Boothbay Harbor Ghost Walk
Meeting point
Duration
90 Mins.
Start time
Typically nightly at 7:00 PM (May–October); check calendar for off-season dates.
Tour Operator
Overview
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of Maine's Boating Capital
When the sun dips below the horizon in Boothbay Harbor, the charming facade of this coastal village fades to reveal a landscape haunted by 17th-century tragedies and maritime lore. The Boothbay Harbor Ghost Walk offers a bone-chilling exploration of "Ghost Row" and beyond.
On this haunted history tour, you will traverse the 1901 Footbridge—America's longest wooden footbridge—where the spirits of lighthouse keepers and sea captains are said to still keep watch over the Atlantic. This is not your average ghost walk; it is a meticulously researched journey into the "thin places" where Maine's history and the paranormal collide.
Led by expert storytellers, this haunted tour uncovers the dark secrets of the Boothbay Opera House and the unsettling mystery of the "Lady in Black" at the local library. From pirate treasure legends on Damariscove Island to modern-day poltergeists in historic B&Bs, this experience is a must-do for fans of the macabre. If you are searching for ghost tours near you or a paranormal tour near the Maine State Aquarium, join us for a night of spine-tingling tales in the heart of Boothbay Harbor.
What to Expect
Your 90-minute ghost walk commences at the Bridge House, centrally located on the historic footbridge. From here, you will embark on a one-mile journey through the village's most haunted quarters:
- The Footbridge & Burnt Island: Start with the chilling history of the Burnt Island Lighthouse keepers who refused to leave their posts, even in death.
- Commercial Street (Ghost Row): Visit the site of "Ghost Row," including a stop at a haunted sea captain's home where spectral residents have been captured on camera.
- Boothbay Harbor Memorial Library: Hear the unsolved mystery of the stranger in black who checked into a local hotel and met a watery, unmarked end nearly a century ago.
- The Opera House: Stand before the Knights of Pythias' former secret society lodge—often called the most haunted building in Maine—and learn about "Bob," the resident spirit who still influences performances.
- Whale Park: Dive into seafarer superstitions and the legendary sightings of the Great New England Sea Serpent.
This paranormal experience is held primarily on public sidewalks and wooden walkways. Because Boothbay Harbor is built on rugged coastal terrain, guests should be prepared for hilly walks and uneven pavement. We recommend wearing sturdy walking shoes and dressing for the fluctuating Maine sea breeze. The tour operates rain or shine, providing a perfectly eerie atmosphere regardless of the weather.
Public paid lot at 12 Granary Way; arrive 20 mins early during summer peak. Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
Use public restrooms at Whale Park or the Footbridge lot prior to the tour. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Not wheelchair accessible due to steep hills and historic wooden walkways. (for more info contact tour operator)
Service animals welcome; please leave non-service pets at home.
Exterior views only; stories are told from public sidewalks and piers. (for more info contact tour operator)
Recommended for teens and adults; not suggested for children under 12. (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