Reno Ghosts Tour

Imagine wandering through Reno’s streets after dark, hearing stories of spirits lingering in historic buildings, and feeling the thrill of ghostly encounters. That’s exactly what the Reno Ghosts Tour offers — a one-hour journey packed with chilling tales, intriguing sights, and a good dose of local history. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or just looking for a fun way to explore Reno’s lesser-known side, this tour promises a memorable experience.

There are two things we particularly love about this tour. First, the enthusiastic guides who bring Reno’s ghostly tales vividly to life, making history feel like a story told around a campfire. Second, the well-selected stops that mix haunted legend with historic buildings, giving your walk a real sense of place. On the flip side, one consideration is that the tour is entirely outside, which means you’ll want to bundle up if visiting during colder months. Still, for those who enjoy a mix of history, architecture, and haunting stories, this tour is a solid choice.

This experience suits curious travelers of all kinds — especially those with a fondness for ghost stories, local lore, or walking tours that combine entertainment with education. If you’re in Reno and want to get a taste of its shadowy past, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• Engaging, well-researched ghost stories told by passionate guides
• A balanced mix of spooky legends and historic insights
• Visiting iconic sites like the Washoe County Courthouse and former Chinatown
• A walk that’s accessible for most travelers, with a meeting point close to public transportation
• A great value at $32 per person for approximately an hour of storytelling
• A highly rated experience with consistent praise for guides and storytelling quality

An In-Depth Look at the Reno Ghosts Tour

An Introduction to Reno’s Haunted Side

This tour is designed to give visitors a new perspective on Reno’s storied streets, blending history with ghostly tales in a way that’s both entertaining and educational. It’s perfect for those who appreciate credible storytelling, as guides are noted for their enthusiasm and in-depth knowledge. The $32 ticket price is reasonable considering the hour-long walk, which offers plenty of stories and sights that most travelers would find intriguing.

The Itinerary — What You’ll See and Hear

Stop 1: Lake Mansion
Your ghostly journey begins at the historic Lake Mansion, built in 1877 to showcase upper-middle-class wealth. The house’s original owner, Myron Lake, was never able to live in his grand home, and local legend says his restless spirit still roams the premises. You’ll also hear about Jane Lake, whose apparition is said to evoke sorrow and eerie feelings. This stop offers a glimpse into Reno’s affluent past and its lingering ghostly echoes. Expect a brief stop, around 10 minutes, with free admission, making it an easy way to start the tour with a haunting story.

Stop 2: Sundance Books and Music
Next, the tour ventures to a house with a darker history—where at least two people died. The guide shares the story of how these deaths happened and why the house continues to be a magnet for ghostly activity. This stop highlights Reno’s haunted residential history, blending real stories with local lore. Again, around 10 minutes, with no entry fee, but plenty of chilling tales.

Stop 3: Washoe County Courthouse
Built in 1912, this courthouse is a symbol of Reno’s civic history, but also a site rumored to be haunted by spirits associated with past trials. Reports of unexplained phenomena and eerie encounters make it a must-see for ghost enthusiasts. It’s a classic example of a haunted landmark with decades of stories, and the guide’s narration makes it come alive (or perhaps, come back from the dead).

Stop 4: Pioneer Center for the Performing Arts
This historic venue not only hosts performances but also has a reputation for spectral activity—spectral figures and strange sounds reported by staff and visitors alike. The underground theater adds a unique, atmospheric backdrop to this segment of the walk, giving you a sense of the city’s hidden layers.

Stop 5: Lake Street & East 1st Street
Here you walk through the site of Reno’s former Chinatown and Red-Light District, areas once bustling with activity. The stories of this colorful, turbulent past are intertwined with tales of ghostly sightings from former residents and workers. This stop reminds us that history often leaves behind more than just buildings; it leaves stories of lives that still resonate.

Stop 6: North Virginia Street & East 1st Street
Your tour closes on the site of the former Mapes Hotel, once a symbol of Reno’s glamor. Rumors suggest the land was an ancient burial ground before settlement, adding a layer of mystery. The legend of spirits lingering here keeps the history vibrant and spooky.

What It’s Like to Walk and Listen

The tour is about an hour long and involves walking through downtown Reno. The group is typically no larger than 35 people, making it intimate enough to hear your guide and ask questions. The start and end points are conveniently located near public transportation, easing access for visitors staying in the city.

Guides are praised consistently for their passion and knowledge. One reviewer raves about Paul, noting that he’s “passionate and knowledgeable,” and that his extensive research enhances the experience. Debbi, another guide, is also mentioned positively for her storytelling skills, even on cold nights. Multiple reviews highlight that guides go beyond surface stories, offering detailed insights that make the stories more compelling and believable.

The Value and Practicalities

For $32, you get roughly an hour of storytelling plus a walk through some of Reno’s most historic and haunted sites. Considering most ghost tours in other cities are priced similarly or higher, this offers good value — especially given the enthusiastic guides, well-researched stories, and the variety of sights included.

The tour doesn’t go inside buildings; instead, it tells stories from outside. This is typical for ghost walks, but it’s worth noting that if you’re expecting to explore interiors, you won’t be doing that here. The focus is on the atmosphere, legends, and the architecture that fuels the ghost stories.

Weather can influence the experience—many reviews mention cold evenings, so dressing warmly is advisable. The tour runs most nights, and booking 10 days in advance is common, which indicates consistent popularity.

Accessibility and Group Size

Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed. The walk covers about 1.5 hours, so good footwear and moderate stamina will help. Because it’s outside, those with mobility issues might want to consider how walking in colder weather might affect them.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

If you love stories of haunted places, learn about local lore, or simply want a different way to explore Reno, this tour fits the bill. It’s ideal for history buffs who enjoy a good scare, couples seeking a spooky date, or families with older children. The guides’ storytelling prowess makes it engaging even if you’re just mildly interested in ghosts.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

This ghost tour offers a well-rounded, fun experience that combines history, architecture, and spooky storytelling. The guides’ enthusiasm and depth of knowledge elevate the walk from mere entertainment to something more authentic. At $32, it’s a surprisingly good deal for a memorable hour exploring Reno’s shadowy corners.

The mix of historic sites and ghostly tales means you’ll walk away with a richer understanding of the city’s past—and maybe even a few chills. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour is a great way to see Reno from a different perspective, especially after dark.

For those who enjoy a spooky atmosphere, interesting stories, and a bit of local color, this tour is a no-brainer. It’s especially suitable for curious travelers who appreciate history told with passion and a dash of ghostly mystery.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best suited for those who enjoy walking and listening to ghost stories. Since it’s outside, children should be comfortable with the walk and cold weather.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 1 hour and covers a 1.5-mile walk through downtown Reno.

Where does the tour start and end?
The meeting point is at 250 Court St, Reno, NV 89501, and it ends near North Virginia Street & East 1st Street.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and your fee is non-refundable.

Are there any inside visits?
No, this is an outdoor walking tour. All stories are told from outside the buildings and sights.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially in winter months, as most of the tour is outdoors and in the evening.

Are tickets available in advance?
Yes, booking about 10 days ahead is recommended, as the tour is popular and often booked in advance.

In the end, the Reno Ghosts Tour offers a lively, well-constructed peek into the darker side of Nevada’s biggest little city. With knowledgeable guides and a mix of ghostly legends and historic landmarks, it’s an experience that will linger in your memories — and maybe even give you a little shiver.