Reno Ghost Tour
Meeting point
Lake Mansion Arts and Cultural Center. 250 Court St, Reno, NV 89501
Duration
1 hour
Start time
Nightly year-round; usually departs at 8:00 PM.
Ticket Price
Adults from $26; Children (7-17) from $17 (children under 6 free)
*Please check the official site for current prices, seasonal rates, and add-ons.
Tour Operator
Overview
Beneath the glittering neon lights and the rhythmic hum of the casinos lies a side of Reno that the tourist brochures rarely mention. On the Reno Ghost Tour, you will journey into the "Ruin, Revenge, and Reckoning" of a city forged in the fires of the Wild West and the grit of the Great Depression.
This haunted history tour peels back the curtain on the paranormal Reno that exists just steps away from the Truckee River. From the tragic legacies of the city’s founding fathers to the lingering energy of the old Red-Light District, this ghost walk offers a spine-tingling look at the souls who helped build the Biggest Little City—and those who never left.
Whether you are a local history buff or a visitor seeking a unique haunted Reno experience, this tour delivers a masterclass in storytelling. Your expert guide will lead you through downtown’s most active paranormal corridors, sharing well-researched accounts of unsolved mysteries and ghostly encounters. This is not just a search for spirits; it is an exploration of the scandals and secrets that define Reno’s haunted past.
What to Expect
Your adventure begins at the historic Lake Mansion, the 1877 home of Reno’s founder, Myron Lake. From this atmospheric starting point, you will embark on a one-mile haunted walk through the city’s heart.
- Lake Mansion: Stand where the "father of Reno" lived and hear tales of the family tragedies that have left a permanent psychic imprint on this Victorian landmark.
- Washoe County Courthouse: Visit the site of Reno’s first and only public execution. Learn why this pillar of justice is considered one of the most haunted locations in Nevada, with reports of spectral figures appearing in the windows.
- The Mapes Hotel Site: Discover the legend of the "cursed" land where the glamorous Mapes Hotel once stood—a place where Hollywood stars like Marilyn Monroe and Clark Gable stayed, but where dark energy reportedly remains.
- Chinatown and the Red-Light District: Walk the streets once dominated by mobsters and vice, where the restless spirits of Reno’s criminal underworld are said to still linger in the shadows.
- Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts: Hear about the mysterious "Underground Theatre" and the phantom audience members who are sometimes spotted during rehearsals.
- Important Details: This is an outdoor-only tour conducted at a moderate pace. We recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and dressing for the high-desert evening chill.
As the sun sets over the Sierra Nevada, prepare to see Reno through a lens of mystery and the macabre on this unforgettable paranormal history tour.
Street parking on Court St; public garage at 1st & Sierra St. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on route; use local facilities before the tour begins. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Stroller-friendly, though the tour is not officially rated for wheelchairs. (for more info contact tour operator)
Pet-friendly! Bring your leashed dog on this haunted stroll through downtown. (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)
Family-friendly; a great blend of spooky lore and local history. (for more info, contact tour operator)
Get directions
Things to take on a ghost walk
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More Ghost Tours in Nevada
Virginia City Ghost Tour
Public boardwalk at 201 South C Street, Virginia City, NV 89440
Carson City Ghost Tour
Nevada Governor’s Mansion, 606 Mountain St, Carson City, NV 89703.
Reno Ghost Tour
Lake Mansion Arts and Cultural Center. 250 Court St, Reno, NV 89501
Vegas Ghost Tour
Fashion Show Mall. Happy Camper Pizza. 3200 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109
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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