Explore Tampa’s Haunted Side: Ghost Tours & Haunted Houses (2025 Edition)

Hi, I’m John, and if you’re anything like me, you love a good ghost story and a little adrenaline rush. Over the years, I’ve explored Tampa’s haunted corners—sometimes with friends, sometimes solo, and always with a sense of curiosity (and a little fear!). Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Tampa’s ghost tours and haunted houses are a unique way to experience the city’s history, legends, and a few spine-tingling scares. Here’s my personal guide to the best spooky experiences Tampa has to offer in 2025—plus some insider tips from my own adventures!

Looking for even more Halloween fun? Check out our Tampa Halloween Events Roundup for the latest festivals, family activities, and haunted happenings all October long.

Tampa Ghost Tour and Haunted House

Quick Comparison Table

1. Ybor City Ghost Tour: A Walk Through Haunted History

I thought I was just there for the history, but my Ybor City tour genuinely unnerved me. We were standing in a quiet alleyway listening to a story about a mobster’s ghost. Suddenly, a bottle crashed somewhere in the dark behind us. Everyone jumped. It was probably just a stray cat, but for a solid ten seconds, nobody moved a muscle. It taught me that on these tours, your own imagination is often the scariest part.

The tour lasts about two hours and takes you through shadowy streets, sharing tales of mobsters, mysterious deaths, and ghostly sightings. If you’re planning to spend more time in the area, don’t miss the best things to do in Ybor City for a full day of adventure.

• Official Website: tampabay-tours.com
• Timing: Nightly, especially busy in September and October.
• Estimated: $32 (2025; subject to change).
• Booking: Advance online booking required.
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes—Ybor’s old brick streets can be tricky at night!
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
• Family Friendly: Yes, but some stories may be scary for young kids.

2. Tampa Theatre Ghost Tours: Spirits of the Silver Screen

The Tampa Theatre is beautiful, but the moment that stuck with me was standing alone on the grand staircase. The tour group had moved ahead, and for a few seconds, it was just me and the silence of that massive, empty hall. I couldn’t shake the feeling of being watched. My tip? Let yourself lag behind the group for just a moment—the atmosphere is completely different when you’re alone.

After your tour, grab dinner at one of the restaurants on the Tampa Riverwalk. This area isn’t just great for food; it’s central to many of the best things to do in Tampa, whether by day or by night.

• Official Website: tampatheatre.org
• Timing: Mostly in October, with some special dates year-round.
• Estimated: $18 (2025; subject to change).
• Booking: Online only; tickets sell out fast.
• Tip: Some areas aren’t wheelchair accessible, so check ahead if you have mobility concerns.
• Family Friendly: Not recommended for children under 12.
• Photo Policy: Photos allowed, but check with your guide.

3. Tampa Terrors: Downtown’s Dark Secrets

The Tampa Terrors tour surprised me. We stopped on a normal-looking downtown street, and the guide pointed to the pavement. “You’re standing on what used to be the city’s first cemetery,” he said. I looked down at my feet, and suddenly the bustling city felt different, like we were walking on a layer of forgotten secrets. It’s one thing to hear a story, but another to physically stand where it happened.

The best part? You can bring your dog along. For even more fun, check out the best things to do in Tampa before or after your ghost walk.

• Official Website: tampaterrors.com
• Timing: Nightly, year-round; extra tours in October.
• Estimated: $28 (standard), $35 (extended) for 2025; subject to change.
• Booking: Advance online booking recommended.
• Tip: Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friend along!
• Accessibility: Mostly flat sidewalks, suitable for most guests.
• Family Friendly: Yes, all ages welcome.

4. Scream-a-Geddon: A Horror Park for Thrill-Seekers

I consider myself pretty tough when it comes to haunted houses, but Scream-a-Geddon’s “Rage 3D” maze broke me. You wear 3D glasses, and the walls seem to move while clowns are screaming at you from all directions. I genuinely got lost and felt a moment of real panic. My advice: go with friends you trust, because you will absolutely get separated from your group!

With six different attractions—including a haunted woods trail and a 3D clown maze—there’s something for every thrill-seeker. Note: 2025 dates are based on last year’s schedule; check the official website for final dates and new attractions.

• Official Website: screamageddon.com
• Location: 27839 Saint Joe Road, Dade City, FL 33525 (about 40 minutes north of Tampa)
• Dates: September 13 – November 2, 2025 (expected; check website for updates)
• Time: Gates usually open at 7:30 PM; closing times vary by night
• Attractions: Six haunted houses (Rage 3D, Deadwoods, Demon’s Revenge, Blackpool Prison, Breach, Zombie Paintball Assault). A new haunted house is added each year—check the website for 2025 updates!
• Estimated: $25+ (2025; subject to change), with VIP passes available.
• Parking: $10, cashless.
• Food & Drink: Monster Midway with food, drinks, and games.
• Booking: Online only; no walk-ins.
• Age: 12+ recommended, under 18 must be with an adult.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
• Tip: Wear comfortable shoes and be ready for intense scares!

5. Phantom History House: A Creepy Bed and Breakfast

I chose the Ouija Room at Phantom History House, half as a skeptic and half hoping something would happen. Around 2 AM, I was woken up by a distinct creaking sound from the hallway floorboards. Was it another guest? The old house settling? I don’t know, but my heart was pounding. It’s an experience for those who truly want to test their nerve, not just hear stories.

The owners are passionate about the paranormal and often host special events like psychic readings and murder mystery dinners. A continental breakfast is included, and the house is LGBTQ+ friendly. If you’re a foodie, you might also want to explore the best Cuban restaurants in Tampa while you’re in town.

• Official Website: phantomhistoryhouse.com
• Location: Westchase, Tampa.
• Rooms: Four themed rooms (Ouija, Cemetery, Portrait, Phantom).
• Estimated: $175–$800 per night (2025; subject to change).
• Special: Psychic medium sessions, murder mystery dinners, Halloween events, and regular paranormal workshops.
• Breakfast: Continental breakfast included.
• Minimum Stay: Two-night minimum on some weekends; single-night stays may be available on weekdays.
• Group Bookings: Available for private events and small group retreats.
• Booking: Online only; early booking recommended for October.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible.
• Age: 18+ preferred, but check for group/family events.
• Nearby Attractions: Explore local parks or cafes in Westchase during the day.

2025 Tips & Trends

Booking & Planning

• Advance Booking: October is peak season—book early!
• Group Discounts: Some tours offer group or family discounts.
• Social Media: Follow official pages for flash sales and last-minute updates.

On the Day of Your Tour

• What to Wear: Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
• Weather: Tours run rain or shine, but severe weather may cause cancellations (check refund/reschedule policy).
• Parking & Transportation: Scream-a-Geddon parking is $10 (cashless); city tours have nearby public parking.
• Food & Drink: Scream-a-Geddon has food stalls; try local restaurants after city tours.

Rules & Restrictions

• Pet Policy: Only Tampa Terrors allows pets.
• Photo Policy: Most tours allow photos, but check with your guide.
• Accessibility: Tampa Terrors is mostly accessible; others may have stairs or uneven surfaces.
• Age Recommendations: Scream-a-Geddon and Tampa Theatre Ghost Tours are best for teens and adults.
• COVID-19 Policies: Check each venue’s website for the latest health and safety guidelines.

Final Thoughts

Tampa’s haunted tours and attractions are perfect for anyone looking to experience the city’s mysterious side. As someone who’s explored these places myself, I can say each one offers something special—whether it’s the history, the legends, or the thrill of a good scare.

So which spooky adventure will you choose? Pick your favorite from the list, click on the official website link we’ve provided, and book your tickets before they sell out. Let us know in the comments which tour you’re most excited about!

Want more ways to celebrate the season? Don’t miss our Tampa Halloween Events Roundup for everything happening in the city this October.