal enthusiasts, and anyone looking for a unique nighttime adventure. They’re a fun way to discover hidden stories, learn about haunted locations, and enjoy a memorable, spine-tingling experience.
Is a ghost tour scary?
A ghost tour can be spooky, but it’s usually not overwhelmingly scary. Most ghost tours focus on storytelling, history, and exploring haunted locations rather than jump scares or intense horror. The level of fear often depends on the setting, the guide, and your own comfort with eerie tales. They’re designed to be enjoyable for most people, including beginners who want a fun, slightly spooky experience.
What is ghost tourism
Ghost tourism, also known as spooky tourism, is a type of travel focused on visiting haunted locations, paranormal sites, and historic places with spooky stories. It combines history, folklore, and supernatural experiences, attracting travelers who enjoy ghost tours, haunted attractions, and eerie adventures. Ghost tourism offers a unique way to explore a destination’s culture while experiencing thrilling, memorable moments.
What to Expect on a Ghost Tour?
A ghost tour typically combines history, storytelling, and paranormal legends as you explore haunted locations, old towns, and places known for unexplained activity. Expect your guide to share true local stories, including tragic events, mysterious sightings, and eerie folklore tied to the area’s past. Many tours visit historic buildings, cemeteries, alleyways, and landmark sites after dark to heighten the atmosphere.
Most ghost tours are walking tours, so prepare for 60–90 minutes of light to moderate walking, sometimes on uneven ground or dimly lit streets. Some guides may use ghost-hunting tools—like EMF meters or spirit boxes—to demonstrate paranormal investigation techniques, giving you an interactive experience.
You can expect a mix of education, entertainment, and spooky fun, but not guaranteed scares or staged jump moments. The goal is to immerse you in the history, mystery, and unexplained stories that shape each location. Whether you’re a believer or a skeptic, a ghost tour offers a unique way to discover a city’s hidden past and explore its most haunted corners.
What to Bring on a Ghost Tour?
Preparing properly can make your ghost tour safer, more comfortable, and far more enjoyable. Here are the key items guests are recommended to bring to any ghost walk, haunted history tour, or paranormal investigation.
Essentials:
Comfortable walking shoes for uneven or historic streets
Weather-appropriate clothing: jacket, hoodie, or raincoat
Fully charged phone for photos, notes, or emergencies
Small torch/flashlight for dark areas
Helpful Extras:
Portable power bank for devices or ghost-hunting apps
Bottle of water to stay hydrated
Bug spray for outdoor or older locations
Small backpack or crossbody bag to keep hands free
Optional Paranormal Gear:
EMF detector for interactive ghost-hunting
Thermometer for detecting “cold spots”
Notebook & pen for logging encounters
Red-filtered flashlight to maintain night vision
Safety & Comfort:
Small snacks for longer or late-night tours
Personal medication if needed
Hand sanitizer or wipes for older buildings and high-touch areas