Curses & Corsets: Charlotte’s Candlelight Ghost Tours

Imagine wandering the quiet streets of Charlotte after dark, where every shadow might hide a restless spirit. That’s what you get with Curses & Corsets: Charlotte’s Candlelight Ghost Tours, a 60-minute journey into the city’s ghostly past. It’s a lively, creepy, and surprisingly educational experience that appeals to anyone curious about the supernatural or local history.

What we love about this tour is the expert storytelling—the guides craft stories that are both chilling and engaging—and the well-chosen sites that really bring Charlotte’s haunted reputation to life. The tour’s price of just $24 per person makes it a surprisingly affordable way to turn an ordinary evening into something memorable.

One point to keep in mind: since the tour covers about a mile and is all on foot, it’s best suited for those comfortable walking in the evening. If you’re someone who can’t do much walking or prefers a more private, less group-oriented experience, this might not be your ideal choice. But for those who love a good ghost story paired with a bit of history, this is a perfect fit.

Overall, Curses & Corsets is an entertaining, spooky, and educational outing that offers a glimpse into Charlotte’s ghostly legends. It’s especially well-suited for history buffs, thrill-seekers, or anyone looking to add a touch of the supernatural to their trip.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: Well-researched, true tales from Charlotte’s haunted past.
• Knowledgeable guides: Guides are praised for their storytelling skill and friendliness.
• Affordable price: At $24, it offers genuine value for an hour of entertainment.
• Accessible and flexible: Suitable for most travelers, with wheelchair accessibility and flexible booking options.
• Evening activity: Perfect for a spooky night out, starting at 8 PM.
• Authentic atmosphere: The tour takes place outside iconic sites like the First Presbyterian Church and Old Settlers Cemetery, adding to the sense of history and mystery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walk Through Charlotte’s Haunted Streets

This walking tour isn’t about theatrics or fake scares; it’s about stories rooted in history and local legend. Starting at The Dunhill Hotel, your guide—easily recognizable in a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern—sets a tone of authenticity and fun. The tour lasts about an hour, walking through downtown Charlotte, visiting 8 paranormal hotspots that range from historic sites to spots with local legends.

What makes each stop special? For one, there’s the story of a church sexton believed to have been buried alive—an eerie tale that stirs the imagination. Another highlight is the tragic apartment fire, which left behind a spooky legacy still lingering today. The infamous “Bermuda Triangle” area of Charlotte adds an extra layer of mystery, with some guests reporting chills or strange feelings as they pass through.

Since the tour is primarily outdoors, the real thrill is feeling the atmosphere—dark streets, old buildings, and the sense that long-departed souls might still be around. The stories are delivered with a mix of suspense and humor, making it accessible even for those who might be skeptical about spirits but enjoy a good scare. Several reviews mention guides who are not only knowledgeable but also engaging and funny, making the walk both spooky and fun.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Starting at the historic Dunhill Hotel, the guide introduces the evening and sets the tone. From there, the route takes you past significant sites like the First Presbyterian Church, an area reputed for ghostly activity. Here, you’re told stories about spirits that still haunt the grounds—stories that have been shared for decades.

Next, the Old Settlers Cemetery becomes a key stop. Walking among weathered headstones, you might picture the long-gone lives that once filled Charlotte’s streets. The guide shares documented accounts of hauntings, adding credibility to these tales. We loved the way the guide combined history with personal anecdotes, making each site come alive with atmosphere.

One of the most talked-about sites is the “Bootlegger House,” which has stories of illicit activity and ghostly visitors. The elegant McNinch House Restaurant, once a private residence, is another stop that adds a touch of class and history—and some spine-chilling stories.

Along With the historic sites, the tour explores the “Bermuda Triangle” part of town, where visitors report strange feelings or sightings, adding an element of thrill to the walk.

Throughout the tour, you’ll have opportunities to capture moments on camera—though, as one enthusiastic reviewer pointed out, “Test your courage to capture a genuine spirit on camera during the tour.” Whether or not you catch anything supernatural, the chance to explore Charlotte’s storied past in this way makes for a memorable experience.

Why This Tour Offers Good Value

Considering the price point of $24, the tour offers more than just entertainment. It’s a chance to learn about Charlotte’s history in a lighthearted, spooky way, with stories that have been carefully researched and documented. The fact that the guides are praised for their storytelling, knowledge, and friendliness enhances the experience’s value.

The tour’s duration—just an hour—makes it easy to fit into an evening without feeling like a long commitment. Plus, the ease of booking with flexible cancellation policies means you can reserve your spot without worry. The tour is also wheelchair accessible, ensuring accessibility for many travelers.

While transportation isn’t included, the meeting point at The Dunhill Hotel is central and easy to find. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures a smooth start, especially since guides will be recognizable in their lantern-lit attire.

What Reviewers Say

Feedback from past participants consistently highlights the high quality of guides and the spooky stories. One reviewer from Colombia praised the “exceptional” guide, noting her voice and storytelling ability created a sense of intrigue and wonder. Others appreciated the mix of humor and spookiness, making it fun for all ages.

Many have returned to Charlotte specifically for this tour, citing the engaging guides and interesting stops as reasons to repeat the experience. The mix of facts, ghostly legends, and moments of lighthearted fun creates a well-rounded outing that appeals to diverse tastes.

More Great Tours Nearby

Final Thoughts

Curses & Corsets offers a well-balanced mix of history, storytelling, and a touch of the supernatural—all in an accessible, short walk through Charlotte’s most haunted spots. It’s a perfect outing for those who enjoy a little scare, history, or both, especially in the evening when the city’s shadows deepen.

If you’re traveling with friends or family and want to add some mystery to your trip, this tour is a solid choice. For solo travelers or couples looking for a fun, spooky experience that also offers some insights into Charlotte’s past, it’s equally rewarding.

The tour’s affordability, engaging guides, and authentic stories make it a compelling option for a memorable night out. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and bring an open mind—you never know what spirits you might encounter.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately one hour, walking through about a mile of Charlotte’s streets.

Where does the tour meet?
All tours gather outside the front doors of The Dunhill Hotel at 237 N Tryon St, Charlotte, NC.

Is the tour suitable for all mobility levels?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most guests who can walk about a mile.

What is included in the price?
The tour includes a professional local guide, well-researched true stories, and documented accounts of hauntings.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour appropriate for children?
While not explicitly stated, the spooky nature and walking distance suggest it’s best suited for older children and adults comfortable with a ghostly atmosphere.

In essence, Curses & Corsets in Charlotte offers a lively, authentic, and reasonably priced peek into the city’s haunted lore. It’s a great way to combine history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural, making it an experience worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: