4-Hour Chicago Resurrection Mary Ghost Bus Tour

A Detailed Look at the 4-Hour Chicago Resurrection Mary Ghost Bus Tour

If you’re curious about Chicago’s spooky side, this ghost bus tour promises an atmospheric journey through some of the city’s most haunted spots, all packed into four hours. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary and reviews suggest it offers a compelling mix of history, legend, and ghost stories that will appeal to both skeptics and paranormal enthusiasts alike.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authenticity—visiting real cemeteries, historic sites, and local landmarks tied to Resurrection Mary’s legend. The tour’s price point of $35 makes it accessible, especially considering the variety of stops packed into just four hours. The group size of up to 50 travelers also means it’s intimate enough to feel special without being crowded. Plus, the inclusion of a pub stop at Chet’s Melody Lounge adds a fun, social element that ties the supernatural tales to local culture.

One potential consideration is the length and pacing — with many stops, some guests might wish for more time at certain sites or a slower pace. If you prefer deep dives at each location, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those interested in a broad overview of Chicago’s haunted sites paired with storytelling and some history, this tour strikes a practical balance.

This tour suits travelers who love ghost stories, local legends, or are simply curious about Chicago’s darker lore. It’s also ideal if you’re looking for a reasonably priced outing that combines entertainment with a taste of local history.

Good To Know

• Authentic Haunted Sites: The tour visits real cemeteries, historic churches, and landmarks linked to ghost stories and legends.
• Value for Money: At $35, it offers a comprehensive four-hour experience with multiple stops and a pub visit.
• Balanced Itinerary: With nine stops, the pace provides variety—some sites are brief, others more immersive.
• Informative Guides: Although not explicitly named, the stops are rich with stories, some even referenced in local press.
• Unique Experiences: Sightings of ghost lights, whispers, and ghostly figures are often reported, adding to the thrill.
• Social Atmosphere: The inclusion of Chet’s Melody Lounge offers a chance to soak in local lore and unwind.

Exploring the Tour in Detail

Starting Point: Irish Legend Pub & Restaurant

The tour kicks off here, where the lively Irish ambiance sets the tone for the evening. According to reviews, many guests enjoy this stop as a warm-up, with some noting the pub’s history of Irish workers and stories of ghosts linked to local lore. It’s a lively introduction, and the free admission to the pub makes it a good start without a hefty cost.

Fairmount Willow Hills Memorial Park

Next, you’ll visit this cemetery, famous for the mysterious music emanating from its clock tower. Guests report feeling a strange ambiance here, with one reviewer mentioning the eerie sounds and the “beyond-the-grave” atmosphere. The cemetery’s history and its haunting stories make it a compelling stop that blurs the line between history and myth.

St. James at Sag Bridge Catholic Church

This site, also called “Monk’s Castle,” gets particular mention in local newspapers for “phantom manifestations.” Visitors can expect to hear about ghost sightings and the rich history stretching back to Father Marquette in 1673. The church’s architecture, combined with ghost stories, makes this a particularly atmospheric spot.

Mt Glenwood Memorial Gardens and Archer Woods Cemetery

This stop is especially intriguing. Described as chaotic and unsettling, Archer Woods Cemetery in Hickory Hills features graves facing different directions, which adds to its eerie vibe. Reports of strange lights, whispers, and sightings of the “Weeping Woman” are common, and some reviewers found the site genuinely spooky. The site’s controversy — once used as a dumping ground — adds a layer of dark history, making it more than just a scenic stop.

Sacred Heart Cemetery and the “Grey Haired Baby”

Here, local legends swirl about the mysterious “Grey Haired Baby” haunting the woods. Some guests find the stories about strange, feral figures or even supernatural creatures like werewolves quite captivating. It’s a small, haunting detail that adds to the overall lore of the tour.

8900 Archer Ave: The Willowbrook Ballroom Site

Once a buzzing dance hall, this spot is linked to Resurrection Mary’s story—many claim she was seen dancing here before vanishing. The fact that the ballroom burned down in 2016 offers a bittersweet twist, but the energy from decades of dance and mystery remains. Visitors can almost hear the echoes of music and footsteps in their minds.

Maple Lake

This small lake is known for its will-o-the-wisps — dancing lights said to appear above the water. One reviewer even recounted police officers witnessing a red light so intense they considered shooting at it, which highlights how convincingly supernatural some find this phenomenon. Expect a quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

Resurrection Catholic Cemetery & Mausoleum

Here, the legend of Resurrection Mary culminates at the gates where she is said to disappear. Guests might find the pried-open bars and reports of sightings to be chilling. It’s a quintessential site for ghost stories—an old cemetery with decades of spooky tales.

Final Stop: Chet’s Melody Lounge

The tour wraps at Chet’s, a local bar famous for Resurrection Mary sightings. Reviewers mention that many men who drove Mary home would later report her vanishing from their cars, making this spot a fitting conclusion. It’s a lively place where history and ghost stories collide, and you can enjoy a drink or two while soaking in the local lore.

Additional Practical Details

Transportation: The entire experience takes place on a bus, making it easy to move between sites without the hassle of parking or navigating on your own. The bus has a restroom onboard, which adds comfort for the long evening.

Timing: Starting at 2:00 pm, the tour offers a late afternoon to evening window, perfect for experiencing Chicago’s spooky atmosphere as night falls. The stops are generally 30 minutes each, with a shorter 15-minute visit at Maple Lake and Resurrection Cemetery.

Group Size: With a maximum of 50 travelers, the tour offers a balance between intimacy and the energetic vibe of a larger group. This size allows for social bonding as stories are shared and questions answered.

Cost and Value: Priced at $35, it’s a budget-friendly way to explore Chicago’s haunted sites. The inclusion of a pub stop with free admission adds value, and the ability to purchase drinks at Chet’s is an extra perk.

Booking & Cancellation: Confirmations are received immediately, and free cancellations are available up to 24 hours before the start. Weather considerations are important—bad weather might mean rescheduling or refunds.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This ghost bus tour is ideal for anyone interested in Chicago’s haunted history, ghost stories, or local legends. It’s perfect for groups, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy storytelling and a bit of spooky fun. The price and duration make it accessible, while the variety of sites ensures that most guests leave with a good sense of the city’s haunted past. It’s also well-suited for those who appreciate a mix of history, culture, and supernatural tales, all wrapped in an easy-to-join bus experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, with multiple stops along Archer Avenue.

What is included in the price?
The ticket costs $35 and includes the bus ride, stops at nine locations, and a visit to Chet’s Melody Lounge. A restroom is available onboard.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you should bring cash or card to purchase beverages at Chet’s Lounge, as drinks are not included in the ticket.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 7795 88th Ave, Justice, IL, and ends back at the same location.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While most travelers can participate, the spooky nature may be better suited for teens and adults. Be sure to consider individual sensitivities.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refunded.

Is the tour accessible?
Yes, service animals are allowed, and the tour is near public transportation options.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothes for the weather, cash or card for drinks, and an open mind for ghostly stories.

Final Thoughts

This 4-hour Resurrection Mary Ghost Bus Tour offers a well-rounded peek into Chicago’s haunted past, blending history, local legends, and supernatural tales into an accessible, engaging experience. The stops are thoughtfully chosen, and the stories are compelling enough to entertain skeptics and believers alike. For those interested in ghost stories, Chicago’s dark side, or just a fun night out, this tour provides excellent value and memorable moments.

It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who enjoy hearing stories backed by local lore, exploring historic cemeteries, and experiencing Chicago’s spooky atmosphere without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast or a history buff, this tour promises a mix of thrills and chills at a fair price point.