The Old Jail is considered highly haunted due to its history of inhumane conditions and eight documented executions on its gallows. Built by Henry Flagler in 1891, the facility housed dangerous criminals like Sim Jackson and Charlie Powell in deplorable conditions. These violent histories and tragic deaths have made it an epicenter for paranormal activity.
Yes, you will tour the maximum-security cells and see the gallows where eight men were executed. Your tour includes a walkthrough of the men’s and women’s cell blocks and the preserved Sheriff’s Office. You may even experience the chilling sensation of entering a solitary confinement cell during your visit.
The sounds often attributed to “Men in Chains” are the rattling of original prison chains and disembodied footsteps following visitors. While specific names for this collective group aren’t cited, the jail displays original chains, handcuffs, and uniforms from its operational years (1891–1953). These artifacts provide a tangible connection to the spirits of former inmates heard today.
The Chamber of Horrors is an exclusive nighttime gallery featuring macabre wax figures and local stories from St. Augustine’s dark history. Located within America’s first wax museum, this area showcases the darker side of the “Ancient City.” It is a primary highlight of the Ghosts & Gravestones tour, offering a more frightening experience than the daytime galleries.
Yes, the nighttime experience is a guided tour through the Chamber of Horrors, whereas daytime visits are self-guided. While daytime guests explore over 160 wax figures at their own pace, nighttime visitors receive a narrated “Frightseeing” adventure. This exclusive after-hours access focuses on the museum’s most haunted artifacts and unsettling historical tales.
Elizabeth is the spirit of a young girl and yellow fever victim often seen waving to passersby at the Old City Gates. Legend says she was a victim of the epidemic that ravaged the city in the 1800s. She is one of the most frequently reported apparitions near the gates and the nearby Huguenot Cemetery.
No, the tour typically views the Tolomato Cemetery from the trolley while your Ghost Host shares its haunted history. You will hear stories about the spirits residing there, such as five-year-old James, who is seen playing on the sacred grounds after dark. Walking portions of the tour are limited to specific stops like the Old Jail.
The “Ghost Bride” is a spirit seen wandering the Huguenot Cemetery, eternally waiting for her walk down the aisle. This cemetery, opened in 1821 for non-Catholics, holds approximately 436 bodies, many of whom were yellow fever victims. Her apparition is one of several famous spirits, including the unhappy soul of Judge John B. Stickney.
Cromwell’s Parlour contains a collection of macabre items and haunted curiosities that set the stage for your ghost tour. This immersive space features eerie objects gathered from across the city’s 400-year history. It serves as the initial check-in point where you can begin your journey into the supernatural before boarding the Trolley of the Doomed.
No, access to Cromwell’s Parlour of Paranormal Curiosities is included with your Ghosts & Gravestones tour ticket. We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes early to explore the parlour before your scheduled departure. It is located at the Welcome Center at 27 San Marco Avenue, where your tour begins.
Our tour focuses on storytelling and historic narration rather than technical paranormal investigation. While some walking stops may involve “ghost meters” or similar devices to detect spirits, the main experience is a guided theatrical journey. We encourage you to bring your own camera to capture potential anomalies, as many guests report spectral sightings.
We recommend asking your Ghost Host or driver for specific photography tips to increase your chances of capturing the supernatural. Many guests have reported unusual sightings, such as misty shapes and glowing orbs, in their photos. Being prepared with your camera at the Old Jail or Castillo de San Marcos is highly recommended by our team.
The PG-13 rating means the tour uses loud noises, jump scares, and frightening stories that may not be suitable for young children. While it is not a traditional “haunted house,” we use creative storytelling and historical facts to thrill and scare. We advise parental discretion for children under the age of 13.
The Ghosts & Gravestones tour is generally considered unsuitable for children under 10 due to its frightening content and loud noises. For a more family-friendly experience, we recommend our Potter’s Wax Museum or Old Town Trolley day tours. The Old Jail After Dark investigation specifically requires all guests to be at least 13 years old.
Yes, the tour features “haunted house style moments” and costumed Ghost Hosts who bring the city’s dark history to life. You will encounter theatrical elements and surprises designed to entertain and frighten you. These interactions occur both on the Trolley of the Doomed and during walking portions at sites like the Old Jail.
The tour involves a brief walking portion over historic terrain, including cobblestones and stairs, which may be challenging for some. Because we visit protected historic sites, they are often exempt from standard ADA requirements. We recommend wearing comfortable shoes so you don’t become “dead on your feet” during these segments.
The second floor of the Old Jail is accessible only by stairs, though a visual presentation is available for the ground floor. While our trolleys have lifts, many historic stops feature rough terrain and stairs that are not wheelchair accessible. Please call us 24 hours in advance so we can make appropriate arrangements for your needs.
Only trained service dogs are permitted on board the trolleys in accordance with the ADA. A service animal must be individually trained to perform tasks for a person with a disability. We do not allow: Emotional support animals, comfort or companionship animals, service animals in training, non-canine species.
Free parking is available for our guests at the Old Town Trolley Welcome Center located at 27 San Marco Avenue. This lot serves as the primary departure point for the Ghosts & Gravestones tour. Additionally, patrons of the Old Jail day tours can utilize the free parking lot at 167 San Marco Avenue.
Tours typically run on “dark and stormy nights” unless weather conditions become severe or dangerous. If we must cancel a tour due to weather, we will notify all reserved parties to offer a reschedule or a refund. We make every effort to conduct the tour rain or shine to ensure you don’t miss the adventure.
You should plan to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time for check-in. Arriving early allows you ample time to explore Cromwell’s Parlour of Paranormal Curiosities and visit the gift shop. Please note that reservations are required as our tours frequently sell out in advance.