Cleveland Ghosts Tour

If you’re looking for a way to get a different perspective on Cleveland—one that’s a little more mysterious and a lot more atmospheric—then a ghost tour might be just what you need. The Cleveland Ghosts Tour promises to reveal the city’s darker, haunted corners after sunset, blending history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy true crime tales, ghost stories, or simply want to see Cleveland outside its usual daytime glow.

From the reviews we’ve seen, this tour has a lot going for it. First, the guides are well-liked for their knowledge and lively storytelling—a crucial factor in any good ghost tour. Second, the stops feature some of Cleveland’s most iconic buildings and landmarks, giving you a chance to see familiar sights in a different light. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is about an hour long, which means it’s a quick evening jaunt rather than an in-depth exploration. Still, if you’re after an entertaining, spooky evening that’s packed with local stories, this one’s well worth considering.

One potential downside is the inconsistency some reviewers mention—mainly, a mishap with the advertised equipment, specifically the EMF detector. If exploring haunted spots with ghost-hunting tools is your thing, make sure to confirm with the tour provider about this before booking. Otherwise, the experience is more about storytelling and atmosphere than high-tech ghost hunting.

This tour suits travelers who want a fun, accessible way to experience Cleveland’s spooky side. It’s particularly good for families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a memorable night out with a mix of history and ghostly tales.

Key Points

• The Cleveland Ghosts Tour combines history, local lore, and ghost stories into a lively one-hour walk.
• It’s ideal for horror fans, true crime enthusiasts, and anyone curious about Cleveland’s darker stories.
• Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling.
• The tour visits many of Cleveland’s notable landmarks, often with a spooky twist.
• The experience includes the use of a mobile ticket, making it convenient and flexible.
• Cost is $32 per person, offering a reasonable value given the storytelling and site visits.

A Detailed Look at What You Can Expect

Introduction to Cleveland’s Haunted Side

The tour begins at Cleveland’s Public Square, right in the city’s heart. Here, amid grand Civil War memorials, you’ll hear about spirits believed to linger near the Soldiers and Sailors Monument. According to reviews, this site’s haunted reputation is one of the most talked about, with some visitors claiming to feel an eerie presence near the memorial. The seven-minute stop offers more than just a quick photo; it’s a chance to absorb the somber history and its ghostly legends.

The Historic Arcade

Next, you’ll visit The Arcade, an architectural gem that’s also famed for sightings of shadowy figures and mysterious noises. This large shopping and office space has long been associated with ghostly encounters. Visitors often find this site adds an authentic, spooky ambiance to the evening, especially as history and stories blend seamlessly. The seven-minute visit gives you just enough time to soak in the grandeur and imagine the stories hidden within.

Pickwick & Frolic Restaurant and the Crowne Plaza Hotel

The tour then moves to a former entertainment venue, now the Pickwick & Frolic. Patrons and staff have reported whispers and unexplained cold spots—classic signs of haunted sites. Similarly, the Crowne Plaza Hotel, located near Cleveland’s theater district, is said to harbor apparitions and mysterious sensations. These stops give a tangible sense that Cleveland’s past is still alive (or perhaps not entirely gone). Expect stories of spirits haunting the hallways, backed by local reports and folklore.

The Theaters and Arts Venues

Connor Palace and the Hanna Theatre come next, both theaters with longstanding reputations for ghostly activity. Past performers and theatergoers have spoken of unexplained noises, apparitions, and ghostly presences that seem to take a liking to these historic venues. The 8-minute stops offer a fantastic glimpse into Cleveland’s theatrical side with an eerie twist. If you love the arts and a good ghost story, these sites are highlights.

Cemetery and Military Museum

The Erie Street Cemetery, one of Cleveland’s oldest burial grounds, is reputed for ghost sightings and spectral phenomena. Visitors report strange sensations, and some believe the spirits of early residents still wander these grounds. The Cleveland Grays Armory Museum, once a private military club, also reports ghostly sightings—spectral soldiers and unexplained noises are common tales. These sites lend a slightly more somber tone but add depth to the haunted tour experience.

Practical Details

The tour begins at 50 Public Square, a central location easily accessible by public transportation. It concludes at the Southern Tier Brewery, making it convenient for a post-tour drink or snack. With most tours booked 14 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons or around special events.

The tour lasts about an hour, with most stops lasting around 7-8 minutes—perfect for a quick but meaningful exploration. The group size maxes out at 35, ensuring a more intimate experience and better interaction with guides.

Price and Value

At $32 per person, this tour offers a fair price. For roughly an hour of storytelling, site visits, and atmospheric storytelling, it’s a good deal—especially considering the enthusiastic reviews praising guides and storytelling. While it’s not an exhaustive exploration of Cleveland’s history, it strikes a good balance between entertainment and authenticity.

What the Reviews Say

Many travelers praise the guides for their knowledge and lively delivery. For example, one review mentions that “the witch and her minion taught us history and places of Cleveland that we never knew of,” highlighting how the tour combines education with entertainment. Others appreciate the effort made to ensure that everyone can hear and engage, noting that guides like Elizabeth and Star make the experience memorable.

Of course, not every experience is perfect. One reviewer expressed disappointment over the missing EMF detector, a gadget that was supposed to be part of the experience. While this might be a letdown for tech-savvy ghost hunters, most find that the storytelling and atmosphere more than compensate.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

The tour does a good job of creating a spooky ambiance—dim lighting, historic sites, and engaging stories. The stops at theaters, cemeteries, and historic buildings lend authenticity that’s hard to match with a purely virtual experience. Expect to hear tales of ghosts, see historic sites, and maybe even feel a chill or two if you’re receptive.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a maximum of 35 participants, the tour maintains a friendly, manageable group size. It’s suitable for most travelers, including families and older visitors, as long as they’re comfortable walking and standing outside in the evening. The route is walkable, with no mention of strenuous activity.

The Bottom Line

This Cleveland Ghosts Tour offers a lively, atmospheric way to see some of the city’s most historic—and haunted—sites. It’s particularly well-suited for horror buffs, history lovers, or anyone curious about Cleveland’s spooky tales. The guides are repeatedly praised for their storytelling skills, and the stops at iconic landmarks add a tangible sense of place.

While it’s a short tour, the reasonable price, engaging narrative, and authentic sites make it a memorable evening. If you’re looking for a fun, spooky way to experience Cleveland that balances history and ghostly legends, this tour fits the bill. Just be prepared for some chilling stories and maybe a few ghostly surprises.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, and it’s family-friendly as long as children are comfortable with walking and some spooky stories. It’s a good way for kids to learn about local legends in an entertaining way.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour, with stops in key locations lasting around 7-8 minutes each.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book around 14 days ahead, especially during busy times, to secure a spot.

What is the price?
The tour costs $32 per person, which is reasonable for a guided walk that covers several historic sites with stories.

Are the sites accessible?
The provided information suggests most sites can be visited comfortably on foot. The tour is designed for most travelers, but if you have mobility concerns, consider reaching out to the provider.

What equipment is included?
A mobile ticket is provided, and the tour mentions the use of an EMF detector. However, some reviews have noted that the detector might not always be available.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Cleveland’s Public Square and ends near the Southern Tier Brewery on Prospect Avenue.

What is the group size?
The maximum is 35 travelers, ensuring a manageable and engaging experience.

Is transportation needed during the tour?
No, this is a walking tour, so you’ll be exploring on foot.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for an evening that blends Cleveland’s history with ghostly stories and a dash of the supernatural, the Cleveland Ghosts Tour is a good pick. It’s well-reviewed for its guides, authenticity, and engaging storytelling. The moderate price point makes it accessible for most travelers, and the location in downtown Cleveland means it’s easy to include in a broader city visit.

For those who enjoy combining a bit of history with fun spooky tales, or simply want to experience Cleveland’s dark corners after dark, this tour offers a memorable experience. Be ready for some chills, some laughs, and a deeper appreciation for this Midwestern city’s mysterious side.

Explore Cleveland’s haunted history—book your spot early, bring a sense of adventure, and enjoy a night filled with stories, legends, and perhaps a few spirits.