Richmond Ghost Tour: Sinister Secrets of Shockoe Bottom

Richmond , United States

Richmond Ghost Tour: Sinister Secrets of Shockoe Bottom

Active

(154 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Welcome to Richmond Ghost Tours' exploration of the city's haunted past as the second-largest slave market in the United States and the Confederate capital during the Civil War. Richmond is home to some terrifying ghost stories as well as an interesting past.

With an hour or 90 minutes of easy, accessible walking, let our educated local guides lead you on an adventure in Shockoe Bottom and Church Hill to 8 or 12 locations. We advise all of our visitors to be vigilant throughout the walking tour because you never know when a ghost can be spotted! We are the top-rated, spookiest, and most real ghost tour online! For a genuinely terrifying encounter, we offer chilling tales that are rarely spoken!

Available options

Richmond Ghosts Walking Ghost Tour

Extended Walking Ghost Tour

Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes

What's included

Documented accounts of historic hauntings

Professional and Courteous Guides

Intensely researched true stories of history

Detailed itinerary

For a hint of what 18th century Richmond might have looked like there are few better places to examine than the unusual Adam Craig House. The oldest frame house in Richmond is also one of the most haunted. Hear the story of the spirit of the Southside Killer and the unfortunate events and haunts connected.

Completed in 1873, building this 4,000 foot-long Church Hill Tunnel proved problematic, resulting in tragic death and subsequent hauntings. Hear horrific tales of the lost spirits here.

Overlooking the city, walking through the Jefferson Park sometimes makes people forget what comes out at night. Sometimes, what sounds like a revving car followed by “whoops” and yells zooms by…but there is no car or any humans to be seen. Whispers are that it is the Briley brothers, riding back and forth around the park, looking for more crimes of opportunity in death as they had done in life.

Edgar Allan Poe is often said to be “America’s Shakespeare.” The horror story, short story, lyric poetry, science fiction, and detective fiction are all formats he either mastered or created. For over 150 years adults and children alike have enjoyed his literature. in what used to be known as The Old Stone House. Learn the hauntings of this spooky museum.

Dating back to the civil war, this prison was notorious across the battlefields, and was a wretched place to die. People who park here hurry to their cars at night, and see in their rear view mirrors the ghostly figures of Union soldiers in agony in their dust clouds as they quickly leave.

Due to its age, history of uses and association with historical figures, Masons’ Hall is one of Richmond’s most significant buildings. Used for government functions and religious gatherings, it was also a hospital in 1812. Masons’ Hall is home to multiple spirits of the dead and not so gone. Hear the tales of ghosts that linger.

What's not included

Food and Drink

Motorized Transport

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.9

47 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.5

107 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Our tour starts and ends at the 17th Street Farmers market, which is between Franklin and Main Streets at 17th. Your guide will be wearing a black US Ghost Adventures t-shirt and carrying a lantern. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

Important notes

Please check in with your guide at the meeting location 10-15 minutes before the tour's start time.

About Richmond

Richmond, Virginia, is a historic city nestled along the James River. Known for its rich Civil War history, vibrant arts scene, and stunning architecture, Richmond offers a blend of cultural experiences and outdoor adventures. From its iconic landmarks to its thriving food and craft beer scene, Richmond has something to offer every traveler.

Top Attractions

Virginia Museum of Fine Arts

One of the finest art museums in the United States, featuring a diverse collection of artworks from around the world.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Richmond National Battlefield Park

A significant Civil War site with well-preserved battlefields, historic structures, and interpretive trails.

Historical Half to full day Free

Maymont

A beautiful 100-acre estate featuring a mansion, gardens, wildlife exhibits, and walking trails.

Nature/Historical 2-4 hours Free (some exhibits have fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Fried Chicken

Crispy, golden fried chicken often served with biscuits and gravy or coleslaw.

Main Course Contains gluten and allergens (egg, wheat)

Peanut Soup

A creamy, savory soup made with peanuts, chicken or vegetable broth, and spices.

Soup Contains nuts

Crab Cakes

Delicious crab cakes made with fresh blue crab, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.

Appetizer Contains shellfish and gluten

Popular Activities

Hiking Kayaking Biking Spa treatments Botanical garden visits River cruises Museum visits Historical tours

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to October

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (GMT-5) / Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (GMT-4)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Richmond is generally safe for tourists, but as with any city, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services
• Use reputable tour operators and transportation services

Getting there

By air

Richmond International Airport • 13 km from city center

By train

Richmond Staples Mill Road Station

By bus

Richmond Greyhound Station

Getting around

Public transport

GRTC offers a reliable bus service with frequent routes and affordable fares.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Museum District Carytown

Day trips

Williamsburg

80 km • Full day

A historic colonial town with well-preserved buildings, museums, and living history exhibits.

Charlottesville

110 km • Full day

A charming college town with a rich history, beautiful architecture, and nearby wineries.

James River State Park

60 km • Half to full day

A beautiful state park with hiking trails, camping, and water activities along the James River.

Festivals

Richmond Folk Festival • October Virginia Wine Expo • March Carytown Watermelon Festival • August

Pro tips

Visit the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts on Thursday evenings for free admission and extended hours
Take a canal boat tour for a unique and relaxing way to see the city
Explore the historic Tredegar Iron Works and learn about Richmond's role in the Civil War
Visit the Richmond Farmers Market for fresh local produce and artisanal goods
Check out the street art and murals throughout the city, particularly in the Arts District