The What Waits in the Dark Tour
AN ADULTS-ONLY DESCENT INTO FRANKLIN'S DARKEST CIVIL WAR HAUNTINGS
The What Waits in the Dark Tour: Overview
$34.99
Per person
16 years
Looking for a ghost tour that strips away the polite version of history? What Waits in the Dark is Franklin's only adults-only ghost tour, taking guests 16 and older deep into the bloodiest, most disturbing chapters of this Civil War town's haunted past. With unfiltered storytelling and mature themes, this is not the family tour, this is what the family tour leaves out.
Franklin is one of the most haunted small towns in America for a reason. In just five hours on November 30, 1864, nearly 10,000 men were killed, wounded, or captured here. Surgeons worked through the night on bloodstained floors. Bodies were stacked in parlors and on front porches. The What Waits in the Dark Tour walks you through the streets and homes where those tragedies unfolded, and where, by countless accounts, the spirits have never moved on.
Expect graphic Civil War accounts, real paranormal encounters, and the kind of details that make even the bravest guests pause. This tour shines a light on what's still lurking in the shadows of one of Tennessee's most haunted towns.
Starting Time
Nightly: 9 pm | 90-Minute Tour
(Varies by Night)
Adults Only Ghost Tour
This tour is for ages 16 and older only
Pet Policy
This is a pet-friendly Ghost Tour
Alcohol Policy
You may NOT bring your alcoholic drinks on this Ghost Tour
Tour Profile
Is this tour right for you?
What kind of experience is this?
The details
- ✓ Wheelchair accessible
- ✓ Stroller-friendly
- ✓ Service animals welcome
This Tour Is Recommended For
What Our Guests Say
Join millions of happy guests who've experienced The What Waits in the Dark Tour with Ghost City Tours
“Best ghost tour we've ever been on! The guide was amazing.”
“Perfect mix of history and spooky stories. Highly recommend!”
“Our guide was knowledgeable and entertaining!”
Reviews from TripAdvisor, Google, Yelp & more
Featured Haunted Locations
Explore the spine-chilling locations you'll visit on this unforgettable ghost tour
Not all stops are guaranteed on all nights.
Other Haunted Stops on This Tour
St. Paul's Episcopal Church
War, Ruin, and Sacred Memory in Franklin
Tennessee's oldest Episcopal church survived Union occupation, served as a hospital after the Battle of Franklin, and was reduced to a stable before a congregation of twenty-one reclaimed it. Its haunting is a quiet one: footsteps, stillness, and the feeling that the nave remembers.
The Hauntings at the Carter House
Tod Carter's Final Journey Home
With over a thousand bullet holes scarring its walls, the Carter House bears witness to some of the Civil War's bloodiest combat. The ghost of Tod Carter, who came home to die in his childhood bedroom, still haunts these grounds alongside his sister Annie and his phantom warhorse Rosencrantz.
Shuff’s Music and the Maney–Gault House
Sallie Carter’s Last Secret
By day, the house at 118 Third Avenue North is full of music lessons. But employees and children report a woman in an upstairs rocking chair, footsteps in empty rooms, and a handprint that keeps returning to the glass above the door—often attributed to Sallie Carter, Franklin’s Confederate spy.
Plus many more spine-chilling locations and untold stories
Read More Ghost StoriesFranklin's premier adults-only ghost tour
Why Choose The What Waits in the Dark Tour?
When you purchase your tickets directly from Ghost City you're in for a stress free, easy, and enjoyable experience.
Dare to Walk Franklin's Bloodiest Streets
The What Waits in the Dark Tour takes you into the shadows of the Battle of Franklin. It's the only tour designed specifically for guests 16+.
Spirits of a Haunted Town
The streets of Franklin are alive with stories of tragedy, suffering, and ghosts that still walk among us.
Raw History, Unfiltered Stories
Expect strong language, dark themes, and chilling detail. This is ghost touring at its most intense.
Franklin's Darkest Experience
If you want the real, unvarnished story of Franklin's ghosts, this is the one you can't miss.
Join millions of happy guests
Experience Franklin's #1 rated ghost tour today
The What Waits in the Dark Tour FAQ
Everything you need to know before you go
Is the What Waits in the Dark Tour appropriate for children?
No, this tour is designed exclusively for guests ages 16 and older. The What Waits in the Dark Tour features mature content, strong language, and graphic Civil War history that are not suitable for children. If you're looking for a family-friendly ghost tour in Franklin, we recommend our Ghosts of Franklin Tour, which is perfect for all ages.
What makes the What Waits in the Dark Tour different from the Ghosts of Franklin Tour?
The What Waits in the Dark Tour is the only adults-only ghost tour in Franklin. Unlike our family-friendly tour, this experience doesn't hold back. We explore the most graphic accounts of the Battle of Franklin, the wounded and dying men who filled the nave of St. Paul's, and the violent ends of soldiers and civilians whose spirits are said to still walk these streets. With mature themes and unfiltered storytelling, this tour offers a raw look at Franklin's darkest history.
How long is the What Waits in the Dark Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes. During this time, you'll walk through historic downtown Franklin and visit some of the city's most haunted locations while hearing chilling stories from your expert guide.
What time does the What Waits in the Dark Tour start?
The What Waits in the Dark Tour starts at 9:00 PM and runs nightly year-round. The tour typically ends around 10:30 PM. We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early to meet your guide at the starting location.
What happens if it rains?
Our tours run rain or shine! A little weather can actually add to the spooky atmosphere. However, in cases of severe weather or dangerous conditions, we'll contact you about rescheduling options.
Are pets allowed on the What Waits in the Dark Tour?
Yes, well-behaved pets on leashes are welcome to join the tour. We love when furry friends come along for the ghostly adventure. Just make sure your pet is comfortable walking for 90 minutes and being around other people.
Where does the What Waits in the Dark Tour meet?
We meet by the center circle inside Williamson County Veterans Park, 413 W Main Street, Franklin. Your guide will be waiting for you there. We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early.
Is the What Waits in the Dark Tour a Walking Tour?
Yes, all tours offered by Ghost City Tours, including the What Waits in the Dark Tour is a walking Ghost Tour. Don't worry, our tours are only about a mile in length and you'll have plenty of chances to sit and enjoy the stories along the way. Why be crammed into a Trolley, next to people you don't know, when you can experience our haunted locations as they were meant to be experienced?
Still Have Questions?
Our Guest Services team is here to help 7 days a week from 7 AM to 11:30 PM.
Where does The What Waits in the Dark Tour start?
Easy to find, plenty of parking, and right in the heart of Franklin
Meeting Point
413 W Main St
Franklin, TN 37064
Meet by the center circle inside Williamson County Veterans Park, 413 W Main Street, Franklin. Look for your Tour Guide - they'll be wearing Ghost City Tours gear and ready to begin your haunted journey.
Parking Information
Downtown Franklin offers several parking options including street parking and public lots. We recommend arriving early to secure a spot, or consider using rideshare services to avoid parking hassles.
Pro Tip
Arrive 10-15 minutes early to find parking and meet your tour guide
Need Help Finding Us?
If you get lost or need directions, we're here to help!
Call 855-999-0491Available daily 9am - Midnight
Your ticket confirmation email includes:
- •Detailed map and directions
- •Parking recommendations
- •Meeting point photos
Ready to Experience The What Waits in the Dark Tour?
Join Franklin's most popular ghost tour tonight. Limited spots available.
100% Money-Back Guarantee
Love the tour or get your money back — no questions asked.
Ghost City Tours' Money Back Guarantee
Our Money Back Guarantee applies only if you complete the tour in full. We're happy to reschedule your tour at no cost. If you miss your tour, we'll issue a raincheck valid in any of our cities. Refunds will not be given for no-shows, early departures, or inability to attend. We do not give refunds due to the scariness level of the tours. You must notify us within 24 hours of your Tour otherwise your claim will be dismissed.
Your Ticket Includes:
Free Rescheduling
Plans change? No problem. Reschedule anytime before your tour.
Instant Confirmation
Tickets delivered immediately to your email inbox.
90-Minute Tour Experience
The perfect way to spend an evening out.
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Average Rating
Ghost Tour in Franklin
Years Running
Why our Adult Guests love The What Waits in the Dark Tour
Join thousands of satisfied guests who have experienced Franklin's most captivating ghost tour
Franklin's Only Adults-Only Ghost Tour
The most intense ghost tour in town
Money Back Guarantee
Love your tour or get a full refund
Free Rescheduling
Plans change? Reschedule for free anytime
Other Ghost Tours in Franklin
Looking for a different experience? Check out our other spine-chilling tours
The Ghosts of Franklin Tour
Tour Highlights:
- ✓Spine-chilling stories & haunted history
- ✓Professional ghost tour guides
- ✓Flexible booking & cancellation
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