Introducing the Private Ghosts of Chicago Tour

If you’re curious about Chicago’s mysterious side, this 2-hour private evening walking tour focused on the city’s haunted corners might just be your perfect night out. Led by a local guide, this tour offers an intimate look at some spooky spots in Lincoln Park, blending storytelling with an authentic city vibe.
Two things we particularly like about this experience are the personalized guidance—since it’s private, your group gets undivided attention—and the local insights that bring Chicago’s ghostly legends to life. It’s charmingly eerie without feeling overly commercial. One possible consideration? The price might seem high for just two hours, especially since it doesn’t include food, drinks, or admission tickets, but the tailored experience and private group atmosphere can make it worthwhile.
This tour suits travelers who love a mix of history and mystery, especially those who enjoy a more personalized, relaxed experience with a local guide. It’s ideal for groups of friends, couples, or families with older children who are comfortable with some walking and spooky stories.
Key Points

- Private tour experience offers exclusive attention from a knowledgeable guide
- Eerie stories connected to Lincoln Park’s history and haunted sites
- Flexible photo opportunities along the route
- Customizable pace due to the private nature of the tour
- No included admission tickets—plan for additional costs if you want to explore further
- Starts at the Chicago History Museum at 8 PM, perfect for a night adventure
You can also read our reviews of more walking tours in Chicago
Exploring the Haunted Lincoln Park

The Starting Point: Chicago History Museum
Your evening begins at the Chicago History Museum, a fitting spot to launch into the city’s past. From here, your guide will lead you into Lincoln Park, a place that’s as lively during the day as it is mysterious after hours. It’s worth arriving a little early to absorb the museum’s exhibits if time permits, but the true highlight will be the stories you’ll hear during the walk.
The Walk through Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park isn’t just a green oasis; it’s a place with a dark side. Historically, it was the site of Chicago’s original City Cemetery, and bones were often unearthed during park development—so some believe the spirits of those buried there still linger. You’ll stroll past the Lincoln Park Zoo, which adds a touch of contrast to the ghost tales, as it’s a lively and family-friendly spot by day.
Your guide will recount tales connecting the park to the Great Fire of 1871, which devastated much of Chicago but also contributed to mysterious stories and ghost sightings. These stories aren’t just spooky—they’re woven into the fabric of Chicago’s resilience and history, making them all the more authentic.
Ghostly Encounters and Legends
While the walk lasts approximately two hours, it’s packed with stories of haunted sites, spectral sightings, and eerie legends. For example, you might hear about the ghosts that are said to haunt the zoo or stories of restless spirits tied to the old cemetery. The guide’s friendly but professional approach ensures the stories are engaging without crossing into sensationalism.
Many reviews note the guide’s knowledge and storytelling skill—“We loved the way the guide kept the atmosphere fun and spooky without overdoing it,” one review states. The stories are complemented by the chance to snap photos along the way, capturing the quiet, moonlit beauty of Lincoln Park’s landscape.
You can also read our reviews of more private tours in Chicago
End of the Tour at N. Clark Street
The tour concludes in the vicinity of 2122 N Clark St, giving you easy access to nearby restaurants or a late-night drink if you wish to continue your spooky evening. Since there’s no transportation included, plan your return via public transit or a short walk—Chicago’s public transit system is nearby and reliable.
Is It Worth the Price?

At $350 for up to 8 people, the price breaks down to about $43 per person, which might seem steep for just two hours. However, considering it’s a private experience with your own guide, this fee offers exclusivity and personalized storytelling you won’t get on larger group tours. For those who enjoy a more intimate, story-driven approach to ghost tours, it’s a solid investment.
Since admission tickets aren’t included, you might want to set aside extra funds if you plan to explore other sites or visit the zoo during the day. The tour’s emphasis on storytelling and local insight adds a layer of value that many generic ghost walks lack.
Practical Details for Your Night Out
The tour starts promptly at 8:00 pm, so arriving a bit earlier ensures smooth check-in. The meeting point is the Chicago History Museum, a central and accessible location near public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors.
Since it’s a private tour, your group can move at a comfortable pace, ask questions, and take as many photos as you like. The guide is friendly and speaks English, adding a welcoming touch to the spooky stories. It’s designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level, as there will be some walking.
Remember, the tour is weather-dependent; if the sky opens up, it might be canceled or rescheduled. The provider offers free cancellations if you decide to reschedule more than 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind.
Authentic Experience and Unique Stories
What sets this ghost walk apart from others in Chicago is its local connection. The guide’s knowledge about Chicago’s past—the fire, the cemeteries, and the legends—adds depth to the stories, making them more than just ghost tales. Many reviews laud the guide’s engaging storytelling and friendly demeanor.
The tour’s focus on Lincoln Park’s haunted corners makes it a perfect suited for those interested in Chicago’s history as well as its mysteries. It’s a chance to see a different side of the city—quiet, shadowed, and filled with stories that echo through the trees and across the old cemeteries.
The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?
This ghost tour offers a personalized, story-rich experience that blends history with a touch of the supernatural, all within the charming setting of Lincoln Park. It’s ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a good tale and want to explore Chicago’s darker past with a knowledgeable guide.
If you’re looking for a cost-effective, large-group tour, this might not be the best fit, but for those craving an intimate, engaging, and authentic experience, it’s a worthwhile choice. The private setting allows for a relaxed evening of storytelling, perfect for creating memorable moments with friends or family.
While it doesn’t include extras like food or admission tickets, the focus on local lore, atmospheric walk, and personalized guidance makes it a unique way to spend a spooky evening in Chicago.
FAQ
Is this a guided tour?
Yes, you’ll have a friendly, professional English-speaking guide who conducts a private walk with your group.
How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the stories and take photos.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Chicago History Museum located at 1601 N Clark St.
What’s included in the price?
Your private guide and time to take photos. Admission tickets, food, and drinks are not included.
Is it suitable for children?
The tour requires moderate physical activity, so older children or teenagers who enjoy ghost stories should be fine.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, giving you flexibility if your plans change.
What if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to rain or poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is the tour accessible by public transportation?
Yes, the starting point is near public transit options, making it convenient to reach without a car.
In the end, this private ghost tour in Lincoln Park offers an atmospheric peek into Chicago’s haunted history, perfect for those who love stories, a bit of spine-tingling fun, and intimate storytelling. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a local looking for a different perspective, it’s a cozy, spine-chilling way to spend an evening.
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