Spooks, Spirits and Speakeasy Ghost Tour

Introduction

Looking for a night that combines history, ghost stories, and a touch of vintage glamour? The Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour in Phoenix offers just that—a captivating mix of haunted locations, interactive ghost-hunting, and a secret speakeasy to cap off the evening. Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast or just love a good story paired with craft cocktails, this tour promises a fun and atmospheric experience.

We particularly enjoy how this tour balances historical storytelling with hands-on ghost-hunting tools, making it engaging rather than just educational. The inclusion of a hidden speakeasy beneath the city adds a unique twist, giving you a taste of Prohibition-era intrigue. However, it’s worth noting that the tour is quite focused on walking between sites and engaging with equipment, so a moderate level of mobility is recommended. Overall, it’s ideal for those who love a mix of supernatural tales and authentic local history, especially if you’re after something slightly different from typical city tours.

Good To Know

• Interactive ghost hunts with EMF detectors, dowsing rods, and spirit boxes
• Visiting iconic haunted sites like the Rosson House and Melinda’s Alley
• A secret Prohibition-era speakeasy for cocktails and ghost stories
• Well-rated guides who are knowledgeable and engaging
• Value-packed experience at $39 per person, including equipment and secret venue
• Good for those with moderate physical fitness and an interest in local history and ghost stories

What the Tour Offers: A Deep Dive into Phoenix’s Haunted Past

The Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour combines history, ghost-hunting, and nightlife in an approachable way that makes it stand out among ghost tours. Spanning approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, this experience is perfect for those who prefer a compact but immersive adventure. Let’s explore what makes each stop special, and why they’re worth your time.

The Starting Point: Rosson House Museum

The tour kicks off at the Rosson House Museum, a beautiful historic home in Phoenix’s Heritage Square. Here, the guide shares stories of the house’s previous residents and the spirits believed to linger behind its walls. Visitors can expect a brief but rich introduction to the local hauntings, making it a perfect warm-up for the night’s adventures. The museum’s preserved architecture offers a tangible connection to Phoenix’s past, and many reviews mention the “great history and interesting stories” provided during this first stop.

St. Mary’s Basilica

Next, the tour heads to St. Mary’s Basilica, an active church with its own ghostly tales. The guide recounts the story of the archways and the ghostly presence associated with the church. Expect a short, 15-minute visit that emphasizes the spiritual history and the eerie legends tied to this religious site. This stop is credited for adding a deeper layer of spiritual intrigue to the tour, with comments noting the “fascinating ghost story” linked to the basilica.

The Infamous Herberger Theater

The tour then takes a brief view of the Herberger Theater, notable for its reputation and the haunting art installation nearby. While not a formal stop for ghost hunting, it provides visual context and a chance to see a hub of Phoenix’s arts scene—some might say with a ghostly vibe of its own.

Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel

Moving on, the Renaissance Phoenix Downtown Hotel reveals itself as a key haunted site. The guide shares stories about the hotel’s history and the legend of the Coal Man, a spirit said to haunt the premises. At this stop, you can expect to hear about the different ghostly encounters and the role of the hotel in Phoenix’s development. Guests have appreciated the “wonderful guides” who shared detailed stories, making the history come alive.

Melinda’s Alley: Phoenix’s Red-Light District

By far the most popular stop, Melinda’s Alley, is steeped in local lore. Known as Phoenix’s red-light district, it’s where Melinda Curtis is said to still roam. The guide spends about 30 minutes here, allowing time for ghost-hunting and exploring the alley’s ambiance. Visitors love how the stories are woven into the setting, with one reviewer saying, “Our guide was wonderful! Didn’t feel rushed, got time to use the equipment and wander around a bit.” This stop offers a genuine chance to connect with Phoenix’s underground history and its spectral residents.

Hanny’s

The tour wraps up at Hanny’s, an iconic restaurant with a haunted past. The basement, in particular, features a creepy art installation linked to ghost stories. Expect a quick 15-minute visit to hear about the building’s history and its paranormal reputation. Guests note that the stories about the basement add a creepy edge to the experience, making it a fitting final stop.

Interactive Ghost-Hunting Gear and Experiences

A major feature of this tour is the use of interactive equipment—including EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods—which enhances the ghost-hunting experience. These tools are provided for participants to use at select locations, giving you the chance to try your hand at detecting spirits yourself. Guests have reported appreciating the time and space to explore with the equipment, which makes the experience more immersive and engaging.

One reviewer commented, “Great history and interesting stories. Enjoyed the night. Our tour guide was wonderful! Didn’t feel rushed, got time to use the equipment and wonder around a bit.” This hands-on approach is ideal for guests who want more than just listening to ghost stories; it transforms the tour into a fun, participatory adventure.

The Secret Speakeasy Experience

The tour concludes at Phoenix’s most haunted speakeasy, located beneath the city’s original red-light district. Accessing this vintage Prohibition-era spot requires a little insider knowledge, as it is tucked away beneath the streets. Here, guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a dimly lit, vintage setting, all while hearing more ghost stories and participating in a final ghost hunt. Because the speakeasy only opens to the public after the tour, it feels exclusive—adding a special, behind-the-scenes feel to the night.

Guests have praised this part of the experience for its atmosphere and authenticity, noting that it’s a highlight to sip cocktails in such a historical, secretive space. It’s a fitting end to a night that marries history, spirits, and storytelling.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

The tour starts at 6:45 pm at the Rosson House Museum, located at The Square. It’s a central, accessible location, near public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors. The group size is capped at 18 travelers, ensuring a more intimate atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to ask questions.

The price of $39 per person is quite reasonable considering the mix of storytelling, ghost-hunting equipment, and access to a secret speakeasy. The inclusion of all equipment and the guided experience adds considerable value, especially compared to standalone ghost tours that might not feature hands-on tools or exclusive venues.

The tour involves walking between sites, so comfortable shoes are recommended. Moderate physical fitness is suggested, as some walking and standing are involved. The tour is designed to be fun and accessible, with a knowledgeable guide taking you through each location and sharing stories rooted in local lore.

Cancellation Policy

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility if plans change. Inclement weather may lead to a canceled experience, but you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund—making it a low-risk option.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This tour offers a balanced mix of history, paranormal fun, and nightlife, making it suitable for a variety of travelers. It’s perfect if you’re curious about Phoenix’s haunted spots but also enjoy interactive experiences and authentic local secrets. The knowledgeable guides, notably praised for their storytelling, help bring each location’s spirits and stories to life.

The inclusion of ghost-hunting equipment makes it a hit for those who like a hands-on approach, and the final visit to the speakeasy adds a memorable, atmospheric touch. For night owls, history buffs, or anyone wanting a slightly spooky, very fun evening, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re intrigued by ghost stories but prefer an experience that’s interactive and engaging, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s well-suited for travelers who appreciate a mix of history and the supernatural without feeling rushed or overly commercialized. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure an intimate and personalized experience, making each story more impactful.

For those interested in exploring Phoenix’s hidden past and secretive nightlife, this tour provides a memorable night out. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy craft cocktails, secret venues, and stories that blend legend with history. While it’s not a very lengthy experience, it packs enough intrigue and activity to justify its price and reputation.

FAQ

• What time does the tour start? The tour begins at 6:45 pm at the Rosson House Museum.
• How long does the tour last? The experience lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.
• Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels? It’s best for those with moderate physical fitness, as some walking is involved.
• Are tickets included in the price? Yes, the price covers access to all stops, ghost-hunting equipment, and the secret speakeasy.
• Can I cancel the tour? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start.
• Is the tour family-friendly? The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but it’s generally suitable for older children and adults interested in ghost stories.
• Are tips included? No, tips are not included and are at your discretion.
• What do I need to bring? Comfortable shoes and a moderate level of curiosity are recommended.
• Will I get to use the ghost-hunting equipment? Yes, you will have time to use EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and dowsing rods.
• Is there a dress code? No specific dress code, but comfortable walking shoes are advised.

To sum it up, the Spooks, Spirits, and Speakeasy Ghost Tour in Phoenix offers a well-rounded, interactive evening for anyone fascinated by ghost stories, local history, and vintage nightlife. With engaging guides, hands-on ghost-hunting, and an exclusive secret venue, it provides a value-packed experience that’s both fun and atmospheric. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, this tour delivers a memorable night full of stories, spirits, and surprises.