orpheum theater phoenix ghost tours

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Orpheum Theatre Ghost Tours Phoenix, AZ

Contact Orpheum Theatre Ghost Tours

The historic and amazing Orpheum Theater of Phoenix was saved from the wrecking ball over 25 years ago. Residents of Phoenix are grateful but perhaps not as much as some deceased Phoenicians. Come join us - and them - on a truly unique tour that will take your breath away in more ways than one. Hosted and sponsored by The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre, the Phoenix Ghost Tours will provide hour long tours of the Orpheum, sharing stories of the ghosts that haunt the theater. All procedes go to The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre who continue to provide equipment, resources and historical preservation of the Orpheum.

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The Orpheum Theatre Phoenix

The Orpheum Theatre in Downtown Phoenix is the place to catch a Broadway musical, play, or classical concert. The theatre also occasionally hosts TV shows like The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. The Orpheum Theatre is historic; it was built in 1929 . It was initially built as part of the nationwide Orpheum Circuit, a traveling circuit of vaudeville acts. At least twenty other cities also have an Orpheum Theatre, serving as living relics of the Orpheum Circuit. The Orpheum Theatre is notoriously haunted, with at least four ghosts residing inside, and the operators of the theatre believe there may be more. The most famous is Maddie, a young girl who keeps watch over the theatre and its patrons. The owners and employees of the Orpheum are always researching the theatre’s history to uncover who these ghosts were and what connects them to the building.

The Orpheum Opera House & Orpheum Circuit

The Orpheum Circuit was founded in 1886 by vaudeville impressionist Gustav Walter in San Francisco . The first Orpheum Opera House seated 3,500 and was a hit. The Orpheum quickly became the most popular theatre in San Francisco and attracted a diverse audience. In 1893, after some minor financial difficulties, Walter and his business partner Morris Meyerfeld decided to make the Orpheum Theatre a franchise.

Being situated in San Francisco, Walter and Meyerfeld decided that the West Coast and Midwest were the most logical places to start. They targeted cities with primary railroad connections between the East and the West. Los Angeles was the next destination, then Kansas City. Walter died after the Kansas City opening, but the Orpheum Circuit had grown too lucrative and popular for Meyerfeld to slow down on Walter’s account. Meyerfeld then opened two new theaters in Omaha and Denver. With the Orpheum Theatre now in 5 cities, Meyerfeld was now running the “Great Orpheum Circuit.”

Meyerfeld expanded to Chicago and made a deal with the Western Circuit of Vaudeville Theatres, ensuring a constant flow of performers in his theatres. In 1901, Meyerfeld met with the Eastern Vaudeville Managers Association. They struck a deal, uniting the eastern and western circuits into the Vaudeville Managers Association, also called the VMA.

The vaudeville acts who performed at the theatres were varied . Each show would feature 10-15 different acts, which varied from acrobats to comedians to musical performances and magic shows. Harry Houdini, Gypsy Rose Lee, and Bill “Bojangles” Robinson were just a few of the all-star performers of the Orpheum Circuit.

Orpheum Theatres continued to open across the country. The Orpheum Empire was pushing eastwards, angering the East Coast managers, and pushing the East-West alliance towards collapse. Tensions cooled down when the two factions jointly opened the legendary Palace Theatre on Broadway in New York City.

By the 1920s, the Orpheum Circuit had 45 theatres in 36 cities, but the Great Depression meant that vaudeville acts were falling out of style. Movies were becoming more popular and cost less to show. Vaudeville became less prevalent in the 1930s, though some acts were able to survive well into the 50s. Quite a few vaudeville performers, like the Marx Brothers and Gypsy Rose Lee, were able to make a career in the movie industry.

Orpheum Theatre Phoenix

The 1,364 seat Orpheum Theatre in Phoenix first opened in 1929 as a part of the nationwide Orpheum Circuit . The theatre opened at the tail end of the vaudeville era but still played vaudeville shows through the 1930s. The theatre’s interior was designed in the atmospheric style, with the theatre’s walls painted with Spanish style buildings and a blue sky. The Orpheum Theatre was one of the only establishments in Phoenix with air conditioning, which at the time made it a high-class venue.

The theatre was bought by Paramount Pictures in the 1940s and was renamed The Paramount. The Paramount was a movie theatre and played movies from Paramount’s massive movie catalog, including animated shorts starring Betty Boop and Popeye the Sailor. In the 1960s, the Paramount was bought by the Nederlander Organization, who wished to add it to their list of theatres as another stop for their Broadway shows. The Paramount was again renamed Palace West, as a western counterpart to The Palace in New York. Palace West hosted some of Broadway’s best stars, like Mae West and Henry Fonda.

In the 70s, the Palace West was bought by the Corona family, a Mexican-American family of entrepreneurs. They presented Hispanic events and movies throughout the 1970s and 80s. By this time, the theatre was falling into disrepair. The Coronas painted the murals black and covered the moldings of the theatre to detract from the poor condition. They also thought the decorations would draw attention away from the shows. The theatre’s glory days were long gone, and developers planned to raze the Orpheum and use the land as parking space.

In 1984, the city of Phoenix, seeing its value, bought the Orpheum Theatre and began a 12 year long, $14 million restoration project. The Orpheum Theatre was transformed from an outdated, run-down theatre into a beautiful, palace-style establishment. The theatre was repainted, fixtures were replaced, and the architecture was retouched to bring the old theatre into the modern era. The already large stage was made even more extensive, and a Wurlitzer Theatre Organ was added for musical performances. The new Orpheum Theatre reopened in 1997.

The theatre became a place for events and shows of all varieties. From Broadway musicals to the Phoenix Opera, to rock bands and comedians. The Orpheum Theatre is the only historic theatre in Phoenix; it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1985. Being added to the Register helped save it from destruction.

Ghosts of the Orpheum Theatre

The Orpheum Theatre is home to at least four ghosts, though the owners believe that more may be hiding out in the theatre. The Orpheum’s operators are always digging into the characters of the theatre’s past to better uncover who these ghosts were when they were alive. Some of the spirits have a known connection to the theatre, while others are unknown.

The best-known ghost is Maddie . Maddie is a young girl, about 12 years old. She usually hangs out on the mezzanine, though she may appear in other parts of the theatre room. According to the Friends of the Orpheum, Maddie keeps watch over the patrons and is generally quite friendly, though she acts as a mischievous steward for the theatre. She once smacked a young gentleman in the back of the head for making out with his lover on the balcony while no one was around. She’s also known to tap patrons on the shoulder or ‘shush’ them when they get too loud.

Maddie’s biggest appearance was during a Chinese dance show. Five of the acrobats stopped dancing mid-performance, and began to scream while pointing at the balcony, then fell back into formation and continued the performance. The acrobats all reported seeing the same thing; a young girl who walked toward the edge of the balcony and appeared as if she was going to jump, and instead walked off the balcony into the air and disappeared.

Despite being the most famous and most often encountered ghost in the theatre, nobody knows who Maddie actually is. There’s no record of anyone named “Maddie,” “Madeline,” or “Madison,” who is known to have a connection with the Orpheum Theatre, and some even doubt if Maddie was her real name while she was alive.

The Orpheum Theatre keeps its other ghosts entirely secret. You have to go on a ghost tour to hear about the others. Rumor is that Harry Nace, one of the original owners of the theatre, also haunts the Orpheum.

The latest ghost to be found was encountered in February of 2019 . A woman wearing a period dress and a netting over her head briefly appeared to one of the employees in full apparition. She seemed so real that the employee spoke to her as if she were an actual person. It was only a few moments after the encounter that he realized that the woman was a ghost. The operators of the theatre have been researching to uncover who this woman was, and may have actually found a photo of the woman in the theatre archives.

The staff of the Orpheum Theatre claim that there may be more than four ghosts, as many have yet to reveal themselves. The employees and staff cherish their ghostly residents and have pledged to make them feel at home. They don’t reveal too much to keep them comfortable, and are wary of amateur paranormal investigators who try to catch a glimpse or detect their presence.

Learn more about Arizona’s Haunted History!

Arizona had a long and fascinating history. From sacred Native American holy sites to the Mexican Revolution, a lot has happened here, and the ghosts of the past live on. Read more about the Copper State’s haunted history. The Superstition Mountains are home to a spooky abandoned gold mine. The haunted Congress Hotel in Tucson is one of the most haunted hotels in the country, and a fire in the basement led to the arrest of outlaw John Dillinger. You can also read about the top ten most haunted locations in Phoenix here .

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Orpheum Theatre Ghost Tours Phoenix, AZ

Contact Orpheum Theatre Ghost Tours

The historic and amazing Orpheum Theater of Phoenix was saved from the wrecking ball over 25 years ago. Residents of Phoenix are grateful but perhaps not as much as some deceased Phoenicians. Come join us - and them - on a truly unique tour that will take your breath away in more ways than one. Hosted and sponsored by The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre, the Phoenix Ghost Tours will provide hour long tours of the Orpheum, sharing stories of the ghosts that haunt the theater. All procedes go to The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre who continue to provide equipment, resources and historical preservation of the Orpheum.

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The Legend of Orpheum Theatre: A Deep Dive into Its Origins

In the heart of downtown Phoenix, amidst the city's bustling energy, stands the majestic Orpheum Theatre. While it is renowned for its captivating performances and architectural splendor, it also holds a shadowy secret that has fueled local legends for decades. Join us as we embark on a deep dive into the origins of the Orpheum Theatre's haunting tale – a must-visit stop on our Ghost Tour Phoenix.

The Birth of the Orpheum Theatre

Constructed in 1929, the Orpheum Theatre was originally designed as a grand venue for vaudeville acts and silent films. As the lights dimmed and the curtains rose, the theater became a cultural cornerstone for Phoenix residents. However, little did they know that a mysterious chapter was being written behind the scenes.

The Tragic Incident

Legend has it that in the early 1930s, a devastating fire swept through the theater, claiming the lives of several performers and leaving a permanent scar on the Orpheum's history. The tragedy left an indelible mark, and locals began reporting eerie occurrences within the theater's walls – whispers in the empty corridors, flickering lights, and the ghostly apparitions of performers from a bygone era.

The Ghostly Residue

Over the years, those who have walked the hallowed halls of the Orpheum Theatre claim to have felt a spectral presence, especially in the vicinity of the dressing rooms and stage wings. Some have reported seeing phantom figures in vintage attire as if the performers from that tragic night are eternally bound to the place they once loved.

Are you intrigued by tales of the supernatural? Yearning to uncover the mysteries that linger in the shadows of historic landmarks?

Join us on the Ghost Tour Phoenix, where the Orpheum Theatre awaits with its chilling stories and ghostly whispers. Our expert guides will lead you through the storied past of this iconic venue, sharing spine-tingling anecdotes and allowing you to connect with the spirits that may still linger within.

The Orpheum Theatre is just one captivating stop on our Ghost Tour Phoenix. If you're ready for an evening of historical exploration and paranormal adventure, reserve your spot today. Discover the haunted tales that Phoenix holds close to its heart, and immerse yourself in the ghostly tapestry that weaves through the city's past. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the supernatural side of Phoenix – join us on the Ghost Tour and become a part of the haunting narrative that defines the Orpheum Theatre and beyond.

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Phoenix Ghost Tours – tickets, prices, timings, what to expect

Phoenix Ghost Tours offers guided tours focused on Phoenix, Arizona’s supernatural and paranormal aspects. 

Ghost Tours in Phoenix allow visitors to explore the haunted history and eerie stories associated with various locations in the city.

Knowledgeable guides lead the participants who share tales of local legends, ghostly encounters, and historical events that have left a lasting spiritual imprint on the area.

Ghost tours occur at night to enhance the eerie ambiance. Dim lighting, atmospheric storytelling, and the thrill of exploring haunted locations after dark can add to the overall experience.

This article shares everything you need to know before booking Phoenix Ghost Tours tickets.

Top Phoenix Ghost Tours Tickets

# Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour # Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour # Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour

Table of contents

What to expect , where to book tickets for phoenix ghost tours, how do online tickets work, cost of phoenix ghost tours ticket, phantoms, psychopaths, & poltergeists tour tickets, phoenix murders and mysteries ghost tour tickets, phoenix haunted pub ghost tour tickets, tickets: haunted history tour of downtown phoenix, meeting point, phoenix ghost tour timings, best time to take phoenix ghost tours, how long does the tour take, faqs about phoenix ghost tours.

Phoenix Ghost Tours offers a unique and thrilling experience for those interested in exploring the haunted history of Phoenix.

You can expect to hear captivating ghost stories, urban legends, and tales of paranormal activity associated with various locations in the city.

On a guided walk through the streets of Phoenix, you will explore the following haunted sites and listen to ghostly tales.

Hotel San Carlos: The tour begins in the heart of Downtown Phoenix. This hotel was constructed in 1928 and held a sinister secret. Hear the stories of the lost ghosts roaming this haunted Inn’s halls.

St. Mary’s Basilica Gift Shop: One of Phoenix’s most treasured and historic locations, it is also one of the most haunted. Many reports said glimpsing headless ghosts glowing in the archway doors.

Rosson House Museum: Constructed in 1895, here stands one of the few remaining Victorian-era homes in Phoenix. A visit to the Rosson house is like traveling back in time. Many volunteers and visitors have reported strange and unexplainable events in the foreboding gothic home.

Teeter House: If you seek five-star Japanese cuisine and a potential ghostly encounter, reserve a seat at the famous Nobuo at Teeter House. At the same time, it may seem like a simple and unremarkable old bungalow, but the history of the Teeter house stretches back over 120 years.

Melinda’s Alley: It’s been more than 100 years since Melinda died along this alleyway; locals report that she still haunts the place of her death. Hear the thrilling tale of Melinda’s life and tragic demise.

Hanny’s: Something strange happens in the basement of Hanny’s Department store. Visitors often express unease and discomfort peering through chain-link fences and bizarre displays at the bottom of the stairs.

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Tickets for Phoenix Ghost Tours are available online in advance or at the operator’s office.

To ensure a hassle-free experience, we suggest booking your tickets online in advance.

Online ticket prices tend to be cheaper than tickets at the counters.

When you buy online, you can avoid the long queues at the ticket counters.

Because some tours sell a limited number of tickets, booking early helps avoid last-minute disappointment.

When you book early, you also get your preferred time slot.

Go to the Phoenix Ghost Tours ticket booking page , and select your preferred date, time slot, and number of tickets to buy.

You will receive the ticket confirmation in your email after the booking.

Ticket printouts are not required.

You can take the tour by redeeming your smartphone ticket and passing a security check on the day of your visit.

Tickets for Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour cost US$30 for all visitors, regardless of age. You can buy tickets for a maximum of 15 travelers in total.

The Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour costs US$75 for all visitors.

Tickets for Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour are priced at US$75 for people of all ages.

The Haunted History Tour of Downtown Phoenix tour is priced at US$50 for all.

Visit some of the most famous and haunted locations the city is known for – the famous Hotel San Carlos, the Rosson house, and more.

On this ghost tour, you will hear stories of those that came before, those that followed them, and those who have been unable to part with the city eternally. 

You will learn the secrets of many of Phoenix’s most supernatural sites and discover the oft-unheard stories of how they came to be.

You can opt for an extended tour to upgrade your experience.

Professional and courteous tour guide and storyteller will enlighten you with intensely researched true stories of city history.

The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The ghost tour is not suitable for travelers with back problems, heart problems, or other serious medical conditions.

The ghost tour is approximately one hour long.

The start time of the tour is 8 pm.

Ticket Price: US$30

Phoenix murders and mysteries ghost tour is a bus tour through the underbelly of Phoenix’s darker history.

On this tour, you will hear about and visit the sites of some of Phoenix’s most infamous crimes.

Each stop is hand chosen for its haunted reputation as well.

Your expert guide will show you pictures along the way of the crimes as well as some of the paranormal activities caught on camera.

If you’re a true crime and a supernatural fan, this is the tour you’ve been waiting for!

The tour is not wheelchair and stroller accessible.

The ghost tour is approximately two to three hours long.

The start time of the tour is 3 pm and 7 pm.

Ticket Price: US$75

This unique haunted pub ghost tour in Phoenix will take you to the city’s underbelly and uncover its true-crime history.

Your knowledgeable guide is a historian who has researched the best locations for their historic and haunted reputation.

Dive deep into the darker side of Phoenix’s history, and you can decide whether we’re alone!

Visitors travel in an air-conditioned vehicle and get exclusive access to locations.

The tour is not wheelchair accessible.

The start time of the tour is 7.30 pm.

The tour guides who will take you on a haunted history tour of Downtown Phoenix have been featured on National Paranormal TV shows.

Join Marshall Shore, the unofficial Arizona Hip Historian, for a walking tour of historic and ghostly haunts in downtown Phoenix.

The tour will include stops by the historic Orpheum Theater (Adams and Second Avenue), home to the mysterious female spirit who wanders inside; a stop at the San Carlos Hotel, home to the ghost of Leone Jensen, who has haunted its halls since 1928.

The haunted history tour is not recommended for pregnant travelers, travelers with heart and back problems, or other serious medical conditions.

Ticket Price: US$50

Embark on a full-day tour from the Phoenix-Scottsdale area to witness the picturesque landscapes of Arizona. Discover the highlights of the Grand Canyon and explore Sedona on this small-group tour while driving through the Sonoran Desert. The tour caters to a maximum of 13 participants, providing an intimate experience of the Southwest’s natural beauty.

For Phoenix Ghost Tours, the meeting point depends on the tour option you select, and remember, it is subject to change. 

So, you should always check the booking page to know the exact meeting location before arriving.  

There are many ghost tours in Phoenix with different start timings. 

Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour – 8 pm

Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour – 3 pm and 7 pm

Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour – 7.30 pm

Ghost tours are held nightly throughout the year and are rain or shine!

The best time to take Phoenix ghost tours depends on personal preferences and factors such as weather, availability of tours, and desired atmosphere.

However, ghost tours often create a spooky ambiance; taking them in the evening or nighttime can enhance the experience. 

The darkness adds to the mysterious atmosphere and can make the tour more immersive.

These tours are also more popular during weekends, especially Friday and Saturday nights. Taking the tour on a weekend can create a livelier atmosphere with more people around.

If you prefer more comfortable weather, consider taking the ghost tour during the cooler months, such as fall, winter, or early spring.

The duration of Phoenix ghost tours can vary depending on your specific tour package and itinerary. 

These tours last between 1 to 3 hours, including walking or driving time, depending on the distance covered and the number of stops or attractions included in the tour.

Here are some questions that visitors usually inquire about before going on Phoenix Ghost Tours.

While Phoenix ghost tours are engaging and entertaining for all ages, some content may be unsettling for young children.  We recommend parental discretion for children under the age of 12. Parents know their children best and can determine if the tour suits them.

The duration of Phoenix ghost tours varies depending on the specific tour you choose.  Ghost tours in Phoenix last anywhere between one to three hours; some specialized tours may be longer. Please check the details of the specific tour you’re interested in for more accurate timing.

Yes, you can take photographs for personal use during the tour.  However, we request that you refrain from recording videos as it can disrupt the tour experience and the privacy of other participants.

Phoenix ghost tours combine local legends, historical facts, and eyewitness accounts to provide an engaging and entertaining experience.  While some stories may be based on documented events, others might be urban legends or folklore passed down through generations.  We encourage you to embrace the spirit of the tour and enjoy the stories as part of the overall experience.

Ghost tours in Phoenix are conducted rain or shine. Depending on the weather conditions, please come prepared with appropriate attire and accessories, such as umbrellas or sunscreen.  In rare severe weather conditions, the tours may get canceled. You will be offered a different date or a full refund in such instances.

Pets are welcome on ghost tours in Phoenix as long as they do not disrupt or interfere with the tour.

No food is offered on or during the tour.

Smoking or drinking is not allowed on or during the tour. Intoxicated guests will be asked to leave.

Here are some of the best ghost tours in Phoenix, and you can book them online: Phantoms, Psychopaths, & Poltergeists Tour Phoenix Murders and Mysteries Ghost Tour Phoenix Haunted Pub Ghost Tour Haunted History Tour of Downtown Phoenix

Yes, making reservations for Phoenix ghost tours in advance is highly recommended.  Ghost tours in popular destinations like Phoenix tend to fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons or on weekends.  Making reservations in advance ensures you secure your spot on the tour and avoid disappointment if the tour is fully booked.

Most of the ghost tours in Phoenix are not wheelchair accessible. However, the accessibility of Phoenix ghost tours may vary depending on your chosen tour. It is important to check with the tour company to ensure they can accommodate your specific needs.

Popular attractions in Phoenix

This article was researched & written by

Akanksha Choudhary

Her travel list includes many must-see locations and adventures spread worldwide. At the slightest opportunity, she packs her bags and heads off to different places to discover new cultures. Since she doesn't like surprises during travel, she always prepares ahead and adheres to schedules. She favors vacation spots where it is possible to have fun without spending a fortune. Favourite Cities: Amsterdam, Brussels, Istanbul

Edited by Rekha Rajan & fact checked by Jamshed V Rajan

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Phoenix orpheum sets spooky scene with ghost tour.

• orpheum ghost 102715.mp3

This time of year, people see and hear a lot of tricks at haunted houses to spook visitors. But one haunted place  sets the mood not with tricks, but with history.

The Orpheum Theatre in downtown Phoenix doesn’t have to try too hard to look haunted. Opened in 1929, the theatre is the last remaining movie palace in Phoenix. The Spanish baroque architecture, red velvet seats and a powerful pipe organ resurrect a bygone age.

"It was an actual romantic, and somewhat scandalous, and somewhat colorful history that I never realized until I started looking into it," said Joe Atredies. He runs Phoenix Ghost Tours and has volunteered to give tours of the Orpheum during Halloween week this year.

First stop is the second floor, right above the theatre’s marquee sign - the manager’s office. Atredies said this is where the theatre’s first manager, Harry Nace, used to work. Some think he’s still here.

"They’ve seen him through the windows; they’ve seen him from the building across the street. Some people have even reported someone walking along the second floor, right over here where you see there’s no floor to walk on," he said. Atredies pointed to where the second floor balcony opens up to look down on the first floor. He said sightings and photos of ghosts piques his interest. Then he sets out to disprove them. "About 90 percent of the stuff I could discount, or maybe just say it is a good chance it could be something else. But it was that 10 percent that was left over that the least craziest explanation was that it was a ghost."

It’s that 10 percent that Atredies simply can’t explain that becomes the material for his ghost tours. Then, he digs into historical records to try to connect the supernatural reports to a real person. His Orpheum tour actually includes five ghosts, four humans and a cat.

Luis Ruiz has been the venue manager of the Orpheum for eight years and said talk of ghosts is common.

"It happens all the time. I hear it from staff. I hear it from visitors. I hear it from my friends. I hear it from coworkers," Ruiz said.

Granted, theatres are naturally superstitious places. The Orpheum, for example, has a collection of rubber duckies backstage that no one is allowed to move or else the show will go wrong. But Atredies said it’s less about potential ghost sightings and more about reviving their stories in a building that is one of Phoenix’s most historic places.

"I want to give somebody the access to a place that they haven’t experienced before," Atredies said.

Proceeds from the tours go to the Orpheum. The tours start Wednesday night.

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Most Haunted Places: A Phoenix Ghost Guide

Phoenix is known for its sunny skies and warm weather, but did you know it also has a dark and haunted side? From historic buildings to notorious crime scenes, the city is home to some of the eeriest and most unexplained phenomena. Join Spirit of Arizona Tours as we explore some of Phoenix’s most haunted places and discover the ghostly tales that lie within.

A tour we think you'll love

The Hermosa Inn

Phoenix’s Hermosa Inn is a luxurious boutique hotel founded in the 1930s. However, it also holds a dark history, Lon Megargee was a cowboy artist and the founder of The Hermosa Inn. He painted cowboy life and the Wild West, and was also known for his contributions to the development of the city of Phoenix.

According to the legend, Lon Megargee is said to still linger in the halls of the hotel he founded, and guests have reported strange occurrences like doors opening and closing on their own, and ghostly apparitions. Some people claim to have seen his ghostly figure wandering around the hotel, or even to have felt his presence.

The Rosson House

Dr. Rosson is a Phoenix ghost legend associated with the Rosson House, a Victorian-style mansion located in Phoenix, Arizona, that now serves as a museum. The house was constructed in 1895 and was owned by Dr. and Mrs. Rosson, who lived there with their family. According to the legend, Dr. Rosson is said to still haunt the house after his death. Visitors have reported ghostly sightings and strange noises, including the sound of a woman’s laughter and the smell of cigar smoke. It is believed that the ghost of Dr. Rosson still haunts the house.

The museum has a rich history and many stories to tell, and the addition of a ghost story can make the visit more thrilling and entertaining for visitors. Learn more on our Arizona’s Top Ghost Tours in Phoenix, Jerome, and Tombstone !

The Orpheum Theatre

With a history dating back to 1929, the Orpheum Theatre has played host to some of the world’s biggest names in entertainment. However, it is also said to be haunted by a ghostly figure known as “The Lady in Red.” She is said to have died in the building, and her ghost has been spotted in the balcony and backstage areas.

The Pioneer Living History Museum

The Pioneer Living History Museum is a recreated 1890s frontier town, but it is said to be haunted by the spirits of the former residents. Visitors have reported ghostly sightings, including a ghostly cowboy and a ghostly lady in a long dress. Some say they can also hear the sound of a baby crying and a dog barking at night.

Experience with Spirit of Arizona Tours, and book your Phoenix haunted tour today and discover the ghostly tales that lie within these haunted places.

The Arizona State Capitol

Originally built in 1901, the Arizona State Capitol is now the official seat of government for Arizona. But it is also said to be haunted by the ghost of a woman who died in the building. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, such as doors opening and closing on their own, and the sound of footsteps in the hallway. Some believe that the ghost is the spirit of a woman who died in the building during a fire in the 1930s.

Are you ready to experience spine-tingling accounts of true crime at our city’s most haunted locations? Join our Murders & Mysteries True Crime Ghost Tour and see why Phoenix is one of the most haunted cities in the Southwest!

The Hotel San Carlos

Leone Jensen is a ghost legend associated with the Hotel San Carlos, a historic hotel located in downtown Phoenix, Arizona. According to the legend, Leone Jensen committed suicide by jumping from the hotel’s penthouse in 1928. After her death, guests and staff at the hotel began to report strange occurrences, such as ghostly apparitions and the sound of a woman crying. Some say that they can see a woman dressed in white standing at the window of the penthouse suite and that the ghost of Leone Jensen is still there.

The Phoenix Indian School

The Phoenix Indian School was a boarding school for Native American children that was operated by the US government from 1891 to 1990. The school was established with the goal of assimilating Native American children into Euro-American culture, and it operated under the belief that this was the best way to “civilize” and “educate” them. Many Native American children were forcibly taken from their families and sent to the school, where they were subjected to strict discipline and harsh conditions.

The school was said to be haunted by the spirits of the children who were forced to attend the school. Visitors have reported ghostly sightings, including the ghost of a young girl who is said to have died of tuberculosis. Some say they can also hear the sound of children playing and singing at night. Some visitors and former students of the school reported that they felt a sense of sadness and loss while they were visiting the school, as if the spirits of the children were still there, and that they still remember the pain and trauma of their experiences at the school.

The story of the ghost of the children is likely just a legend, but it adds to the eerie atmosphere of the school and makes for an interesting story for visitors to the school and for Spirit of Arizona tours. Additionally, it serves as a reminder of the dark history of forced assimilation and the treatment of Native American children in boarding schools.

The Gadsden Hotel

Gadsden Hotel was constructed in 1907 and is one of the most historic hotels in downtown Phoenix. Julia Lowell is a ghost legend that is associated with the Gadsden Hotel in Phoenix, Arizona. According to the legend, Julia Lowell was a woman who died in the hotel in the 1920s. She is said to have been a guest at the hotel and fell in love with a man who was also staying there. However, her love was unrequited and she died of a broken heart. Some say that she committed suicide by jumping from one of the hotel’s windows.

After her death, guests and staff at the hotel began to report strange occurrences, such as ghostly apparitions and the sound of a woman crying. Some say that they can see a woman dressed in white standing in the hallway, and that the ghost of Julia Lowell is still searching for her lost love.

Guests have reported strange occurrences, such as ghostly apparitions and the sound of a woman crying. Some say that they can see a woman dressed in white standing in the hallway and that the ghost of Julia Lowell is still searching for her lost love. Join us on our Spirit of Arizona Tours Haunted Phoenix Pub Crawl to learn more.

Are you ready to explore the spooky Phoenix Ghosts? From haunted hotels to ghostly apparitions, Phoenix is home to a rich history and culture that is sure to give you a thrilling experience. With Spirit of Arizona Tours , you’ll discover the haunted places and ghostly tales that lie within the city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, our tours are a fun and exciting way to explore the city and discover the hidden gems of Phoenix. So, book your tour today and let us take you on an eerie journey through the city’s most haunted places.

Haunted Phoenix Pub Crawl True Crime Ghost tour

Grab a drink and saddle up for a pub crawl through the haunted streets of historical Phoenix!

From out meeting point, sit back and relax as your local guide drives you to 3 of the most haunted pubs in the valley of the sun. Each stop will include a pub tour, where you will learn the dark and mysterious history unique to each location. Learn the names of the local spirits and true accounts of their activity. While the drinks at each pub are an additional charge, paranormal experiences are free!

*Free pick up and drop off for guests staying at any Downtown Phoenix hotels*

Phoenix Shadows The Phoenix Boo Trail - A Haunted express tour

The Phoenix Boo Trail Tour: Uncover Phoenix's Dark Mysteries in Just One Hour

Unveil the hidden secrets and eerie tales of Phoenix on the Boo Trail Express Tour—an immersive hour-long adventure designed for those with a thirst for the unknown. Delve into the city's enigmatic history, explore haunted locations, and discover the chilling stories that have lingered through time. Buckle up and prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey through the shadows of Phoenix's past and present.

Murders & Mysteries True Crime Ghost Tour in Phoenix

Are you ready to experience spine-tingling accounts of true crime at the most haunted locations in Phoenix? Using dark historical facts and urban legends, our Murders & Mysteries tour will take you on a journey to some of Phoenix's most chilling and unnerving sites, where you may experience supernatural sightings, psychic encounters, and unexplained moments. Every story is 100% true! Join us and see why Phoenix is one of the most haunted cities in the Southwest!

Phoenix Christmas Lights Tour

Remember the days of loading the family in the car to go see Christmas lights? Not knowing exactly where to go and dodging other cars? Well those days are gone! Come load up on our bus and let us do the driving. We have the route already set so you can relax and enjoy the lights as they were meant to be enjoyed.

So, while you might be preparing for your typical holiday traditions, let us add a new exciting tradition for you and your family and friends. We've rounded up the best the lights Phoenix has to offer to keep your family and friends entertained.

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Ghost tour was cool. Great, well... - Orpheum Theater

• United States    
• Arizona (AZ)    
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• Phoenix    
• Phoenix - Things to Do    
• Orpheum Theater

Ghost tour was cool. Great, well preserved theater

We did the ghost tour at the Orpheum during halloween. Overall we were much more impressed with the theater than the ghost tour. Beautifully restored. Excellent.

My husband and I attended a concert on November 10th. The performance was over the top awesome and the theatre was, too. Kudos to those who persevered and helped restore this beautiful theatre. The ambiance is powerful - unusual for a theatre, but the Mexican/Spanish/European/Southwest influences all bland in a dizzying, beautiful experience. The seats are fairly comfortable, although the room between rows is limited. Don't let that deter you. It will be a memorable experience.

This building in downtown Phoenix is a spectacular example of Art Deco carving. After many run ins with almost being demolished the theatre has again risen from the ashes and is being used a stage venue. A must see design.

It's a lovely venue---very ornate! There may be some concerts at this venue. I have seen speakers here---it is clearly a very elaborate theater, and you will appreciate the detail if you like architecture! I am a local here.

I love going to things here. It's a great theater to look at, and to see things at. Reminds me of being back in Manhattan.

If you'd like to see what a beautiful old theater is like, this is a must. The city and whoever, really spent the money to restore and maintain to what it was in it's prime. So the sight lines aren't the best and the acoustics aren't ideal, the ambience of seeing a show here can make up for it. I went for the ballet and don't think you'd get the best view if you were to close to the outside of the rows. I knew this and got seats toward the middle. It was a glorious night in a beautiful old building. You should go there at least once. I will go back. I mgiht also say, I am a native of Phoenix and remember going there years ago with my parents. I thought I might be disappointed to when comparinging something back then to now. Not so, it's still wonderful.

Orpheum theatre Phoenix

Phoenix convention center, symphony hall, ghost tours fall 2022.

Immerse yourself in the history and haunts of the Orpheum Theatre after dark! The Orpheum Ghost Tour is a 60 minute walking tour that will take you to the darkest recesses of the theatre. It is a unique way to experience the theatre’s spirited history with a knowledgeable guide from Phoenix Ghost Tours. Each tour offers you opportunities to explore places normally off limits to the public, ask questions, and perhaps leave with a story of your own. All proceeds go to The Friends of the Orpheum Theatre, a non-profit 501c(3) who serves to provide historic, educational, and fundraising support for the historic Orpheum Theatre.

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Transportation

Valley Metro Light Rail operates 18–22 hours per day, seven days a week and stops every 12–20 minutes along the 28-mile line linking Phoenix to neighboring communities and attractions. There is a dedicated stop on the Valley Metro Light Rail at the Phoenix Convention Center, making travel to and from the area convenient, especially to and from Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport.

​Directions to Phoenix Convention Center from the Airport: Take the free PHX Sky Train from Level 3 of Terminal 4 to the 44th Street PHX Sky Train Station. From there, take the elevator or escalator down to the platform of the 44th St/Washington Valley Metro Rail stop. If you are traveling from Terminals 2 or 3, take the free black and silver PHX Airport Shuttle to Terminal 4 and then proceed to Level 3 to connect with the PHX Sky Train. The PHX Sky Train and Airport shuttles are designed for travelers with luggage and run seven days a week, 24 hours a day. ​

​​Additional public transportation options include Phoenix Transit Bus and Phoenix Dial-a-Ride. For more information on these options, including hours, services and phone numbers please visit:

Historic Tours

Located in Downtown Phoenix, the Orpheum Theatre is a fully-restored 1929 atmospheric theatre complete with a disappearing Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. Tours of the theatre include all public and many non-public areas and offer visitors a glimpse behind the scenes of a movie palace.

Historic tours are free and open to the public September through May with limited availability in December.*

All regular tours can last up to 90 minutes.

RESERVATIONS ARE RECOMMENDED, BUT WALK-UPS ARE WELCOME. 

* Tours are typically scheduled on Tuesdays at 12:00p and 1:30p.  Tours are subject to theatre availability .  The City of P hoenix does not allow the use of tripods, lights, or reflectors on public tours hosted by the F riends of the Orp he um Th eatre.

Private Historic Tours

Exclusive tours of the Orpheum Theatre can be organized for groups of 10 or more (25 person max) with a donation of $5 per person.

Private tours are available weekdays September through May. *

* Private tours are not available in December. Private tours are sub ject to theatre and volunteer docent availability and require a minimum of three weeks adva nce notice.  The City of P hoenix does not allow the use of tripods, lights, or reflectors on public or private tours hosted by the F riends of the Orp he um Th eatre. The City of Phoenix does not allow the Friends of the Orpheum Theatre to book private tours for video or photography shoots inside the Orpheum Theatre unless the request is connected to a local or national advertising publication with a story about the theatre.