The Dark Side of Key West Ghost Tour

When you think of Key West, images of lively bars, colorful houses, and sunny beaches probably come to mind. But behind the laid-back charm lies a darker, more mysterious side—perfect for those who enjoy a little ghost stories with their vacation. This guided walking tour promises just that: a chance to see some of Key West’s haunted landmarks and learn about its eerie past in an engaging, often humorous way.

What we especially like about this experience is how it balances creepy tales with captivating history, making it appealing even if you’re not usually a fan of ghost stories. The tour’s guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and storytelling skills, turning local legends into vivid stories that stick with you long after you’ve finished. Plus, at just under two hours and $34.99 per person, it’s a surprisingly good value for an evening of entertainment and education.

One thing potential participants should consider is the tour’s physical nature—it’s a walking experience, so comfortable shoes and moderate physical fitness are recommended. Also, note that the tour is designed for guests aged 16 and older, which is worth keeping in mind if you’re traveling with younger kids or sensitive souls.

This ghost tour is best suited for travelers who love history, enjoy a good story, and aren’t easily spooked by tales of the supernatural. It’s perfect if you want a memorable, immersive experience without the commitment of a longer or more expensive tour.

Key Points:

• A 90-minute walking tour exploring Key West’s haunted sites
• Highly praised guides known for engaging storytelling
• Affordable price point with good value for an evening activity
• An authentic way to learn about Key West’s darker history
• Suitable for guests 16+ looking for light, spooky fun
• Visits notable landmarks like Capt. Tony’s Saloon and the Oldest House

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour takes you through a carefully curated route that hits some of Key West’s most historically and ghost-story-rich locations. Each stop offers a mix of spooky tales, historical insights, and a chance to see the city’s famous landmarks in a different light. Here’s what you can expect at each stop:

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church

The tour begins outside the gates of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church on Duval Street. This spot is a logical starting point—easy to find, right in the heart of the action. While the church itself isn’t the focus, the setting kickstarts your journey into Key West’s darker tales. Expect a brief, 15-minute overview of the tour’s themes and perhaps a ghostly anecdote to set the mood.

The Artist House Bed and Breakfast

Next, you’ll hear about Robert the Doll at this charming B&B. Robert is one of Key West’s most famous haunted figures, and the story surrounding him is both creepy and fascinating. The guide will share local legend and perhaps the ghostly lore that surrounds the doll, adding a dash of intrigue to the quaint setting.

Dean-Lopez Funeral Home

This stop delves into the darker side of the city’s history—a story about an infamous necrophile. The tour’s narration here is designed to be chilling but respectful, giving you a glimpse into some of the grislier chapters of Key West’s past. Expect about 15 minutes of storytelling, with the guide’s engaging style making the history come alive.

La Concha Key West, Autograph Collection

You’ll see the tallest building in Key West, La Concha, and hear stories about its history and supposed hauntings. The building’s prominence makes it a striking sight, and its stories add a supernatural layer to the skyline.

Marrero’s Guest Mansion

Built in 1889, this mansion’s tales involve its original owner, Francisco Marrero. The stories blend local history with ghostly speculation, offering a glimpse into the city’s architectural past and its haunted reputation.

322 Duval Street

Known as Captain Francis Watlington’s house, this is said to be the oldest house in Key West. The guide will recount ghost stories linked to this historic residence, making it a highlight for those interested in the city’s earliest days.

Audubon House & Tropical Gardens

This 19th-century mansion, built by Captain John H. Geiger, provides a lush, atmospheric setting for stories of ghostly sightings. The gardens add a peaceful, yet slightly eerie, backdrop to the tales.

Capt. Tony’s Saloon

The final stop is the legendary Capt. Tony’s, a bar with a long history of ghost stories and haunted tales. It’s a fitting end to the tour, as many reviews mention its haunted reputation and the stories shared here make it a memorable conclusion.

The Guide and the Experience

The tour’s success hinges on the guides, and here’s where this experience shines. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Christian, describing her as knowledgeable, entertaining, and engaging. One reviewer states, “Christian was awesome! She entertained us and told the ghost stories with excitement and kept us engaged.” Guides like her bring the stories to life, using humor and drama to make each tale memorable.

The tour is described as an easy walk, with stops lasting about 15 minutes each. The group size is limited to about 30 travelers, creating an intimate atmosphere where questions are welcomed, and stories flow smoothly. Despite the spooky theme, the tone remains light-hearted and fun, making it suitable for those who want a spooky experience without it being too scary.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $34.99, you get 90 minutes of guided storytelling, a chance to see several landmarks, and a fun, atmospheric experience. The tour is a mobile ticket, so no need to worry about paper vouchers. It’s important to note that entry inside private locations isn’t included, so the focus is on storytelling from the outside. Also, the tour is for guests aged 16 and older, which helps keep things appropriate for sensitive or younger guests.

Meeting and Ending Points

The tour begins on Duval Street, a lively hub of activity, so you can easily find the meeting spot. It concludes at Capt. Tony’s Saloon, allowing you to stay and soak in the ghostly atmosphere if you like. The convenient location and walking format make it easy to continue exploring afterward.

The Value for Your Buck

At just under $35, this ghost tour offers a good mix of entertainment, education, and a unique peek into Key West’s spooky reputation. When you consider the engaging guides, the well-chosen landmarks, and the storytelling quality, it’s clear that the experience delivers more than just a few ghost stories—it offers a taste of the city’s layered past in an accessible way.

Many reviewers praise the guides’ enthusiasm and storytelling prowess, with comments like “Our tour guide Christian was great! Very knowledgeable. We loved it,” and “Fritz was very knowledgeable about the area and was an excellent guide.” For those interested in history, local legends, and a little supernatural fun, this tour is a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers interested in history with a spooky twist. It’s perfect for those who enjoy engaging storytelling and don’t mind walking for about an hour and a half. It suits adults and older teens who appreciate a lively, humorous approach to ghost stories. If you’re seeking a fun, lighthearted way to explore Key West’s mysterious side, this tour fits the bill. However, if you prefer more interactive or inside access to haunted sites, you might want to look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s designed for guests 16 and older, mainly because some stories may be spooky or mature in tone.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including all stops.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes, it’s an easy, mostly flat walk through key parts of Key West, making it accessible for most people with moderate fitness.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any hidden costs?
No, the price includes the guided tour. However, entry inside private locations is not included, and gratuities are optional.

Will I see inside any buildings?
No, the tour is outside only. It focuses on storytelling at landmark locations.

How many people are in each group?
The tour is capped at around 30 travelers, fostering a more intimate experience.

The Dark Side of Key West Ghost Tour provides an engaging way to explore the city’s haunted corners while learning about its colorful past. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost story enthusiast, or just looking for a memorable evening activity, this tour offers good value and plenty of local charm. It’s best suited for those who enjoy stories delivered with a sense of humor, and who are ready to see Key West in a different, spookier light.