Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour

Our review of the Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour is based on what travelers have experienced through detailed descriptions and glowing reviews. If you’re looking for an evening filled with stories that blend local history with paranormal lore, this guided walking tour offers a fun, atmospheric way to explore Westerly, Rhode Island.

What we love most? First, the knowledgeable guides bring stories to life with a mix of humor, history, and spooky intrigue. Second, the well-curated stops—from historic buildings to local landmarks—are thoughtfully chosen to reveal Westerly’s mysterious side.

One possible drawback? The tour operates rain or shine, so if you’re expecting perfect weather, be prepared for whatever the skies bring. Also, it’s a relatively short walk of about an hour and 45 minutes, so folks seeking a longer or more in-depth experience might find it on the lighter side.

This tour is perfect for curious travelers who enjoy history, ghost stories, and a little spooky fun, especially those who appreciate storytelling that balances fact with local legend.

Key Points

• Expert guides bring stories to life with humor and insight
• The itinerary covers multiple haunted sites with historical and paranormal tales
• Operates rain or shine, making it a reliable evening activity
• A great value at $30, considering it’s nearly two hours of entertainment
• Suitable for most travelers, with a maximum group size of 50
• Designed for those interested in local lore, ghost stories, and historic sites

An In-Depth Look at the Westerly Ghost Tour

What is the Westerly Ghost Tour?

The Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour is a guided walk through Westerly’s historic streets, showcasing sites believed to be haunted or connected to local legends. It’s an opportunity to see the town from a different perspective—at night, with stories that blend history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

Tour logistics: How it works

Starting at the Westerly Town Hall, the tour is approximately 1 hour 45 minutes long and is conducted rain or shine. The tour features a mobile ticket, meaning you can show your ticket digitally—convenient for on-the-go access. The group size is capped at 50 travelers, ensuring a lively yet manageable experience. The cost is $30 per person, which, considering the length and storytelling quality, offers good value.

Most bookings are made about 6 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want a spot, especially during peak fall or Halloween season. Confirmations are immediate, and the tour is suitable for a wide range of travelers, including service animals.

Starting Point: Westerly Town Hall

The tour kicks off at Westerly Town Hall, a historic site itself, setting the tone for what’s to come. From here, guides lead you through a series of stops, each with its own spooky story and historical significance.

The Stops: A Step-by-Step Breakdown

Stop 1: Westerly Memorial Library and Wilcox Park

The first stop behind the Westerly Memorial Library and Wilcox Park introduces you to tales of hurricanes—notably the 1938 storm—and tragedies involving body discoveries and ghost stories linked to the library. You’ll get a glimpse of how local tragedies have shaped ghostly legends.

Quote from reviews: “Our tour guide was great! She was very entertaining which made the whole experience so much better! Would highly recommend!”

Stop 2: The Fountain at Wilcox Park

Here, the story shifts to the “Titanic of New England”, a deadly shipwreck—adding a maritime twist to the haunted narratives. The atmosphere here is spooky, with tales of ships lost at sea and the spirits they left behind.

Stop 3: Crandall Urn and Pirate Legends

A quick, free stop at the Crandall Urn introduces tales of Captain Kidd and disappearing pirate treasures. This stop is short but adds a pirate-themed layer to Westerly’s ghostly lore. The stories of pirates, buried treasures, and the sea’s curses keep the mood lively.

Review highlight: “Sierra, our guide, was awesome and sweet! She was very knowledgeable and made the ghost tour fun! Highly recommended!”

Stop 4: Old Town Hall at 10 Union St

Next, the tour moves to the Old Town Hall, which is tied to the 1938 hurricane and local tragedies. It’s a perfect spot to discuss historical events that lend themselves to ghost stories.

Stop 5: The Bridge Restaurant and River Patio

The Palatine Ghost Light and hauntings along the river provide a visual and atmospheric element. You might find yourself imagining ghostly lights floating over the water.

Stop 6: Public Works Building, 53 High Street

Here, stories of fallout shelters and a murder tale involving Jackson add darker, more intense elements to the tour. The granite mural adds a visual connection to the area’s history.

Stop 7: Canal Street and the Scream of the Shipwreck

A mural of a Steamboat depicts the Larchmont Shipwreck and the “Screaming Woman,” adding maritime tragedy and ghostly voices to the night’s stories.

Stop 8: Savoy Bookshop and Cafe

A cozy stop where the focus is on true crime stories and hauntings linked to local legends. The literary setting enhances the eerie atmosphere.

Stop 9: Tapped Apple Cidery & Winery

Stories of Witches of Westerly and Satan’s visit to the area offer a different flavor—less maritime and more folklore, perfect for those interested in witchcraft and mystical tales.

Stop 10: Granite Theatre

Finally, the theatre itself becomes a ghostly setting, with stories of two souls and a skull, rounding out the night with theatrical ghost tales.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout this tour, storytelling is key. Guides are praised for their knowledgeability and engaging style. One reviewer noted, “Sierra has such good storytelling skills,” emphasizing the importance of a guide who can connect stories with local history. Expect lively narration, some dark humor, and plenty of local lore.

The stops are easy to access, most involving short walks and no additional fees. The entire experience is designed to be informal and fun, with each site offering a glimpse into Westerly’s haunted reputation.

Atmosphere and Vibe

Walking through Westerly at night, hearing ghost stories, you’ll find yourself immersed in a slightly spooky, sometimes humorous, atmosphere. It’s a leisurely pace—never rushed—and perfect for groups, couples, or even solo travelers wanting a taste of local mystery.

Who will love this tour?

If you appreciate history mixed with ghost stories, enjoy storytelling, or want a unique way to experience Westerly, this tour hits the mark. It’s also an ideal evening activity, great for a spooky date night or a fun outing with friends.

Value and Final Thoughts

At $30, the Westerly Ghost Tour offers excellent value. Nearly two hours of storytelling, a variety of sites, and the chance to learn about local legends make it a worthwhile experience. The fact that it operates rain or shine adds to its reliability, ensuring you won’t miss out due to weather.

The small group size and engaging guides help create an intimate, memorable experience. Plus, reviews consistently praise the knowledge and enthusiasm of guides like Sierra and AJ—elements that elevate the tour from simply walking and listening to actively engaging storytelling.

For travelers who enjoy ghost stories, local history, or just a different way to explore Westerly at night, this tour provides a fun, atmospheric adventure. It’s especially appealing for those who appreciate a mix of spooky tales and historical context, told with humor and passion.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.

What is the cost?
It costs $30 per person, offering good value considering the length and storytelling quality.

Is the tour suitable for all weather?
Yes, it runs rain or shine, so dress accordingly for comfort in any weather.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at Westerly Town Hall, a historic central location in Westerly.

Can I bring a service animal?
Yes, service animals are allowed on the tour.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the tour is limited to 50 travelers to maintain an engaging experience.

Do I need to book in advance?
Most travelers book about six days ahead, especially during busy seasons.

Are there any additional costs during the tour?
No, all stops are free to explore and listen to stories; no extra fees are required.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress for the weather since the tour is outdoors.

Can I participate if I have mobility issues?
While most stops are accessible, some walking is involved. Check with the provider if you have specific concerns.

To sum it up, the Downtown Westerly Ghost Tour offers a well-rounded, fun exploration of Westerly’s haunted side. It’s a perfect mix of storytelling, local history, and atmospheric walking—an engaging activity that’s especially suited for curious travelers seeking ghostly tales with a dose of local flavor. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a memorable evening, this tour makes for a lively, worthwhile outing in Rhode Island.