After Dark Ghost Tour- Old Towne
Meeting point
Duration
90 Mins.
Start time
Nightly tours June–Oct; book in advance to secure your spot
Tour Operator
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Shadows of Traverse City’s Old Towne
As the sun dips below the horizon and the gaslights of the historic district flicker to life, join the Haunted Traverse Tour Company for the spine-chilling After Dark Ghost Tour - Old Towne. This isn't your typical history lesson; it is a dedicated ghost walk designed for those who crave the atmospheric and the eerie. While other Traverse City ghost tours might focus on dates and architecture, this haunted tour plunges deep into the tragic happenings, shadowy encounters, and mysterious paranormal activity that linger in the "Old Towne" neighborhood.
Led by a master storyteller, you’ll traverse the quiet, tree-lined streets of one of the city's most storied districts. This haunted history tour is a must-see for paranormal enthusiasts looking for ghost tours near you that prioritize chills over dry facts. Whether you are a local or a visitor, this haunted Old Towne walk offers a unique glimpse into the "spirited" side of Michigan’s favorite vacation destination, where the local undertakers of the past may still be tending to their restless charges.
What to Expect
Your journey into the darkness begins at the intersection of Union and 6th Street, beneath the watchful eye of the Perry Hannah statue. Over the course of 90 minutes, you will embark on a 0.7-mile ghost walk through the heart of the Old Towne district. Unlike the daytime lantern tours, the After Dark experience leans heavily into the paranormal, trading historical dates for evocative tales of love, loss, and lingering spirits.
- Shadowy Storytelling: Listen to verified accounts of playhouse hauntings and the tragic history of early Traverse City undertakers as you stand outside the very sites where these legends were born.
- Historic Route: The tour winds south from 6th Street to 8th Street, loops toward Cass, and navigates the mysterious alleys between Front and State Street.
- Atmospheric Immersion: Guests should expect a high-atmosphere experience with a 5-star rating for "Chills." Note that this specific tour does not utilize ghost-hunting equipment, focusing instead on the power of the narrative.
- Accessibility & Logistics: The route stays strictly on paved sidewalks, making it a wheelchair-friendly paranormal experience. Be sure to dress in layers, as the proximity to Grand Traverse Bay can bring a sudden chill to the night air.
- Know Before You Go: There are no restroom facilities on the route, so please plan accordingly. Parking is plentiful in the nearby Hardy Garage or along the residential streets of the historic district.
Street parking is available near the Union & 6th St intersection. Public garage (Hardy Garage) is 3 blocks north. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No public restrooms on-site; please use facilities downtown before the tour starts. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Wheelchair & stroller friendly; mostly flat terrain with minor grass/dirt paths. (for more info contact tour operator)
Leashed, friendly dogs are welcome on this outdoor walking adventure.
Interior access at meeting point only; all ghost stories told from outdoors. (for more info contact tour operator)
Great for families; spooky history told with a theatrical, kid-friendly touch. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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Intersection of Union and 6th Street, Traverse City, MI
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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