Ephrata Shadows 2026

Downtown Ephrata has a few stories it has never quite finished telling.

Join Mainspring of Ephrata, and the Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley, for Ephrata Shadows — a guided historical ghost tour through our downtown streets, where cloaked guides share spine-tingling tales of local legends, unexplained phenomena, and the restless spirits said to still roam the area. Along the way, your guides will share the historical facts about our buildings and the stories behind the folklore. It’s a walking tour for ages 16 and up that blends real history with the ghost stories passed down through generations — and you’ll come away knowing downtown Ephrata a little better, and maybe looking over your shoulder a little more.

Two Tours to Choose from, each last about an hour and has two departures (6:30 and 8:00 PM):

• West End — departs from the Historical Society of the Cocalico Valley, 237-249 W. Main St., Ephrata
• East End — departs from Hampton Inn & Suites, Ephrata Mountain Springs, 380 E. Main St., Ephrata

NEW THIS YEAR — GHOST HUNT EPHRATA
A real paranormal investigation experience conducted by our friends at the Paranormal Nut Podcast. Join them on site and see what turns up. Locations to be announced — watch this event for details and tickets. NOTE: This is an add-on experience that runs from 9:30-11:00 PM.

PRO TIPS

• This is an outdoor walking tour. Wear comfortable shoes.
• The route includes some inclines, so please come prepared.
• East End tours start at the Hampton Inn, head down the hill along E. Main St. and finish back at the top of the hill at the Hampton Inn.
• West End tours start and end at the Historical Society.
• Rain or shine — please dress for the weather.
• Costumes? Please leave them at home. Our guides will be in black cloaks, and we’d like them easy to spot.

The walking tour is a family friendly event, please use your digression for the walking tour. The Ghost Hunt is limited to ages 16 and up.

Tickets: Tickets on Sale!

• Walking Tour Tickets $15 each
• Ghost Hunt tickets are $25 each. Note this is an add-on event. The tour is not included with the Ghost Hunt ticket.
• A limited number of tickets are available for guests without online access. Call Mainspring of Ephrata at (717) 721-6196 to reserve.Note: Groups are small and tickets are limited so that we can ensure a great experience for all of our guests.