Galveston: Haunted Cemetery Walking Tour with Local Stories

Summary

Old City Cemetery legends yellow fever tales and ghost stories in Galveston

You’ll walk through Galveston’s oldest cemeteries at dusk with a local guide who knows every story behind each stone. Hear tales of yellow fever, The Great Storm, and restless spirits as you follow gravel paths under live oaks. Expect small surprises — laughter, chills, maybe even a new way to see history linger in the air.

What’s the experience like?

Li was already waiting by the iron gate when I arrived — she waved me over like we were old friends, even though we’d just met. She handed out tiny flashlights (mine flickered a bit, which made it feel extra creepy) and said, “Don’t worry, the ghosts here are mostly friendly.” I laughed but honestly, I kept glancing over my shoulder for half the tour. The air in Galveston’s Old City Cemetery felt thick, almost salty-sweet from the Gulf breeze mixing with old grass and stone. There was this faint scent of something floral too — maybe from those plastic bouquets people leave behind. We started walking between cracked headstones while Li pointed out little symbols carved into the marble. She told us how yellow fever swept through here more than once; I could see her shiver a little when she talked about it.

I didn’t expect to get caught up in the stories — like the one about a sailor who supposedly still whistles at night, or that whole section called The Yellow Fever Yard where so many children are buried together. Someone in our group asked if any of the graves ever get moved during storms (apparently yes, after The Great Storm of 1900). That made me pause for a second and really look at how close everything is to sea level. There’s something weirdly comforting about hearing these things from someone who grew up nearby; Li knew which families still visit and which names you’ll see again all over town.

We wandered past Trinity Episcopal Cemetery as dusk settled in — the light went kind of blue-grey and quiet except for cicadas buzzing somewhere off to the side. My sneakers crunched on gravel paths that felt older than anything back home. I tried to say one of the names out loud (I butchered it, Li laughed), and for some reason that moment stuck with me more than any ghost story did. By the time we reached Evergreen Cemetery, I realized I hadn’t checked my phone once. It’s funny what sticks with you — sometimes just a laugh or a chill on your skin when you’re not sure if it’s wind or something else.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Tour Galveston's historic cemeteries

• Visit Broadway Cemetery
• Explore Trinity Episcopal Cemetery
• Walk through Old City Cemetery
• See Evergreen Cemetery
• Visit The Yellow Fever Yard

Top questions

Is this haunted cemetery walking tour in Galveston suitable for kids?

Yes, it's an all-ages tour and families are welcome.

Which cemeteries are included on this Galveston tour?

The route covers Broadway Cemetery, Trinity Episcopal Cemetery, Old City Cemetery, Evergreen Cemetery, and The Yellow Fever Yard.

Is the Galveston cemetery tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas and surfaces on this walking tour are wheelchair accessible.

Are strollers or prams allowed on this cemetery walk?

Yes, infants and small children can ride in strollers or prams during the tour.

Does the haunted cemetery tour include transportation?

No transportation is provided; public transport options are available nearby.

Can service animals join the Galveston haunted cemetery tour?

Yes, service animals are allowed on this walking tour.

How physically demanding is this walking tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for participants.

What’s included

Your evening includes a guided walking tour through several historic Galveston cemeteries with stories shared by your local guide; all routes are wheelchair accessible so everyone can join comfortably from start to finish.