Adventure brief
Fairfax City Ghost Tour
Take a 90-minute stroll through Fairfax City’s haunted historic district and explore nearly 20 spooky stops. Perfect for families and ghost lovers alike!
Experience the Fairfax City Ghost Tour, a unique outdoor adventure in historic Fairfax, Virginia. Just a short drive from Washington D.C., this 90-minute guided walk takes you through nearly 20 stops filled with chilling stories and legends about former residents. Old Town Tours & Haunts leads the way with knowledgeable guides who bring local folklore to life, providing an engaging and family-friendly atmosphere.
This tour caters to all ages, offering the perfect blend of spooky thrills without being too frightening. Along the cobblestone streets and quiet corners of Fairfax City’s historic district, you’ll uncover ghostly encounters and learn about the city’s rich past in an entertaining, approachable way. Whether you’re a local or visiting from afar, this tour offers a fascinating evening exploring Fairfax’s haunted landmarks and tales you won’t soon forget.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Wear Comfortable Footwearessential
The tour covers nearly 2 miles on paved and uneven sidewalks, so sturdy, comfortable shoes are important.
- 02Bring a Flashlightinfo
Though the streets are lit, a small flashlight can help you spot details at night and is handy during darker segments.
- 03Arrive Early for Check-Inessential
Arriving at least 10 minutes early ensures you won't miss the start time or important safety instructions.
- 04Dress Warmly in Cooler Monthswarning
Since this is an outdoor walking tour at night, layering up during fall and winter keeps you comfortable.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Good footwear will keep your feet comfortable over the course of the 90-minute walk.
EssentialLight Jacket or Sweater
Fall evenings can get cool, so wear layers to stay warm throughout the tour.
fallEssentialPortable Flashlight
A small flashlight helps illuminate dark areas and adds to the spooky atmosphere.
Rain Poncho or Umbrella
Spring showers are common, so bring rain gear to stay dry without cutting your tour short.
springLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Blake Lane Park’s old church ruins with rumored hauntings, Historic Ratcliffe-Allison House, a less-visited stop with ghost stories
Local fauna
Urban owls often heard during evening tours, White-tailed deer occasionally spotted near park edges
Historic heritage
Fairfax City was established in the early 1800s and has many historic buildings and stories connected to the Civil War and colonial periods.
Mindful exploration
Tour operators encourage responsible walking on city sidewalks and discourage littering to preserve the area's historic charm and cleanliness.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Historic Fairfax Courthouse front steps, Old Town Fairfax Market Square, Main Street near Ratcliffe-Allison House
- Subjects
- Historic architecture, Street lantern lighting, Nighttime shadows and spooky atmospheres
- Best times
- Golden hour, Twilight, Early evening
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
Is the Fairfax City Ghost Tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is family-friendly and designed to be spooky but not too scary for younger guests.
How long is the tour and how far do we walk?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes and covers around 1.7 miles through Fairfax City’s historic district.
Are reservations required for this tour?
Yes, reservations are strongly recommended, especially on weekends and during peak seasons.
What should I wear for the tour?
Wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing; layers are recommended in cooler months.
Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, the Fairfax City Ghost Tour operates throughout the year with seasonal considerations for weather.
Is there parking available near the tour start point?
Parking options are available nearby in downtown Fairfax with both metered and public lots.