All Over Albany

Spooky, haunted, or creepy tours around the Capital Region this fall

We're already into mid September and that means ghosts are migrating back to the Capital Region from their summer homes and punching back in at their regular haunts.

And just in time, because it's high season for haunting.

Here's a handful of spooky, haunted, creepy, or just generally atmospheric tours at spots around the area from now through Halloween...

September 17-November 2: Capitol Hauntings
The annual -- and very popular -- spooky tour of the New York State Capitol. "The tour lasts about an hour, but the chilling, ghostly tales might haunt you forever." Due to the popularity, the tour scheduled started two weeks earlier and it looks like there are still a bunch of dates with open slots. free (you must make a reservation)

September-November 11 (Friday, Saturday, Sunday): Ghosts of Albany
"Let us see if we can scare you with stories of ghosts, antique sites, scandalous tales, haunted places, mysterious sightings of apparitions, strange and unusual accounts of centuries past, legendary stories, folklore and ghostly experiences stranger than reality, and ultimately the supernatural intrigues of Albany, New York. Listen to the ghostly encounters of our guides. And you may be surprised by ghost stories told by participants on our tours. Our tales and legends are blended with bits of human interest and historical fact to make us entertaining and educational for tourists and locals alike." $20

September-November 16 (Friday and Saturday): Haunted Saratoga
"Come walk with us and discover the ghosts of Haunted Saratoga. Hear the stories that have lived on in our city for hundreds of years. ... We are very respectful of the spirits we will encounter along the way. You will hear about and perhaps even meet Old Smoke who, it is said, haunts the old Canfield Casino, Angeline, known as the Witch of Saratoga, Hattie, who has been known to make appearances in her restaurant since her passing and several other spirits." $20

September 21, 28 and October 5, 12, 19, 26: Friday Ghost Tours at The Mount
The Mount is Edith Wharton's home just over the border in Lenox, Massachusetts. "Creaking floors, slamming doors, and ghostly footsteps...The Mount's haunted history includes it all! For over a century, The Mount has been home to writers, actors, wealthy families, hardworking servants, and teenage girls. Take a special guided tour of the most haunted parts of the estate to find out who may still call The Mount home. You never know who-or what-might happen to show up!" $24 / $20 youth

October 7: Albany Haunted History Walking Tour
"Lace up your best walking shoes and gather at the Albany Heritage Area Visitors Center to embark on a chilling afternoon of Haunted History. Brave guests will be guided along Albany's downtown streets to unearth the capital city's storied past. Learn about the spirits of Legs Diamond, Boz the Baker and even Abraham Lincoln, all of whom may still inhabit the city to this day!" $5

October 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30: Historic Haunted Pub Crawl in Albany
Begin your ghost hunt with a tour of Ten Broeck Mansion, one of the most haunted public sites in Albany. Trained docents will guide you through its haunted halls, regaling you with tales of the supernatural. ... The Halloween fun doesn't end there! If you survive the Mansion, your tour guide will lead you to Olde English Pub & Pantry, McGeary's Irish Pub, and the Hollow Bar + Kitchen. Along the way, you can look forward to supernatural tales regarding Albany's history and our rich folklore." $25

October 12, 19, 26: Candlelight Walking Tours of the Stockade
"Join us as we explore the historic Stockade after dark and discover the neighborhood's haunting past!" Organized by the Schenectady County Historical Society and Schenectady Heritage Foundation. $12 (advance purchase required)

October 13: Oakwood by Lantern Light
A twilight tour of the Oakwood Cemetery in Troy. "This tour goes deep into Oakwood after dark with the glow of a lantern to light the way. Guides will lead us on a 1.5 mile walk to select gravesites including some new ones this year. We will meet costumed interpreters who will share their amazing stories. Meet at the flagpole. Bring a flashlight. Registration required: 518-328-0090" Note: "NOT a 'haunted' tour." $15

October 24-27: Murder at Cherry Hill: A Titillatingly Creepy Tour!
Cherry Hill is a historic mansion in Albany's South End. "On May 7, 1827, a notorious murder occurred at Cherry Hill that resulted in two sensational trials and Albany's last public hanging. Come relive that night! Meet the historical players, walk in the footsteps of a murderer, and revel in harrowing titillation during this annual October event!" $18 (advance purchase required)

October 26-27: Knick at Night
The Knickerbocker Mansion in Schaghticoke hosts ghost tours (and a soup dinner). $8 tour / $10 soup dinner

October 27: Murder & Mayhem! Walking Tour at Rensselaer County Historical Society
"Join us for this walking tour through the historic district that highlights the steamier side of life in Troy in the 19th and early 20th centuries in Troy. The events that took place will make your hair stand on end! One of our most popular tours, don't miss it!" $10

October 30: Halloween Ghost Tours at Canfield Casino
The old casino building is in Congress Park in Saratoga Springs. "Members of the Olde Saratoga Paranormal Group lead the public on a 4 hour ghost hunt of the historic Canfield Casino. Members of the group lead participants on the hunt, using their knowledge and equipment." $35