If you’re looking for a spine-tingling adventure this fall, ghost tours in the Poconos might be just what you need. Hop on the Haunted Pocono Trolley for a ride through Delaware Water Gap’s spookiest spots. Starting and ending at The Historic Castle Inn, this tour is packed with eerie tales and local legends.
Not just limited to trolley rides, the region offers other thrilling experiences too. Check out the Hotel of Horror, a 200-year-old haunted house in Saylorsburg. With live actors and paranormal activities, it promises a chilling evening that you won’t easily forget.
For a different kind of haunted experience, you can join a ghost and graveyard tour in Jim Thorpe. Guided by expert storytellers, you’ll explore haunted houses, old jails, and spooky graveyards. Get ready to immerse yourself in the ghostly lore of this historic town.
History of Ghost Tours in the Poconos
Ghost tours in the Poconos have been thrilling visitors for years. The rich history of the area, with its old buildings and historic sites, creates a perfect backdrop for spooky tales.
One popular tour is the Haunted Pocono Trolley. This tour takes you through the borough of Delaware Water Gap, with stops at places known for hauntings. It begins and ends at the Historic Castle Inn, adding a creepy historic touch.
Another tour that draws crowds is the Pocono Historic Trolley Tour. You’ll hear stories of demonic possessions, witches, and unsolved murders. This guided one-hour tour is packed with eerie attractions.
The Historic Castle Inn itself is a spooky site. Built in 1906, the inn has its own ghost stories. Today, it serves as a launching point for many ghost tours, setting the stage for a spine-chilling experience.
If you love haunted attractions, the Poconos won’t disappoint. More than just spooky history, the tours often dive into local legends and paranormal activities, making them a must-do for any thrill-seeker.
These ghost tours offer you a unique chance to experience the Poconos in a whole new way. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the mix of local history and ghostly tales is sure to captivate you.
Top Ghost Tours in the Poconos
Discover some of the spookiest places in the Poconos with these top ghost tours. Whether you’re interested in historical hauntings or hands-on paranormal investigations, there’s something for every ghost enthusiast.
Haunted Lantern Tours
Step back in time and explore the eerie side of the Poconos with Haunted Lantern Tours. These tours take you through old buildings and dark alleys, with guides sharing chilling stories of local legends and ghostly encounters. The tours usually start at dusk, adding to the spine-tingling atmosphere.
You’ll walk through some of the most haunted spots, like old inns and abandoned buildings. The guides use lanterns to light the way, creating a creepy, old-fashioned feel. Some tours even let you use ghost-detecting equipment for a more interactive experience.
Historic Ghost Walks
Historic Ghost Walks offer a deep dive into the past, blending history with the supernatural. These tours focus on the rich history of the Poconos while highlighting the ghosts said to haunt the area. You’ll hear about unsolved murders, old legends, and mysterious apparitions as you stroll through historic neighborhoods.
These walks are perfect for history buffs interested in the darker side of local stories. You’ll visit old cemeteries, historic homes, and other key sites where ghostly activity has been reported. It’s a blend of education and eeriness that makes for a memorable outing.
Paranormal Investigations
For a more hands-on experience, try the Paranormal Investigations. These tours let you play ghost hunter for a night, using real investigation tools like EMF meters and spirit boxes. You’ll often investigate in the dark, heightening the sense of suspense.
The guides are often experienced paranormal investigators who will teach you how to use the equipment. You’ll visit notorious haunted sites and attempt to communicate with spirits. This is the tour for you if you’re looking to experience the supernatural firsthand without the fluffy storytelling. It’s all about real, bone-chilling encounters.
Planning Your Visit
Before heading out on a ghost tour in the Pocono Mountains, it’s essential to know the best times to go, how to secure tickets, and what you’ll need to bring along.
Best Time to Go
Fall is the ideal time for ghost tours in the Poconos. The cool, crisp weather and colorful foliage set the perfect spooky atmosphere for exploring haunted sites. Tours often hit their peak around Halloween, with many special events held on October 30 and 31.
While fall is popular, you can still enjoy ghost tours at other times. Some tours run year-round, but availability varies.
Ticketing and Reservations
Tickets for the Haunted Pocono Trolley Tours can be purchased both online and at The Historic Castle Inn. Buying tickets in advance is crucial, especially during the busy fall season.
Make your reservations early to ensure you get a spot on your desired date. Some tours may allow last-minute bookings, but it’s better to plan ahead.
What to Bring
Dress in layers to stay comfortable in changing weather. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as some tours include walking through different locations. A flashlight can be handy for night tours, and don’t forget your camera to capture any ghostly encounters.
Bringing a snack and a bottle of water is a good idea. While the tours are not overly strenuous, they can be lengthy. Packing these essentials ensures you remain comfortable and hydrated throughout the journey.
Spooky Spots in the Poconos
The Pocono Mountains are home to several creepy locations that are perfect for ghost enthusiasts. From eerie abandoned resorts to haunted jails, these spots will surely give you chills.
Abandoned Penn Hills Resort
The Abandoned Penn Hills Resort once thrived as a romantic getaway but is now a decaying site shrouded in mystery. Located in Analomink, Pennsylvania, this resort closed in 2009 and has since been the subject of numerous ghost stories.
As you explore, you might come across eerie structures like the crumbling honeymoon suites and the decrepit indoor pool. Many visitors claim to hear strange noises and see apparitions, making it a popular spot for ghost hunters. The overgrown tennis courts and rusting signage only add to the spooky vibe of this forgotten love nest.
Jim Thorpe’s Haunted Jail
Jim Thorpe’s Old Jail Museum is famous for its chilling history and paranormal activity. Built in 1871, it served as the county jail for over a century. The prison is best known for housing the Molly Maguires, a group of Irish coal miners who were accused of terrorism and murder in the 1870s.
One of the jail’s most famous features is the handprint left on a cell wall by a convicted Molly Maguire, who swore his innocence. Despite numerous attempts to remove it, the mark inexplicably remains. Visitors can tour the dark, damp cells and even experience the oppressive feeling of the solitary confinement areas. Strange occurrences and ghost sightings are commonly reported by those who dare to enter.
Ghost Stories and Legends
The Poconos is filled with eerie tales that have been passed down through generations. You’ll encounter haunting stories that range from the tragic to the outright spooky.
The Bride of Penn Hills
One of the most haunting tales is that of the Bride of Penn Hills. The story goes that a young woman was set to be married at the Penn Hills Resort, but her fiancé never showed up. Heartbroken, she wandered the halls in her wedding dress, and it’s said that she still roams them today.
Visitors and staff often report seeing her ghostly figure in a white dress gliding through the hallways. They also claim there are cold spots and unexplained noises that send shivers down your spine. The abandoned resort only adds to the eerie atmosphere.
If you’re brave enough, you might just catch a glimpse of her during a nighttime visit. This tale remains one of the most persistent and spooky legends in the area.
Old Jail Ghosts
Another spine-chilling location is the Old Jail in Jim Thorpe. The jail held some of the region’s most infamous criminals, including the Molly Maguires, a group of Irish miners who were executed there. Their ghosts are said to haunt the jail to this day.
Tour guides recount unexplained occurrences like footsteps echoing through empty halls and cell doors slamming shut on their own. Some even report seeing shadowy figures by the gallows.
One of the most notable legends involves a handprint left on a cell wall by one of the executed miners, which has mysteriously failed to disappear despite numerous attempts to clean it. This handprint adds to the jail’s eerie reputation, making it a must-visit for anyone interested in ghost stories.
Visitor Tips and Etiquette
When you’re planning to join a ghost tour in the Poconos, there are some important tips and etiquette to keep in mind.
Arrive Early: It’s a good idea to get there a little before the tour starts. This gives you time to check in and get comfortable.
Dress Properly: Wear comfortable shoes and bring a jacket. Nights can be cold, and you might be walking a lot.
Respect the Guides: Tour guides work hard to create a spooky and fun experience. Listen to them and follow their instructions.
Stay with the Group: It’s easy to get lost if you wander off. Stick with the group to ensure you don’t miss any stories or sights.
Be Considerate: Other guests want to enjoy the tour too. Keep your voice down, and avoid using your phone unless necessary.
No Flash Photography: Flash can ruin the atmosphere and bother others. If you want to take pictures, make sure it’s allowed and keep the flash off.
Bring Snacks: Tours can be long, so a small snack and water can be handy. Dispose of any trash properly.
Stay Calm: Ghost tours can be unnerving. If you get scared, take deep breaths and remember it’s all for fun.
Ask Questions: If you’re curious about something, ask. Guides usually love sharing more if they have the time.
Following these simple tips will help you and everyone around you have a great experience on your haunted adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions and answers to help you plan your ghost tour in the Poconos. Find out about the sites, costs, and what kind of paranormal activity you might encounter.
What sites are included in the Poconos ghost tours?
The Haunted Pocono Trolley Tours include stops at spooky locations like the Historic Castle Inn and multiple haunted spots within Delaware Water Gap. Different ghost tours might also visit spooky hotels and haunted prisons as part of a road trip itinerary.
Can you recommend any family-friendly ghost tours in the area?
Yes, the Candle Shoppe of the Poconos and Campbells Haunted Tours are considered family-friendly options and you can do them with children. These tours offer a mix of mildly spooky experiences that are suitable for all ages.
How much do the ghost tours in the Poconos typically cost?
Ticket prices vary, but the Haunted Pocono Trolley Tours generally charge around $25 per person. Prices for other haunted attractions like the Hotel of Horror can range up to $40 or more, depending on the venue and the experience offered.
What kind of paranormal activity is commonly reported on Poconos ghost tours?
Tour participants often report feeling cold spots, hearing unexplained noises, and seeing ghostly apparitions. Some haunted places even have a history of more intense paranormal activity, such as objects moving on their own.
