Spooks, Spirits and Speakeasy Ghost Tour

If you’re looking for a unique way to experience Phoenix after dark, the Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Tour offers an engaging blend of haunted history, ghost-hunting, and vintage cocktails. This 1.5-hour journey takes you through some of the city’s most storied locations, with a chance to use ghost-detecting equipment and end the night in a secret, Prohibition-era speakeasy.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: first, the knowledgeable guides who bring stories to life with just the right mix of enthusiasm and respect for the supernatural; second, the interactive ghost-hunting equipment, which turns the tour into a fun, hands-on adventure.

One potential consideration is that the tour moves quickly from site to site, so those who prefer a more relaxed pace or in-depth exploration might feel a bit rushed. Still, it’s well suited for travelers who enjoy a light-hearted, spooky outing that also offers a taste of Phoenix’s historical architecture and legends. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, this tour strikes a good balance between entertainment and intrigue, making it perfect for curious explorers, history buffs, or those simply seeking a different kind of night out.

Key Points

• Authentic Locations: The tour visits well-known historic sites, adding depth to Phoenix’s local stories.
• Interactive Experience: Use EMF detectors, dowsing rods, and spirit boxes to actively participate in ghost hunts.
• Skilled Guides: The tour’s success largely depends on guides who are both knowledgeable and engaging.
• Evening Atmosphere: Conducted at dusk and night, the ambiance enhances the spooky vibe.
• Historic Speakeasy: The tour concludes at a hidden gem, a vintage Prohibition-era bar with craft cocktails.
• Value for Money: At $39, the experience offers a mix of history, fun, and drinks that many find worthwhile.

Starting Point at Rosson House Museum

Your journey begins at the historic Rosson House Museum, a classic example of Phoenix’s early 20th-century architecture. Here, the guide shares tales of the house’s past residents and the spirits rumored to still linger within its walls. The 15-minute stop is perfect for setting the mood; you get a quick but intriguing overview of the haunted history surrounding this landmark. Since admission is free, it’s a great way to start without extra costs.

St. Mary’s Basilica

Next, you’ll walk to St. Mary’s Basilica, an active church with a long history. Your guide recounts its story, especially the ghost story associated with the archways—a spooky detail that adds to the spiritual aura of the site. This stop also lasts about 15 minutes, giving you enough time to appreciate the architecture and listen to ghostly tales without feeling rushed.

Herberger Theater and Art Installations

A quick stop to see the Herberger Theater and its distinctive art installation offers a glimpse into Phoenix’s modern cultural scene. While not specifically haunted, it’s part of the city’s lively landscape and provides a contrast between old and new.

Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

The Renaissance Hotel’s history is colorful, and your guide shares stories about the “Coal Man,” a local legend said to haunt the premises. Such tales add a layer of mystery to Phoenix’s bustling downtown, and the 15-minute visit allows you to absorb the historic significance of the hotel—an essential stop for those interested in Phoenix’s layered past.

Melinda’s Alley

Perhaps the most atmospheric stop, Melinda’s Alley, introduces you to Phoenix’s red-light district history and its most famous resident, Melinda Curtis. Here, the stories of her supposed ghostly presence linger in the air—an element that delights both skeptics and believers alike. This 30-minute segment is the longest stop, giving ample time for ghost-hunting with equipment and wandering the alley to soak in the eerie ambiance.

Hanny’s and its Basement Art Installation

A short visit to Hanny’s reveals its history, especially the creepy art installation in the basement, which many say is haunted. This spot adds a modern twist to the experience and reinforces the theme of Phoenix’s haunted places.

Phoenix Convention Center

While primarily a focal point for major events and conferences, the nearby area’s mention helps contextualize the city’s vibrant activity and contrasts with the haunted sites visited earlier.

The Ghost-Hunting Equipment and Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, you’ll be provided with EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods. These tools elevate the experience from a simple walk-and-listen to a fun, participatory activity. Our review mentions a guide who is both knowledgeable and friendly, making the ghost hunts approachable and engaging. The equipment is used at select sites, allowing guests to feel they’re actively hunting spirits rather than just hearing ghost stories.

The Tour’s Final Stop: The Speakeasy

After the haunted sites, the adventure ends at Phoenix’s most haunted speakeasy, located beneath the city’s original red-light district. This hidden bar opens exclusively for tour participants, offering craft cocktails in a vintage setting that captures the spirit of Prohibition-era Phoenix. It’s a memorable way to relax after the ghost hunt, with some reviews highlighting the expertly crafted drinks and the ambiance that transports you back in time.

The Value and Practical Aspects

At $39 per person, the tour provides a rich mix of history, entertainment, and drinks. The fact that it lasts about an hour and a half makes it a manageable evening activity without feeling like a marathon. The price includes the use of ghost-hunting equipment—something many similar tours charge extra for—plus the exclusive access to the speakeasy.

The group size maxes out at 18 people, which ensures a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide. The tour starts at 6:45 pm, making it a great option for an early evening activity that can lead into dinner or further exploration of downtown Phoenix.

Reviews consistently praise the guides, who bring the stories to life and create a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. One reviewer called the guide “wonderful” and appreciated that they didn’t feel rushed, emphasizing the importance of a good guide in such experiences.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour is perfect for travelers interested in local history, ghost stories, and a touch of the supernatural. Those looking for a fun, reasonably priced night out with friends or a partner will find it especially appealing. The interactive element adds a playful dimension, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers who enjoy spooky stories.

It’s also a good choice for anyone curious about Phoenix’s haunted past or those who want a taste of the city’s vintage nightlife scene, thanks to the speakeasy finale. However, it’s best suited for individuals with moderate physical activity levels, as some walking and wandering are involved.

The Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour offers a lively, engaging way to explore Phoenix’s haunted history while enjoying a bit of nightlife flair. It’s a well-organized experience with knowledgeable guides, a fun mix of ghost-hunting tech, and a memorable conclusion in a vintage bar. For $39, you get a genuinely entertaining evening packed with stories, scares, and craft cocktails—what’s not to like?

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy history, storytelling, and a dash of the supernatural, along with a comfortable social atmosphere. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, you’ll appreciate the storytelling and the chance to participate actively in the ghost-hunting fun.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour is best suited for those with moderate physical fitness and older children or teenagers who enjoy spooky stories. It involves walking and some wandering in outdoor alleyways, which might not be ideal for very young children.

What’s included in the price?
The $39 ticket includes guided visits to several historic sites, use of ghost-hunting equipment like EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods, and access to the exclusive speakeasy at the end.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable activity for an early evening outing.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the price; they are appreciated but optional.

What is the meeting point?
The tour begins at the Rosson House Museum on North 6th Street and concludes at Melinda’s Alley, near the Renaissance Hotel. The meeting time is 6:45 pm.

Is the tour conducted outdoors?
Yes, some stops, including Melinda’s Alley and Hanny’s, involve outdoor walking and exploring, so be prepared for the evening weather.

What if the weather is poor?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re in Phoenix and intrigued by its haunted stories, this tour offers an engaging, well-paced way to spend an evening. With lively guides, interactive ghost-hunting, and a secret bar to cap it off, it’s a memorable addition to any night out in the city.