If you’re looking to explore the darker side of Columbus—while enjoying a drink or two (or six)—then Columbus Ghost Tours is your ticket to an unforgettable night. I recently embarked on their Booze & Boos Downtown Walking Tour, and let me tell you, it was a spine-tingling experience that perfectly blended history, haunts, and a bit of humor.
Our ghostly adventure began in the basement of the Ringside Cafe, a hidden gem nestled right next to the Ohio Statehouse.
Opened in 1897, this tavern is steeped in history and, according to local lore, a few ghostly residents. From deceased prizefighters still duking it out to the restless souls of mothers and children used as collateral, the Ringside Cafe has seen its share of eerie happenings. And let’s not forget the architect of the building, who some say still haunts the place, maybe a little too proud of his creation to ever truly leave.
Meet Bucky: Columbus’ Master of Macabre Tales
Leading our journey into the unknown was Bucky, a tour guide who is not only incredibly knowledgeable about Columbus’ rich (and often dark) history but also a captivating storyteller. With an endless supply of tales tucked away in his brain, Bucky brings the past to life, weaving together facts, folklore, and a dash of personal flair. Each stop on the tour felt like stepping back in time, with Bucky painting vivid pictures of the people and events that shaped the city’s haunted history.
What sets Bucky apart is his ability to tailor the experience to the group. He’s a walking encyclopedia of Columbus’ spooky past, but he never just reads from a script. Instead, he engages with the crowd, responding to questions with new stories and insights that keep even seasoned ghost tour veterans coming back for more. His storytelling abilities are nothing short of mesmerizing—proof that the art of oral storytelling is still alive and well in the age of digital everything.
More Than Just Ghost Stories
Columbus Ghost Tours offers more than just one way to get your fill of the city’s eerie tales. Beyond the Booze & Boos Tavern Tour, there’s the Creepy Columbus Downtown Walking Tour, which takes you through some of the most haunted spots in the city, and the Night at Green Lawn Cemetery Tour, where the whispers of the past seem to come alive among the headstones. Bucky is the only person in the city who is granted late night access to the Cemetery for commercial use, which just shows how much he (and the city) respects his craft.
But here’s the thing—even if you don’t believe in ghosts (personally, I’m still on the fence), these tours are incredibly interesting and a whole lot of fun. They offer a unique way to learn about the city’s past, filled with colorful characters and tales that you won’t find in any history book. And let’s be honest—there’s something about sharing a drink with friends while swapping ghost stories that makes for a memorable night out.
Why You Should Go on a Columbus Ghost Tour
So whether you’re a true believer in the paranormal or just looking for a fun and different night out, Columbus Ghost Tours has something for everyone. With Bucky’s incredible knowledge, engaging storytelling, and a range of tours to choose from, you’re in for a hauntingly good time. And who knows? You might just end up believing in a ghost story or two.
If you want a taste of Bucky’s storytelling abilities, check out his book Haunted Cemeteries of Ohio (Haunted America) here!
