Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour

Discover the darker side of Key West with the Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour. Priced at $39.85 per person, this 60-minute tour offers an engaging exploration of the city’s most haunted locations aboard the Trolley of the Doomed. The tour departs nightly from the 501 Front Street meeting point and is led by a professional guide dressed as a 17th-century grave digger. With over 1,100 reviews and an impressive 4.5/5 rating, this experience combines storytelling, history, and a touch of supernatural intrigue.

While the tour emphasizes storytelling and eerie tales, it is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for most travelers, with a PG-13 rating. Children under 13 are not recommended, and those under 4 are not allowed due to loud noises. The tour’s group size is limited to 20, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience. For those interested in the spooky history of Key West, this tour delivers a fun and educational adventure that highlights some of the city’s most infamous haunted sites.

Key Points

• Price: $39.85 per person for a 60-minute ghost-themed trolley ride.
• Departure Location: Starts at 501 Front Street, Key West.
• Tour Highlights: Guided narration by a 17th-century gravedigger, stories of Key West’s haunted past, and visits to locations like the Hanging Tree and Robert Eugene Otto’s house.
• Stops Include: The Shipwreck Museum with a brief visit, where actors and artifacts tell the story of shipwreck salvage.
• Tour Features: Nighttime rides exploring Old Town’s narrow streets lined with 19th-century houses, and stories based on local legends, lore, and history.
• Restrictions & Tips: Not suitable for children under 13 or infants under 4; dress appropriately for dark, sometimes stormy nights.

The Haunted Streets of Old Town Key West

This tour begins at 501 Front Street, a central location in Key West, making it easy to access with nearby parking options at Mallory Square or the Opal Key Resort and Marina. The Dark and Stormy Nights schedule means the tour runs in most weather conditions, but severe weather could result in cancellation — in which case, a full refund or reschedule is offered.

Traveling through Old Town, the trolley dips into the shadowy corners and alleyways that host Key West’s ghostly legends. The guided narration vividly recounts stories of local spirits, mysterious disappearances, and sinister historical events. The group size keeps the experience engaging, with the driver and guide being praised for their knowledge and personality.

The Trolley of the Doomed: A Unique Haunted Ride

The Trolley of the Doomed is specially themed for this ghost tour, with the guide dressed as a 17th-century grave digger adding a theatrical flair. The narration is lively, blending history and supernatural tales seamlessly, making the journey both spooky and informative. The storytelling style receives praise for being personable and engaging, often eliciting laughs and shivers alike.

The duration of just 60 minutes makes this an accessible evening activity, ideal for those wanting a quick but memorable scare. The trolley travels past renowned haunted sites such as the Marrero House, the Porter Mansion, and the famous Hanging Tree.

Inside the Shipwreck Museum at Night

One of the highlight stops is the Key West Shipwreck Museum, where actors and actual artifacts tell the story of 400 years of shipwreck salvage. The museum’s visit lasts about 15 minutes and is considered a bonus feature of this tour. Visitors have enjoyed entering the museum at night, which adds a special atmospheric element.

This visit offers a fascinating glimpse into Key West’s maritime history, intertwined with ghost stories. The interactive exhibits and live actors make the history engaging, while the dark setting enhances the eerie feeling.

The Stories and Legends Shared

Stories are based on local legend and research, covering subjects like haunted houses, mysterious spirits, and historical tragedies. Notable tales include Robert Eugene Otto’s “Artist’s House” and the mischievous Robert the Doll, said to be cursed after suffering neglect in the attic.

Guides are praised for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, often sharing spooky anecdotes that keep the group entertained. Photo opportunities are plentiful, with guides encouraging guests to capture any supernatural moments.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

This nighttime tour is not handicap accessible but accommodations can be made for some disabilities. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and standing for the duration, especially on the dark, sometimes stormy streets. The dark and stormy weather theme means attendees should dress appropriately for the conditions, possibly bringing rain gear if needed.

Children under 13 years old are not recommended, and infants under 4 are not allowed due to loud noises. The tour does not include food or drinks, but food is permitted if desired. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on board for safety reasons.

Reviews and Overall Impressions

With an average rating of 4.3/5 from over 1,100 reviews, the tour is generally well received. Many reviewers praise the knowledge and personality of the guides, as well as the entertaining storytelling style. Highlights include the visit to the Shipwreck Museum and the theatrical ambiance created by guides dressed as gravediggers.

While most feedback is positive, some mention that the fear factor is somewhat mild, with a PG-13 rating that makes it suitable for older children and adults seeking a spooky experience. A small minority found the storytelling less engaging, but overall, it remains a fun and informative outing.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most

This ghost tour is best suited for adults and older teens interested in history, legends, and spooky stories. It appeals especially to those who enjoy theatrical storytelling and haunted locations with a historical twist. It offers a balanced mix of fun and fright without being overly intense, making it ideal for a family-friendly evening activity, provided children are above the recommended age.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the Key West Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley Tour start?
The tour begins at 501 Front Street at the corner of Front and Duval Streets, with nearby parking options available at Mallory Square or the Opal Key Resort and Marina.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 60 minutes.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children under 13 years old are not recommended, and infants under 4 are not allowed due to loud noises and the dark, stormy night theme.

What is included in the tour?
Guests enjoy a ghost-themed trolley ride, narrated by a professional guide, with stops at haunted locations and the Shipwreck Museum.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are advised, and dressing appropriately for dark, potentially stormy weather is recommended.

Are food and drinks allowed?
Food and drinks are welcome, but alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the trolley.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, guests are encouraged to take photos and ask guides for tips to capture any supernatural phenomena.

Is the tour accessible for disabled guests?
The tour is not handicap accessible, but reasonable accommodations can be made.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour runs most nights, but severe weather may lead to cancellation, with options for a full refund or rescheduling.

How many people are on each tour?
The group size is limited to 20, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

Who operates this tour?
The tour is provided by Historic Tours of America.