From former homes of key figures in horror writing to touring haunted pubs in town, the city of Richmond, Virginia provides plenty of opportunities to explore an interestingly rich history. Paranormal enthusiasts and ghost hunters will have many chances to investigate supposed spirits or uncover a local legend. If you are interested in experiencing a haunted tour of Richmond, Virginia, consider one or more of the following options:
1. Haunts of Richmond Tours
People who enjoy ghost tours often head to 11 North 18th Street, where they find a local haunted house attraction and walking tours that take place during the night. There are three different haunted tours to consider:
a) Shadows of Shockoe Tour: A guide will take you to Shockoe Bottom, which is considered the oldest and most haunted neighborhood in the city. There is more than 400 years of history that create the perfect setting for ghost hunting and paranormal thrills. Your guide will relay stories of mysterious happenings and scary events that have taken place at Shockoe. Some of the sites you will encounter include the Old Stone House, the Church Hill tunnel collapse, and a handful of Civil War hospitals
b) Haunted Capitol Hill: Capitol Hill in Richmond is another location about town that has its fair share of haunted tales. It is said that the area is filled with the ghosts of elected officials and security guards that add to an already colorful haunted history. The tour will touch upon some of the most exciting ghost stories centered on Richmond, including the haunted Executive Mansion, the Great Theatre Fire, and the ghosts said to haunt Capitol Square.
c) Spirits at Haunted Pub Crawl: In Richmond, haunted pubs are a common sight to encounter. Your guide will elaborate on some of the best haunted pub tales, while paying a visit to some of the historic hot spots in town. Since you'll be visiting a range of bars and taverns, you must be 21 years old to enjoy this tour. Three pub visits are on the agenda, which include the tales of Berkeley Hotel spirits, ghosts at the Railroad YMCA, and the legends associated with the old Richbrau Brewery.
2. Richmond History Center
Head for 105 E. Clay St. to encounter the Richmond History Center – a place that offers themed tours of the city. One moment you could be enjoying a ghost tour, while another day could be spent venturing into the ghostly past of the Civil War. The center also offers a tour of places associated with Edgar Allen Poe.
3. Edgar Allen Poe House Tour
Explore the life and career of one of the most well known writers of mystery, fiction, and horror tales. A visit to one of his former residences brings you closer to a collection of manuscripts, letters, first editions, memorabilia and personal belongings. The Poe Museum is located at 1914-16 East Main Street.
4.Civil War Maps
You can also venture on your own to explore the haunted sites of Richmond. Maps of Civil War activity can be obtained by paying a visit to http://www.civilwartrails.org/.
