Jefferson Ghost Tour
Meeting point
Jefferson General Store, 113 E Austin St, Jefferson, TX 75657.
Duration
1 hour
Start time
Nightly @ 8pm
Tour Operator
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of America's First Riverport
Step into the shadows of the "Bigfoot Capital of Texas" and discover why Jefferson is considered one of the most haunted small towns in the South. On the Jefferson Ghost Tour, you will embark on a chilling haunted history tour through the brick-lined streets of this historic riverport city. Led by expert storytellers from US Ghost Adventures, this ghost walk weaves together the tragic tales of the steamboat era with modern-day paranormal reports.
From the elegant halls of the Excelsior House Hotel to the eerie atmosphere of the Historic Kahn Hotel, you'll experience a haunted tour that captures the restless essence of East Texas. Whether you are a dedicated paranormal investigator or a history buff seeking a unique evening out, these Jefferson ghost tours provide an atmospheric glimpse into the spirits that refused to leave when the river dried up. Join us for a haunted walk near the Big Cypress Bayou and uncover the secrets hidden within this "Antebellum Gem."
What to Expect
Prepare for a spine-tingling 60-minute journey through approximately one mile of Jefferson's most active paranormal hotspots. This guided experience is a must for anyone looking for ghost tours near you that combine authentic research with gripping narrative.
- Historic Landmarks: We gather at the legendary Excelsior House Hotel (101 Market St), a site so haunted it reportedly inspired Steven Spielberg to write Poltergeist after a stay in the Jay Gould room.
- Paranormal Stories: You will stand outside the Marion County Courthouse and the Jefferson General Store, hearing verified accounts of "The Woman in Black" and the spirits of rowdy outlaws who still linger at the Kahn Saloon.
- Atmospheric Experience: The tour takes place after dark, utilizing the natural eerie ambiance of Jefferson's 19th-century architecture and dim streetlights to set the stage for our paranormal tales.
- Logistics & Prep: This is a rain-or-shine outdoor event. Groups are kept to a manageable size to ensure everyone can hear the guide's stories. Please wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for historic brick pavement.
- Accessibility & Pets: While the route stays on public paths, be mindful of uneven surfaces. We are a pet-friendly tour—your leashed four-legged friends are welcome to join the hunt for haunted walks!
Free street parking nearby; arrive 15 mins early for weekend spots. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms on tour; please plan ahead. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Partial wheelchair access; historic brick streets may be uneven. (for more info contact tour operator)
Pets welcome if well-behaved; service animals always permitted. Keep leashed and non-disruptive to group
No entry into buildings; stories are told from outside at public vantage points. (for more info contact tour operator)
Family-friendly with spooky history; suitable for older children comfortable with ghost stories. (for more info, contact tour operator)
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Jefferson General Store, 113 E Austin St, Jefferson, TX 75657.
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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