9 spooky Wisconsin ghost tours that will give you goosebumps

Discover Wisconsin’s most haunted locations through guided ghost tours that blend local history with spine-tingling tales.

When the autumn wind whistles through Wisconsin’s historic buildings and long shadows stretch across cobblestone streets, there’s no better time to explore the darker side of the Badger State’s history. From Milwaukee’s former speakeasies to Door County’s legendary lighthouses, Wisconsin’s haunted hotspots harbor centuries of spine-tingling tales just waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re a devoted paranormal investigator or simply curious about the spirits that supposedly roam our state’s most storied locations, there’s a ghost tour perfect for your comfort level. So bundle up, bring your courage, and join us as we explore some of Wisconsin’s most captivating—and possibly haunted—historical tours.

Milwaukee’s mysterious past

Photo courtesy of Richard Hurd/Flickr.

For those drawn to urban legends, Milwaukee offers two distinct ways to commune with the city’s spectral residents. At Shakers Cigar Bar, once a Prohibition-era speakeasy and brothel, visitors can sip themed cocktails while exploring 150 years of chilling history. The establishment’s murderous past comes alive during hour-long tours (though ghost hunters under 18 will need parental permission to participate). For a broader view of the city’s haunted history, Gothic Milwaukee leads 90-minute walking tours through downtown and the historic Yankee Hill neighborhood, where guides blend architectural insights with tales of the city’s darker chapters.

Capital haunts & Southern spirits

Madison Ghost Walks transforms an evening stroll around the Capitol Square into an encounter with Wisconsin’s most fascinating phantoms. Beyond the impressive architecture and historical headlines, you’ll discover the peculiar folklore that makes our capital city uniquely haunted. Head west to La Crosse, and you’ll find the Bodega Brew Pub, where the spirit of a former pool hall owner is said to keep watch over his domain. Toast to his memory with the fitting Dead Guy Ale from their extensive beer list.

Adventures after dark

Wisconsin Dells isn’t just for waterparks—the Ghost Boat experience carries brave souls up the Wisconsin River and into Cold Water Canyon for a heart-pounding, 90-minute journey into local lore (recommended for ages 10 and up). In nearby Baraboo, walking tours explore the historic downtown’s supernatural side, with the unique option to experience the haunted sites via rickshaw for those who prefer to ride rather than walk.

Northern frights

For a truly unique experience, board Door County Trolley’s aptly named “Trolley of the Doomed” in Egg Harbor. This two-hour expedition ventures to the peninsula’s most haunted locations, from abandoned houses to lonely lighthouses and even a shipwreck site. Up in Bayfield, ghost walks weave through the town’s historic district, stopping at beloved establishments like Greunke’s Restaurant, First Street Inn, and Morty’s Pub—where it’s said that some patrons never left.

Small town spirits

Don’t overlook Wisconsin’s smaller haunts: In Nekoosa, the Historic Point Basse Spirit Walk offers a unique twist on ghost tours. Here, lantern-lit paths lead visitors through an 1850s settlement where costumed interpreters emerge from the shadows, bringing the stories of long-departed residents to life. And while it’s not open for tours, the infamous Summerwind Mansion in Vilas County stands as a testament to Wisconsin’s haunted reputation. Even U.S. Secretary of Commerce Robert Lamont reportedly encountered its supernatural residents during his time there.

Note: All tours are subject to seasonal availability and may require advance reservations. Some locations may have age restrictions or special requirements for participation.

This story was generated in part by AI and edited by The UpNorthNews staff.

This article first appeared on Good Info News Wire and is republished here under a Creative Commons license.

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