Historical Ghost Lantern Tour in Traverse City, MI
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as the walking is moderate and on paved city streets.
Overview
Explore the haunted history of Traverse City on a 90-minute lantern-lit walking tour. Discover spooky stories and historic landmarks led by expert guides.
Historical Ghost Lantern Tour-Public Walking Tour
100% Outside Walking Tour • 90 Minutes • All Ages
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a captivating 90-minute Historical Ghost Lantern Tour through downtown Traverse City, where history and hauntings intertwine. Led by passionate guides, explore iconic sites like the Carnegie Library and Hannah Mansion, culminating in a ghost-hunting experience at the city’s first cemetery. Discover the eerie tales that linger in the night!
* HISTORICAL GHOST LANTERN TOUR
Experience a walking tour that brings the ghosts of Traverse City back to life. The Historical Ghost Lantern Tour starts in the heart of downtown Traverse City and explores the hauntings occurring on Front Street before heading south to 6th Street to share the ghostly tales of the Perry Hannah House and Carnegie Library. The tour will come to a climactic conclusion with a ghost-hunting experience at Traverse City's first official cemetery with actual ghost-hunting equipment where we conclude at the Perry Hannah Circle statue on the corner of Union and 6th street.
Duration
90 Minutes+
About
The Downtown Traverse City Ghost Tour is a walking, 90-minute tour and we operate rain or shine and only cancel due to severe weather. The tour path will head west on Front St, south on Union St, and the tour includes a short introduction to ghost hunting at Hannah Park, concluding at Perry Hannah Circle. We walk approximately 10-11 blocks or 1.5 miles so wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather. The pace is slow to medium-paced at times on sidewalks and a grassy park trail. After the investigation concludes, head off to enjoy the fine restaurants and engaging entertainment Downtown Traverse City offers!
Adventure Tips
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The tour covers several city blocks on foot, so comfortable footwear is essential for an enjoyable experience.
Dress for the Weather
Evenings in Traverse City can be cool, especially near the water, so bring a jacket or warm layer.
Bring a Small Flashlight
While lanterns are provided, having your own flashlight can help navigate darker areas safely.
Stay Hydrated Before the Tour
Though the tour itself doesn’t have water stops, staying hydrated beforehand is recommended.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great Blue Heron often spotted near the bay
- White-tailed deer in nearby park areas
History
Traverse City originated as a lumbering and shipping hub in the 19th century, which contributes to many of its ghost stories today.
Conservation
Local preservation efforts maintain the historic landmarks and cemeteries featured on the tour to protect their cultural significance.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support for walking multiple city blocks during the tour.
Jacket or Warm Layer
Keeps you warm during cool fall evenings and windy conditions.
fall specific
Umbrella or Rain Jacket
Helpful during spring showers to stay dry during the outdoor tour.
spring specific
Small Flashlight
Useful for safely navigating darker parts of the route.