Old Town Ghost Tour
Meeting point
2454 Heritage Park Row San Diego, CA 92110
Duration
1 hour
Start time
7pm & 9pm
Tour Operator
tel:619.255.6170
Overview
Where California's Ghost Story Begins
Step into the shadows of Old Town San Diego, where California's birth came soaked in blood, betrayal, and spirits that refuse to rest. This isn't some sanitized history lesson—this is the raw, unvarnished truth about the birthplace of the Golden State, where 19th-century pioneers, ill-fated settlers, and Revolutionary-era souls still walk the moonlit streets.
Join the Haunted Old Town San Diego Ghost Tour and discover why locals whisper that this is one of the most haunted places in America. Led by costumed Victorian-era guides who blend authentic historical research with spine-tingling paranormal accounts, this intimate walking experience takes you where other tours fear to tread—into the exclusive, after-dark stillness of Heritage Park's Victorian mansions and through the weathered headstones of Old Town's historic cemetery.
From tales of being buried alive to spirits reaching out from the grave, you'll experience the perfect blend of documented history, dark folklore, and genuine paranormal investigation. This is Old Town's original local ghost tour—small groups, real history, and access to locations no one else can offer. The spirits are waiting, and they have stories to tell.
What to Expect
Journey through California's haunted birthplace on this immersive 90-minute walking adventure. You'll traverse just under one mile of Old Town's most historically significant—and spiritually active—locations, experiencing authentic paranormal investigation alongside theatrical storytelling.
- Heritage Park (Exclusive After-Hours Access): Walk through this collection of preserved Victorian-era houses under the cover of darkness—the ONLY tour with permission to enter this park at night. Your guide will share chilling tales of each mansion's former residents while you use real ghost-hunting tools like EMF readers to detect unexplained energy. Previous guests have reported mysterious readings and unexplained phenomena in multiple houses.
- The Whaley House Grounds: Stand outside what many consider America's most haunted house. Even from the exterior, paranormal investigators' equipment frequently registers intense activity, with EMF readers "going bananas" and pinging red throughout the experience.
- El Campo Santo Cemetery: Enter Old Town's historic graveyard where some graves were paved over by the street itself. Learn the documented stories of those buried here—and those who were buried alive—while surrounded by the atmospheric energy that draws paranormal enthusiasts from around the world.
- Light Paranormal Investigation: Use authentic ghost-hunting equipment (completely optional for those who prefer just the history and stories). Your Victorian-costumed guide will teach you how professional investigators detect spiritual energy, creating moments where the veil between worlds feels remarkably thin.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Spooky and atmospheric rather than jump-scare horror. No costumes trying to frighten you—just authentic environments, documented history, and the genuine energy that makes Old Town one of California's most haunted destinations.
- Intimate Group Experience: Limited to just 20 guests maximum, ensuring personal attention, the ability to hear every chilling detail, and space for your own paranormal encounters—because things do happen on these tours.
- Victorian-Era Guides: Your host is part historian, part storyteller, part theatrical performer—dressed in period attire and committed to making your 90 minutes unforgettable through a blend of dark humor, authentic research, and passionate storytelling
Street parking and public lots in Old Town; arrive 20-30 min early as parking is competitive and limited). Visit Parkopedia for the best parking information
No restrooms during 90-min tour—use Old Town visitor center or nearby eateries beforehand; medical needs notify in advance. Visit Toilet Finder for restroom information
Wheelchair accessible—notify operator in advance for route adjustments; all sidewalks accessible. (for more info contact tour operator)
Service animals normally permitted; no stated policy on pets, so contact the operator before bringing a dog.
ONLY tour entering Heritage Park at night + cemetery access; Whaley House exterior/grounds only—no interior. (for more info contact tour operator)
Family-friendly-ish with spooky history (not horror); covers dark themes—best for ages 10+; parental discretion advised. (for more info, contact tour operator)
Get directions
Things to take on a ghost walk
Been on this ghost tour? Tell others what you think.
More Ghost Tours in California
Santa Barbara St & Equestrian Ave Parking Lot 1219 Santa Barbara St, CA
Tahoe City Public Library at 740 N. Lake Blvd, Tahoe City
Read our Haunted Blogs
5 Best Ghost Tours in Minnesota
Uncovering the Spirits of the North Star State: From Lake Superior’s Misty Shores to the Gilded Age Secrets of St.
8 Best Ghost Tours in Maine
Walk Among the Restless Spirits of the Pine Tree State’s Most Historic Seaports and Haunted Coastal Districts Maine is a
Best Ghost Tours in Connecticut
Uncover Chilling Legends and Haunted History Across the Constitution State’s Most Spectral Cities Connecticut is a land of legends, where
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