This was our first ghost tour so we really didn’t know what to expect. We arrived to the town (which is totally charming and cute) around 8pm and parked right behind the visitors center. We bought the tickets and while we waited for the tour to start we learned about the history of the region by reading some display panels they have there. About 15 minutes later a man dressed in antique clothing appeared outside holding an antique lantern. We joined the group of about 14 people and we started the tour. I don’t want to spoil any spooky stories so I will not go into a lot of detail but as you walk the streets of the old town your guide will tell you about the history of some of the buildings and some of the ghost stories associated with them. Unfortunately we did not have any first hand scary experiences but the town definitely feels spooky at night and learning about the town was very interesting. Be prepared to walk a bit of a long distance and be aware that you will be standing for long period of time. I must mention that in my group there was a person who was hearing impaired and they had a lady translating the stories for him using ASL (American Sign Language) and she was amazing. Both the tour guide and the translator did a great job. After attending the tour I would like to stay a few days in town and learn more about its history.

The literary pub crawl is a close cousin to the haunted history tours of Ellicott City. Our hostess, dressed for the part, read passages from locals like Edgar Allan Poe, and H.L.Mencken as well as passers through like Daniel Boone. A great way to feel the heartbeat of the town while enjoying a drink at some of the local establishments including, Diamondback Tavern, Portatellis, The Rumour Mill and The Ellicott City Brewing Company. Make reservations ahead of time to be assured of a place. Not easily accessible at Ellicott City is an old historic town with lots of stairs and narrow thresholds. Howard County Tourism website has more information about these tours.