Visitor guidance

Preparing for your visit to South Carolina's premier paranormal museum is easy. Below you will find key information about daytime walk-in tours, nightly ghost investigations, artifact guidelines, and location details in historic Charleston.

Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know before stepping inside Dearly Departed and exploring over 200 documented haunted vessels.

What are the differences between daytime tours and evening investigations?

Daytime visits are self-guided walk-in tours that allow you to explore our museum and view our haunted artifacts at your own pace. In the evening, we conduct structured paranormal investigations using detection equipment to monitor active spiritual phenomena within the building.

Are reservations required to visit?

Daytime self-guided tours welcome walk-ins during operating hours. However, our nightly paranormal investigations have strictly limited capacity to maintain integrity and group focus, so advance booking is highly recommended.

Is the museum suitable for children?

Because Dearly Departed houses real haunted objects and explores intense historical topics, daytime entry is recommended for guests aged 10 and older with adult supervision. Nightly investigations are restricted to participants aged 16 and older.

Where are you located in Charleston?

We are situated in historic Charleston, South Carolina. Full street address, transit recommendations, and nearby parking options can be viewed directly on our tickets and hours page.

Can I touch the artifacts on display?

For your spiritual safety and the physical preservation of these historic items, touching any artifact or opening protective glass cases is strictly prohibited.

Can I bring my own paranormal investigation gear?

Yes. Guests attending our evening paranormal investigations are welcome to bring handheld gear such as EMF meters, spirit boxes, and digital voice recorders. Please check with your lead investigator upon arrival before setting up equipment.

Are photography and video recording permitted?

Still photography without flash is permitted during daytime museum hours. Video recording and live streaming are prohibited during nightly investigations to prevent disruption of the environment and fellow attendees.

What happens if I experience paranormal activity?

Our trained museum staff and paranormal investigators are present to ensure a safe, respectful environment. If you feel uncomfortable or overwhelmed at any point during your visit, simply notify a guide or staff member immediately.

Step inside Charleston's haunted history

Ready to encounter the unexpected? Book your self-guided day pass or secure your spot in an authentic evening investigation.

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