If you’re fascinated by ghost stories and curious about hands-on paranormal investigations, the Estes Method Blindfolded Ghost Hunt in Charleston offers a unique twist. Unlike traditional ghost tours that simply narrate spooky tales, this experience puts you in the midst of ghost-hunting experiments using advanced equipment—and yes, it involves being blindfolded. It’s an intriguing way to explore the city’s haunted spots while engaging with the supernatural in a very personal way.
What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines interactive technology with authentic haunted locations—giving you a chance to see what real ghost hunting might look like. The fact that each guest gets to rotate roles means everyone has a chance to participate actively. Plus, the recordings and videos available after the experience allow you to review and reflect on what you encountered.
One possible consideration is the short duration—at just over two hours, it’s a quick taste of ghost hunting, so if you’re looking for an extensive overnight investigation, this might feel a bit limited. Still, for curiosity-seekers and those interested in paranormal experimentation, this experience hits a good balance of fun and authenticity.
This tour is best suited for those who are open-minded, interested in paranormal techniques, and comfortable with a bit of adventure. It’s also ideal for small groups (maximum six people), making it intimate enough to feel personal while still exciting.
Key Points

- Hands-on Experience: You’ll actively participate in multiple Estes Method experiments, not just observe.
- Advanced Equipment: Use of spirit boxes, night vision cameras, EMF meters, VR viewers, and more.
- Authentic Locations: Stops include Charleston Library Society, County Courthouse, and The Powder Magazine.
- Recorded Evidence: Post-tour access to infrared videos, spirit box recordings, and scoring of each haunting.
- Small Group Setting: With a maximum of six travelers, it’s personalized and engaging.
- Value for Price: For $109, you get a substantial, interactive paranormal experience with recordings to take home.
The tour begins at the historic Charleston Library Society on King Street, one of the city’s cultural hubs. Here, the guide introduces the paranormal equipment and conducts your first Estes session. Expect about 30 minutes of hands-on learning, where you get a feel for spirit boxes and other tech used to communicate with spirits. The fact that this introductory session is free makes it a welcoming start, easing newcomers into the experience without any upfront cost.
Next, you’ll move to the Charleston County Courthouse—a site with a reputation for paranormal activity. Here, another Estes session takes place, giving you a second chance to engage with the equipment in a different haunted environment. The 20-minute session allows you to experience how location impacts the haunting, adding a layer of authenticity to your investigation.
The third stop is The Powder Magazine, a historic fortification with its own ghostly tales. Here, a final Estes experiment is conducted, rounding out your night of ghostly exploration. The tour also mentions other spots nearby that aren’t formal “attractions” but are haunted enough to host additional experiments, hinting at Charleston’s deep-seated supernatural lore.
Throughout these stops, you’ll use disposable blindfolds, headphones, spirit boxes, infrared cameras, and EMF meters—all included in the price. This equipment is standard in serious paranormal investigations and gives you a real sense of the tools used by professionals and TV ghost hunters alike. The rotational role system keeps the experience dynamic—some will listen blindfolded to spirit box chatter, others will see via VR or infrared video, offering multiple perspectives on the same location.
Experience Quality and Authenticity

While reviews are limited, the tour’s detailed structure suggests a well-organized approach that balances entertainment with genuine investigative methods. The recordings you receive afterward are a real plus—they’re not just souvenir photos but actual evidence of your night. The spirit box recordings and infrared videos could be intriguing to review once home, especially if you’re a true believer or just a paranormal enthusiast.
The small group size (up to six travelers) fosters an intimate and safe environment. You won’t be lost in a crowd, and this enhances the opportunity to ask questions or share impressions during the tour. This personalized approach is often appreciated by those new to ghost hunting, as well as seasoned investigators.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Charleston.
Price and Value
At $109 per person, this experience offers good value for an interactive, tech-driven ghost hunt. While it’s not a full overnight investigation, the mix of equipment, locations, and post-experience recordings makes it a worthwhile investment. You’re actively involved, not just passive spectators, and the chance to learn advanced methods of ghost detection adds to the experience’s appeal.
Compared to generic ghost tours, which might only tell stories or show static photos, this tour lets you try the equipment firsthand. If you’re intrigued by the science behind paranormal investigation, this tour delivers real insight. The inclusion of physical gear, VR technology, and recordings makes it more than just a walk through haunted spots; it’s a mini research project—albeit a fun and spooky one.
What You Can Expect at Each Stop

Charleston Library Society: A historic literary hub and cultural landmark, this site provides a charming setting to learn about ghost hunting tools. Expect a brief introduction before your first Estes experiment. It’s a gentle way to ease into the experience, and the free admission makes it accessible without a big upfront investment.
Charleston County Courthouse: A more intense location with a reputation for paranormal activity. This stop offers a shorter session but enough to give a sense of how different environments impact ghostly phenomena. The historical ambiance adds a spooky vibe.
The Powder Magazine: An old fort with stories of ghostly soldiers and mysterious noises. The final session here provides a fitting conclusion, with participants feeling the weight of history and the supernatural combined.
Additional Haunted Spots: While not part of the main itinerary, the mention of other nearby haunted locations suggests Charleston’s streets are full of ghostly lore—great for those who want to extend the adventure or explore on their own.
What’s Included and What’s Not

All the paranormal equipment needed for the experiments—disposable blindfolds, headphones, spirit boxes, infrared cameras, EMF meters—are included. This means you don’t need to bring anything, and you can focus on participating.
However, bottled water isn’t included, so it’s wise to bring some along, especially if you’re participating in multiple sessions or have a long night ahead.
Practical Details

Starting at 9:00 pm, the tour begins at the Charleston Library Society and concludes near The Powder Magazine on Cumberland Street. The ending location has a large parking garage directly across the street, making it convenient to return to your accommodations or continue your evening in Charleston.
With moderate physical fitness required, participants should be comfortable walking and standing for the duration. The tour is near public transportation, which is helpful if you’re staying downtown.
Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. This makes it easier to plan, knowing you can cancel if weather or other plans change.
This ghost hunt is perfect for curious travelers who want a hands-on, interactive paranormal experience. It’s especially appealing if you’re intrigued by the advanced equipment and scientific approach to ghost hunting. Small groups ensure a personal, engaging atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer avoiding large tours.
If you’re skeptical but open-minded, the activity provides a fun, immersive way to explore Charleston’s haunted history. It’s also suitable for brave families or couples looking for a spooky night out with a twist. Keep in mind that the experience might be intense for very sensitive or easily frightened visitors.
The Estes Method Blindfolded Ghost Hunt in Charleston offers a well-structured, immersive way to explore the city’s haunted sites while learning about the tools and techniques used in modern ghost investigations. The combination of hands-on participation, high-tech equipment, and authentic locations makes it compelling for anyone interested in the supernatural or paranormal research.
At a reasonable price, you gain a personalized experience that’s more than just storytelling—it’s a chance to engage with the unseen world in a controlled but exciting environment. The recordings and videos provided afterward add a layer of lasting value, allowing you to analyze and share your ghostly encounters.
This tour is a smart choice for those who appreciate a scientific approach to ghost hunting, coupled with a genuine historical setting. It’s best suited for adventurous, curious, and open-minded travelers who want to add a spooky, authentic dimension to their Charleston visit.
Is there any age restriction for this tour?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but due to the nature of the activity and the equipment involved, it’s best suited for adults or older teenagers comfortable with paranormal experiments.
How long does each stop last?
Each location hosts a session lasting roughly 20 to 30 minutes, with a total tour duration of around 2 hours 15 minutes, including transitions and introductions.
Are the equipment and recordings included?
Yes, all necessary paranormal equipment—blindfolds, spirit boxes, infrared cameras, EMF meters—is included, along with recordings of the experiments.
Is transportation provided between locations?
The tour involves walking between sites, and the start and end points are within a manageable walking distance in downtown Charleston.
What should I bring or prepare?
Bring bottled water, wear comfortable clothing suitable for walking, and be prepared for potentially spooky or intense experiences, especially if you’re sensitive to the supernatural.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the start time, offering flexibility in planning your ghostly adventure.
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