Hollow in the Hills: Buried in Burlington Ghost Tours

If you’re looking to add a little eerie adventure to your Burlington trip, the Hollow in the Hills: Buried in Burlington Ghost Tours promises a one-hour walk through the city’s darker corners. This experience, offered by US Ghost Adventures, invites you to uncover haunted spots and chilling tales that have been whispered around Burlington for generations. While it might not be the scariest ghost tour around, it offers a fun and atmospheric glimpse into the city’s ghostly past—especially suitable for those curious about local legends or seeking a break from the usual sightseeing.

From the start, you’ll appreciate the well-placed meeting point at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington on Pearl Street, a spot that fits nicely into the historic vibe of the tour. The tour’s duration of just one hour makes it a manageable and flexible activity, perfect for families, casual thrill-seekers, or those with limited time. However, the mixed reviews remind us that ghost tours are often subjective—what thrills some might leave others unimpressed.

What we like most about this tour is its focus on authentic local stories—from the haunted theaters to the tragic explosion at 160 Bank Street—delivering a narrative-rich experience. On the downside, with a rating of just 2.3 out of 5 from six reviews, it’s clear that not everyone leaves fully satisfied. Still, if you enjoy storytelling, history, and a touch of ghostly intrigue, this tour could be a fun addition to your Burlington itinerary.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate casual, guided walks with a spooky twist, especially if you’re interested in Burlington’s historic sites and local legends. It’s also a good pick for those who enjoy light-hearted ghost stories rather than intense paranormal encounters. Now, let’s explore in detail what this haunting hour entails, and whether it’s worth your time.

Key Points

• Short and manageable: A 1-hour walking tour that fits easily into a busy schedule.
• Authentic stories: Focus on local legends, tragedies, and haunted sites in Burlington.
• Engaging guide: Led by a seasoned storyteller, often with humor and energy.
• Haunted highlights: Includes Burlington’s Historic Theater, Church Street Tavern, and more.
• Weather and accessibility: Rain or shine, but not suitable for those with mobility issues.
• Value for money: Affordable price point considering the guided storytelling but temper expectations based on mixed reviews.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Tour

The tour begins at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington, where your guide, easily recognizable in a US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and lantern in hand, will greet you. From there, the journey takes you through 10 haunted locations within downtown Burlington, each with its own story to tell.

You’ll visit sites like Lake Champlain Chocolates, not just famous for their sweets but also with a haunted reputation that piques curiosity. The Burlington Theater, The Flynn, is another stop, where you can snap a photo and imagine the spirits that might be lurking behind the curtains. The Church Street Tavern offers a creepy moment that might make you feel a chill crawl up your spine, especially if you’re sensitive to atmospheric storytelling.

What makes these stops interesting isn’t just the stories but their historic significance. For example, the tour covers Burlington’s dark secrets—including tragedies like the explosion at 160 Bank Street—and pieces together the supernatural tales that linger in these places. The stories are meant to entertain and intrigue, with some reviews mentioning the guide’s humor and energy as adding to the experience.

While the tour promises to include communication with spirits—an element many ghost enthusiasts enjoy—be aware that it’s more about storytelling than paranormal investigations. You’re not likely to encounter ghostly apparitions but rather stories that have persisted through local lore and history.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

The guide’s role is central to this experience. Reviews note that the energy and humor brought to the storytelling can make the hour fly by. One reviewer appreciated the “energy and humor,” suggesting that a lively guide can elevate what might otherwise be a straightforward walk. As the group moves through the historic district, the guide not only recounts stories but also provides context, making Burlington’s haunted spots come alive.

Group size is typically small to moderate, which allows for interaction and questions, but it remains a walking tour—so comfortable shoes are a must. The one-hour duration means you’ll cover around 1 mile, which is manageable even for those with limited mobility. However, the tour is not recommended for those who cannot walk more than a mile.

Weather-wise, the tour takes place rain or shine. Participants should dress accordingly—comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential. The fact that it’s outdoors means that a rainy day may dampen the atmosphere, but it also adds to the spooky vibe.

The Value for Your Money

At a typical booking price, this ghost tour offers a decent value for those interested in local legends and quick ghostly thrills. While it’s not a deep investigation into Burlington’s hauntings, it’s a fun and atmospheric way to spend an hour in downtown Burlington. The guided storytelling is a highlight, and the stops at notable haunted sites give you a tangible connection to the city’s past.

That said, the mixed reviews suggest that expectations should be tempered. Some visitors found the stories enjoyable, but others may feel the tour lacks depth or scares. If you’re looking for a full-blown paranormal experience, this tour might not satisfy. But if your goal is a light-hearted, engaging, and brief ghostly walk to add some intrigue to your visit, it’s likely worth the fare.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour will appeal most to history buffs, casual ghost story fans, and those seeking a fun activity after dinner or while exploring downtown Burlington. It’s great for families with kids who are interested in spooky tales, as well as groups of friends looking for a quirky night out. It’s less suitable for those with mobility issues or travelers expecting a highly intense paranormal encounter.

If you’re in Burlington for a short visit and want a taste of local lore wrapped in an hour-long walk, this ghost tour could be just the ticket. However, if you’re after a more in-depth or spine-chilling experience, you might want to look elsewhere or set your expectations accordingly.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, making it easy to fit into a busy day or evening.

Where does the tour start?
All tours meet at the First Unitarian Universalist Society of Burlington at 152 Pearl Street.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s lighthearted storytelling and manageable length make it suitable for families, but parents should consider their children’s interest in ghost stories.

What do I need to bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since the tour takes place outdoors in all weather conditions.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
This tour is not recommended for those with mobility impairments because it involves walking more than a mile.

Will I get scared?
While some stops are designed to be spooky, the focus is more on storytelling and local legends than on intense scares.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is there a guide?
Yes, a live guide will lead the tour, sharing stories with energy and humor.

Are there any restrictions on recording or smoking?
Yes, smoking, alcohol, drugs, and audio recording are not allowed during the tour.

What’s the best time to go?
The tour runs in the evening and takes place rain or shine, so plan accordingly for weather and lighting effects.

In summary, the Hollow in the Hills: Buried in Burlington Ghost Tours offers a quick, atmospheric peek into Burlington’s haunted past. It’s ideal for those curious about local legends, looking for a fun group activity, or wanting a unique way to experience downtown Burlington after hours. While it may not satisfy hardcore ghost hunters or thrill-seekers, its storytelling charm, reasonable price, and manageable length make it worth considering for a lighthearted spooky adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby