By Maggie Butler
Posted On: Oct 12, 2020
If you’re looking to get into the Halloween spirit, or just have an affinity for the paranormal, look no further. Ohio’s storied past still haunts today in the form of ghosts, ghouls and scary stories. Here are a few tours that take a deeper look at the state’s haunted cities, buildings and destinations.
NOTE: Please check directly with places before your visit to stay up to date on all safety precautions and learn more about the guidelines surrounding COVID-19.
Ohio State Reformatory in Mansfield
While “Shawshank Redemption,” filmed in the Ohio State Reformatory, may be fictional, the prison has many factual stories of its own to tell. Take a self-guided tour of the reformatory and learn about the history of the facility, as well as the many unique Hollywood and paranormal connections.
NOTE: Masks are required to enter and tour.
Ghosts of Marietta Walking Tour
Although Marietta may be small, every corner of the city is packed with paranormal hauntings and sightings. Join the Ghosts of Marietta tour group for a 90-minute walk through historic downtown. Hear the stories of the dead who still patronize the shops and restaurants, as well as the living employees of several establishments who have rubbed shoulders with the supernatural. The lantern-led tours take place at 7PM, adding an extra dose of spookiness to an already creepy tour.
Credit: American Legacy Tours, Facebook
American Legacy Tours in Cincinnati
American Legacy Tours Queen City is Haunted Tour will have you look at Cincinnati in a completely new way. Discover the stories of unknown murders, learn about the most prolific serial killer in Cincinnati history, find out the truth about the Witch of Washington Park, and so much more. For a deeper look at Cincinnati’s chilling history, check out the Queen City Underground Tour.
Columbus Ghost Tours
Learn about the various ghosts and ghouls that haunt the capital city with Columbus Ghost Tours. The tour group offers various destinations to explore, including Green Lawn Cemetery, downtown Columbus and its iconic buildings, The Ohio State University’s campus and more.
Credit: Historic Zoar Village, Facebook
Ghost Tours at Historic Zoar Village
For only two weekends in October, costumed interpreters will share spooky tales of the former inhabitants of historic Zoar Village as you walk through the historic streets led by lantern light. You may even encounter a few ghosts!
Ghost Tours with Psychic Sonya in Cleveland
Since 2002, Psychic Sonya has been offering guided ghost tours of a haunted Cleveland. Sonya covers all of Cleveland, from Oberlin/Lorain County, Medina, The Flat to downtown Cleveland. Cameras and recording equipment are encouraged in hopes of catching a ghost on film.
Credit: Willoughby Ghost Walk (2019), Facebook
Willoughby Ghost Walk
Enjoy the rich local history and storied past of Willoughby while discovering why the city was voted one of the “10 Best Places to Live” in Ohio. Experienced guides will share ghostly tales, frightening legends, stories of grave robbers, murderous mysteries and more.
NOTE: All guests are required to wear masks and socially distance at in-person events.
For more haunted activities this #FallinOhio, check out #OhioFindItHere at Ohio.org.
