Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence

Providence , United States of America

Haunted History Walking Tour of Providence

Active

(112 reviews)

1h - 1h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Our company has been a member of the Providence community for nearly two decades. Our company is a walking, haunted history tour of Providence's College Hill neighborhood.

Our guides lead guests by lantern light as we explore the history, mystery, legends, and lore of our city. Learn about different types of hauntings, our spirits' most current activities, and the dark tales that have been forgotten over time. Our tour is a wonderful blend of history and mystery, perfect for believers and skeptics alike!

The tour includes a portion of College Hill. We have chosen the most walkable route, but it is indeed a hill and our streets are old. Please wear shoes that are comfortable and stable. It is also outdoors, so be sure to dress for the weather.

Available options

Providence Ghost Tour

What's included

History, Culture, Art, and Literature

Complimentary Flashlight

Local Guide

Detailed itinerary

Groups will gather at the statue. Your guide will greet you and check you in, then begin with our first tale! Be sure to bring your camera and take pictures- there is no better place to see the city than Prospect Terrace Park.

We begin and end at this site, so you'll have the opportunity to see it twice!

Learn about the otherworldly tales of the Providence Art Club, one of our city's most celebrated institutions.

Please note, we stop outside the Art Club; we do not enter.

Benefit St. is the second oldest street in town. It has experienced so many of Providence's historic events and the ethereal dust of times gone by lingers still.

Please note we walk along a portion of Benefit St. We do not enter any buildings on Benefit St.

Providence Athenaeum is a literary legend in Providence and beyond. Learn about the literary hearts that still beat within.

Please note, we do not enter the library, but you are welcome to visit during their hours of operation.

Take a little rest as we ascend College Hill and learn about a tragic tale that resulted in one of the longest-documented hauntings in the city!

Visit various buildings at RISD, an internationally acclaimed art school right here in Providence, RI. Meet the souls who refuse to move on and how they make their presences known.

Please note, we do not enter any of the RISD buildings. Some are open to the public during the day and you are welcome to return for a closer inspection!

Stop 7

Stroll to multiple locations on the historic Brown University campus to learn about the paranormal activity that prevails.

Please note, we do not enter any Brown University buildings.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

40 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

72 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Not recommended for people who cannot stand or walk for more than 30 consecutive minutes.

Not recommended for people with recent lower body injuries or joint replacements.

If participants use wheelchairs or mobility devices, please call- some folks find it accessible and some do not. We will help you assess before you book!

Meeting point

Please meet your guide at Prospect Terrace Park, located at 60 Congdon St. Providence. Enter the park and go to the statue that overlooks the city, where your lantern-carrying, black garb-wearing guide will meet you.

Get ready to enjoy a stunning view as we begin our journey.

Important notes

Please check in with your guide 10 minutes before your tour departs. Simply show your guide your ticket on your phone. No need to print anything out!

Your guide will arrive 10 minutes before tour time and will greet you at the big statue located in Prospect Terrace Park (60 Congdon St Providence, RI 02906). Guides are generally quite identifiable, as they dress in black, gothic style clothing and carry lanterns.

Parking is on-street parking. You may park on Congdon Street or the adjacent streets (Cushing Street, Prospect Street, Bowen Street). If your tour begins at 7:30PM or later, please do not park directly across from the park. You will see signs that state they ticket cars parked on that small section of street (on Congdon directly across from the park, between Cushing and Bowen Streets) after 9PM. If you're not sure, just ask your guide when you check in and they will be happy to check your car's location and be sure you are safe. Again, Congdon Street is fine, just not directly across the street from the park.

Please wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour is a walking tour. The tour is all outside, so please wear appropriate clothing for the weather. Our tour is all-weather, unless conditions threaten human life, in which case we will notify you of cancellation by phone/email/text and offer you the opportunity to reschedule or receive a full refund.

If you are running 10-15 minutes late, please meet the group across the street from the Congdon Street Baptist Church (17 Congdon St); If running 15-20 minutes late, please meet your group at the corner of Benefit Street and Angell Street (191 Benefit Street); If running 30 minutes late, please meet the group at the Providence Athenaeum (251 Benefit St). If later than 30 minutes, you have unfortunately missed your tour.
If you have additional questions, please call or text for assistance. Please note, owner Courtney works and gives tours, but will get back to you asap.

About Providence

Providence, the capital of Rhode Island, is a vibrant city known for its rich history, thriving arts scene, and diverse culinary landscape. Nestled along the Providence River, the city offers a unique blend of colonial charm and modern innovation, making it an appealing destination for travelers of all interests.

Top Attractions

WaterFire Providence

WaterFire is an internationally acclaimed art installation featuring bonfires on the Providence River, accompanied by music and performances.

Arts/Entertainment 2-3 hours Free (donations appreciated)

Rhode Island State House

The Rhode Island State House is an iconic building with a stunning dome and beautiful gardens. It's a great place to learn about the state's history and government.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Providence Athenaeum

The Providence Athenaeum is a historic library and literary hub. It's a peaceful retreat for book lovers and those interested in the city's literary history.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free (membership available for a fee)

Federal Hill

Federal Hill is Providence's Little Italy, known for its Italian restaurants, cafes, and shops. It's a great place to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine and experience the city's vibrant cultural scene.

Cultural/Food 2-3 hours Varies by restaurant and shop

Waterplace Park

Waterplace Park is a beautiful urban park along the Providence River, featuring walking paths, waterfalls, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

Nature/Relaxation 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Clam Cakes

Deep-fried dough balls made with chopped clams, often served with chowder.

Snack Contains seafood

Coffee Milk

A sweet, creamy beverage made with coffee syrup and milk, a Rhode Island staple.

Drink Dairy

Stuffies

Stuffed quahog clams filled with a mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, and spices, then baked or fried.

Appetizer Contains seafood, gluten

Johnnycakes

A type of pancake made with cornmeal, often served with butter and maple syrup.

Breakfast Gluten-free if made with cornmeal only

Popular Activities

Hiking Biking Kayaking Beachcombing Picnicking Spa treatments Museum visits Art gallery tours

Best Time to Visit

May to October

This is the best time to visit Providence for pleasant weather and numerous outdoor festivals and events. The city is lively and vibrant during these months.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish, Portuguese, French
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United States Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Eastern Standard Time (EST) (UTC-5) or Eastern Daylight Time (EDT) (UTC-4) during daylight saving time.

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Providence is generally safe for visitors, but like any city, it has its share of crime and safety concerns. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, can occur in crowded areas and on public transportation. Violent crime is relatively low, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.

Important Precautions:

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

Getting there

By air

T.F. Green Airport • 10 miles south of Providence

By train

Providence Station

By bus

Greyhound Bus Station, Peter Pan Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

RIPTA (Rhode Island Public Transit Authority) operates an extensive bus network. Buses are affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Federal Hill College Hill East Side West End

Day trips

Newport

35 miles (56 km) southeast of Providence • Full day

Newport is a charming coastal city known for its historic mansions, beautiful beaches, and vibrant arts scene. It's a popular day trip destination from Providence.

Bristol

20 miles (32 km) southeast of Providence • Half day to full day

Bristol is a picturesque coastal town known for its historic downtown, beautiful beaches, and annual Fourth of July celebration. It's a great day trip destination for those looking to explore Rhode Island's coastal charm.

Block Island

12 miles (19 km) south of Newport • Full day to overnight

Block Island is a beautiful, car-free island known for its stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and charming coastal villages. It's a popular day trip or overnight destination from Providence.

Festivals

WaterFire Providence • May through October, typically on Saturdays and select weeknights Federal Hill Festival • September Providence Pride Festival • June

Pro tips

Visit WaterFire for a unique and unforgettable experience, but arrive early for good viewing spots
Explore the city's historic neighborhoods, such as College Hill and Federal Hill, for a glimpse into Providence's rich history and culture
Try local specialties, such as clam cakes, coffee milk, and stuffies, for an authentic taste of Rhode Island
Attend local festivals and events, such as the Federal Hill Festival and PVDFest, for a vibrant and lively atmosphere
Take a day trip to nearby coastal towns, such as Newport and Westerly, for beautiful beaches and scenic views