Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows

If you’re looking for an evening that blends history, local legends, and a touch of the supernatural, the Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows promises just that. Offered by US Ghost Adventures, this one-hour walking excursion takes you through the dimly lit streets of downtown Salt Lake City, revealing stories that are as fascinating as they are spooky.

What makes this tour stand out? We especially appreciate its well-researched stories and the knowledgeable guides who bring Salt Lake City’s darker side to life with enthusiasm and credibility. Plus, the tour’s focus on specific historic sites adds a layer of authenticity that many ghost tours lack.

However, the tour’s brevity means you won’t get an in-depth exploration of every story, and walking for about a mile might be a consideration if mobility is an issue. But for those interested in a fun, ghostly peek into Salt Lake’s past—especially if you enjoy true crime and eerie tales—this tour hits the right notes.

It’s perfect for history buffs, ghost enthusiasts, or anyone curious about Utah’s shadowy stories. Families with older children, couples on a date, or solo explorers who enjoy a mix of history and mystery will find it engaging and entertaining.

Contents hide

1 Starting Point: Gallivan Plaza

2 The Federal Courthouse and Judge Ritter

3 Mark Hofmann and Forgery Crimes

4 The Capitol Theater and its Fire

5 The Judge Building Bombing of 1985

6 Whiskey Street and Its Mischievous Ghost Girl

Key Points

Authentic ghost stories rooted in Salt Lake City’s history
Knowledgeable guides who make the stories come alive
Short, well-paced one-hour walking experience
Visiting six historic haunted spots with intriguing tales
Perfect for those interested in true crime, history, and ghost lore
Meet in Gallivan Plaza with a lantern-wielding guide

We’re often asked whether ghost tours are worth the time, and if they’re more entertainment or educational. This Salt Lake City tour strikes a good balance — it’s both fun and informative. You’re not just wandering around hearing spooky stories; you’re getting a taste of the city’s lesser-known but surprisingly dark history.

Starting at Gallivan Plaza, your guide — easily recognizable in a US Ghost Adventures T-shirt and carrying a lantern — sets the mood immediately. As you follow your small group across six historic spots, each location offers a fresh story, from notorious crimes to ghostly encounters.

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Starting Point: Gallivan Plaza

The adventure begins here, where your guide gathers everyone and sets the tone. It’s a practical meeting point, right in downtown Salt Lake City, easy to find and accessible.

You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Salt Lake City.

The Federal Courthouse and Judge Ritter

Your first stop is the courthouse, where you’ll meet the ghost of Judge Ritter — an angry spirit that’s said to linger near its historic site. We loved the way guides add context, explaining the judge’s significance and the legend behind his ghostly presence.

Mark Hofmann and Forgery Crimes

Next, the tour explores the story of Mark Hofmann, Utah’s most infamous forger. His elaborate forgeries and the resulting bombings in the 1980s make for a compelling narrative, blending true crime with supernatural overtones. The stories are well-researched, giving you a deeper understanding of the city’s troubling past.

The Capitol Theater and its Fire

A chilling tale unfolds at the Capitol Theater, where a fire claimed the life of a teenage boy. The guide recounts the tragedy and the lingering energy that some believe still haunts the place, adding a layer of emotional depth to the ghostly stories.

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The Judge Building Bombing of 1985

There’s a dark history to the Judge Building, which was bombed in 1985. The story is a stark reminder of how violence and conflict can leave behind echoes, both physical and spiritual.

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Whiskey Street and Its Mischievous Ghost Girl

The tour’s finale takes you to Whiskey Street, where lively bars now hide stories of a ghost girl who mischievously knocks bottles from shelves. This stops the tour on a playful note, giving you a chance to imagine spirits still lurking in the city’s nightlife.

Guides are a highlight of this experience. Multiple reviews praise the knowledgeable guide who not only shares spine-tingling stories but also weaves in relevant historical facts, making the tour both entertaining and educational. One reviewer mentioned, “David did a great job of showing us around downtown SLC and teaching us some history along with stories of hauntings and unusual happenings.”

The duration is one hour – enough time to keep the energy high without dragging, and perfect for an evening outing. The group size tends to be small, fostering a more intimate experience and allowing for questions and interaction.

Since the tour covers about a mile of walking, comfortable shoes are recommended. The route is outdoor, taking place rain or shine, so dress weather-appropriate. Nighttime strolls through historic areas add to the atmosphere, while walking in the dark amplifies the sense of mystery.

Meeting point is straightforward: on the bridge in the middle of Gallivan Utah Center, easily accessible with plenty of nearby parking and public transit options. Arriving 15 minutes early ensures you’re ready to start on time and get acquainted with your guide.

At $24 per person, this tour offers a great value for anyone interested in a lively mix of true crime, local history, and ghost stories. For just an hour, you get a well-paced, credible account of some of Salt Lake City’s most intriguing and disturbing stories.

While it doesn’t include transportation, the meeting location’s central position makes it easy to reach. Plus, the tour’s believable stories and engaging guides make it more than just a spooky walk — it’s an insightful look into the city’s darker side. Several reviewers called out the knowledgeable guides, emphasizing that they made the stories more compelling.

This experience is especially good if you’re traveling on a budget or seeking a fun, evening activity that’s different from conventional city tours. The fact that it’s wheelchair accessible broadens its appeal, although it might not be ideal for those with mobility challenges due to the walking involved.

This ghost tour is best suited for history enthusiasts who enjoy true crime stories, as well as those curious about urban legends and paranormal tales. It’s also a hit among couples looking for a unique date night, or solo travelers wanting a guided peek into Salt Lake’s mysterious past. If you appreciate guides who are knowledgeable and engaging, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your Salt Lake City visit.

However, if you’re looking for an in-depth exploration of each story or prefer daytime activities, this might feel a little brief. It’s ideal as an evening activity—short, atmospheric, and packed with stories that stick with you.

This tour offers a fun, reasonably priced introduction to Salt Lake City’s haunted side. With stories rooted in real history and backed by credible guides, it provides a genuine taste of local legend and true crime that many other ghost tours can’t match. The one-hour format keeps it brisk yet satisfying, and the stories stay with you long after the lantern-lit walk ends.

If you’re a fan of ghost stories, historical oddities, or just looking for a lively night activity, this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially appealing for those who value authentic stories delivered by enthusiastic guides—you’ll come away with a few chills and a new appreciation for Salt Lake’s shadowy past.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect quick evening activity that’s not too tiring.

Where does the tour start?
It begins on the bridge in the middle of Gallivan Utah Center at 239 S Main St, Salt Lake City.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, although it does involve walking about a mile.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended since the tour takes place outdoors in the evening.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended, and you can cancel up to 24 hours before for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Are the stories suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the stories involve murder, forgery, fires, and violence, so they may be more appropriate for teenagers and older.

What’s included in the price?
The tour cost includes the 1-hour guided walk, a knowledgeable guide, well-researched stories, and an authentic local experience.

Can I record videos during the tour?
Video recording is not allowed, so it’s best to enjoy the stories and take photos without filming.

The Salt Lake Ghost Tour: Salt, Spooks, & Shadows offers a lively, well-structured walk through the city’s spooky and sometimes sinister past. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of history, crime, and ghostly legends delivered by guides who make the stories feel authentic. For those seeking an affordable, entertaining, and slightly eerie evening in Salt Lake City, this tour is worth considering—especially if you appreciate local stories told with enthusiasm and credibility.