Ghosts of German Village Walking Tour, Columbus, ohio

Ghosts of German Village Walking Tour

Meeting point

Schiller Statue, 1000 City Park Ave, Columbus, OH 43206

Duration

90 Mins.

Start time

7pm Various days 

Tour Operator

Overview

Shadows on the Brick Streets: A German Village Haunting Journey into the heart of one of the most picturesque—and haunted—neighborhoods in the Midwest. On the Ghosts of German Village Walking Tour, you’ll leave the modern city behind for a lantern-lit stroll through 19th-century history. 

This ghost walk takes you past meticulously restored brick cottages and gas-lit alleys where the past refuses to stay buried. Unlike standard Columbus ghost tours, this experience blends the architectural beauty of the German Village historic district with chilling tales of "Geists" and tragic local lore. From the restless spirits of early immigrants to the modern-day hauntings reported by residents, this haunted history tour offers a unique perspective on the secrets hidden behind the ivy-covered walls of this iconic neighborhood.

What to Expect

Prepare for a 90-minute immersion into the spirits of the South End.

  • Historic Landmarks: Traverse the iconic brick streets of German Village, passing by landmarks such as Schiller Park and the historic homes along City Park Avenue and South Third Street.
  • Paranormal History: Discover the dark secrets of the village’s brewing past and the "murder and mystery" that once plagued these now-peaceful streets.

Street parking is common; free spots are usually found south of Whittier St. Paid lots at Kroger or Grange Insurance nearby Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information

No restrooms on tour; please plan ahead. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information

Mostly accessible via sidewalks, but be aware of historic, uneven brick and stone pavement. (for more info contact tour operator)

Service animals welcome; pets not allowed on standard tours. (for more info contact tour operator)

No entry into buildings; stories are told from outside at public vantage points. (for more info contact tour operator)

Ages 12+ recommended due to mature themes. (for more info, contact tour operator)

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FaQ's

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.

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.

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.

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.

When choosing what to wear on a ghost tour, comfort and practicality are key. Most ghost tours involve walking through historic streets, uneven paths, or dimly lit areas, so opt for comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Dress in weather-appropriate layers, as tours often take place at night when temperatures drop. A light jacket or hoodie works well year-round.

Avoid loud or reflective clothing that can distract from the experience, and choose dark, neutral colours to blend into the spooky atmosphere. If you’re joining an outdoor tour, consider bringing waterproof layers, a hat, or gloves in colder seasons. A small crossbody bag is ideal for carrying essentials without weighing you down.

For added comfort and safety, bring a fully charged phone, but keep it on silent to avoid interrupting the tour. With the right clothing and gear, you’ll stay comfortable, safe, and fully immersed in the ghostly experience.

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.

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

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