If you’re thinking about visiting Helen, Georgia during the holiday season, you’ve probably come across the Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour. This guided walk promises a blend of festive decorations, haunted stories, and a dash of the supernatural, all set against the charming backdrop of this alpine-style mountain town. We haven’t done this tour ourselves but have gathered insights from reviews and the tour’s description to help you decide if it’s worth your time.
What we love about this experience is its unique combination of holiday spirit and ghostly tales, perfect for those seeking stories that go beyond the usual Christmas cheer. The guided aspect means you’re in capable hands, and the family-friendly approach allows all ages to enjoy the spooky, festive ambiance. However, a possible drawback is that some reviews mention inconsistencies in organization or timing, so your experience might depend on the guide and the day.
This tour is ideal for families, history buffs, or anyone interested in a light spooky adventure that adds a twist to holiday celebrations. If you enjoy storytelling, decorated streets, and mysterious legends, this walk through Helen could be a memorable holiday highlight.
Key Points
- Guided experience led by knowledgeable storytellers
- Blends holiday cheer with ghostly tales and local legends
- Family-friendly with spooky stories suitable for all ages
- Explores haunted spots sprinkled with holiday decorations
- Affordable at $28 per person for 1.5 hours of entertainment
- Timing usually in the evening to enhance the spooky atmosphere
What Is the Helen Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour?
This is a 1.5-hour guided tour taking you along the decorated streets of Helen, a picturesque mountain town with a Bavarian vibe. The tour aims to rekindle the old tradition of sharing ghost stories during Christmas, blending the joy of the season with tales of apparitions, lost loves, and holiday mysteries that have been whispered through the ages.
The tour’s spirit is inspired by Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol,” encouraging a sense of wonder, reflection, and a touch of the supernatural. As twilight descends on Helen, you’ll be led through the town’s most haunted spots, each adorned with twinkling holiday lights which create a mysterious ambiance perfect for ghost stories.
The guides are described as knowledgeable and engaging, offering a narrative that combines history, local legends, and seasonal cheer. The emphasis is on entertaining storytelling that makes the eerie feel festive rather than frightening.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Helen.
What to Expect on the Tour
Expect to meet your guide at the gazebo in Unicoi Hill Park, located in downtown Helen next to Helen Square. The park itself is a scenic place decorated for the holidays, providing the perfect starting point. Arriving 15 minutes early will give you enough time to find the meeting spot and settle in.
The tour will take you through the decorated streets, visiting spots reputed to be haunted or historically significant. As you walk, your guide will share stories of ghostly apparitions, lost loves, and Christmas mysteries. One reviewer mentioned that “nobody showed up” on a certain night, highlighting that sometimes the experience might be affected by scheduling issues, but most reviews praise the enthusiasm and knowledge of the guides.
You’ll hear spine-chilling tales that connect the seasonal celebrations with local legends, creating an atmosphere where holiday cheer meets ghostly intrigue. The lights and decorations add a cozy, festive backdrop, which contrasts nicely with the spooky stories.
The Haunted Spots and Their Stories
While the tour’s exact stops aren’t explicitly detailed, they are described as the most haunted locations in Helen. These spots are not only historically significant but also adorned with holiday decorations, creating a strange yet charming contrast—cheerful holiday lights set against stories of apparitions or lost loves.
One reviewer stated, “Great stories! Love the history,” indicating that the storytelling aspect is a strong point. Another shared a less positive experience, citing lateness of the guide and the absence of hot chocolate, which suggests that the overall experience can vary depending on the guide and the night.
The Experience and Its Value
For $28, the tour provides an entertaining mix of history, ghost stories, and holiday ambiance, making it a good value for those interested in a short, themed experience. It’s family-friendly, so kids and adults alike can enjoy the spooky tales, particularly as they’re shared in a festive setting.
The photo opportunities are plentiful, with beautiful holiday backdrops and spooky settings that make for memorable pictures. The tour’s duration of 1.5 hours is long enough to deliver a solid narrative without feeling rushed or dragged out.
Some reviews highlight that the guides can make or break the experience. “Our guide Ava was phenomenal,” says one review, emphasizing the importance of a passionate and engaging storyteller. Conversely, delays or a lack of enthusiasm can diminish the overall enjoyment.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Visitors
- Arrive at least 15 minutes early at the gazebo in Unicoi Hill Park.
- Dress warmly, as the tour takes place outdoors in winter.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking through decorated streets.
- Bring a camera for holiday photos and spooky moments.
- Be prepared for potential variability in guide performance and scheduling.
The Price and Its Worth
At $28 per person, this tour is quite affordable considering the length and nature of the experience. It’s a short, engaging activity that provides a blend of holiday cheer and ghostly tales, which is ideal for those on a budget or looking for a lighthearted, spooky outing.
However, reviews suggest that the experience can vary—sometimes influenced by the guide’s enthusiasm or punctuality. Still, most find it worth the price, especially if you enjoy storytelling and holiday decorations.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This tour is perfect for families, history lovers, and holiday enthusiasts interested in a ghostly twist on Christmas traditions. If you’re looking for something light, fun, and atmospheric rather than intensely spooky, it’s a good choice.
It also suits travelers who want to combine holiday sights with a touch of mystery, especially in a town as picturesque as Helen with its festive streets and holiday decorations.
The Sum Up
The Helen Ghosts of Christmas Past Tour offers a unique holiday experience blending festive decorations with spooky stories that add a layer of intrigue to your visit. For families or groups wanting a fun, engaging evening that’s not overly intense, it provides good value and a chance to hear local legends in a charming setting.
While the experience can vary depending on the guide and timing, most visitors walk away with a smile and a few good stories. The guided aspect, the decorated streets, and the seasonal ambiance are definite pluses. If you enjoy light spooky tales and want to add a holiday twist to your trip, this tour is worth considering.
For those seeking an authentic, atmospheric walk that captures Helen’s holiday spirit with a chilling edge, this tour pleases many and offers a memorable experience—just arrive early, dress warmly, and enjoy the story.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s described as family-friendly, making it suitable for children and adults alike.
Where does the tour start?
It begins at the gazebo in Unicoi Hill Park, located in downtown Helen next to Helen Square.
How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.
What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and warm clothing are recommended, especially since the tour is outdoors.
Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, there are plenty of photo opportunities with holiday backdrops and spooky settings.
Is the tour available in the evening?
Yes, the tour is usually available in the evening, perfect for a spooky atmosphere.
What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.
How much does it cost?
The tour costs $28 per person, offering a good value for its length and content.