Madison Ghost Walks
From haunted hotels and theaters to supernatural stories surrounding scoundrels, Civil War spies, and native legends, our walking tours in Madison and throughout Wisconsin cover plenty of ground and even more of our home state’s haunted history.



Ghost Walks in Madison
Madison Capitol Square Spirits Ghost Walk
Our original Madison ghost tour delves into the oldest part of the city, full of secrets and ghosts. From $30 per person. Select weekends at 7:30pm.
Madison UW Campus Ghost Walks
Ghosts, true crime, and superstitions. The University of Wisconsin might be a world famous research institution, but it has plenty of secrets of its own. From $30 a person. Select weekends at 7:30pm.
Madison Lost Souls of State Street Ghost Walk
Dive bars, haunted theaters, and wicked tales in Madison's notorious entertainment district. From $30 per person. Select Saturdays at 7:30pm.
GUEST REVIEWS
Lisa, our guide, was both lovely and spooky. She dressed the part and her knowledge of the area, both in knowing others in the Madison area, and with her own experiences, was outstanding. I have lived in the Downtown Madison area for almost 10 years, and I got a fresh historical perspective on the King St. area.
Megan Dix
ButtonIt was fun, informative, and entertaining. The guide was knowledgeable, funny, and did a wonderful job. I won't forget my first ghost walk thanks to him.
Laural Seither
ButtonMy husband and I had a wonderful time touring the town, learning the spooky history of the town. We’ve lived here for about 8 months and wanted to get to know Red Wing on a deeper level. Our host was interesting and pretty knowledgeable.
Spooky Millennial
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Frequently Asked Questions
Planning to join a
Madison Ghost Walk? Here are answers to common questions about haunted tours in Wisconsin’s capital city.
How long is a ghost walk in Madison?
Most Madison ghost walks last between 1 and 2 hours. Tours usually cover about a mile of walking through downtown streets, historic sites, and occasionally cemeteries. The pace is relaxed, with plenty of stops for storytelling and history, making it manageable for most ages.
Are Madison ghost tours family-friendly?
Yes, many Madison ghost tours are family-friendly. Guides typically focus on local legends and historical ghost stories rather than intense scares. Parents should check with the tour operator in advance, as some late-night or themed tours may be more suitable for older teens and adults.
What should I wear on a Madison ghost walk?
You should wear comfortable walking shoes and dress for the weather. Since ghost walks are held outdoors, layers, a light jacket, or an umbrella may be useful depending on the season. Bringing water is also a good idea, especially for warmer evenings.
Do Madison ghost tours visit cemeteries?
Some Madison ghost walks include stops at historic cemeteries such as Forest Hill Cemetery. Others focus on downtown landmarks and haunted buildings. Tour routes vary, so check the description of your chosen tour if a cemetery visit is important to you.
Where do Madison ghost tours start?
Many Madison ghost tours begin near downtown landmarks such as the Children’s Museum, Capitol Square, or local theaters. The exact meeting point will be provided in your booking confirmation, so it’s best to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early.
Are ghost sightings common on these tours?
While ghost tours share many accounts of paranormal encounters, actual sightings are not guaranteed. Most guests come for the mix of spooky atmosphere, storytelling, and history. The real draw is experiencing Madison’s haunted past in person.
Do you need to book Madison ghost walks in advance?
Yes, advance booking is highly recommended. Tours often run with limited group sizes, especially during fall and Halloween season. Booking early ensures you secure a spot and avoid disappointment.
Are private ghost tours available in Madison?
Yes, some operators offer private tours for groups, which can be tailored for families, friends, or special events. Private bookings are popular for birthdays, team outings, or anyone looking for a more personalized experience.
Wisconsin Ghost Stories
