With Halloween fast approaching, it’s time for October’s most hair-raising pastime — the ghost tour. Lace up your walking shoes and prepare for a fright. Some of the oldest areas have experienced guides who will regale you with stories of Northern Virginia’s most spirited residents. Some ghost tours are paired with drinks, while others are all tricks. Choose wisely — your decision might haunt you!
Haunted Wine Tour at The Winery at Bull Run
Pair your ghosts with a glass of red and connect with the paranormal. This one-hour lantern-led tour takes you through the historic battlegrounds of the Winery at Bull Run with a wine tasting along the way. Meet the ghosts of centuries past while you sip on award-winning Virginia wine. This is an adults-only event. Book online. Tours run through November 2. The Winery at Bull Run: 15950 Lee Hwy., Centreville, $55
Haunted History Tour in Middleburg
Downtown Middleburg might surprise you with its haunted history. This leisurely, 90-minute family-friendly tour promises incredible urban legends. Tours run on most Friday and Saturday evenings until November. This is a cashless operation. Tickets must be purchased online. Municipal parking lot on South Liberty Street, Middleburg, $30
Alexandria Colonial Tours
There are few places better to experience the historic spirits of Virginia than Old Town Alexandria, the oldest location on this list, founded in 1749. On this tour, a Colonial-costumed guide will lead you through the charming streets of Alexandria by lantern light, telling ghost stories, legends, and tales of mystery, love, and revenge. The one-hour tour covers six blocks. October tours run every night at 7:30 p.m., and additionally at 8:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. Book online. 221 King St., Alexandria, except for Fridays and Saturdays when the tour groups meet along the King Street side of hte Burke & Herbert Bank, $15 for adults, $10 for children
Old Town Haunts
Founded in 1869, Fairfax has nearly two centuries worth of spirited former residents just waiting to say hello to visitors. Join this 90-minute haunted tour that starts at Old Town Square to meet the ghosts of Fairfax’s past. Tours are researched and hosted by experienced ghost tour guides, and there are 14 stops on this walking tour that are sure to spook and surprise. 10415 North St., Fairfax, $25 for ages 12 and older, $20 for kids under 12
Occoquan Spirits: Haunted Pub Crawl and Ghost Tour
If you’re looking for booze with your boos, check out Occoquan’s haunted pub crawl and ghost tour. Tours are run by Rachael White, a medium who boasts relationships with the many ghostly residents of Occoquan. Don’t worry, she promises that none of the spirits is malevolent. The tour runs through four Occoquan bars and restaurants, where participants can sit for a drink and chat with a friendly spirit. Pub crawls are for people over 21. 408 Mill St., Occoquan, $20 for walking tours, $25 for pub crawls
Feature image courtesy of Middleburg Ghost Tours
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