Uncover Chattanooga's Haunted Secrets: Ghost Tours and Spine-Tingling Encounters

Every night, groups of 2 to 20 explore Chattanooga's most haunted locations with Chattanooga Ghost Tours. Over the years, visitors have captured countless photos of spectral figures, sparking questions like, "How is that possible?" According to the expert guides at Chattanooga Ghost Tours, ghosts often appear on film as unexplained orbs of light, mysterious mists invisible to the naked eye (known as ectoplasm), swirling smoke, or even distinct faces and full-body apparitions.

While many photos can be rationally explained, some baffle even seasoned investigators. Skepticism fades when you hear true accounts, like two college students watching a funeral home director pace back and forth before vanishing before their eyes. Or a 4-year-old hearing a voice shout "Get out!" in the same spot. Consider the woman who snapped a clear apparition in the Delta Queen's window using her cell phone—from over a mile away.

Before Chattanooga Ghost Tours brought these tales to light, many ghostly stories were forgotten, much like Underground Chattanooga, paved over nearly 150 years ago to combat Tennessee River floods. Today, the city teems with apparitions, eerie encounters, and unexplained phenomena at top downtown attractions—including sightings of Ulysses S. Grant's spirit in a luxury condo. Wars, devastating floods, jealous lovers, and family feuds have made Chattanooga one of the South's most haunted cities, rivaling New Orleans and Savannah.

While sightings aren't guaranteed, every tour delivers captivating storytelling that reveals Chattanooga's hidden history during an easy nighttime stroll. New routes offer fresh opportunities for ghostly encounters and deeper insights into the Scenic City's past.

For thrill-seekers, Ghost Hunts provide hands-on adventure. Use professional tools like EMF detectors, infrared thermometers, K-II meters, and the Mel Meter to detect spirits. Adults-only hunts explore UTC's campus and Citizens Cemetery, while family-friendly versions roam downtown.

Tours and hunts last about 90 minutes, with an extended route coming soon for deeper dives. Well-behaved dogs are welcome on all tours except cemetery hunts. Children are allowed at your discretion—no jump scares, but the chilling tales may lead to a few nights of bed-sharing.

Celebrating their 10th anniversary in June 2017, Chattanooga Ghost Tours earned recognition as a Tennessee Small Business Champion (SCORE and Sam's Club), one of TripAdvisor and USA Today's Top 10 U.S. Ghost Tours. Located at 57 E 5th St. in downtown Chattanooga.

Guest blog written by: Amy Petulla