St. Augustine: Ghosts and Gravestones Old Town Trolley Tour

If you’re curious about the spooky side of Florida’s oldest city, the Ghosts and Gravestones Old Town Trolley Tour offers a lively, intriguing way to explore its darker stories. For just $36 per person, you get about 80 minutes of chilling tales, eerie sights, and a chance to peek inside some of the city’s most haunted sites—all aboard a comfortable trolley with a knowledgeable guide.

One of the biggest wins here is how the tour combines storytelling with actual visits to historic, haunted buildings like the Old Jail and the Potter’s Wax Museum. Plus, hearing ghostly legends from a real “Ghost Host” makes it feel like stepping into a horror movie—without the horror movie ticket prices.

However, a consideration is that the tour lasts just over an hour, so it’s a quick peek rather than an in-depth exploration. Also, since it’s rated PG-13, some younger children may find it a little scary, especially if they’re sensitive to ghost stories or jump scares. It’s best suited for those who enjoy a spooky thrill with some historical context and appreciate a good story told with flair. Overall, if you love ghost tales, historic architecture, and a bit of theatrical fun, this tour hits the spot.

Key Points

• Unique inside visits: The only ghost tour in St. Augustine that includes inside access to two haunted buildings—Old Jail and Potter’s Wax Museum.
• Engaging storytelling: Guides like Luna and Cersei are praised for their lively, humorous, and knowledgeable narration.
• Authentic ghost stories: The tour features true tales of paranormal activity, murder, and mayhem, adding a spine-tingling element.
• Comfortable and accessible: The trolley ride allows for easy movement and seating, suitable for those with mobility concerns (though not for wheelchair users).
• Great for families and groups: With a PG-13 rating and engaging actors, it’s suitable for older kids, teens, and adults.
• Excellent reviews: With a solid 4.4/5 from over 300 reviews, many visitors highlight the entertaining guides and the spooky atmosphere.

A Detailed Breakdown of the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off at the San Marco Welcome Center, located at 27 San Marco Ave. This spot is easy to find and convenient for most visitors staying in or near the historic district. The transportation itself is a comfortable trolley, which is a practical way to cover several key sites without tiring yourself out on foot. The ride lasts about 80 minutes, a good length to enjoy the stories without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

The Haunted Old Jail

The Old Jail is undeniably the star of this tour—listed on both the Florida and National Register of Haunted Places. Visitors consistently comment on the creepy vibe here, with actors like Charlie (the ghostly “eighth hanged at the gallows”) delivering spine-chilling performances that bring the building’s haunted reputation to life. Reviewers mention that the paranormal experiences are well-documented and that the ambiance is genuinely spooky—perfect for ghost enthusiasts.

Potter’s Wax Museum

One of the few inside stops on this tour, the Potter’s Wax Museum offers a unique scare experience. The stop inside is described as a “scary stop,” with actors portraying historical figures or ghosts that linger among the wax sculptures. Reviewers like “Dana” and “Jesse” note that actors at Potter’s added a lot to the experience, providing “creepy vibes” and making it much more than just a display of wax figures. Some have mentioned that the actors are very animated and engaging, adding humor and fright in equal measure.

The Haunted Cemeteries

The Huguenot and Tolomato Cemeteries are key stops where the guide shares stories about paranormal activity, murder, and murderers’ tales. You’ll hear about shadows that move and ghostly encounters, all woven into real historical context. One reviewer, Sarah, appreciated guides like Tammy and Greg for their depth of knowledge about the city’s wildlife, ecosystem, and spooky tales, making the experience both educational and chilling.

The Guides and Actors

The guides, such as Cersei, Luna, and Ivy, receive high praise for their entertainment skills and historical knowledge. They skillfully balance storytelling with humor, making the tour engaging and memorable. Several reviews highlight how the guides set the mood perfectly, with some actors and guides going above and beyond to entertain, making the experience feel immersive.

The Atmosphere and Scare Factor

While the tour is rated PG-13, reviewers have noted that the jump scares tend to be toned down, possibly due to the presence of children or a desire to keep it family-friendly. That said, several reviewers still felt genuinely spooked, especially in the Old Jail and during ghost stories. The actors’ performances and the setting’s natural eerie ambiance do a good job of creating a spooky atmosphere.

The Overall Value

At $36, this tour offers excellent value considering it combines a scenic trolley ride, inside access to haunted locations, and engaging storytelling. The reviews suggest that many guests find it worth the price—especially because of the inside visits and the quality of guides and actors. Plus, the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance adds flexibility for last-minute plans or uncertain weather.

Practical Tips for a Great Experience

• Wear comfortable shoes: The tour involves some walking and standing outside, especially at cemeteries.
• Book later in the evening: Some reviews suggest that a later start (e.g., after 7:00 PM) might increase the scariness, as jump scares tend to be more intense when it’s darker.
• Prepare for some spooky stories: The tour includes tales of hangings, executions, and ghost sightings—perfect for those who love a good scare but may be a bit intense for very young children.
• Bring a flashlight: While not explicitly required, a small flashlight could be handy for cemetery stops or darker corners inside haunted buildings.
• Stay seated during the trolley ride: For safety and comfort, especially if mobility is a concern.

The Sum Up

The St. Augustine Ghosts and Gravestones Old Town Trolley Tour offers a well-rounded, fun, and slightly eerie experience that’s perfect for those interested in history with a supernatural twist. The inside visits to the Old Jail and Potter’s Wax Museum make it stand out from typical ghost tours, providing a mix of spooky ambiance, historical storytelling, and theatrical performances.

The guides are friendly, knowledgeable, and capable of striking a balance between fright and fun. The moderate price of $36 makes it an accessible choice for individuals, families, or groups looking for a memorable night out that combines history with a ghostly edge. While it may not deliver the full adrenaline rush of more intense horror experiences, it’s a solid option for a dark, entertaining adventure in St. Augustine.

Ideal for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys a good spooky story with a side of humor and history. If you’re seeking a light-hearted yet slightly chilling way to explore the city after dark, this tour will likely satisfy your curiosity and provide plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Rated PG-13, it’s generally suitable for older kids and teens. Younger children might find some stories or jump scares a little intense, so consider their sensitivity.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 80 minutes, combining trolley rides and stops at haunted sites.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour departs from the San Marco Welcome Center at 27 San Marco Ave** and ends back at the same location.

What does the tour include?
It includes transportation on the trolley and a guide who narrates the stories and manages the stops.

Are inside visits included?
Yes, the tour takes you inside the Old Jail and the Potter’s Wax Museum, which is unique among ghost tours in the area.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Not suited for wheelchair users or those with significant mobility impairments, as some walking is involved.

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

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are recommended; a flashlight might be helpful at night.

Is this tour good for couples or groups?
Absolutely. It’s praised for being engaging, fun, and perfect for groups of friends, families, or even date nights.

Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or just looking for a fun, spooky way to experience St. Augustine, this tour balances entertainment, history, and just enough fright to keep you on your toes.