Family-Friendly Ghost Tours with SouthSide Peddlers in Wilmington - Wilmington

Family-Friendly Ghost Tours with SouthSide Peddlers in Wilmington

Wilmingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

1–1.5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for all fitness levels, primarily walking and standing on flat historic sidewalks.

Overview

Journey through Wilmington’s Dahlonga Historic Square with SouthSide Peddlers, where kid-friendly ghost stories breathe life into local history. Perfect for families seeking a mysterious but approachable evening adventure.

Details

Located in Wilmington, North Carolina, SouthSide Peddlers offers a distinctive adventure for families seeking an engaging blend of history and local legends. This company provides kid-friendly ghost story tours centered around Dahlonga’s Historic Square, a place where the past lingers in the atmosphere and stories come alive after dark. This experience stands out from the typical outdoor excursions by weaving together Wilmington’s rich heritage with a playful, spooky twist tailored to children and their families.

Dahlonga’s Historic Square serves as the backdrop for these guided tours, a setting steeped in Southern charm and centuries of tales. The town’s streets and structures act as chapters in an unfolding narrative, as guides share eerie yet age-appropriate stories that connect historic events with supernatural folklore. Families witness the area’s unique mix of architecture and cobblestone pathways, feeling the tangible connection between past and present. Unlike conventional hikes or kayak trips common to Wilmington’s coastal vibe, SouthSide Peddlers adds a dynamic cultural layer through storytelling that sparks curiosity and imagination.

Wilmington itself is a gateway to outdoor adventures, with natural assets including the nearby Cape Fear River and vibrant maritime ecosystems. SouthSide Peddlers enhances the local adventure scene by bridging the urban historic district with a nighttime journey into the unknown, making it a memorable departure from typical daytime activities. This makes the company a refreshing choice for families interested in narrative-driven outings that combine safety, education, and entertainment.

Whether you’re a local looking to experience your city in a new light or a visitor wanting family-friendly activities beyond the beach, these tours bring a rare, immersive perspective. They offer a chance to appreciate Wilmington’s cultural landscape while enjoying a spirited adventure that’s as insightful as it is fun.

Adventure Tips

Arrive Early for Best Seating

Tours gather in Dahlonga’s Historic Square; arriving early ensures the best spot to hear every chilling tale.

Bring a Light Jacket

Evenings can be cool near the waterfront, so layering ensures comfort during the storytelling sessions.

Suitable for Children Ages 5+

Stories are crafted to be spooky but child-appropriate, ideal for younger family members with curious minds.

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You’ll be walking and standing on historic cobblestone and sidewalks, so sturdy shoes make the experience more enjoyable.

Local Insights

Hidden Gems

  • The Cotton Exchange building with its Civil War history
  • Hidden courtyards around Dahlonga offering quiet scenic spots

Wildlife

  • River otters near Cape Fear River
  • Great horned owls spotted after sunset

History

Dahlonga’s Historic Square was a central hub in Wilmington’s 19th-century port activity and still reflects many preserved antebellum structures.

Conservation

Efforts to preserve the historic district focus on protecting both architectural integrity and minimizing light pollution to maintain night ambiance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Photography Tips

Best Times

Golden hour
Blue hour
Early evening

Best Viewpoints

  • Corner of Castle Street and Market Street
  • Near the old courthouse steps
  • Along the riverfront promenade

What to Photograph

Historic buildings
Street lamps casting shadows
Nighttime cobblestone alleys

Recommended Gear

Comfortable Walking Shoes

Essential

Provides stability on cobblestone and paved surfaces during the tour.

Light Jacket or Sweater

Essential

Keeps you warm during cool evening temperatures common in fall and spring.

fall specific

Flashlight or Phone Light

Helps navigate dimly lit areas before and after the tour, especially for younger kids.

Water Bottle

Essential

Staying hydrated during warm summer nights is important for families.

summer specific