GHOSTS MURDERS & MAYHEM WALKING TOURS
Meeting point
Washington Square Park, New York, NY 10012
Duration
2 hours
Start time
Nightly year-round; usually departs at 7:00 PM.
Ticket Price
Adults from $32
*Please check the official site for current prices, seasonal rates, and add-ons.
Tour Operator
Overview
Step into the shadows of the "City That Never Sleeps" on a ghost tour that prioritizes historical accuracy over cheap jump scares. Ghosts, Murders, & Mayhem Walking Tours offers a chillingly deep dive into the macabre underbelly of New York City.
This is not your average ghost walk; it is a lantern-led journey through the actual sites of the city's most notorious crimes and supernatural legends. Whether you are exploring the narrow alleys of the West Village or the blood-stained history of Hell's Kitchen, this haunted tour uses archival photographs and direct quotes to bring the restless spirits of the past back to life.
As a premier haunted history tour, this experience stands out for its rigorous research, often correcting long-standing urban myths with verifiable facts. From the sinister "Hanging Tree" to the hidden mafia hideouts of Lower Manhattan, participants will discover why these NYC ghost tours are a favorite for both history buffs and paranormal enthusiasts.
The atmosphere is authentically eerie, eschewing costumes for high-quality storytelling and "source lists" provided at the end of each tour for your own further sleuthing. If you are looking for paranormal tours near Washington Square Park or haunted walks that delve into the gritty evolution of Manhattan, this boutique experience offers a masterclass in the city's dark heritage.
What to Expect
Prepare for a 90-minute to two-hour immersive trek through Manhattan’s most haunted corridors. Depending on your chosen route, you will visit a curated selection of over a dozen historical sites where the veil between the living and the dead is thinnest.
- Greenwich Village Route: This tour focuses on the neighborhood's quaint but cursed architecture. You will stand beneath the Hanging Tree in Washington Square Park, visit the site of the tragic Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, and pass the "House of Death," home to 22 restless spirits including Mark Twain.
- Hell’s Kitchen Route: Known as the "bloodiest" tour, this route explores the Westies' gang territory. You will hear tales of the Torso Serial Killer, the cannibalistic "Capeman" murders, and visit four active haunted sites nestled among the skyscrapers near Times Square.
- Lower Manhattan Route: Ideal for colonial history fans, this path covers Tweed Courthouse and the original Five Points slum, featuring 9 distinct ghost stories and tales of early American mayhem.
No on-site parking; use nearby public garages or public transit (highly recommended). Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on route; use local facilities before the tour begins. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Standard city sidewalk terrain; contact operator for specific mobility concerns.
Leashed, well-behaved dogs are permitted. (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)
Recommended for ages 10+ due to graphic/mature descriptions of murders. (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