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Madison Capitol Square Spirits Ghost Walk
$33.57 per person
Our original Madison ghost tour delves into the oldest part of the city, full of secrets and ghosts.
*includes all taxes and fees
Duration
90 Minutes
Meeting Point
125 S. Webster in your GPS
Minimum Age
13+
Check-Out Availability
"Do you think he can hear us? Do you think he can hear us?" That’s the dialogue the business owner off the Capitol Square’s East Main street could make out when he woke up with a start after bookkeeping on a late night in his downstairs office. Thinking that it was his employees he opened his door to find the lights off and all of his bartenders already gone home. That’s when he remembered that his music venue used to be a funeral home and the weird experiences the people who renovated the basement told him about. He laughed it off as just a dream until he came back into the office, shut the door, and this time, completely awake, he heard the voices again…
And that is only the beginning of the stories you discover about Madison’s King Street and Capitol Square, the oldest part of the city, on this tour.
Take a walking tour of Madison’s historic King Street and get a unique perspective on the history of the city. Your expert storyteller will let you in on the ghost stories, urban legends, and paranormal activity that are sprinkled throughout Madison’s past.
What To Expect
Expert Paranormal Guide
Weekends 7:30pm
Easy/Moderate
$33.57 per person
Check out one of your Madison guides telling a ghost story on WISC-TV
Why Choose American Ghost Walks?
The Madison Ghost Walk was originally developed by
Mike Huberty who started the first ghost tour in Wisconsin's capital city in 2010. Our original research is the foundation of this haunted history tour where we interview the real experiencers, explore historical records, talk to local business owners to give you Madison ghost stories that no other tour can offer.
Important Info
- Street parking is usually available as well as after hours spots at the Old Courthouse. However, please because this is a popular destination, please leave ample time to find a spot.
- The duration of our tours is 1.5-2 hours depending on the engagement of each group. Please allow for 2 hours since our guides take pride in what they do and can sometimes provide updates and extra juicy details when guests ask questions.
- This tour runs in cold temperatures and light rain, so please dress accordingly and wear comfortable shoes.
- Because this is a limited capacity tour, all sales are final. But we will reschedule you if you have an emergency, we love ghosts, not monsters!
- Service animals are welcome, but no pets are allowed.
Spooky fun at Monona Terrace
In front of the Wisconsin Capitol doors
What a view
Madison Ghost Hunters at the Capitol
Spooked near State Street
Spooky Fun in Madison
Terrified at the Terrace!
Spooky fun at Monona Terrace
In front of the Wisconsin Capitol doors
Itinerary
List of Services
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Great Dane BrewpubItem Link List Item 1
Meet the ghosts of The Fess Hotel, built in 1850 as “The Hotel for the Common Man” — is it now the brewery for the common ghost?
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Majestic TheatreItem Link List Item 2
Built in 1906, the Majestic Theatre is the oldest theater in Madison. A strange bodymorphing ghost haunts the balcony while another more playful spirit used to bother the cast of Rocky Horror Picture Show.
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Gamma Ray BarItem Link List Item 3
Before it was a music venue, it was a funeral parlor. You know what that means…
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Tempest Oyster BarItem Link
Numerous employees have reported paranormal activity, but what is its strange connection to a UFO cult?
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And much, much more... Write a description for this list item and include information that will interest site visitors. For example, you may want to describe a team member's experience, what makes a product special, or a unique service that you offer.
Item Link
Meeting Point
Meet across the street from the Great Dane Brewpub, downtown Madison at the corner of King Street and South Webster (125 S. Webster in your GPS.) Look for the office building with the arch!
Highlights
- A psychic did a ghost hunt in the Great Dane Pub and Brewery sponsored by a local newspaper, and said she felt the spirit of an old man in the basement break room. She said he was kind and there was nothing to worry about. But that’s not the one they call “The Spooky Room."
- The Wisconsin State Capitol has experienced its share of tragedy. Do the ghosts of the workmen who perished in a tragic 1883 accident still walk the South Wing?
- Joe, an actor who sadly ended his own life, was said to haunt the dressing room at the Majestic Theatre for years but he's not the strangest spirit that inhabits the building...
- Madison’s King Street is the oldest part of the city and its been entertaining the living people since the building of the Capitol in the 1850s. We invite you to learn of its secrets, scoundrels, and scares…
Check out our Madison tour founder talking about haunted history and Shark Tank on WISC-TV
Planning to join a Madison Ghost Walk? Here are answers to common questions about haunted tours in Wisconsin’s capital city.
Frequently Asked Questions
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Do you have the courage to join?
Explore haunted locations and hear chilling tales. Face your fears and uncover dark secrets. Join us, if you dare!
Check Out Other Tours
Madison King Street Spirits Ghost Walk
Our original Madison ghost tour delves into the oldest part of the city, full of secrets and ghosts. Weekends at 7:30pm. From $25 per person.
Madison Lost Souls of State Street Ghost Walk
Dive bars, haunted theaters, and wicked tales in Madison's notorious entertainment district. From $25 per person. Select Saturdays at 7:30pm.