Trick or Treat Yourself with a Yorktown Ghost Walk

Step aside, Ichabod Crane! Yorktown has its own headless haunting!

During the day, the town is known for its picturesque and historic streets that are bustling with visitors. At night, visitors of a different sort are said to appear. Yorktown is considered by many to be one of the most haunted areas in the nation. Jeff Santos, director of Yorktown Ghost Walks, attributes this to its involvement in both the American Revolutionary War and the Civil War.

“You can imagine in a place like this that’s seen so much tragedy and bloodshed,” said Santos. “It’s only natural that there are a lot of reports of paranormal activity here. A lot of ghost stories.”

Guests looking for ghosts during tour
Overcast clouds overlooking Main Street

In 2016, Santos began leading ghost walks to inform visitors about the haunted history of the area. Each tour includes a ninety-minute, candlelit walk along Main Street. Participants learn about urban legends, ghost stories, and paranormal encounters in addition to the interesting cast of characters that called Yorktown home. From a jilted lover to a murdered aristocrat at the Swan Tavern, Santos and his team of ghost hunters share stories of scandal, heartbreak, mystery, and intrigue.

Jeff Santos talking to crowd during ghost tour
Nelson House in black and white

The ghost walks are available year-round every evening except Sunday, and dogs are welcome. Tour prices range from $10 to $14 and can be booked online. For those wanting a more involved experience, sign up for the Ghost Hunter Experience. Led by a member of Virginia Paranormal Investigations, participants will use equipment and learn the ins and outs of ghost hunting.

The next time you are enjoying a cup of coffee at Mobjack Bay Coffee Roasters or admiring the artwork in York Hall, don’t be surprised if you feel a cold breeze or a hear a bump in the night. It’s just the ghosts of Yorktown.

But, wait! What about the headless ghost?! You’re just going to have to take the tour to find out more!