Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo
San Luis Obispo, United States

Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo

Outty Ranking 70 4.6 · 128 traveler reviews1 hoursFrom $30
Instant mobile ticketSpots available today

Outty Ranking

70/100

Solid Choice. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.6/5

Based on 128 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo worth booking?

Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo is a 1-hour experience in San Luis Obispo, United States, from $30 per person. It scores 70 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 128 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
70 / 100
Rating
4.6/5 (128)
Duration
1 hours
From
$30 per person

What if you could travel outside the beaten path, and discover some of the most exciting, yet often overlooked destinations in San Luis Obispo, CA? Mystery Loves Company Tours offers just that! Wait a minute, you might think. Nothing ever happens in San Luis Obispo, right? Well, not quite. This community hides a gruesome past. You’d be shocked to learn about some of what happened here back in the day! Join us on nightly walking tours through San Luis Obispo’s haunting downtown district, a stark reminder of the town's turbulent founding days. From local lore to urban legends and ghost sightings, we hope to offer some genuine and unexpected storytelling to visitors who are new to the area or even people who have lived here forever but never had the opportunity to explore the eerie side of the city.

What you get

    About this experience

    What if you could travel outside the beaten path, and discover some of the most exciting, yet often overlooked destinations in San Luis Obispo, CA? Mystery Loves Company Tours offers just that! Wait a minute, you might think. Nothing ever happens in San Luis Obispo, right? Well, not quite. This community hides a gruesome past. You’d be shocked to learn about some of what happened here back in the day! Join us on nightly walking tours through San Luis Obispo’s haunting downtown district, a stark reminder of the town's turbulent founding days. From local lore to urban legends and ghost sightings, we hope to offer some genuine and unexpected storytelling to visitors who are new to the area or even people who have lived here forever but never had the opportunity to explore the eerie side of the city.

    What's included

    Included

    • Local Guide

    Not included

    • Gratuities
    • Food or Drinks
    • Online Booking Fee
    • Tour does not enter buildings

    What you'll see and do

    1. Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

      Guides will share haunting tales about the city's earliest residents and the horrific treatment of the indigenous people. Multiple stories will be shared from this location throughout key points in the city's founding history.

      15 minutes here · Admission not included

    2. History Center and Museum of San Luis Obispo County

      Guides will share a brief history of this location and the prominent family that once dwelled at the residence, including their darker pastimes.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    3. A quick walk-by of these historic grounds may add more mystery than answers. We'll share the facts as we reported, by guests will be left to ponder what it all means for the haunted history of SLO.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    4. San Luis Obispo Repertory Theatre

      The tour stop isn't exactly the theatre that stands there today, but instead is a glimpse into the past and what stood on the 4 corners in late 1800's SLO.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    5. Our guides will share the shocking end to a tragic tale of love lost, friendship betrayed, and double murder.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    6. Our story focuses on the troubled history of the building that this restaurant now resides in. Join our tour to find out how this very spot is connected to the FBI's Most Wanted List.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    7. Ah Louis Store

      Learn of the murder and mystery that once shrouded this store, the apartment above, and the family that lived here.

      5 minutes here

    8. Guides will draw attention to the often-overlooked Anderson Building. Once a regal hotel that hosted guests such a Clark Gable and now holds a forgotten history. Guides will share what is likely one of our saddest stories on the tour that is said to have haunted the local Sheriff at the time.

      5 minutes here · Admission not included

    Where it starts and ends

    Meeting point

    San Luis Obispo

    Guests will gather at the famous El Camino Real Bell, next to the Mission on Chorro Street, midway between the cross streets of Palm and Monterey streets.

    Hotel pickup

    No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.

    Ends at

    Guests will gather at the famous El Camino Real Bell, next to the Mission on Chorro Street, midway between the cross streets of Palm and Monterey streets.

    Options you can book

    • Adults-Only Tour

    • Tour for All Ages

      Tour Content: All of our stories contain sensitive topics, but we have left out some of the most graphic details for tours of all ages.

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
    Languages
    en
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Group size
    Up to 15 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Mystery Loves Company Tours

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
    • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

    Photos

    Tours start near Mission SLO, Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis ObispoLearn about the murder and mystery surrounding the Ah Louis store., Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis ObispoCome and hear the "most wanted" story in SLO, Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis ObispoLearn about how some folks were just dying to leave the Courthouse quicker than others!, Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis ObispoGuess gather at the El Camino Real bell., Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 128 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    8 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    The guide

    4 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    128 verified traveler reviews for Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    106
    4 star
    8
    3 star
    6
    2 star
    2
    1 star
    6
    Sort
    Nancy_H · September 2026

    Costly Cancellation by u

    We were last minute cancelled. Literally 20 minutes before it was to begin. And we paid $18 in parking fees. Given opportunity to come next night with friends but because our friends said no bc we had made plans to attend Cal Poly game we did not get to go. Please refund our money. And we feel our parking fees should be reimbursed as well. We made this reservation before we left San diego to celebrate my birthday. And we’re very much looking forward to it. Such a disappointment.

    via Viator

    N4924JMcatherinem · September 2026

    Fun and informative Ghost and Crime tour in a scenic college town - not to be missed

    Justice was so informative and kept us entertained for the entire walk around San Luis Obispo. It was a great way to see the town and hear about some very interesting crime stories and some highly macabre ones! Highly recommend. Great value and a really great way to see this beautiful college town.

    via Tripadvisor

    Carol_A · August 2026

    Fun at night

    Justus was wonderful and fun to be with . He was a great sport with everything we did. I think the site needs to be updated about where to meet each other. But I called and right away I was told where to go.

    via Viator

    Passport710887 · August 2026

    Tour

    1 1/2 tour was only 50 minutes. Guide seemed knowledgeable but lacked enthusiasm

    via Tripadvisor

    Bryan_S · August 2026

    Stick to a true crime podcast and save $$$

    The anti-Catholic rhetoric and comparison of the mission to “nazi concentration camps” was a bit unnerving. But the tour guide’s lack of knowledge of local history and inability to provide facts made the tour barely tolerable.

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1 hours
    Free cancellation
    Non-refundable
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
    Hotel pickup
    No pickup, meet at start point
    Booked in 30 days
    45
    Verdict
    Solid Choice

    Why this scores 70

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)72
    Review evidence (18% weight)92
    Booking momentum (14% weight)90
    Value for money (12% weight)60
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)39
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for San Luis Obispo.

    How much does Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo cost?

    +

    Prices start at $30 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in San Luis Obispo usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo take?

    +

    Plan for about 1 hour from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in San Luis Obispo is not rushed.

    Is Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo worth it?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 70 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 128 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in San Luis Obispo, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.

    Is Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo suitable for kids and families?

    +

    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Around 45 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in San Luis Obispo can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

    +

    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in San Luis Obispo and add a light layer if any part of the 1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo start and how do I get there?

    +

    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central San Luis Obispo within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    San Luis Obispo, CA packs its best experiences into walkable neighborhoods, local food, and day trips nearby. Outty ranks every bookable tour and activity in San Luis Obispo by rating quality, review depth, booking demand and value, so you can see the standouts before you book. On Outty we rank every San Luis Obispo experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Guided E-Bike Tour of Morro Bay, 3-Winery Paso Robles Tour with Picnic Lunch & Tasting Fees, Electric Bike Rental in Morro Bay. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Spring and fall bring the best weather and lighter crowds in San Luis Obispo, while summer has the widest choice of tours and evening activities. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

    +

    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Included: Local Guide. Not included: Gratuities; Food or Drinks; Online Booking Fee; and Tour does not enter buildings. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Where is the meeting point for Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Guests will gather at the famous El Camino Real Bell, next to the Mission on Chorro Street, midway between the cross streets of Palm and Monterey streets. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.

    What languages is Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo offered in?

    +

    It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    Across 128 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    What booking options are available for Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo?

    +

    There are 2 options to choose from, including Adults-Only Tour, Tour for All Ages. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Ghost & True Crime Tour in San Luis Obispo.

    Pick your date