Salt Lake City Haunted Old Town Tour

Salt Lake City’s Haunted Old Town Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s darker past, blending history with a touch of the paranormal. Priced at $28 per person and lasting approximately 90 minutes, this tour is perfect for fans of ghost stories and local legends. The tour departs from 186 N W Temple St, where the guide picks up guests on the west side of the building, ready to lead you through some of Salt Lake’s oldest and most haunted locations.

This guided bus tour explores the city’s eerie side, visiting haunted mansions, historic train depots, cemeteries, and city landmarks with a reputation for ghost sightings. We appreciate that the local guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic about sharing Salt Lake’s spooky stories. The tour also offers the unique opportunity to try out ghost-hunting equipment, making it an interactive experience for those curious about paranormal investigations.

While the tour’s pace is generally comfortable, it’s worth noting that some stories might be too intense for children under 12. Also, the tour involves some bus travel and stops at outdoor sites, so suitable footwear and a sense of adventure are recommended.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The $28 ticket covers 1.5 hours of haunted explorations around Salt Lake City.
• Locations Visited: The tour highlights include the Rio Grande Train Depot, the largest municipal cemetery in the U.S., Washington Square, and the Historic City and County Building.
• Interactive Element: Guests get to test ghost-hunting equipment and attempt to summon local spirits like the “Hoppity Lady.”
• Starting Point: The tour begins at 186 N W Temple St, with pick-up on the west side of the building.
• Group Size: The tour is limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a personable experience.
• Booking in Advance: On average, guests book 11 days ahead, which is recommended given the popularity.

The Haunted Origins of Salt Lake City’s Old Town

The tour takes you through Salt Lake City’s oldest neighborhoods where history and ghostly tales intertwine. The guide leads you past some of the city’s most historic sites and shares stories about spirits that are said to linger in the buildings, cemeteries, and even train depots. The Old Washington Square and City and County Building are notable stops where some of the town’s most haunted stories originate, including tales of spirits and lost souls who still seem to roam.

These locations are steeped in history, with stories of battles, treaties, and events that add depth to the ghostly legends. The guide’s storytelling style is praised for being friendly and well-informed, making even the darkest tales engaging without feeling overly scary.

Visiting the Oldest Buildings in Salt Lake City

The tour spends a significant portion exploring the oldest areas in Salt Lake, with visits to historic landmarks that have witnessed centuries of change. The Rio Grande Train Depot features prominently, known for paranormal activity and ghost sightings. The largest municipal cemetery in the United States also features, where spirits are said to still wander among the graves.

Guests can expect to hear spooky stories associated with each site, which include tales of spirits seeking closure or lost loved ones. The Historic City and County Building is another highlight, historically significant and reportedly haunted by a few lost spirits. The stops are outdoor or accessible from the bus, making the experience comfortable without requiring strenuous activity.

The Paranormal Investigation Experience

One of the tour’s unique features is the opportunity to try ghost-hunting equipment. Guests are encouraged to use EMF meters and other ghost-detecting tools to attempt a paranormal connection. The guide demonstrates how to use the devices and encourages participation, adding an interactive element that appeals to curious minds.

Plus, there’s a playful aspect where guests can try to summon spirits, such as the legendary “Hoppity Lady,” who searches for her lost husband. This activity adds a fun and suspenseful element, giving guests the chance to be part of the ghostly stories rather than just listening to them.

The Logistics of the Salt Lake City Haunted Old Town Tour

The tour departs from 186 N W Temple St, where guests meet on the west side of the building. The tour uses a bus to move between sites, making it suitable for those who prefer a comfortable ride rather than walking long distances. The group is limited to 25 travelers, which helps maintain a friendly and engaging atmosphere.

The pick-up is straightforward, and booking in advance is advised, as the tour is usually booked around 11 days ahead. The tour does not include gratuities, so tipping guides is optional but appreciated for their enthusiasm and storytelling skills.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

We like how this ghost tour combines history and paranormal tales seamlessly, providing context for each haunted site. The inclusion of ghost-hunting equipment makes the experience interactive and engaging, especially for those interested in investigating spirits themselves.

The tour’s duration of about 90 minutes is just right for a quick yet immersive experience, without feeling rushed. The small group size and friendly guides ensure personalized storytelling, which adds to the overall enjoyment.

Considerations and Limitations

Some of the stories and activities may not be suitable for children under 12, so parents should decide accordingly. The tour involves bus transportation and outdoor stops, so comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing are recommended.

A notable consideration is that late arrivals may be considered no-shows, as check-in must occur at least 10 minutes before the start. Also, while the guides are knowledgeable, some reviews mention that clarity in narration can occasionally be a little hard to follow, which may affect the experience slightly.

Overall Value and Suitability

The $28 price point offers good value for a combination of history, ghost stories, and interactive ghost-hunting activities. The tour appeals most to adventurous locals and visitors who enjoy spooky tales, historic sites, and a lively, narrated experience. It’s particularly well-suited for those with an interest in the paranormal or seeking a fun way to explore Salt Lake City’s historic districts.

This tour is a solid choice for families with teenagers, small groups, or anyone curious about the ghostly legends that haunt Salt Lake City’s oldest neighborhoods. The friendly guides and well-organized itinerary ensure an entertaining, informative experience that balances curiosity and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
The stories and activities may not be appropriate for children under 12. Parents should decide based on their child’s comfort with spooky tales.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended as the tour is typically booked 11 days in advance. Walk-ins are not guaranteed.

What locations will I visit?
Stops include the Rio Grande Train Depot, the largest municipal cemetery in the U.S., Washington Square, and the Historic City and County Building.

Can I test ghost-hunting equipment?
Yes, the tour includes the opportunity to use ghost detection devices and participate in attempts to summon spirits, adding an interactive element.

What is the cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded, so plan accordingly.

Salt Lake City’s Haunted Old Town Tour offers an engaging mix of history, ghost stories, and hands-on paranormal investigation in a compact, 90-minute format. With friendly guides, historic sites, and interactive fun, it provides a memorable way to explore the city’s spooky side.