October 17, 2016

Known as one of the most haunted destinations in the U.S., Key West is the perfect place to spend your Halloween. Historically, the city has been home to some eerie activity, from the spirits of cigar makers to voodoo magic haunting Robert the Doll. For the everyday ghost hunter looking for spook-tacular local attractions, look no further than these Marker recommended ghost tours! We also included some of our favorite legends of Key West’s most iconic hauntings to give you a little insight into the ghostly past of this southernmost city.

Ghost Tours

Sloan’s Haunted Key West
This local favorite has a variety of offerings to suit your ghostly fancy. In fact, it was the first ghost hunt in Key West, founded by David L. Sloan. From their Infamous Hauntings Ghost Tour, Haunted Happy Hour Saloon Stroll, or their interactive Sloan’s Ghost Hunt, you’re sure to find something to get into the Halloween spirit! We recommend trying out the newly launched Saloon Stroll, where you can toast to the creepy tales of local outlaw ghosts, murders, and spirits.

Ghosts and Gravestones
Roam the city of Key West via trolley to find some of the eeriest local spots. The tour stops at local cemeteries, churches, and even local favorite Captain Tony’s Saloon. Legend has it that as Captain Tony’s Saloon was being built, skeletal remains were found with a grave marker with the name ‘Elvira’, not to mention there is a body buried beneath the current poolroom in the saloon. Think about that next time you throw a coin into the fish’s mouth above the saloon!

Key West Ghost Mysteries Tour
For 17 years this 90-minute ghost tour has taken many visitors to some of Key West’s haunted locations. The experience includes visiting one of Key West’s oldest graveyards, a haunted pub, among many other local sites. Our favorite part? The guides truly bring even the most colorful ghost stories to life in spooky splendor!

Haunted Legends of Key West

Robert the Doll 
At Key West’s East Martello Museum lives a doll named Robert, who is said to have a life of his own and conniving childish temperament. Dubbed one of Key West’s eeriest artifacts, Robert is a 3-foot straw-stuffed doll that resembles a naval officer and rumored to be made with voodoo magic. Legend has it that Robert the Doll absorbed the bad temper of his former owner artist Robert “Gene” Otto. When Gene died in 1974, Robert was moved to his current home and now haunts the visitors of the museum. Only the brave-hearted dare to take his photo—many say he curses the families of those who don’t ask politely for his photo.

Fort Zachary Taylor
You may know Fort Zachary Taylor as local spot to visit with your family for a relaxing beach day, but it also has a haunted past. Though there were never any military battles that lead to deaths in the area, viral diseases lead to thousands of deaths at the site—nearly 15 people every day. One can imagine why people now believe there are spirits wandering the fort! There have been claims that you can catch paranormal activity or hear sounds of ghostly gunfire from time to time.

Planning to do some ghost hunting in Key West? Make sure to catch all the paranormal activity and share it with us on social! When posting, use our hashtag #LoveTheMarker we may feature your ghoulish photo on our Instagram.

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