Is the tour appropriate for children?

Yes, the experience is designed for all ages, though children under 12 should be accompanied by an adult.

What kind of ghost-hunting equipment is provided?

Participants receive basic tools such as EMF meters and digital voice recorders to engage with the paranormal aspects safely.

Can I take photos during the tour?

Photography is allowed, but flash and tripods are discouraged to preserve the atmosphere and avoid disturbing other guests.

Is the basilica wheelchair accessible?

St. Mary’s Basilica has accessible entrances, but some historic areas may have limited access; please inquire in advance.

Are reservations required?

Yes, booking ahead through the provided referral link is recommended due to limited space.

What should I wear for the event?

Casual, comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear are advised. Layering is recommended for cooler evenings.

Experience Spiritual History and Ghost Hunts at St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix | Ghost Tour

Set in the heart of Phoenix, Arizona, St. Mary’s Basilica stands as a remarkable emblem of the city’s religious heritage and architectural grandeur. Built in 1914, this cathedral is the oldest Roman Catholic parish in Phoenix, its twin spires rising prominently over the downtown skyline. But beyond its striking facade and serene interior lies a different kind of experience—one that combines sacred history with the thrill of the paranormal. "Saints & Shadows: An Evening at St. Mary’s Basilica" offers visitors a rare opportunity to explore the basilica after dark, blending historical tours with an immersive ghost hunt. Visitors begin their evening with a guided walk through the basilica, where knowledgeable storytellers illuminate the church’s rich Catholic roots, its beautiful stained glass windows, and intricate architectural details. The story of the basilica is intertwined with Phoenix’s growth from a frontier town to a bustling metropolis, making this stop a cultural touchstone for understanding the city’s past. As twilight deepens, the tone shifts from reverent to thrilling. Participants receive professional ghost-hunting equipment and are led into lesser-known sections of the basilica’s historic grounds. The experience is designed to engage all ages, offering a mix of intriguing historical facts alongside spine-tingling tales of apparitions and unexplained phenomena. Whether skeptics or believers, guests are drawn into the atmosphere, making memories and stories to share. What sets this evening apart is its unique marriage of spiritual significance and supernatural curiosity. Few tours in Phoenix deliver access to a historic church with such deep local importance after hours, and fewer still combine that with an interactive ghost hunt. This makes "Saints & Shadows" a standout choice for visitors seeking to engage with Phoenix’s heritage in an unusual, memorable way. The basilica itself is an essential part of the community’s identity, hosting regular services, events, and cultural programs. This evening adventure invites people to see the church from a new perspective—one that emphasizes discovery and excitement without losing sight of its sanctity. For those planning their visit, Phoenix’s vibrant downtown offers plenty of dining and lodging options within easy reach. Whether you’re a history buff, a paranormal enthusiast, or someone simply looking for a compelling evening activity, this experience offers a fascinating glimpse into one of the city’s most storied landmarks.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1.5–2 hours.

Fitness level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking and standing involved

Wildlife

Urban birds like peregrine falcons nest on downtown buildings
Desert-adapted lizards can be spotted in nearby green spaces

History

St. Mary’s Basilica was designated a minor basilica in 1962, recognizing its importance within the Catholic Church in the western U.S.

Conservation

The basilica participates in local initiatives to preserve downtown Phoenix’s historic architecture amid urban development.

Get Ghosted Phoenix offers guided ghost and true-crime walking tours in Phoenix and Tempe, Arizona. Founded to highlight the city’s darker history, the company leads small-group tours that combine local history with hands-on paranormal investigation. Tours visit historic downtown landmarks including hotels, theaters, morgues, jails, the Warehouse District, Phoenix Union Station, the Hayden Flour Mill, and St. Mary’s Basilica. Each experience blends storytelling with equipment-driven investigation. Several tours provide EMF detectors, spirit boxes, and other professional ghost-hunting tools so participants can engage directly in investigations. Tour formats vary from 1.5 to 2-hour guided walks to themed events at specific sites; small group sizes are used to create intimate, interactive experiences. Get Ghosted Phoenix’s offerings include a true crime walking tour that explores infamous trials and historic crime scenes, multiple haunted history walks through central Phoenix, a Tempe ghost tour focused on the Hayden Flour Mill, and special events such as evening investigations at St. Mary’s Basilica and a speakeasy-themed haunted evening. One exclusive tour is hosted at the former First Avenue Jail, now an animal safe haven, where proceeds support rescued animals. Guides emphasize documented local history paired with oral accounts and reported hauntings. The company operates publicly scheduled tours and limited-capacity special events, with clear meeting locations in downtown Phoenix and Tempe. For visitors seeking a factual, equipment-based paranormal experience rooted in local history, Get Ghosted Phoenix provides recurring, guided options. Reservations are available online and many tours run on weekends and select evenings throughout the year, seasonally too.

Base locationPhoenix, Arizona

Tours offered8+

Specialtyothers

StewardshipLeave No Trace