Chattanooga Ghost Tours: Explore the South's Most Haunted City Secrets

Chattanooga ranks among the South's most haunted cities, rivaling New Orleans and Savannah, thanks to wars, devastating floods, tragic love stories, and family feuds. Much like the buried Underground Chattanooga—paved over 150 years ago to escape Tennessee River floods—these eerie tales have long been overlooked.

In 2007, Amy Petulla launched Chattanooga Ghost Tours, now ranked among TripAdvisor's top 10 ghost tours nationwide. Doubting if Chattanooga had enough documented hauntings, her research uncovered a trove of apparitions, chilling encounters, and unexplained phenomena at downtown landmarks—including sightings of Ulysses S. Grant's spirit in a luxury condo.

Each evening, groups of 2 to 20+ explore prime haunted sites, often capturing photographic evidence like mysterious orbs (unseen lights), ectoplasm (ethereal mist), or full-body apparitions invisible to the naked eye.

While some photos have rational explanations, skeptics often reconsider after hearing true accounts: two college students watching a funeral director pace and vanish; a 4-year-old hearing "Get out!" from the same spot; or a woman snapping a ghostly figure in the Delta Queen's window from a mile away via cell phone.

Though sightings aren't guaranteed, expect a captivating 60+ minute tour blending vivid storytelling with Chattanooga's hidden history. For thrill-seekers, adult-only ghost hunts use professional TV-style equipment.

Tours begin at the shop (directions here), visit the Hunter Museum of American Art (city's most haunted site), and conclude at the Read House Hotel, home to Chattanooga's most famous ghost. No bathroom breaks, but well-behaved dogs are welcome. Suitable for kids at parental discretion—no jump scares, but spooky tales may linger.

For more Halloween chills, check the ChattaBOOga page.