Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour By US Ghost Adventures

If you’re curious about the spooky stories lurking behind Monterey’s charming streets, the Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour by US Ghost Adventures offers a chance to explore the city’s darker corners. This tour isn’t just about ghost stories; it’s a well-researched journey through Monterey’s history, with a dash of paranormal intrigue. It’s perfect for those who love history, ghost stories, or simply a different way to discover the town.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the guides are praised for their knowledge and storytelling talent. Second, the mixture of historic sites and ghostly tales gives a layered experience that appeals to both history buffs and ghost enthusiasts. However, some travelers have noted that the tour is quite short—about an hour—and that the overall pace can be variable depending on the guide. If you’re after a quick, family-friendly exploration of Monterey’s spooky side, this tour is a solid choice.

It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy stories with substance, appreciate local history, and don’t mind a brisk walk through the city’s historic streets. If you’re looking for a deeply immersive, long-standing ghost-hunting adventure, this might feel a bit light. But for a fun, atmospheric introduction to Monterey’s mysterious past, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• The tour lasts about an hour, making it a quick but packed experience.
• Guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often praised for their storytelling.
• The tour visits historic and allegedly haunted sites with rich stories behind each.
• It’s family-friendly and suitable for a wide age range.
• The cost of $32 offers good value considering the historical insights and storytelling.
• The tour is conducted with mobile tickets, making check-in straightforward.
• Most participants book about 9 days in advance, highlighting its popularity.
• The experience ends at the historic Monterey Hotel, adding a fitting finale.

A Closer Look at What You Can Expect

Starting Point: Larkin House

The tour kicks off at the Larkin House, built in the 1830s by California’s first prominent merchant, Thomas Larkin. This is one of Monterey’s oldest structures, and the stories about it being haunted by Larkin’s wife add a personal touch to the ghost tales. Visitors have reported feeling cold spots and hearing footsteps when no one is around—classic signs of a restless spirit. The house is free to view from outside, so it’s a wonderful starting point for understanding early Monterey life.

General Sherman Quarters

Next, you’ll visit the quarters once home to Civil War General William Tecumseh Sherman. It’s said he haunts these rooms in full military regalia, surveying his old domain. Visitors often comment on the eerie atmosphere, reporting ghostly sightings and a sense of the past lingering. While the site itself is just a quick stop, the stories surrounding Sherman deepen the sense of history and spectral presence.

Colton Hall Museum and Jail

A highlight for history lovers, Colton Hall is where California’s first constitution was drafted. The building’s significance is matched by ghost stories from the basement jail, where strange noises and unexplained phenomena are common. The history here is palpable, and the ghostly reputation adds an intriguing layer to the historic importance.

Monterey Public Library

The library, one of California’s oldest, is believed to be haunted by a former librarian. Reports of books moving on their own and the scent of old perfume make it a fun and slightly spooky stop. The quiet, contemplative atmosphere of the library contrasts beautifully with the ghostly tales, making for a memorable moment.

Stokes Adobe Restaurant

Now a restaurant, Stokes Adobe was once the home of Dr. James Stokes. Patrons and staff have experienced shadowy figures and disembodied voices, especially upstairs. Its history as a healing home lends a bit of a ghostly twist, blending history with the paranormal in a way that keeps guests intrigued.

Stevenson House

The residence where author Robert Louis Stevenson stayed is also said to host spirits of past residents. Visitors have reported ghostly apparitions and feeling cold chills in certain rooms. This stop offers a mix of literary history and ghostly legends, appealing to those interested in stories of famous authors and haunted homes.

The Monterey Hotel Spa

Wrapping up at the historic Monterey Hotel, guests often report footsteps and feelings of being watched. The Victorian charm of the hotel enhances the spooky vibe, making it a fitting end to the tour. The hotel’s long-standing reputation for ghostly encounters makes it a memorable final stop.

The Experience: What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes a knowledgeable guide, well-researched stories, and a series of chilling tales that blend history with the supernatural. Each site visit is brief—about 7 to 8 minutes—but packed with enough lore and atmosphere to leave a lasting impression. The group size is limited to 35, ensuring a more personal experience, and the mobile ticket system streamlines check-in.

Not included are gadgets like EMF detectors, which might interest some paranormal enthusiasts, and gratuities are optional but appreciated. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including service animals, and is accessible via public transportation.

The Value

For $32, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to Monterey’s haunted places, especially considering the passionate storytelling and historical context. It’s an excellent value for anyone wanting a quick, atmospheric walk through the city’s darker history without the expense or time commitment of longer tours.

Practical Details

• The tour meets at 570 Pacific St and ends at the Monterey Hotel on Calle Principal.
• Duration is about 1 hour, ideal for a relaxed but engaging break during your day.
• Bookings are typically made about 9 days in advance, indicating its popularity.
• You can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund, so it’s flexible if plans change.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is perfect for those who love stories that are rooted in real history but told with a spooky twist. History buffs will appreciate the detailed background of each site, while fans of ghost stories will enjoy the chilling tales and ghostly sightings. Families with children should find it family-friendly, as it’s described as spooky but suitable for all ages.

While it’s not a long, in-depth investigation, it’s a fun, atmospheric way to see some of Monterey’s historic landmarks with a paranormal flair. It’s especially great if you want a light-hearted, engaging experience that combines education and entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately one hour, making it a manageable addition to your day without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 570 Pacific Street and concludes at the Monterey Hotel on Calle Principal, making it easy to include in your itinerary.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly, described as spooky but appropriate for most ages.

What’s the price of the tour?
It costs $32 per person, which is reasonable considering the guided storytelling and historic sites visited.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Last-minute changes are not supported for refunds.

Are there any additional costs?
No, the tour price includes the guide and stories. Extras like EMF detectors are not included.

Is the tour accessible for those with disabilities or service animals?
Service animals are allowed, and most travelers can participate, but accessibility details aren’t specified.

How many people are typically on the tour?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 35 travelers, which helps keep the experience personal.

What makes this tour stand out?
People often praise the guides’ storytelling skills and the combination of history and ghost stories, providing a layered experience beyond just spooky tales.

Final Thoughts

The Monterey Ghosts Walking Tour by US Ghost Adventures offers a welcoming, well-constructed glimpse into Monterey’s haunted history. It’s a smart choice for travelers seeking an engaging way to learn about the city’s past while enjoying some spooky stories along the way. With knowledgeable guides, a manageable time commitment, and a reasonable price, it’s an experience that blends entertainment with insight.

While it may not satisfy those craving a long, immersive ghost-hunting expedition, it excels at delivering a memorable, atmospheric walk through Monterey’s historic streets. If you’re curious about local legends, love storytelling, or simply want a different perspective on this charming town, this tour is well worth the time.

This experience is best suited for history enthusiasts, families, and casual ghost story lovers looking for a fun, quick exploration of Monterey’s ghostly side.