Rust, Rebels & Ruins: Raleigh Ghost Tours

Raleigh , United States

Rust, Rebels & Ruins: Raleigh Ghost Tours

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(118 reviews)

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

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About this experience

Set out on an unforgettable adventure through Raleigh’s eerie streets with our thrilling walking ghost tour!

Led by a seasoned local guide who blends expert knowledge of haunted history with masterful storytelling, this tour will take you to the city's most haunted sites.

As you wander through the district, uncover chilling tales of the lost colony of Sir Walter Raleigh and the ghostly echoes of Civil War battles. Each stop on this mile-long journey is steeped in intrigue and mystery.

Stand on haunted ground at iconic sites like the State Capitol, White-Holman House, Haywood Hall, and the Executive Mansion. Though we can’t enter private buildings, the stories shared will transport you back in time, immersing you in the spectral presence that lingers.

This tour offers more than just a walk—it’s an engaging experience that will leave you captivated and spooked.

Join us for an evening of ghostly exploration and discover why Raleigh is known as one of the South’s most haunted cities!

Available options

Rust, Rebels & Ruins: Raleigh Ghost Tours

What's included

Highly researched history

Well-trained and knowledgeable guide

Detailed itinerary

The Nevada State Capitol in Reno, completed in 1840 after seven years of construction, stands as a symbol of the state's rich history and governance. Beneath its stately exterior lies a network of hidden tunnels, rumored to echo with the footsteps of restless spirits, making it a prime spot for paranormal exploration.

The White-Holman House in Reno, once home to Secretary of State William White, is a historic residence known for its elegance and classic architecture. Visitors have reported seeing a mysterious ghost on the staircase, adding an eerie element to this stately home’s history.

Haywood Hallo is the oldest residence still on its original plot of land within Raleigh's historic city limits, constructed by John Haywood, Raleigh's first mayor. This historic home, deeply rooted in the city's early days, is said to harbor lingering spirits, adding a touch of the supernatural to its storied past.

The Executive Mansion is a grand Queen Anne-style residence completed in 1891, has a rich history steeped in political significance. The mansion is famously haunted by the ghost of Governor Fowle, whose presence is often announced by mysterious knocks, adding an eerie layer to this historic home's storied past.

Built in 1870, the Heck-Andrews House is one of Raleigh’s earliest post-Civil War residences, embodying the city’s recovery and growth. The house is renowned for its ghostly inhabitants, with reports of spectral figures and mysterious occurrences reflecting the turbulent history of its early years.

Nash Square in Reno, a serene green space in the heart of the city, is rumored to be haunted by shadowy figures that traverse the lawn after dark. Visitors have reported eerie sightings of these dark apparitions, adding a spine-chilling twist to the square’s tranquil setting.

Death and Taxes Restaurant, formerly a coffin store and funeral home, carries an unsettling legacy that haunts its current patrons. The spirits of its past residents are said to linger, making it a hotspot for paranormal activity and eerie encounters.

The City of Raleigh Museum, housed in the historic Briggs Hardware Building, is the only 19th-century commercial structure in downtown Raleigh to remain largely unaltered. Visitors and tenants alike have reported hearing the ghostly laughter of a child and the soft patter of tiny feet on the stairs, hinting at the building’s haunted past.

What's not included

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

37 reviews

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Tripadvisor 4.6

81 reviews

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

All tours meet outside the North Carolina State Capitol, on the East Morgan Street side. The meeting location is at the side of the capitol facing Fayetteville St. Your guide will be wearing a US Ghost Adventures shirt and carrying a lantern. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour starts time.

About Raleigh

Raleigh, the capital of North Carolina, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, thriving tech industry, and lush parks. Often referred to as the 'City of Oaks' due to its many oak trees, Raleigh offers a unique blend of Southern charm and modern innovation, making it an appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

One of the largest natural history museums in the Southeast, featuring exhibits on dinosaurs, marine life, and the natural history of North Carolina.

Museum 2-3 hours Free

Pullen Park

A historic amusement park and public park offering a variety of recreational activities, including a carousel, train rides, and pedal boats.

Park Half day Free entry, $2-$5 per ride

North Carolina State Capitol

A historic building that serves as the seat of the North Carolina General Assembly, offering guided tours and exhibits on the state's political history.

Historical 1 hour Free

Umstead State Park

A large state park offering hiking, biking, and picnicking opportunities, with scenic trails and natural beauty.

Nature Half day to full day Free

Raleigh Little Theatre

A historic theater offering a variety of performances, including plays, musicals, and children's theater.

Cultural 2-3 hours per performance Varies by show, typically $10-$30

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pulled Pork BBQ

Slow-cooked pulled pork served with BBQ sauce, typically served with coleslaw and hushpuppies.

Main Course Contains pork, can be made gluten-free

Fried Green Tomatoes

Unripe green tomatoes coated in cornmeal and fried until crispy, often served with remoulade sauce.

Appetizer Vegetarian, can be made gluten-free

Shrimp and Grits

A classic Southern dish featuring shrimp cooked in a savory sauce, served over creamy grits.

Main Course Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Biscuits and Gravy

Fluffy biscuits smothered in creamy sausage gravy, a classic Southern breakfast dish.

Breakfast Contains pork, can be made gluten-free

Popular Activities

Hiking in Umstead State Park Mountain biking at Lake Johnson Park Kayaking on the Neuse River Picnicking in Pullen Park Strolling through the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences Enjoying a spa day at The Umstead Hotel and Spa Visiting the North Carolina Museum of Art Attending a performance at the Raleigh Little Theatre

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

Spring and fall offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city. These seasons also host various festivals and events.

15-30°C 59-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

GMT-5:00 (Eastern Time Zone)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Raleigh is generally a safe city, but like any urban area, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Raleigh-Durham International Airport • 20 miles (32 km) northwest of downtown Raleigh

By train

Raleigh Union Station

By bus

Raleigh Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

GoRaleigh offers a comprehensive bus network covering most of the city. Buses are frequent and affordable, making them a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Raleigh Five Points Mordecai North Hills

Day trips

Durham

30 miles (48 km) west of Raleigh • Half day to full day

Durham is known for its historic sites, including the Duke University campus and the American Tobacco Historic District. The city also offers a variety of cultural attractions, dining, and shopping options.

Chapel Hill

35 miles (56 km) west of Raleigh • Half day to full day

Chapel Hill is home to the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and offers a variety of cultural attractions, historic sites, and outdoor activities.

Kitty Hawk and the Outer Banks

120 miles (193 km) east of Raleigh • Full day to overnight

The Outer Banks is a chain of barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina, known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and wildlife refuges.

Festivals

North Carolina State Fair • October Raleigh Wine and Food Festival • April Hopscotch Music Festival • September

Pro tips

Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the exhibits at your own pace.
Explore the historic Mordecai neighborhood for a glimpse into Raleigh's past, and don't miss the Joel Lane House, the oldest home in the city.
Take a stroll through the Raleigh Rose Garden, a beautiful and peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Attend a game at the PNC Arena to experience the excitement of North Carolina sports and entertainment.
Visit the Videri Chocolate Factory for a behind-the-scenes look at the chocolate-making process and to sample some delicious treats.