Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour

This experience made our article of What Are The Best Walking Tours In Memphis? Our Top 14 Picks.

Introduction

If you’re curious about Memphis beyond its legendary music scene and mouthwatering barbecue, a ghost-themed tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s darker, more mysterious side. The Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour promises a mix of spine-tingling stories, historic landmarks, and a dash of supernatural intrigue—all wrapped up in just about an hour.

What we really like about this experience are the engaging storytelling from knowledgeable guides and the chance to visit some of Memphis’s most storied haunted sites. Plus, the optional ghosthunting equipment adds a fun, interactive element that appeals to both skeptics and believers alike. One thing to consider is that the tour doesn’t always go inside the buildings, which might leave those eager for closer encounters a bit disappointed.

This tour tends to suit history buffs, lovers of ghost stories, or anyone looking to add a spooky twist to their Memphis visit without committing to a full day of sightseeing. If you’re after authentic stories wrapped in a lively, short adventure, this experience could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Short but engaging: The tour lasts about an hour, making it an easy add-on to any Memphis itinerary.
• Historic sites: You visit famous landmarks like the Lorraine Motel, the Arcade Restaurant, and the Orpheum Theatre, each with a haunted reputation.
• Expert guides: Guides are well-informed and passionate about Memphis’s spooky stories and history.
• Optional ghosthunting gear: Rent EMF detectors to add a playful, interactive element to your ghost hunt.
• Authentic stories: The guide shares compelling, sometimes chilling tales rooted in real history.
• Accessible and affordable: At $32, it’s a reasonably priced way to explore Memphis’s darker side without the long time commitment.

Exploring the Memphis Ghosts Tour: A Detailed Review

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at the Lorraine Motel, where the tragic assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 is not only a historical milestone but also a site that many visitors say feels heavy with grief. As you pass by, you might notice an emotional atmosphere; some claim to feel a strange aura or hear echoes of the final moments. The free admission makes this a poignant start, setting a serious tone for the rest of the tour.

Next, you’ll stroll to The Arcade Restaurant, Memphis’s oldest café, serving since 1919. The ambiance here is nostalgic, but the ghost stories really add an eerie edge. Patrons have reported seeing ghostly figures in the windows and experiencing unexplained cold drafts—small details that make you wonder about the unseen energies lingering in this historic spot.

The journey continues to Earnestine & Hazel’s, a building with a colorful past as a brothel and speakeasy. It’s now a lively bar, but stories of ghostly jukebox music and upstairs apparitions persist. Several visitors note the atmosphere feels charged with spirits from its colorful past, creating a fun, spooky contrast to the lively current setting.

Then, you visit The Green Beetle, the oldest tavern in Memphis. Patrons have observed strange noises and shadows darting across the bar—typical barroom ghost tales that add a layer of fun to the experience. It’s a quick stop, but one that leaves some guests feeling a bit more aware of Memphis’s haunted reputation.

The tour then moves to 69 E Pontotoc Ave, the site of the long-abandoned Pontotoc Hotel. Rumors of restless spirits peering from windows make this an atmospheric stop. One review recounts how a streetlight flickered and went out while they were there—a memorable moment that seemed to coincide with the energy of the location.

Next, you’ll pass by the John Alexander Austin House, built in 1876 and believed to be haunted by its original owner. Visitors often report feeling a cold breeze or hearing footsteps when passing by, which makes the exterior a perfect setting for ghost stories rooted in real history.

Finally, the Orpheum Theatre rounds out the tour with its reputation as one of Memphis’s most haunted venues. The spirit of a young girl named Mary is said to linger in the balcony, with some claiming to see her ghostly figure or hear her laughter echoing through the grand hall. This stop combines a stunning venue with compelling stories and a dash of theatrical ghostly encounters.

What to Expect

Throughout the tour, guides share thrilling stories and historical facts, making each stop come alive—sometimes quite literally. The use of EMF detectors that you can rent adds a playful element, allowing you to participate in ghost hunting and perhaps even catch some inexplicable signals. The guides are clearly knowledgeable and passionate about Memphis’s haunted history, which makes their storytelling compelling.

One of the best aspects? You get to visit some of the most iconic and haunted spots in Memphis without the need for long hours or expensive tickets. The tour’s small group size (up to 35 people) ensures a more intimate experience, where guides can tailor the stories or answer questions.

The Value and Experience

At $32 per person, this tour offers a decent value—especially considering it includes the rental of ghosthunting equipment and the lively storytelling. It’s a quick, inexpensive way for visitors to get a taste of Memphis’s spooky side. The tour’s length and price make it accessible for most travelers, whether you’re on a tight schedule or simply looking for a fun, atmospheric evening activity.

Some reviews highlight the guide’s expertise and engaging manner, which elevate the experience beyond a simple walk. Others mention that, due to the short duration and the fact that the stops are mostly outside or just at the facades, it may not satisfy those expecting to go inside haunted buildings or have more hands-on paranormal encounters. However, the stories and atmosphere often compensate for this.

Practical Tips

• Book in advance: The tour is popular, booked on average 16 days ahead, so plan early.
• Bring a flashlight: While the tour is mostly during daylight, some stops may be darker or more atmospheric.
• Rent the EMF detector: It’s a fun addition that can add to the thrill, especially if you’re into ghost hunting.
• Dress comfortably: Expect to walk around for about an hour, often outdoors or on city streets.
• Meet at 450 Mulberry St: The starting point is central and accessible by public transit.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This ghost walk is ideal for travelers interested in storytelling, history, and a little supernatural fun. It’s perfect for those who enjoy engaging guides and authentic sites with haunted reputations. Families with older children, couples, or groups of friends seeking a memorable, atmospheric experience will find plenty to enjoy.

Keep in mind, if you’re hoping for inside access or more intense ghostly encounters, this tour may leave you wanting more. It’s more about telling captivating stories and feeling the vibe of haunted Memphis than conducting serious paranormal investigations.

The Sum Up

The Memphis Ghosts: Haunts, Spirits, and Poltergeists Walking Tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, storytelling, and spooky atmosphere. Its affordability, engaging guides, and iconic haunted sites make it a great choice for those curious about Memphis’s darker side without a huge time commitment. The inclusion of optional ghosthunting gear and the opportunity to explore some of Memphis’s most storied landmarks add extra value.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour provides an entertaining way to see Memphis through a different lens—one filled with ghostly tales and atmospheric sites. It’s especially suited to history lovers, ghost-story enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an easy, fun evening activity during their visit.

If you want a memorable, reasonably priced peek into Memphis’s haunted history, this tour won’t disappoint. Just remember to approach with open eyes and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who enjoy ghost stories and walking tours.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy schedule or combine with other activities.

Do I need to bring my own ghosthunting equipment?
No, but you have the option to rent EMF detectors, which can be a fun way to engage with the ghost stories.

Can I go inside the haunted sites?
Most stops are outside or at the facades; the tour does not typically include interior visits.

Is the tour walking or driving?
It’s a walking tour, passing through downtown Memphis streets, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $32 per person, which is reasonable given the storytelling and site visits.

Are there any discounts or family rates?
The tour is priced per individual and does not specify group discounts, but it’s generally affordable for most travelers.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some walking and outdoor elements might pose challenges; check with the provider if needed.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking, and consider weather-appropriate clothing—outdoor elements are common.

How do I book the tour?
You can book in advance via the provided links or contact the provider directly for reservations.

In all, the Memphis Ghosts tour offers a memorable peek into the city’s haunted corners, with stories that linger long after the walk ends. Whether you’re seeking a spooky thrill or an intriguing history lesson, it’s a solid choice for an engaging evening in Memphis.