When the sun goes down in Athens this October, some of the city’s oldest stories will be coming out after dark.
The Athens Haunt Walks and Haunt Wagon Tours are returning with eerie legends, local history and stories that just might make visitors see downtown Athens a little differently.
And ghost walks aren’t new to Athens.
The tours have been an October tradition for years. The Alabama Mountain Lakes Tourist Association reported in 2017 that the Athens Haunt Walk was celebrating its 10th year, with guides sharing stories connected to historic buildings and events around the city.
This year’s tours continue that mix of history and mystery.
The Haunt Walk is based on the book The Spirits of Athens by local author Shane Black and explores what organizers call the “spookier side of real Athens history.”
Those who want to explore that history on foot can choose walking tours at 7 or 7:30 p.m. The walks cost $20 plus tax and fees, last about 90 minutes to two hours and cover approximately a mile.
For those who would rather ride, Haunt Wagon Tours begin at 6:30 p.m. and cost $45 plus tax and fees. Walking tours can accommodate up to 30 people, while space on the wagon is considerably tighter, with just eight spots available per tour.
Despite the ghostly subject matter, organizers say the walks are “exciting but not too spooky for little ones.” Children must be accompanied by an adult.
Tours begin Oct. 1 and continue on select Tuesdays and Thursdays through Oct. 29. Walking tours begin at 7 and 7:30 p.m., with wagon tours offered at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesdays.
The evening begins at the Athens-Limestone County Tourism Office at 100 N. Beaty St., where guests are asked to arrive 15 minutes before their tour. And while the stories may involve a few unexpected happenings, getting a ticket shouldn’t — reservations are required in advance, and organizers say the tours frequently sell out.
October weather can bring its own frights, so guests should dress accordingly. If rain joins the tour, organizers ask visitors to leave the umbrellas at home and opt for a poncho or raincoat instead.
Sherri Blevins is a reporter for 256 Today.
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