Haunted History Awaits: The Best Ghost Tours in Charleston
Charleston is known for its cobblestone streets, antebellum architecture, and Lowcountry charm — but after dark, another side of the Holy City comes to life. With more than 350 years of history, Charleston’s past is filled with tales of pirates, patriots, and restless spirits that still linger among the historic homes and graveyards. Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a Charleston ghost tour is one of the most memorable ways to experience the city’s haunted history.
Here are a few of the top tours that will send a chill down your spine — in the best way.
1. Bulldog Tours: Ghost & Graveyard Tour
If you want the quintessential Charleston ghost experience, start here. Bulldog Tours is the only company with access to the city’s oldest graveyard after dark. As your guide leads you through historic tombstones and crumbling mausoleums, you’ll hear eerie tales of love, loss, and Lowcountry legends. It’s atmospheric, informative, and just spooky enough to give you goosebumps.
Location: 18 Anson Street
Pro tip: Book the “Haunted Jail Tour” for a peek inside the Old City Jail — said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the South.
2. Old Charleston Walking Tours: Pleasing Terrors Ghost Tour
Led by historian and storyteller Mike Brown, this tour blends well-researched history with classic Charleston folklore. Expect chilling stories told with Southern flair — from haunted mansions to mysterious apparitions that still stroll along Church Street. It’s more history-forward than horror-heavy, making it a great choice for curious visitors who love a good story.
Location: Meets at 80 Broad Street
Vibe: Intelligent chills and historical intrigue
3. Ghost City Tours: Death and Depravity
Looking for something a little darker? This adults-only tour dives into Charleston’s more scandalous past — think duels, disease, and deadly secrets. Ghost City Tours blends paranormal tales with true stories of crime and chaos from centuries past. Perfect for date night… if you don’t mind a few scares along the way.
Location: 108 Meeting Street
Vibe: Gritty, grown-up, and seriously spooky
4. Walks of Charleston: Haunted History Tour
For those who prefer a lighter, family-friendly option, Walks of Charleston offers a well-paced and entertaining look at the city’s haunted landmarks. You’ll explore eerie alleyways, hidden courtyards, and centuries-old churches while your guide brings history to life with humor and heart.
Location: Departs from the Mills House Hotel
Vibe: Charming and educational with just the right amount of chill
5. The Ghosts of the USS Yorktown
If you’re up for something truly unique, head across the Cooper River to Patriots Point, where the USS Yorktown — a World War II aircraft carrier — is said to be haunted by former sailors. Paranormal investigators have reported everything from footsteps in empty corridors to flickering lights and cold spots. It’s one of the most distinctive ghost tours near Charleston, blending maritime history with eerie encounters.
Location: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant
Vibe: Chilling history meets patriotic mystery
Tips for Your Charleston Ghost Tour
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Book early: Fall and Halloween season are peak ghost tour times.
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Wear comfy shoes: These are walking tours — often on uneven cobblestone streets.
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Bring your camera: You never know what (or who) might show up in your photos.
A City with Stories Around Every Corner
Charleston’s beauty is undeniable — but it’s the stories that make it unforgettable. From centuries-old churches to creaking jail cells, each ghost tour reveals another layer of the city’s soul. And while these haunted tales might give you goosebumps, they also remind us why Charleston remains one of the most captivating cities in the South.
Whether you’re exploring its haunted history or dreaming about putting down roots in this storied city, the Andy Bovender Team at Compass is here to help you find a home that’s a perfect fit — no ghosts included.
Ready to discover the real estate magic of Charleston? Reach out to the Andy Bovender Team at Compass Carolinas to start your journey today.
