Haunted History: 9 Ghost Tours Throughout Wisconsin

If you love Halloween with a side of spooky history, try these spirit walks and ghost tours for a thrilling night out you’ll never forget. 

Southeast

Shakers Cigar Bar Ghost Tours – Milwaukee

More than one murder has happened within the walls of this former speakeasy- and brothel-turned-bar. Grab a Shakers Ghost Ale, Shadow People Lager or Death in the Absinthe cocktail and join an hour-long tour to learn about 150 years of haunted history. Those under the age of 18 must have parental consent to participate. 

Gothic Milwaukee – Milwaukee

You’ll learn all about the dark side of Wisconsin’s largest city on these 90-minute walking tours through Milwaukee's history. Take the classic tour or a more focused tour of the storied Milwaukee neighborhood of Yankee Hill.

South Central

Madison Ghost Walks – Madison

Take a walk around downtown Madison’s famed Capitol Square for spooky, sordid and otherwise strange stories, along with city folklore and beautiful architecture. You’ll never see Wisconsin’s capital city the same way again.

Southwest

Bodega Brew Pub – La Crosse

This historic building has a haunted history going back more than a century. Order a Dead Guy Ale off their extensive beer and wine list, and ask about the former pool hall owner who has haunted the building for many years.

Central

Historic Point Basse Spirit Walk – Nekoosa

This well-preserved 1850s settlement along the Wisconsin River has plenty of stories to tell, and the highlight of tour is speaking to the spirits themselves, represented by actors in period clothing. They’ll emerge from the shadows to tell their stories as you walk along by lantern-light.

Ghost Boat – Wisconsin Dells

Hear the Dells’ local ghost lore as you travel by boat up the Wisconsin River, then disembark for an after-dark expedition through Cold Water Canyon. This intense, hour-and-a-half experience is recommended for children 10 and older.

Baraboo Tours – Baraboo

The spirits of the past are said to roam historic downtown Baraboo, and you can hear their stories for yourself on this guided walking tour. Or, if you favor hitching a ride for your ghost hunt, you can even rent a rickshaw!

Northeast

Door County Trolley Ghost Tours – Egg Harbor

Climb aboard the “Trolley of the Doomed” for a two-hour guided tour of Door County’s dark side. Learn about the peninsula’s mysterious history with stops at haunted houses, cemeteries, a shipwreck site and a lighthouse.

Northwest

Bayfield Ghost Walks – Bayfield

Learn more about Bayfield’s past and present by taking a paranormal tour from Bayfield Ghost Walks. You’ll stop at local institutions such as Greunke's Restaurant and First Street Inn, At Ship’s Quarters and Morty’s Pub and hear stories of local legendary ghosts. Kids welcome!

Ready for some more thrills? Check out these historic Wisconsin hotels with ghoulish guests who never checked out.