Discovering the Haunted Side of St. Augustine: GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride Haunted Tour by EV
Taking a ghost tour in historic St. Augustine is almost a rite of passage—this city’s long-standing reputation for haunted streets and tales of violence makes it the perfect backdrop for a spooky evening adventure. The GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride Haunted Tour by EV offers an engaging way to experience the city’s darker side, all from the comfort of a small electric cart.
What sets this tour apart? First, we love the authentic storytelling—the stories are thoroughly researched and true, not just ghostly embellishments. Second, the electric cart transport adds a fun, eco-friendly twist, allowing you to glide through narrow streets and historic districts without the fatigue of walking. However, it’s worth mentioning that the tour is generally suited for those aged 6 and above, so if you’re traveling with little kids, this might not be the best fit.
This tour is ideal for history buffs with an interest in the eerie, as well as anyone wanting to add some spooky excitement to their evening in St. Augustine. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a small, intimate group rather than a large bus or trolley, making for a more personalized experience.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Authentic Stories: All tales shared are well-researched, true accounts of murders, hauntings, and pirate attacks.
- Comfortable Transport: An open-air electric cart allows for a relaxed ride through historic districts, making it accessible for almost everyone.
- Varied Stops: The tour covers the north, south, and central historic districts, including narrow streets and haunted sites.
- Evening Atmosphere: Usually offered at night, the tour captures the eerie ambiance that enhances ghost stories.
- Limited Group Size: Small groups (up to 7 people) ensure a more engaging and less crowded experience.
- Cost-Effective: At $39 per person, considering the storytelling and exclusive access to haunted sites, it offers good value for a themed night out.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Augustine Florida.
An In-Depth Look at the Shadow Ride Haunted Tour
What to Expect from the Itinerary
The tour begins at BEERHAMMER’S on St. George Street or at a nearby designated meeting point after 9 pm, depending on your schedule. Expect a 1-hour ride through downtown St. Augustine, cruising in an open-air electric cart, which is surprisingly comfortable even if the night air is brisk.
The journey takes you through North and South districts, with narration that weaves together ghostly tales, true crime stories, and pirate attacks. The stories aren’t mere legends but are rooted in well-documented events, giving a sense of authenticity to the spooky tales.
You’ll see the site of a real crime murder mystery—an element that adds a visceral layer to the experience. Plus, tales of pirate attacks evoke images of swashbuckling villains and buried treasure, which makes the experience lively and engaging.
What Makes Each Stop Special
While the tour doesn’t specify exact sites, it emphasizes deep into the narrow streets of the south end, known for their atmospheric charm and historic weight. These streets are often darker and less trafficked at night, heightening the sense of spooky mystery.
The stories are colorful and include details like gruesome murders, hauntings, and the more villainous deeds of pirates and villains associated with the city. According to reviews, “all stories spun are true and thoroughly researched,” which adds credibility and interest for history buffs.
More Great Tours NearbyThe Atmosphere and Experience
Expect a relaxed, humorous, yet slightly eerie ride. The open-air electric cart is a big plus—it allows you to soak in the ambiance without feeling closed in. Because the group is small, the guide can tailor the narration, and you can ask questions or request more details.
Some reviewers have noted that “the stories are well-told and engaging,” and others find the nighttime setting perfect for ghost stories, making the experience more atmospheric than daytime tours. However, do note that children under 6 are not suited for this, mainly because of the dark, spooky themes and the ride’s nature.
The Value of the Experience
At $39 per person, the tour provides a solid value, especially considering the personalized narration and the exclusive access to haunted sites. You’re paying for both the storytelling and the ride—think of it as a themed evening activity that’s more immersive than simply watching a documentary.
The tour’s duration is one hour, making it a manageable add-on after a day of sightseeing. The small group size means you’ll get more attention from your guide, and the experience feels intimate rather than commercialized.
Practical Tips for Tour Day
- Bring a camera if you want to capture the eerie streets or the haunted sites you pass by; the night lighting can be quite atmospheric.
- Dress comfortably—the open-air cart means you’re exposed to the elements, especially if it’s cool or breezy.
- Arrive a little early at the meeting point, especially if your tour starts before 9 pm, to ensure a smooth start.
- Remember that smoking and alcohol are not permitted onboard, so plan accordingly.
- This tour isn’t suitable for children under 6, so consider your family’s comfort with spooky themes.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
If you’re a history lover with a penchant for ghost stories, you’ll find this tour both entertaining and educational. It’s especially suitable if you prefer a small, intimate group rather than large, noisy tours. If you’re after a lighthearted, fun, spooky experience with authentic tales, this will hit the spot.
However, for those traveling with very young children or seeking a more family-friendly daytime activity, other options might be better. And if you’re after a tour that covers a larger area or includes a visit to specific historic sites, you may want to explore other options.
This experience is perfect for an evening outing—it offers a good balance of entertainment and historical storytelling, wrapped in a fun, slightly spooky package.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts about 1 hour, making it a quick but engaging activity—ideal for fitting into an evening.
What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a ride in an open-air electric cart, guided narration, and visits to the north, south, and central historic districts. Food, drinks, and hotel transportation are not included.
Where do we meet for the tour?
If your tour begins before 9 pm, you meet at BEERHAMMER’S inside Heritage Walk Mall at 162 St. George Street. After 9 pm, the meeting point is at the mall entrance near the Tervis cup store.
Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years due to the spooky themes and the nature of the ride.
Are the stories true?
Yes, all tales are thoroughly researched and true, focusing on real murders, hauntings, and pirate attacks.
What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture the atmosphere. Dress appropriately for the weather since it’s an open-air ride.
Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility in your plans.
Is this tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is conducted in English only.
How many people are in a group?
The tour is limited to 7 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
Final Thoughts
The GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride Haunted Tour offers a unique way to experience the dark side of this historic city. It combines authentic storytelling with a comfortable, small-group ride through some of St. Augustine’s most atmospheric streets. The stories of murders, hauntings, and pirate attacks are sure to entertain and intrigue, especially if you’re interested in the eerie or the historical.
This tour strikes a good balance between fun and education, making it well-suited for those wanting a memorable night out without the crowds or the overly commercial feel of larger tours. Its price point makes it a reasonable choice for a short, evening adventure that deepens your appreciation for St. Augustine’s colorful past.
If you enjoy ghost stories, historic tales, and a touch of the spooky, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially ideal for curious travelers who appreciate well-researched narratives and small-group intimacy. Just remember to bring your camera, dress warmly, and be prepared for a spooky, fun ride through one of America’s oldest cities.
Final Recommendation
For history enthusiasts seeking true stories paired with a fun, nighttime ride, the GhoStAugustine Shadow Ride Haunted Tour offers excellent value. It’s best for those comfortable with spooky themes and small-group settings, aiming to add a memorable, slightly creepy twist to their visit. This tour is a recommended choice for anyone looking to explore the haunted side of St. Augustine in a relaxed, engaging manner—perfect for a family outing, a couple’s night, or a group of friends eager for a spooky story session beneath the stars.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in St Augustine Florida
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