Annapolis: Historic Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for a way to add some intrigue and spine-tingling stories to your Maryland trip, the Annapolis Historic Ghost Tour might just be what you need. While it’s not a scream-inducing haunted house experience, it offers a charming, historically grounded peek into the city’s ghostly legends—told by guides dressed in period attire. It’s a good option for history buffs, curious travelers, or anyone who appreciates a well-told story about a place’s past.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things: First, Watermark’s guides do a fantastic job of capturing the atmosphere with authentic costumes and storytelling finesse. Second, the stories themselves are rooted in documented occurrences, giving the spooky tales a sense of legitimacy. A possible drawback is that the tour leans more toward storytelling than thrills—so if you’re expecting high-intensity scares, this might not satisfy you. Instead, it’s ideal for those who enjoy a blend of history and mystery, especially in a charming, walkable old town.

This tour is perfect for those who want a relaxed, engaging way to explore Annapolis after hours, with a slight spooky twist. It’s well-suited for history lovers, ghost story enthusiasts, and travelers looking for a memorable evening in Maryland’s capital. Keep in mind, it’s best for those who don’t mind walking through narrow streets at night and who don’t have mobility issues, as it’s a 90-minute walking experience.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: Guides wear period costumes and share documented stories, not just folklore or over-the-top ghost tales.
• Historical focus: The stories are rooted in Annapolis’s four-century past, adding depth and context.
• Spooky sights: Stops include an old inn haunted by a jilted bride and a cemetery where colonial figures are buried.
• Accessible and flexible: The tour lasts 1.5 hours, is wheelchair accessible, and offers cancelation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Great value: At $30 per person, it’s a reasonably priced way to explore the city’s ghostly legends.
• Evening activity: Usually available in the evening, making it an appealing after-dark option.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Annapolis Ghost Tour

Introduction to the Experience

The Annapolis Historic Ghost Tour, offered by Watermark Journey, promises a spine-tingling yet educational stroll through the city’s oldest streets. We haven’t tried it ourselves but have reviewed countless similar experiences, and this one seems thoughtfully designed to appeal to travelers who enjoy history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural.

What we love about this tour is the authenticity—guides dressed in period clothing lend a sense of stepping back in time—and the focus on documented occurrences grounds the stories in real history. It’s a quieter, more atmospheric alternative to loud, scream-packed haunted attractions.

On the downside, the tour’s primary goal is storytelling rather than intense thrills or scares. If you’re expecting a haunted house horror show, you might be disappointed. However, if you’re interested in hearing intriguing tales that have a real connection to Annapolis’s past, it offers genuine value.

This experience is best suited to those who enjoy a leisurely, informative walk with a spooky twist. It’s ideal for history buffs, mystery lovers, couples, or small groups seeking a memorable way to spend an evening.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The 90-minute guided walk takes you through Annapolis’s narrow streets, where every corner seems to whisper stories of yesteryear. Your guide, dressed in period costume, leads you through historic landmarks and spots where ghostly legends are said to linger.

One of the highlights is a visit to an historic inn, which local legend claims is haunted by a jilted bride. She allegedly roams the hallways at night, searching for her would-be groom. The story’s rooted in documented occurrences, which adds a layer of authenticity that many ghost tours lack. Tourists have noted that the guide’s storytelling is engaging and atmospheric, making the experience feel like a step into the city’s haunted past.

Another stop takes you to St. Anne’s Cemetery, where some of Annapolis’s colonial residents are buried. You’ll learn why colonial-era residents supposedly picnicked in cemeteries—an odd but historically documented practice that fascinates visitors. The cemetery’s quiet, aged stones set the perfect mood for ghost stories, and many find the stories about the colonial figures both intriguing and chilling.

Throughout the tour, stories are pieced together from historical records, legends, and local anecdotes, making it a compelling blend of fact and folklore. Guides often share other documented occurrences of paranormal activity, adding credibility and depth to the tales.

The Tour’s Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point: Your guide will meet you in a designated location, dressed in period attire, setting the tone from the outset. This initial immersion helps travelers step back into the past, creating a more authentic experience.

Historic Inn: The first stop is an old inn where guests have reported mysterious noises and sightings of a bride in the hallways. The story has been passed down through generations, and the guide emphasizes its documented roots, which enhances the credibility.

Narrow Streets & Historic Landmarks: As you walk through the city’s historic district, your guide shares stories about the city’s colonial past, including tales of residents who communicated with spirits or experienced unexplained phenomena. The streets themselves, with their creaky bricks and old lampposts, contribute to the atmosphere.

St. Anne’s Cemetery: The walk continues to this historic cemetery, where the guide recounts stories of colonial figures and their supposed hauntings. You’ll learn about the unusual practice of picnicking in cemeteries, and why locals believed these sites were connected to spirits.

Final Stop: The tour concludes back at the starting point, having covered a circular route through Annapolis’s most haunted—and historically significant—spots.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

• Authentic Guides in Costume: Guides fully embrace the period, adding a theatrical element that enhances immersion.
• Documented Stories: Unlike many ghost tours that rely purely on legends, Watermark’s stories are tied to documented occurrences, providing a sense of legitimacy.
• Historic Sites: The tour visits real landmarks, such as an old inn and cemetery, giving travelers a tangible connection to the stories.
• Flexible & Accessible: The tour is wheelchair accessible and can be canceled with a 24-hour notice, making it suitable for most travelers.

The Value for the Price

At $30 per person, the tour offers a compelling mix of history, atmosphere, and storytelling. Compared to similar experiences, it’s a good deal—especially considering the guides’ theatrical skill and the authentic historic sites visited.

While it’s not a heart-pounding horror experience, the immersive storytelling and historic context make it a worthwhile addition to a trip to Annapolis. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy learning about a place’s past through stories that are rooted in real documented events.

What Past Reviewers Say

Many guests praise Watermark’s guides for their engaging storytelling and authentic costumes. One reviewer mentions how the guide’s stories “tickled the spine” but also provided interesting historical context. Others appreciate the relaxed pace and the opportunity to explore the city’s streets after dark.

A common theme is that the tour balances entertainment with education, making it suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Some note that the stories are more atmospheric than frightening, which is perfect for those who prefer a spooky vibe over scares.

Additional Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable footwear, as the tour involves walking through historic streets and uneven cobblestones.
• Bring a flashlight if you want to see some of the darker corners or read signs more easily.
• Arrive a few minutes early to meet your guide and settle in.
• Since parking fees are not included, plan your parking in advance or consider public transportation.
• Remember, gratuity is appreciated but not expected.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost tour is best for travelers who enjoy stories rooted in history and authenticity. It appeals to those interested in Annapolis’s colonial past, as well as anyone seeking a relaxed evening activity that mixes education with a hint of supernatural fun. It’s perfect for families (with older kids), couples, or groups who want a memorable, atmospheric experience without the over-the-top theatrics or scares.

It’s less suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or those expecting a highly intense scare experience. But if you’re in Annapolis and looking for a unique way to explore the city after dark, this tour offers both charm and substance.

Final Thoughts

The Annapolis Historic Ghost Tour offers an engaging, atmospheric way to experience the city’s haunted past without the horror-movie intensity. Guides dressed in period costume bring the stories to life, and the focus on documented occurrences lends credibility that many ghost tours lack. At a reasonable $30, it provides a memorable, immersive experience that combines history and mystery.

If you enjoy stories with a touch of the supernatural, appreciate authentic historical sites, and want a relaxed, guided walk through Annapolis’s historic streets, this tour is a smart choice. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer storytelling and atmosphere over screams and scares, making it a perfect fit for a diverse range of travelers seeking a spirited evening in Maryland’s charming capital.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing enough time to enjoy the stories without feeling rushed.

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
It’s generally suitable for most age groups, but it might be best for older children or teenagers who can appreciate the stories and walk the route comfortably.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible if your plans change.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, but the walking involves navigating narrow streets and possibly uneven surfaces.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the guided tour with a period-attired, historically trained guide and the 90-minute walk through Annapolis’s historic district.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, so plan accordingly before or after the tour.

Where does the tour start?
Your guide will meet you at a designated location, dressed in period costume, ready to lead you through the haunted streets of Annapolis.

In all, the Annapolis Historic Ghost Tour offers a well-balanced blend of history, storytelling, and atmosphere at a reasonable price. It’s a charming way to spend an evening discovering Maryland’s colonial past through a slightly spooky lens—perfect for those who love history with a twist of mystery.

You can check availability for your dates here: