When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations
Why The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations offers a uniquely authentic experience for those interested in the paranormal and rich history of Austin. As the only locally owned ghost tour company in the city, their knowledgeable professional storytellers provide captivating narratives deeply rooted in extensive research and local lore. Tours depart from iconic locations like the historic Driskill Hotel, guiding guests through downtown Austin's most haunted spots and historic districts. The company boasts original stories that are well-researched, distinguishing them from others who may simply recount tales from books. Beyond walking tours, they offer special themed experiences such as after-dark investigations at Pioneer Farms, where participants can explore 18th-century buildings and potentially encounter real paranormal activity using professional equipment. Private tours for groups make this a perfect option for gatherings seeking a fun and chilling adventure. The guides, often in period costume, engage guests by blending history and ghostly tales, cultivating an atmosphere that is both educational and thrilling. The tours are designed to entertain both casual visitors and dedicated ghost enthusiasts, making this business a fantastic place to meet up with friends for an evening of spooky storytelling and historical exploration in Austin.
Here's what people think of The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations
As of recent, The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations holds a 4.5-star rating based on 91 reviews.
Reviews for Austin ghost tours vary widely across different providers, but for The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations, user feedback is predominantly positive. Reviewers frequently praise the professionalism and engaging storytelling skills of the guides, highlighting the well-researched and original nature of the stories told. Positive reviews often mention the authentic and immersive experience, with comments about the knowledgeable guides and their passion for Austin’s haunted history which helps to vividly bring the past to life. The inclusion of paranormal investigation elements at locations like Pioneer Farms receives particular appreciation, adding excitement beyond traditional walking tours. Negative reviews for other ghost tour companies sometimes remark on issues such as inaudible narration due to soft-spoken guides or inaccuracies in storytelling. Such critiques underscore why this locally owned company’s emphasis on professional storytellers and thorough research garners trust and higher ratings. While no business is without occasional criticism, the balance of reviews suggests that The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations stands out by providing a unique blend of entertainment, education, and local spirit encounters. Consequently, it enjoys a solid reputation as a must-try tour for visitors and locals interested in paranormal history. Overall, the reviews confirm it as an engaging and reliable choice for ghost tours in Austin.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Greg Wilson
Tour guide and author Monica is very knowledgeable and makes it fun. But scary. Great tour with lots of ghost stories. Lots of history. It’s also enjoyable just to walk around downtown Austin. Highly recommend it.
Christopher Rose
Monica was amazing. She was knowledgeable and funny and kept you engaged for the entire time. You cannot ask for a better host. The use of common ghost hunting tools added to the experience and she really wraps it up at the end!!
James Hickey
I went with some friends from out of state who love doing ghost tours and activities of that nature. They found the company and invited me and my husband to come along (we were a group of 5 plus another family of 4). I'd never been despite living in Austin for almost 20 years. I have to say the entire experience was absolutely wonderful. We were super fortunate to have Monica as our tour guide. Her passion for the stories and their importance came through. Her sense of humor was delightful. I'm a skeptic and she made me want to believe and enjoy every second of the experience. Monica shared she'd been doing these tours for years and it shows. Her experience level is clear. She knows how to make the tours fun and how to keep her audience engaged and intrigued. I even learned the importance of the difference between the phrases "ghost hunting" and "paranormal investigations" as the former suggests the spirits are game, targets, and as such is disrespectful to the departed. I got goosebumps several times on the tour. Had a blast. Thank you, Monica, for a wonderful time. Thank you Austin Ghost Tours! Keep up the good work!
Makayla Timms
This is the tour to choose, folks! The google search results can be a bit confusing, but this is the original Austin Ghost Tour that is well worth it! Went on this tour back in November with my family! Robin was our guide and they were a blast of a tour guide! Great about answering questions, and had a lot of knowledge, stories, and fun encounters to share with us! We got a whole new perspective on downtown Austin and an appreciation for the history that makes up the area. I recently moved to the area and this gave me a desire to explore more, I'm sure we'll go on one of the ghost tours again! This tour incorporates real history and true stories that the company works to verify. They also do investigations themselves! We got a lot of great information, fun facts, and some wonderful memories!
Gary V. Walters
Wonderfully historic sights and stories! So many interesting things to learn about Downtown Austin and the spooky happenings in certain places. Thoroughly enjoyed ourselves and would love to come back again!
How to reach The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations
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Why The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations with your friends? This unique destination offers an unforgettable blend of history, mystery, and spine-tingling fun, making it the perfect gathering spot for groups looking to bond over shared thrills. Unlike typical social outings, this ghost tour invites you and your friends into a world of eerie tales and haunted locales that reveal Austin’s rich and sometimes dark past. It’s not just about scares; it’s about stepping back in time through captivating storytelling that brings Austin’s historic streets and buildings to life. The tours are designed to entertain and educate simultaneously, making the experience stimulating for diverse interests within any group. Whether your friends are history buffs, paranormal enthusiasts, or simply curious explorers, the tour caters to all, ensuring that everyone is engaged. Gathering for a ghost tour also encourages camaraderie, as the shared suspense and surprises naturally bring people closer together. The company’s dedication to authentic stories and local ownership means the experience is rooted in genuine Austin heritage, lending a sense of community pride and connection to the city’s spirit. With a solid 4.5 rating from over 90 reviews, it’s clear this is a trusted and beloved spot to rally your friends and make lasting memories.
What activities does The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations offer for group meetups? At its core, the business provides expertly guided walking ghost tours that wind through Downtown Austin’s most haunted and historic sites. These tours include visits to iconic locations such as the Driskill Hotel, the Texas State Capitol, Governor’s Mansion, and even the historic Paramount Theatre. Each stop along the route is accompanied by vivid storytelling that uncovers tales of past lives, tragic events, and paranormal phenomena. Guides like Maverick and Tiffany are known for their deep knowledge and entertaining delivery, combining facts with folklore to keep everyone captivated. Beyond the standard tours, the business offers special investigations where groups can participate in paranormal research, using ghost-hunting equipment to try and detect supernatural activity. This hands-on approach adds an immersive element perfect for friends seeking a more interactive experience. The variety of tours available means groups can choose one that matches their interests and comfort levels, including family-friendly options. The company’s local roots also ensure that each tour focuses on historically accurate and meaningful stories, enriching the adventure with depth and authenticity.
Why is The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations ideal for a group meetup? First, the tours provide an engaging shared experience that naturally fosters interaction and conversation, ideal for friends or family who want to deepen their connections. The walking tours are paced well to allow for conversation breaks, photo opportunities, and moments to reflect on the haunting stories told. The guides’ charisma and humor make groups feel at ease, transforming even newcomers to paranormal subjects into enthusiastic participants. Additionally, the locations visited are centrally located in Austin, making logistics easy for groups arriving from different parts of the city or beyond. The tours also serve as a gateway to discover Austin’s vibrant downtown, encouraging groups to continue their meetup at nearby restaurants or cafes after the tour ends. The company’s commitment to customer service has earned high praise for accommodating group needs, such as rescheduling and personalized experiences. Moreover, the diverse nature of the tours means groups with varying interests and ages can find something enjoyable without feeling left out or overwhelmed, making it a versatile choice for any social gathering.
What makes the storytelling and tour experience stand out at The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations? The company’s guides are recognized not only for their historical knowledge but also for their passionate and engaging storytelling style. Each story is carefully researched to strike a balance between fact and chilling lore, anchoring ghostly tales in real historical events and figures from Austin’s past. The use of props, like lanterns to set a spooky atmosphere, enhances the immersive nature of the experience. Customers frequently commend the personal anecdotes that guides share, which add color and context beyond traditional history lessons. The tour’s route takes full advantage of Austin’s beautifully preserved historic architecture, which itself serves as a haunting backdrop. The Original Austin Ghost Tours intentionally avoids corporate-style ghost stories, preferring to highlight authentic local history and supernatural legends that give the city its unique character. This genuine approach creates a more meaningful and memorable tour, perfect for groups wanting more than just entertainment—they get a sense of connection to the city’s soul.
How does The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations accommodate diverse group interests and needs? The business offers multiple tour formats to suit different preferences, including walking tours focusing on murder mysteries, haunted landmarks, pioneer histories, and paranormal investigations. This variety ensures that group members with differing levels of interest in ghosts or history can all find something compelling. The tours are designed to be accessible, with comfortable walk distances and multiple time slots to fit different schedules. Customer reviews highlight the company’s flexibility, such as accommodating changes due to weather or group size. The friendly staff also provide thoughtful recommendations on which tours are best suited for families, thrill-seekers, or history aficionados. Importantly, safety and comfort during the tours are a priority, with guides ensuring a welcoming atmosphere that respects individual comfort with paranormal topics. This adaptability makes it an excellent choice for mixed groups, balancing fun, education, and thrill without overwhelming anyone.
What are some standout highlights and unique features of The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations? One of the most notable features is the chance to visit Austin’s infamous haunted landmarks, including the story-rich Austin State Capitol, where ghost stories of past tragedies and apparitions are shared. The Handlebar, a quirky bar that used to be a funeral parlor, introduces guests to more unusual hauntings and adds a quirky twist to the tours. The combination of well-known and lesser-known haunted sites keeps the experience fresh and unpredictable. The business’s reputation stems from its authentic approach—local ownership ensures that historical accuracy and community engagement are paramount. The owner’s connection with local historians and archives guarantees that tours are constantly updated with fresh content reflecting new findings or evolving stories. The positive reviews from participants praise the honest and thorough storytelling that distinguishes this tour from others purely focused on scares. In addition, the business’s excellent customer support and ability to tailor experiences for groups elevate it above typical sightseeing tours.
Why should groups consider booking The Original and Locally Owned Austin Ghost Tours and Investigations over other options? Many visitors note that this company stands out because it is locally owned and deeply invested in Austin’s community and history, which ensures tours are more personal and less commercialized. Unlike larger, generic ghost tour operations, this business offers a handcrafted experience blending history with the supernatural in a way that respects the city’s culture. Guides are praised for their warmth and dedication, often forming connections with guests that enhance the overall enjoyment of the tour. Groups benefit from the company’s stellar online reputation, with a 4.5 rating from 91 reviews reflecting consistent satisfaction. Furthermore, the variety of tour options means groups can plan return visits to explore different themes at their own pace. The location at the heart of downtown Austin makes it easily accessible whether you’re a local or visiting. For groups seeking a memorable, entertaining, and educational outing that is uniquely Austin, this business is an excellent choice to host a meetup filled with stories, laughter, and just the right amount of spooky thrill.