San Antonio: Haunted Ghost Bus Tour & Menger Hotel Entry

Summary

San Antonio’s haunted tales by bus, from Menger Hotel to old jail

You’ll join a small group on San Antonio’s original haunted ghost bus tour with entry to places like the historic Menger Hotel and an old cemetery after dark. Hear eerie tales from your local guide as you explore infamous spots including the former Bexar County Jail and Red Light District. Expect shivers, laughter, and maybe even a moment of silence that lingers long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

“You feel that chill?” our guide, Carlos, grinned as we stepped off the bus in front of the Menger Hotel. I actually did — maybe it was just the night air, or maybe it was something else. The whole ride over, Carlos kept tossing out stories about San Antonio’s ghosts like he’d lived with them his whole life. The city looked different through those tinted bus windows — older somehow, and not just because of the streetlights flickering against all that limestone.

I wasn’t sure what to expect from a haunted ghost bus tour in San Antonio, but standing in the hotel lobby with its creaky floors and that faint scent of old wood polish… let’s just say I started paying more attention to corners and mirrors. We wandered through hallways where guests have supposedly seen things — Carlos pointed out a spot near the bar where someone once saw a woman in 1800s dress. Someone on our tour tried to take a photo and their phone glitched out. Could’ve been coincidence, but still. And then there was the old Bexar County Jail (now a Holiday Inn Express, which is kind of hilarious if you think about it) — we didn’t go inside, but Carlos told us enough stories outside those heavy doors that I didn’t really want to.

The cemetery stop got me more than I expected. It was quieter than anywhere else on the route — just us and rows of weathered stones under these twisted trees. The air smelled like dry grass and something metallic, maybe from the rain earlier. Someone left a single marigold on one grave; nobody knew who put it there. We all stood around for a minute without saying much. Not spooky exactly, but kind of heavy — you know?

By the time we climbed back onto the ghost bus (which honestly felt safer than walking), I found myself looking at San Antonio differently. Like every building might have its own story waiting after dark. If you’re even half-curious about this side of the city, or just want an evening where things feel a little sideways — well, I still think about that marigold sometimes.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Haunted San Antonio Ghost Bus Tour

• Board the Ghost Bus
• Tour inside the haunted Menger Hotel
• Hear tales of Red Light District and old jail
• Visit San Antonio's historic cemetery

Top questions

How long is the Haunted Ghost Bus Tour in San Antonio?

The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours.

Does the tour include entry into any buildings?

Yes, you’ll enter the Menger Hotel for a guided visit and step inside a historic cemetery.

Is pickup included for this San Antonio ghost tour?

No hotel pickup is included; you meet at the designated departure point.

Are children allowed on this haunted bus tour?

No children 8 and under are allowed; ages 12+ recommended.

What sites are visited during this ghost tour?

You’ll visit locations like the Menger Hotel, Old Red Light District, Old Bexar County Jail (outside), and a historic cemetery.

Is transportation air-conditioned?

Yes, travel is by air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour.

Do I need to be physically fit for this tour?

A moderate level of physical fitness is required due to walking at stops.

What’s included

Your evening includes comfortable transport on San Antonio’s first haunted ghost bus tour with entry into both the historic Menger Hotel and one of San Antonio’s oldest cemeteries—plus plenty of stories from your local guide before returning to your starting point.