Ain’t afraid of no ghosts? These 4 haunted tours might change your mind

Costume contests and haunted houses are all well and good, but there’s hardly a better way to capture the Halloween spirit than to spot an actual ghost while learning about macabre local legends that would make Jason retire his hockey mask.

Some general guidelines for these spooky walking tours, which last approximately 60 to 90 minutes, are to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the weather.

Now for the walks themselves …

Dayton Lane Ghost Walk

The Dayton Lane Historic District is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Hamilton, so it’s unsurprising that it has its share of haunts and legends. Joining your quest to see some real ghosts are a team of animal communicators, paranormal investigators, and Victor Paruta, a renowned local psychic consultant who produces the Victory of Light Expo at the Sharonville Convention Center every year. You’ll hear ghost stories from Dayton Lane’s “living” residents and a reception afterward will feature private readings by Paruta.

When: Oct. 27, 6-10 p.m.

Where: Meet at the Wolfe Gazebo in the 900 block of Campbell Ave., Hamilton

Cost: $15-$25

More info: www.eventbrite.com

Queen City Is Haunted

This ghost tour takes you through downtown Cincinnati. Depending on the ticket package, you can learn about the most prolific serial killer in Cincinnati history, the Witch of Washington Park, and the phantoms of Music Hall. You can also experience one of the most haunted hotel rooms in America, an abandoned cemetery teeming with paranormal activity, and walk the grounds where human remains were once unearthed. And those are just a few of the stories of local mayhem.

When: Through Nov. 3, hourly tours on Fridays-Sundays

Where: Meet at 1332 Vine St., Cincinnati

Cost: $25-$35

More info: www.americanlegacytours.com

Cincinnati Ghost Tour

This ghost walk takes place in the historic neighborhood of Clifton, home of the Esquire Theatre and the University of Cincinnati. Learn about bizarre crimes and hauntings. The gas lighting adds an additional Victorian vibe. Cameras are encouraged, and the tour guide, Mr. Heizer, has plenty of ghost jokes to add some levity to the dark proceedings.

When: Through Nov. 10, 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Wednesdays and Fridays-Saturdays

Where: Meet at 295 Ludlow Ave., Cincinnati

Cost: $20

More info: 513-283-5127 or www.cincinnatighosttour.com

Ghosts and Goblets Dinner and Tour

For some, ghosts are a great way to work up an appetite. Through dinner and dessert at a charming bed and breakfast, you will hear stories of murder and mayhem, then walk it off through downtown Waynesville, learning more about the dark past of this sleepy village. The tour will end at the Museum at the Friends Home and includes a self-guided tour of the museum.

Where: The Hammel House Inn, 121 S. Main St., Waynesville

When: Weekends and Wednesdays through October, 7 p.m.

Cost: $42.95

More info: 513-897-3779 or www.thehammelhouseinn.com or www.friendshomemuseum.org

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