As a city that grew out of the American frontier, saw its fair share of Civil War confrontations, and has its own scarred history with slavery, it’s no wonder Nashville is full of restless souls. For insight into the supernatural experiences in town while enjoying some local brews and spirits, check out the Nashville Haunted Tavern Tour.
At the first watering hole, we settle in with our pints as our guide Juan starts by regaling us with the story of the Bell Witch, a well-known Tennessee legend. He then moves to more immediate tales of the bar in which we are sitting, where employees and patrons had some hair-raising experiences. Whether it’s security footage catching glasses flying off tables when no one is in the room, or a ghost who write his name on an employee’s skin by splashing it with hot oil, something appears to be afoot in this former warehouse where some industrial-age deaths have been recorded.
The 2-hour tour continues through Nashville’s entertainment district with stops outside several local haunts with their own spooky pasts. Hear about the protective brothel Madame who, even in death, is still known to prick male bar patrons with the pointy end of a feather when they get out of line. See the vacant prime restaurant location that can’t seem to keep renters following a particularly brutal murder. There’s also the former cotton warehouse in which abused slaves are still said to make themselves known. Our tour ends inside the basement of the legendary B.B. King’s Blues Club, which has its own spectral residents who give new meaning to soul music. For believers and skeptics alike, this tour is a quirky introduction to the heart of Nashville’s vibrant nightlife.
Reservations Requires: www.nashvilleghosttours.com
Tickets: $16
When: nightly at 6:00pm
Where: starting locations and itineraries vary, but will be sent along with your email confirmation