Riding with the Ghosts a Golf Cart Ghost Tour in St Augustine

If you’re looking for a way to experience the haunted charm of St. Augustine without wearing out your walking shoes, the Riding with the Ghosts golf cart tour could be just what you need. This 1 hour and 15-minute guided adventure whisks you through the city’s most eerie and historically significant sites, all from the comfort of a small, open-air golf cart.

It’s a clever way to explore the old city’s dark corners and ghost stories without breaking a sweat—plus, it’s perfect for night owls or those who prefer their spooky stories served with a side of fresh air.

What we love about this experience is how it blends authentic history with ghostly tales that give a different flavor to St. Augustine’s storied past. The guides are consistently praised for their knowledgeable storytelling and friendly demeanor. And, of course, the illuminated views of the city at night make it memorable.

On the flip side, some travelers note that the tour could benefit from more stops where you can hop off and get a closer look—something to consider if you’re craving a more immersive experience.

This tour is best suited for families, history buffs, and curious travelers eager to see the city’s haunted sites without strenuous walking or long tours. It’s also great for those who enjoy a mix of history, mystery, and a touch of spooky fun—especially in the warm Florida evenings.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation: Travel around in a small, well-rated golf cart, making it easy to see several sites in a short time.
• Authentic stories: Guides are known for their engaging, knowledgeable storytelling about both the history and paranormal lore.
• Diverse stops: From cemeteries to historic buildings, each site offers a glimpse into St. Augustine’s spooky past.
• Nighttime ambiance: The evening setting enhances the ghostly atmosphere, with beautifully lit architecture and quiet streets.
• Family friendly: The tour is suitable for most travelers, including children, and offers a less intense ghost experience.
• Value for money: At $39, the tour provides a balanced mix of entertainment and education, with added perks like free photos.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Introduction to the Tour

As we analyze the Riding with the Ghosts tour, it’s clear that it aims to blend history, mystery, and fun. For travelers craving a spooky adventure without the exhausting effort of walking long distances, this golf cart option hits the right notes. The small group size—no more than 10 guests—ensures a comfortable, intimate experience where questions are welcomed.

Two features stand out from reviews. First, the knowledgeable guides are consistently praised for their storytelling skills—delivering true stories in a compelling way that keeps everyone engaged. Second, the nighttime city views in the historic district provide a beautifully eerie backdrop, perfect for ghost stories and photos.

However, some reviews mention that the tour might feel a little rushed or could offer more opportunities to stop and explore on foot. The current itinerary favors observing from the cart, which works well for those who prefer a relaxed pace but might leave some wanting a closer look at certain sites.

Price and Value

At $39 per person, this tour offers a pretty good value. It includes guidance from a certified city guide, storytelling, and free photos, making it a package that balances entertainment and education. While it’s not a lengthy tour, the memorable sights, stories, and the novelty of riding around at night make it worthwhile. For families or groups looking for a fun, light-hearted spooky adventure, the price is quite reasonable.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: 38 Cathedral Place

The tour begins here, where you’ll meet your guide and gather within easy reach of the city’s historic core. The guide then takes you around the former Ponce de Leon Hotel, a building with a dark past linked to sightings and stories. The tour’s opening sets the tone with tales of paranormal encounters at Flagler College, a grand structure with a storied history.

Stop at the Hotel Alcazar

Passing by this ornate hotel, the guide shares haunted tales linked to its architecture, which dates back to Flagler’s era. Several reviews mention the “hauntings and sightings” reported by museum staff, keeping the atmosphere lively and intriguing.

Spanish Military Hospital Museum

This site, revered as America’s oldest street, was home to the first Spanish Military Hospital. It’s a prime spot for ghostly encounters, and the guide recounts stories of spectral activity that visitors can still feel today. The free, brief stop offers a chance to imagine what life and death were like in this historic setting.

Charlotte Street

Known for its paranormal activity, Charlotte Street is a favorite among ghost enthusiasts. With just about five minutes to explore, you’ll get a taste of the nighttime ambiance and hear stories of victims of yellow fever and battles—stories that remind you of the city’s turbulent past.

Castillo de San Marcos

This 300-year-old Spanish fortress is famed for sightings of apparitions and unexplained phenomena. The guide offers about ten minutes here, and many reviews highlight this as a highlight. The combination of history and ghost stories here leaves a lasting impression, especially at night when the fortress’s shadows seem to dance.

Huguenot Cemetery

This cemetery, where a third of the population perished during the 1821 yellow fever epidemic, is renowned for ghostly orbs and sightings. The stories of tragic deaths amid disease and conflict lend this site a haunting presence, making it a must-see for ghost story aficionados.

Tolomato Cemetery

Known for supernatural activity and chilling tales, Tolomato Cemetery closes out the tour with some of the most intense ghost stories. Visitors and guides recount encounters with ghostly occupants, emphasizing the sense of history and mystery intertwined in its grounds.

What Travelers Are Saying

The positive reviews consistently mention entertaining, knowledgeable guides who weave stories into the driving journey, making it feel personal and authentic. One reviewer called Robert “awesome,” noting his enthusiasm and detail-rich storytelling. Many guests appreciate the opportunity to see multiple sites without extensive walking, which is particularly appealing in the warm Florida evenings.

Some travelers, however, were expecting a more intense ghost experience with more sightings or closer encounters. One reviewer mentioned feeling the ghost stories were somewhat limited, and that they would have liked to see some of the actual places where mysterious deaths occurred rather than just cemeteries.

The Practical Side

The small group size (max 10 guests) creates a cozy environment where questions are encouraged, and the guide can tailor the experience somewhat. The mobile ticketing system makes booking straightforward, and the tour meeting point is centrally located. The timing—starting around 9:15 pm—is ideal for seeing the city lit up and adding to the spooky mood.

The duration is just over an hour, making it flexible for evening plans, but some reviews suggest that extending the tour or adding more stops might improve the experience. The cost is competitive, especially considering the storytelling, the scenic night ride, and the free photos provided afterward.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is perfect for families, couples, history buffs, and ghost enthusiasts who want a relaxed but engaging way to explore St. Augustine at night. It’s suitable for most ages and doesn’t involve strenuous walking or long waits. If you’re curious about the city’s haunted past but don’t want a full-night commitment, this is a fun, accessible option.

If you’re looking for a more intense haunted experience with frequent stops and more immersive ghost investigations, you might find this tour a bit tame. Conversely, if you simply want an enjoyable, spooky ride with some chilling stories, you’ll find plenty to love here.

The Sum Up

Riding with the Ghosts provides a well-rounded, enjoyable way to explore St. Augustine’s haunted side. The knowledgeable guides, combined with the beautiful night views and diverse historical sites, make it a worthwhile experience for those interested in a light-hearted but authentic ghost tour. It balances entertainment with education, making it accessible and fun for all ages.

The value comes from the combination of storytelling, scenic drives, and the unique experience of riding around this historic city after dark. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history and mystery without the physical effort of walking long distances under the warm Florida sky.

For travelers seeking an authentic, budget-friendly ghostly adventure in the oldest city in the U.S., this tour offers a memorable night out. Just be prepared for some ghostly tales, a few chilly shadows, and a fun ride through a city filled with stories—and spirits—long past.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it is family friendly and suitable for most travelers, including children. The experience is not overly scary, making it a good option for families looking for light ghost stories.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes long, covering multiple sites around the city.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes guidance from a certified city guide, stories about haunted sites, and complimentary photos taken during the ride.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 38 Cathedral Place and returns to the same point at the end of the tour.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, there is free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are welcome on the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather, as the tour is conducted outdoors at night.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
The information suggests most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details are not provided. Contact the provider if you have specific needs.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

In all, the Riding with the Ghosts golf cart tour offers a spirited way to discover the darker tales of St. Augustine, blending history, hauntings, and scenic night views into one memorable experience.