Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo
Active
1h - 1h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What if you could travel outside the beaten path, and discover some of the most exciting, yet often overlooked destinations in San Luis Obispo, CA? Mystery Loves Company Tours offers just that!
Wait a minute, you might think. Nothing ever happens in San Luis Obispo, right? Well, not quite. This community hides a gruesome past. You’d be shocked to learn about some of what happened here back in the day!
Join us on nightly walking tours through San Luis Obispo’s haunting downtown district, a stark reminder of the town's turbulent founding days. From local lore to urban legends and ghost sightings, we hope to offer some genuine and unexpected storytelling to visitors who are new to the area or even people who have lived here forever but never had the opportunity to explore the eerie side of the city.
Available options
Adults-Only Tour
Tour for All Ages
Tour Content: All of our stories contain sensitive topics, but we have left out some of the most graphic details for tours of all ages.
What's included
Local Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Guides will share haunting tales about the city's earliest residents and the horrific treatment of the indigenous people. Multiple stories will be shared from this location throughout key points in the city's founding history.
2
Guides will share a brief history of this location and the prominent family that once dwelled at the residence, including their darker pastimes.
3
A quick walk-by of these historic grounds may add more mystery than answers. We'll share the facts as we reported, by guests will be left to ponder what it all means for the haunted history of SLO.
4
The tour stop isn't exactly the theatre that stands there today, but instead is a glimpse into the past and what stood on the 4 corners in late 1800's SLO.
5
Our guides will share the shocking end to a tragic tale of love lost, friendship betrayed, and double murder.
6
Our story focuses on the troubled history of the building that this restaurant now resides in. Join our tour to find out how this very spot is connected to the FBI's Most Wanted List.
7
Learn of the murder and mystery that once shrouded this store, the apartment above, and the family that lived here.
8
Guides will draw attention to the often-overlooked Anderson Building. Once a regal hotel that hosted guests such a Clark Gable and now holds a forgotten history. Guides will share what is likely one of our saddest stories on the tour that is said to have haunted the local Sheriff at the time.
What's not included
Gratuities
Food or Drinks
Online Booking Fee
Tour does not enter buildings
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
39 reviews
5★
35
4★
2
3★
1
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
4.6
71 reviews
5★
61
4★
3
3★
2
2★
2
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Guests will gather at the famous El Camino Real Bell, next to the Mission on Chorro Street, midway between the cross streets of Palm and Monterey streets.
Important notes
Show the guide your ticket upon arrival at the meeting location. Please plan to arrive 15 minutes early to properly check in.
About San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, often abbreviated as SLO, is a charming city in California known for its vibrant downtown, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. It's a place where outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and a relaxed atmosphere blend seamlessly, making it a unique and appealing destination.
Top Attractions
Bubblegum Alley
Bubblegum Alley is a narrow alleyway covered in layers of bubblegum. It's a quirky and iconic spot in downtown San Luis Obispo, attracting visitors from all over.
Historical
15-30 minutes
Free
Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa
This historic mission, founded in 1772, is a beautiful example of Spanish colonial architecture and a significant part of California's history.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Pismo Beach
Pismo Beach is a popular beach destination known for its beautiful coastline, dunes, and various recreational activities.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free (activities may have fees)
Avila Valley
Avila Valley is a scenic area known for its vineyards, farms, and beautiful landscapes. It's a great place for wine tasting, picnicking, and enjoying the outdoors.
Nature
Half day to full day
Varies by activity (wine tasting fees, etc.)
Morro Bay
Morro Bay is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful estuary, Morro Rock, and various water activities.
Nature
Half day to full day
Free (activities may have fees)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Avocado Toast
A popular breakfast dish featuring fresh avocado on toasted bread, often topped with eggs, cheese, and other ingredients.
Breakfast
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Fish Tacos
A California classic, featuring fresh fish in a tortilla with various toppings and sauces.
Lunch/Dinner
Can be made gluten-free with corn tortillas
Cal Poly Mustard
A locally produced mustard made by students at California Polytechnic State University.
Snack
Vegetarian, gluten-free
Popular Activities
Hiking
Kayaking
Mountain biking
Surfing
Beach lounging
Wine tasting
Spa treatments
Picnicking
Best Time to Visit
May to October
This is the best time to visit San Luis Obispo for outdoor activities and exploring the city. The weather is warm and sunny, perfect for hiking, biking, and beach trips.
15-30°C
59-86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Pacific Time Zone (PT, UTC-8)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Luis Obispo is generally a safe destination for travelers, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere. However, as with any destination, it's important to take common-sense precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport • 5 miles (8 km) from city center
By train
San Luis Obispo Station
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The RTA bus system is affordable and convenient, with frequent routes and easy access to major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Funk Zone
Cal Poly Campus
Day trips
Hearst Castle
25 miles (40 km) north of San Luis Obispo • Half day to full day
Hearst Castle is a historic estate and national landmark that was once the home of newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst.
Big Sur
50 miles (80 km) south of San Luis Obispo • Full day
Big Sur is a stunning coastal region known for its rugged beauty, scenic drives, and hiking trails.
Santa Barbara
100 miles (160 km) south of San Luis Obispo • Full day
Santa Barbara is a beautiful coastal city known for its Spanish colonial architecture, beaches, and wine country.
Festivals
California Polynesian Festival • June
Avocado Festival • October
Farmers Market Christmas Tree Lighting • December
Pro tips
- Visit the San Luis Obispo Farmers Market on Thursday evenings for a lively and delicious experience
- Explore the city's historic sites and museums to learn about its rich history and culture
- Take a day trip to nearby attractions like Hearst Castle, Big Sur, or Santa Barbara for a more immersive experience
- Try local foods and support local businesses, such as the Avila Valley Barn or the SLO Brewing Company
- Use public transportation, walk, or bike to get around the city and reduce your environmental impact
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
