Haunted Trolley Tour of St Augustine

Our review looks at the Haunted Trolley Tour of St Augustine, a popular nighttime adventure that promises a mix of history, ghost stories, and fun. While we haven’t taken it ourselves, this tour has garnered a consistent rating of 4.0 out of 5 from nearly a thousand reviews, highlighting its appeal for those curious about the town’s haunted reputation.

What we really like about this experience is its unique open-air trolley that offers a different perspective on St. Augustine’s oldest streets—perfect for snapping photos and soaking in the atmosphere. Plus, the storytelling by knowledgeable guides brings the ghostly tales to life, blending history with just enough frights to keep everyone on edge.

One potential drawback is that the tour is not wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues should consider this. Also, since the stories are based on legend and lore, some might find the narratives more entertaining than truly chilling.

This tour suits families with teenagers, history buffs with a sense of humor, and anyone looking for a lighthearted, spooky experience after dark. If you’re after a more intense or ghost-hunting adventure, you might want to explore other options, but for a fun, atmospheric overview of St. Augustine’s haunted sites, this tour ticks many boxes.

Key Points

• The tour offers a 60-minute ride in an open-air trolley, perfect for sightseeing and photos.
• Guides are knowledgeable and engaging, making the stories come alive.
• The itinerary covers Haunted Hot Spots like the Old Jail and Tolomoto Cemetery.
• The experience is cost-effective, with a price of around $36 per person.
• It operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly.
• It’s suitable for most travelers, including children (rated PG-13), but not all accessibility needs are met.
• Photos are encouraged, and the guides often provide tips for capturing paranormal activity.
• It’s best booked 9 days in advance, reflecting its popularity.

An In-Depth Look at the Haunted Trolley Tour

An Introduction to the Experience

This haunted trolley tour is billed as St. Augustine’s original “frightseeing” experience, blending history, local legends, and a dash of the supernatural. It’s a one-hour journey aboard what’s called the Trolley of the Doomed, with open sides that bring a refreshing sense of freedom and a perfect chance to take atmospheric photos while drifting past the town’s most storied sites.

What makes this tour stand out is its combination of storytelling and outdoor sightseeing. The guides, often praised for their entertainment value, weave tales of ghosts, mysterious apparitions, and tragic histories in a way that’s both fun and informative. It’s clear that years of research, personal accounts, and haunting experiences go into their narratives, giving the stories a sense of authenticity—at least in the realm of legend.

A quick glance at reviews shows that many visitors find this tour to be remarkably enjoyable and well-organized, especially when the weather cooperates. The tour operates in all weather conditions, so you’ll want to dress accordingly—think layers and rain gear if needed.

Why We Think You’ll Like It

First, the visual component is a major plus. The open-air trolley allows you to see the historic streets, haunted hotspots, and dark cemeteries up close, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos. Several reviews mention how much they appreciated the stunning views and the chance to snap eerie images of sites like the Tolomoto Cemetery and the Old Jail.

Second, the guides’ storytelling skills consistently earn praise. Reviewers like Arika and Patricia highlight guides like Sage, Cassandra, and Dana, describing them as informative, friendly, and engaging. They share personal accounts, local legends, and even show videos, making the stories more immersive.

Third, the stop at the Old Jail Museum is a highlight. Documented paranormal experiences, such as EVP recordings and sightings through the jail’s windows, add authenticity—at least for those open to the supernatural. It’s a chance to get close to one of the most haunted buildings in the city. The museum admission isn’t included, so plan to budget a few extra dollars if you want to explore further.

Fourth, the Potter’s Wax Museum provides a slightly lighter, but equally spooky, interlude. While not a haunted site per se, it adds a fun visual element and is included in the tour’s schedule. You get about 15 minutes there to enjoy the wax figures, some of which are dressed as famous characters or historical figures.

The Itinerary: A Spooky Walk Through History

The tour kicks off at 27 San Marco Ave, a central location with free parking. From there, the trolley departs with a resident ‘Ghost Host’ guiding your journey through St. Augustine’s haunted past.

Stop 1: Tolomoto Cemetery — Here, you’re introduced to stories of spirits playing on sacred grounds after dark. The legend of James, a five-year-old ghost, and the Ghost Bride waiting for her walk down the aisle** gives a sense of the town’s ghostly folklore. The tales are rooted in local legend but are delivered with enough detail to make them feel real.

Stop 2: Old City Gates — Keep an eye out for Elizabeth, a child victim of yellow fever, who’s reportedly seen waving to passersby. This short stop adds a tangible link to the city’s turbulent past, blending history and ghostly sightings.

Stop 3: Old Jail Museum — The centerpiece of many ghost tours, the Old Jail is famed for documented paranormal experiences. Visitors often report feeling uneasy or capturing strange images. As one reviewer notes, “Cameras or phones are recommended to take pictures through the building’s famous windows”—and some have reportedly caught unexplainable phenomena.

Stop 4: Potter’s Wax Museum — The tour winds down with a visually stunning stop at a museum filled with wax figures, some with a spooky twist. It’s a fun way to cap the night, especially if you’re traveling with children or those interested in the darker side of pop culture.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Duration: About an hour. It’s a comfortably paced ride, with time allocated at each stop for stories and photos.

Transportation: The open-air trolley offers a breezy, unobstructed view of the historic streets—perfect for photos and creating that haunted atmosphere. It’s designed to hold up to 30 travelers, making it a lively but manageable group.

Cost: At around $36.39 per person, it’s a reasonable price considering the tour includes multiple stops, stories, and the atmosphere. The ticket booking is typically done 9 days in advance, reflecting high demand.

Weather considerations: Since the tour operates in all weather conditions, be prepared for rain or shine. The open trolley can get chilly or damp, so dressing in layers is advisable.

Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, which is important to note if you have mobility concerns. The tour is suitable for most children (rated PG-13), with a focus on spooky but family-friendly stories.

Photographic opportunities: Absolutely encouraged. The guides will often give tips on how to catch paranormal phenomena, making this a fun activity for those interested in ghost photography.

Authenticity and Legends

The stories you hear are based on local legend and research, blending fact and folklore. While some tales might send chills down your spine, remember they are part of the town’s storytelling tradition, designed to entertain and intrigue rather than scare outright.

What the Reviews Tell Us

Many visitors are highly satisfied, praising the guides for their enthusiasm and knowledge. Arika calls the guides “simply amazing,” while Patricia mentions how her guide “shared her experiences in a fun way.” Several reviewers appreciate the entertainment value more than the scare factor, noting it’s a great fun for families and groups.

Others highlight the photos they captured and the stunning nighttime views, making this tour a memorable way to see St. Augustine after dark. Some mention the professionalism of the staff, praising the smooth organization and the engaging storytelling.

For those looking for a lively, atmospheric look at St. Augustine’s haunted sites, this tour offers excellent value. The combination of storytelling, photo opportunities, and historic sites makes for a well-rounded evening adventure. It’s especially good if you’re traveling with family or friends who enjoy a mix of history, humor, and a touch of the supernatural.

While it may not satisfy the most hardcore ghost hunters, it’s a fun, well-organized experience that captures the charm and eerie allure of old St. Augustine. Its affordable price point and positive reviews suggest it’s a solid choice for those wanting a spooky night out without taking things too seriously.

Families with teenagers will enjoy the PG-13 rated stories and lively guides, while history buffs will appreciate the local legends woven into the tour. It’s also perfect for first-time visitors wanting a fun overview of some of the city’s most haunted spots.

Those craving a more intense ghost hunt or a private experience might find this tour a little tame, but for most, it hits the sweet spot between spooky fun and cultural insight.

What is the departure point for the Haunted Trolley Tour of St Augustine?
The tour starts at 27 San Marco Ave, a central location with free parking nearby, making it easy to access.

How long does the tour last?
It’s about 60 minutes, offering enough time to cover key haunted sites while keeping it lively.

How early should I arrive?
Check-in begins at least 15 minutes before your scheduled departure. Arriving early ensures you get a good seat and can settle in.

Does the tour run rain or shine?
Yes, it operates in all weather conditions, so dress accordingly if rain is forecast.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Unfortunately, the open-air trolley isn’t wheelchair accessible. If you are ambulatory, you can leave your wheelchair or scooter with the attendant.

How much walking is involved?
There’s no walking during the tour itself, just the ride between sites.

Is it suitable for children?
Rated PG-13, the stories are family-friendly but a little spooky, making it suitable for most kids and teenagers.

Can I take photos?
Absolutely. Photographs are encouraged, and guides often share tips on capturing paranormal phenomena.

The Haunted Trolley Tour of St Augustine offers a lively and atmospheric way to explore the city’s haunted reputation. It combines entertaining storytelling with picturesque night views, making it an enjoyable experience for a broad audience. Whether you’re a history lover or just in for some spooky fun, this tour delivers a memorable glimpse into St. Augustine’s ghostly past—without breaking the bank.

For those who enjoy a good story, a bit of scare, and a chance to see the city in a new light after dark, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary. Just be sure to book in advance and dress warmly—your ghostly adventure awaits.