Exploring Burlington’s Haunted History with the Smartphone Guided Walking Tour
Imagine wandering through a charming Vermont city, not just soaking in its sights but also uncovering stories of ghosts, historical tragedies, and mysterious happenings. That’s exactly what the Burlington’s Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour offers. While we haven’t experienced it firsthand, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a vivid picture of an engaging, flexible, and affordable way to explore Burlington’s spooky side.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the self-paced nature means you can take your time, whether you’re a history buff or just looking for some fun nighttime chills. Second, the location-aware app delivers stories directly as you walk, making it feel like you’re following a local guide. Lastly, at just $7.75 per person, the value for such an interactive, story-rich experience is hard to beat.
One potential consideration? The tour is voice-guided and outside-only, so you’ll want to bring earbuds and be ready for variable outdoor conditions. That said, if you love discovering hidden stories and enjoy flexible sightseeing, this tour really hits the mark. It’s perfect for curious travelers, ghost enthusiasts, or families seeking an entertaining way to see downtown Burlington after dark.
Good To Know
- Self-paced and flexible: Tour anytime, anywhere; no need to stick to a schedule.
- Affordable price: At just $7.75, it offers good value with rich storytelling.
- Rich itinerary: Covers historic downtown sites, haunted buildings, and notable landmarks.
- Authentic stories: Includes tales of H.H. Holmes, haunted houses, and ghostly legends.
- Outdoor experience: No indoor guide; all storytelling occurs via the app while walking outside.
- Accessible: Service animals are allowed; suitable for most travelers.
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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience
Starting Point: Shanty on the Shore
Your journey begins at the Old Shanty on the Shore, a historic spot on Battery Street. Here, you’ll hear about its origins and the spooky tales of its first owner—setting a fitting tone for what’s ahead. This initial location offers a peek into Burlington’s maritime past, intertwined with ghostly rumors that add an eerie twist.
The app then guides you through the streets of downtown Burlington, where stories about tunnels, haunted buildings, and notable figures like H.H. Holmes come alive. According to reviews, the directions are accurate and easy to follow, though some mention bringing earbuds because of traffic noise—something to keep in mind if you’re keen on hearing every word.
Exploring Downtown: Haunted Buildings and Historic Streets
The tour takes around 45 minutes to an hour, weaving through streets that have witnessed tragic events and ghostly encounters. You’ll pass by the old house with a tragic past, which is said to be haunted, and the historic theater, where stories of tragedies and ghost sightings have lingered over the years.
One highlight is the church street area, known for its charm and dark history. Visitors have noted the old buildings, including one that houses a restaurant where many souls have allegedly decided to stick around. This part of the tour offers a mix of walking, storytelling, and visual cues, making the stories feel grounded in real places.
Notable Stops: The Holmes Connection and Haunted Venues
A fascinating element is the tour’s connection to H. H. Holmes, one of America’s most infamous serial killers. The app guides you to the house Holmes rented while on the run, located just off Church Street. This adds a layer of macabre intrigue, especially for true crime fans.
The tour also features legends of haunted theaters and music venues like the place where Phish got their start. These spots are not just historically significant but also carry ghost stories that have persisted for years.
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The Final Stop and Overall Duration
The tour concludes near the First Unitarian Universalist Society, a historic church and one of the city’s oldest buildings. This location acts as a fitting endpoint—tying together the city’s spiritual, architectural, and ghostly layers. The entire experience lasts approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a perfect short adventure without feeling rushed.
What You’re Not Getting
This is a completely outdoor experience, guided solely by the app—no physical guide or inside access. It’s designed for independent exploration, so bring earbuds and be prepared for outdoor weather conditions. No food or drinks are included, so plan to eat before or after the tour.
Why the Tour Is a Smart Choice
Great value at just $7.75 per person, considering you’ll visit multiple historical and haunted sites while listening to intriguing stories. The self-guided format means no waiting for groups or fixed schedules, which is ideal for spontaneous plans or travelers with busy itineraries.
The location-aware app adds a layer of authenticity, as stories are delivered contextually while you walk. Reviewers have praised the clarity of directions, though traffic noise can sometimes be a challenge—so some headphones or earbuds are recommended.
On top of that, the tour’s flexibility—it never expires and can be taken as many times as you like—means you can revisit or explore at your own pace. This is particularly valuable if you want to soak in the stories multiple times or combine it with other Burlington explorations.
Who This Tour Suits Best
If you’re someone who enjoys mystery, history, or ghost stories, this tour will likely be a hit. It’s especially good for independent travelers or small groups who appreciate self-guided adventures. Families with older children may also enjoy learning about the city’s darker past in a casual outdoor setting.
Keep in mind, it’s not ideal if you prefer indoor, guided, or group experiences—and if you’re sensitive to outdoor noise or weather. But for those looking for an atmospheric, budget-friendly way to explore Burlington’s haunted corners, this tour offers a memorable and flexible option.
Final Thoughts
Burlington’s Famous Ghosts Smartphone Guided Walking Tour delivers an engaging peek into the city’s mysterious and chilling stories. Its combination of historic sites, ghost legends, and the convenience of self-guided exploration gives it a unique edge over traditional walking tours. The affordability makes it accessible for most travelers, while the app-based storytelling keeps the experience intimate and flexible.
This tour is best suited for curious visitors eager to learn about Burlington’s darker side without the constraints of fixed schedules or group sizes. It offers a fun, atmospheric way to add some spooky flair to your visit, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own pace and discovering stories that linger in the shadows of the city.
FAQ
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a self-guided outdoor walk, most travelers can participate, though younger children might find the stories scarier or less engaging.
Do I need to print anything?
No, the tour is delivered via a mobile app, and the meeting point is clearly marked. Just download the app and prepare your phone for navigation and storytelling.
Can I do this tour at night?
Yes, you can take the tour anytime since it’s available 24/7. Many find that the nighttime adds to the ghostly atmosphere.
Are there any indoor stops?
No, this is an outdoor experience only—stories are told as you walk through the city streets.
What should I bring?
Bring earbuds or headphones, and dress appropriately for outdoor weather. It’s also helpful to have a charged phone and perhaps a bottled water for the walk.
Is there a group size limit?
Since it’s a private tour experience, only your group will participate, making it more personalized and flexible.