Welcome to Experience Gifts' guide to true crime, murder mystery and ghost tours in the US.
More than just your average tour, true crime and ghost tours are a unique and engaging way to explore history and satisfy a fascination with the darker side of human nature.
True crime tours have become increasingly popular in the US, offering a unique way for people to explore the darker side of history and delve into some of the country's most notorious criminal cases. It is fair to say that, as a nation, we are low-key obsessed with the darker sides of human nature!
And what better way to fuel our mutual curiosities of all things morbid than gathering with like-minded souls on an engaging and exciting, sometimes hilarious, sometimes horrifying, tour led by an expert and true crime fanatic? Here at Experience Gifts, we believe that tours are a great way to learn about a city and its history.
From gangster tours in New York to chilling tales of real-life criminals held captive at Alcatraz, to paranormal happenings in New Orleans and more, this guide tells you everything you need to know about spooktacular tours in the US, including which are the best.
Read on for more!
An absolute must-see for visitors and locals alike - one cannot say they have seen San Francisco until they made a trip to Alcatraz Island. A former maximum security prison for some of the world's most dangerous criminals, Alcatraz truly is one of the creepiest places to be in, therefore, great for true crime tours!
Jump on the ferry from San Francisco Bay for a quick ride to the island and brace yourself for a chilling sense that something bad happened right where you step foot….
On this tour, you can expect to see things that have not before been revealed to the general public. Follow an informative guide on a tour of the prison, learning all about the notorious criminals who once resided within these walls and the strict regime they were subjected to as punishment. Feel free to wander on your own accord, discovering hidden doorways, underground cells and more.
Take the night time tour if you dare!
Experience Gifts Highlight: True Crime Walking Tour of Austin
Explore the darker side of Austin with the True Crime Walking Tour, a must-try experience for true crime enthusiasts. Led by an expert guide, journey through Historic Austin, including West 6th Street and The Warehouse District.
The tour takes you to crime locations associated with Austin's most infamous killer, the Midnight Assassin. Stop at the iconic Driskill Hotel for a drink and immerse yourself in the chilling tales and various theories surrounding the notorious figure. Perfect for true crime fans or those intrigued by the mysterious and sinister, the Austin Crime Tour offers a hair-raising exploration of the city's darker history.
For something a little more upbeat, Murder ‘n’ Mayhem have got you. With their array of experiences including historic crime walking tours based around California and hilarious immersive murder mystery parties, you can be sure that you'll receive your fix of true crime and murder mystery in an exciting, engaging and super-fun way.
Whether you're looking to get to know the city a little better or want an alternative night out with your friends or family, Murder ‘n’ Mayhem provide a great way to enjoy some true crime stories. Take part in the action and get super into the who dunnit' or sit back and watch the show, whichever you are more comfortable with can be facilitated by this versatile company.
Experience Gifts Highlight: Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt in San Diego
The Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunt in San Diego is the perfect way to enjoy some macabre fun, so grab your smartest pals and get ready to solve some mysteries.
You'll meet your witness at an arranged spot somewhere in San Diego to retrieve your first clue. Set off in the right direction using your intuition, the facts and the testimony of your witness. How truthful are they to you?
As you make your way through the city, solve puzzles and pick up clues to help you find the all the missing pieces you need to piece together the story and solve your mystery.
Sounds easy enough right? Well, be sure to watch your back and move through the city with pace as there is a killer on the loose…
Another exciting opportunity to get stuck in, The Murder Mystery Company offers a variety of immersive events perfect for parties. You can go for a certain theme, such as a 1920s speakeasy, a rock concert in the 80s, or even a modern day dinner party. Hassle-free, the wonderful team at The Murder Mystery Co. have got you covered.
Whether a small gathering or a massive work party, The Murder Mystery Company can organize and run a super-fun, immersive murder mystery experience for any and all party requirements.
Their team of highly trained and enthusiastic actors always know how to bring the vibes and put on an excellent show!
Experience Gifts Highlight: Tampa Interactive Ghost Investigation Tour
Experience the supernatural in Ybor City with an Interactive Ghost Tour like no other. Dive into chilling legends and ghostly tales that shroud the historic streets of this neighborhood.
Unlike ordinary ghost tours, this immersive adventure provides unforgettable memories as you explore haunted locations equipped with paranormal hunting tools. From the eerie SpookEasy Lounge to the old baptist church gravesite and Jose Martí park, you'll be immersed in a world of supernatural phenomena, accompanied by detailed insights into the history and ghostly legends of each site.
Whether you're a paranormal believer or seeking a thrilling experience, the Interactive Ghost Tour in Ybor City promises a spine-tingling adventure.
New Orleans Paranormal Society
Steering away from true crime and now entering the world of paranormal activity, why not take a ghost hunting tour of New Orleans? New Orleans is known for its rich history and abundance of ghost stories, making it a popular destination for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts.
Whether you're a beginner, a well-seasoned ghost hunter, a non-believer or simply looking for a fun night out in the Big Easy, New Orleans Paranormal Society welcomes one and all on their fantastical ghost hunting adventures.
New Orleans Paranormal Society have got you covered. With their passionate and fabulous ghost hunter guides and the beautiful and bizarre city that is New Orleans, you surely are in for a thrilling adventure!
Experience Gifts Highlight: Paranormal Ghost Hunting Experience in New Orleans
Join a professional paranormal investigator on an adventure to two haunted locations on this immersive ghost hunt in New Orleans. Questing The Big Easy, you'll be discovering spirits with the help of some investigative equipment. Learn how to use audio, video and photo equipment to capture evidence of ghosts as your guide tells you all about how haunted New Orleans is due to its fascinating past.
Listen and look carefully as your paranormal expert guides you through the process of connecting with spirits trapped in another dimension, using state of the art technology to do so. Make sure to keep your cool so as to not attract any evil spirits as they can sense fear! Rather, enjoy getting to know the scandalous, tragic and sometimes wholesome back stories of the ghostly figures you come into contact with and be sure to wish them well before you say your goodbyes…or else!
Do you have what it takes to be a ghost hunter?
Based in Milwaukee, Hangman Tours provide a fantastic range of tours, from true crime, to ghost hunting to tours dedicated to the life and death of renowned serial killers.
One of their most popular walking tours is the Shakers Ghost Tour - a tour dedicated to one of the most haunted bars in all of America, you'll get to learn about the establishment's scandalous past leading to its haunting.
Another unique tour that Hangman Tours offer is the cleverly named, ‘Milwauking Dead’ tour, which takes tour-goers across a mile and a half of local tragedy, detailing the chilling tales of 150 deaths throughout Milwaukee's dark and twisted side of history.
These tours truly are designed for those of us who have a real fascination for all things bloody, gory and creepy!
Experience Gifts Highlight: Family Friendly Haunted Tour of Denver
Embark on a family-friendly Haunted Denver Ghost Tour for a captivating journey through the city's ghostly past. Led by a knowledgeable and entertaining costumed guide, explore downtown Denver's historic streets and visit its most haunted locations.
Discover spine-chilling stories of restless spirits, paranormal activity, and mysterious events that linger in the oldest buildings. Dressed in period clothing, your guide will skillfully recount unsettling tales, from haunted hotels to ghostly encounters on the streets, creating an immersive experience for all ages. The ninety minute walking tour is perfect for families seeking a different side of Denver, with comfortable shoes recommended for the journey. Join for a spine-chilling adventure and lasting memories in the haunted history of downtown Denver.
Product Feature: Cream City Cannibal
If you do find yourself in the home city of renowned serial killer, Jeffrey Dahmer, and you have a thirst for true crime, the Cream City Cannibal Tour is a great way to see the city and get your true crime fix.
Following a local guide and true crime fanatic, you will be taken to the places Dahmer stalked and murdered 7 out of his 17 victims. Your guide will have all the gory details to give and can answer any questions you may have. Dubbed the “Tour of Terror” by NBC and one of the most unique adventure tours by Netflix's Dark Tourist series, this tour is sure to satisfy your morbid curiosity!
Please beware that viewer discretion is advised due to the contents of the tour being of an upsetting nature.
Experience Gifts Highlight: Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour
Delve into the dark and mysterious side of Chicago with the Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour, the city's exclusive paranormal exploration experience. Founded by renowned paranormal researcher Ursula Bielski, and led by a team of real investigators and passionate Chicagoans, this tour offers a unique and thrilling adventure.
Explore the haunted depths of Lincoln Park, home to the remnants of the old City Cemetery devastated by the Great Fire of 1871. Uncover chilling stories and encounter the lingering spirits of 10,000 graves. Visit iconic locations like the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and Suicide Bridge, gaining a profound connection to the tragic events that transpired.
The Lincoln Park Hauntings Ghost Investigation Tour promises an unforgettable journey into Chicago's haunted past. Join to unlock the secrets and immerse yourself in an experience that transcends the ordinary.
Calling all of Chicago, locals and visitors alike! The crew at Weird Chicago Tours know to how to show you a good time and parts of the city with the most bizarre, haunting and scandalous back stories. If you're looking for a tour that's out of the ordinary and bound to blow your mind with strange facts and anecdotes, then Weird Chicago Tours are the one for you.
From bus tours to pub crawls, you can expect all kinds of chaos and funny business arising from these tours. Take a haunted pub crawl and meet the ghostly residents of the most haunted bars in the city whilst discussing 1930s true crime and mystery over an array of a different kind of spirit. Discover “Bloody Chicago” on a crime and gangsters tour and visit the scenes of gruesome murder, heinous crime and the places frequented by Al Capone. Be chilled to the spine on a guided bus tour of the history of HH Holmes, and learn all about Chicago's most notorious killer.
With such a wide variety of tours, and many appealing to those of us who enjoy learning about the darker side of human history, Weird Chicago Tours offers something for everyone and a fantastic way of getting to know the Windy City.
Experience Gifts Highlight: Chicago Modern Murderers Bus Tour
Is your morbid curiosity in the need for a juicy story or two? How about some true crime in the local area? Whether you're a Chicago resident or on your vacation, this bus tour will bring to light some of the most unsettling happenings from not too long ago.
Your enthusiastic and highly knowledgeable guide will tell you all about the grizzly crime scenes you pass, many of which were active within the last 50 years! Feel chills down your spine as your guide details the depravity that has once plagued certain souls local to the city and how they attacked their victims. You can expect to visit crime scenes, death sites and haunted corners of the city.
Buffalo is full of stories, and the team at Explore Buffalo are dying to share them with you! Being a site rich in history of Mobsters, anti-prohibition activism, and the odd hanging, Buffalo has a lot to offer in terms of scandal, true crime and murder mystery.
Buckle up for the scandalous history tour and visit the site of a triple hanging in 1825, the former location of the Ku Klux Klan office and learn about the assassin who shot President William McKinley. Wander Allentown and learn all about the Italian Mafia that dominated this neighborhood. Take a downtown mob tour and learn the grisly and exciting stories behind the Buffalo Zoo Warehouse, the Barrel Murder of 1903 and the hit at Caruso's Restaurant.
For those who love a bit of mobster history, Buffalo is the place to be!
Experience Gifts Highlight: Charlotte Haunted Booze and Boos Ghost Tour
Embark on a 2-hour journey through Uptown Charlotte with the Haunted Booze and Boos Tour. Led by a costumed guide, visit three historic bars while enjoying libations and chilling tales of local hauntings.
Delve into centuries-old stories, learning about the haunted past of each establishment and the lingering ghostly apparitions within. This immersive experience goes beyond a history lesson, captivating your imagination with interactive anecdotes as you navigate the haunted streets of Charlotte. Your guide keeps you entertained, offering a thrilling walk through time and paranormal tales.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, ghost hunters, or anyone seeking a memorable experience, book your spot on the Haunted Booze and Boos Tour to discover the darker side of Charlotte's history!
Don't be fooled by the jovial nature of Key West Promotions and their many relaxed bar crawls and tiki boat adventures - Key West is also home to a rather haunting past…
Formerly named ‘Cayo Hueso’ which translates directly to Bone Island, indicative of a dark and disturbing past. On the Bone Island Haunted Pub Crawl, you'll find out why Key West is rated one of the top five most haunted places in America.
Experience Gifts Highlights: Key West Haunted Pub Crawl
On this Haunted Pub Crawl, follow your guide through the streets and back alleys of ‘Bone Island’, enjoying discounted drinks along the way. Your informative guide will unload many a chilling tale on the group as you each listen on in fear. Some of the topics covered include but are certainly not limited to shipwrecks, voodoo, pirates, and haunted mansions that have contributed to the island's creepy past.
Visit Robert the Doll's original home, the Mel Fisher Museum, and the island's original morgue. You're going to want a stiff drink after this tour!
Head to Manhattan for a variety of ghost tours brought to you by the team at Haunted Manhattan and take your pick from the East Village, West Village, Greenwich Village and Five Points.
On the East Village tour, you'll be following The Bartender as they show you the ghost trains on the Subway, a haunted theater and the bar that Edgar Allen Poe visited for his last drink. On the West Village tour, join The Poet on haunting journey through Little Bohemia and as they detail some strange encounters involving a pyromaniac poltergeist, a dead speakeasy owner, and Poe once again.
Meet The Professor in Washington Square Park and follow them through Greenwich Village, stopping off at some famous haunts in the city. Being one of the oldest neighborhoods in Manhattan, The Professor can certainly teach you a thing or two about supernatural history.
Whether you're a believer in the paranormal or just looking for a spooky adventure, a haunted tour of Manhattan can be a fun and memorable experience.
Thanks for reading!
That brings our guide of True Crime and Ghost Tours in the US to an end. We have quite the variety here, from haunted bar crawls in Key West to Ghost Hunting in New Orleans, Murder Mystery Scavenger Hunts in San Diego to Historical Tours of Manhattan led by a ghostly figure. There really is something for everyone. Browse our True Crime and Ghost Tours here.
If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment - we'd love to hear from you!
