The Real Waverly Hills Reviews

 My experience wasn’t necessarily bad, but it was noticeably underwhelming compared to last year. I had such an incredible time at the previous Gathering that I spent the entire year looking forward to returning and sharing the experience with my husband. Unfortunately, this year’s event felt less organized and lacked several of the elements that made last year so memorable, particularly the indoor vendors Waverly Hills tours, and impressive lineup of traditional customs.

 This was Amazing! We were so excited to finally get to visit Waverly for the first time, that we were so bad at the actual escape room clues. Of course, we didn't get out haha. It was very well put together. This is a beautiful place that I love seeing someone put the time in to keep it going. David was wonderful, friendly, and so helpful. We can't wait to get to come back!

 Amazing experience for all involved! Great escape room

 The escape room was great but getting to Waverly and inside was frustrating. Suggestion of better signage on which door to go in and what to do when you get to the outside gate woukd be helpful.

 signs are needed at street where you turn to get to sanitarium as Waze app and Google are not taking you to the correct area. No one in town could direct us to the correct area. Barely made it on time for tour.

 Crystal was a great guide. I enjoyed my visit and will definitely be back.

 Pay attention to Wheelchair if you have a Wheelchair. You do have to walk and climb stairs. A member of our group could not. But we did get to tour 2 floors with 2 workers who had been there over 20 years and they were great! Ended up with a private tour. Not what we came for but ended up better. Kudos to Tina.

 tour guide was good and knowledgeable.

 Absolutely amazing. We will be back!

 Our tour guide was amazing and so knowledgeable of the everything Waverly!

 It was an amazing place to see in person.

 I was not expecting this event to be a tourist attraction. There were entirely too many people wandering around contaminating evidence. If you are going to have that many people there at once, coordinate groups to be in a separate location and rotate every 30 minutes or an hour. I was not aware the doors were going to be locked. Im sure its for safety but this needs to be communicated on the website prior to ticket purchase. The facility is great and the staff were nice.

 My husband and I loved it. Our tour guide was awesome, I am so sorry that I have forgotten her name.

 Building in cool, but experienced no real spiritual activity.

 Spent my birthday at waverly and loved every minute of it. Tour guides were nice and very knowledgeable which helped make the experience all the more fun. Will come back and rent the whole place. Keep up the good work.

 This was Amazing! We were so excited to finally get to visit Waverly for the first time, that we were so bad at the actual escape room clues. Of course, we didn't get out haha. This is a beautiful place that I love seeing someone put the time in to keep it going. David was wonderful, friendly, and so helpful. We can't wait to get to come back!

 Great job! Lots of fun!

 First escape room and now I am a SUPER FAN!

 We didn't escape, so now we have to go back. The set up is great!

 our guide was great and you can tell he loves his job! Great job Waverly! We will be back when you open the 2nd escape room!

 Lots of variety in the types of puzzles to solve. Difficult enough to absorb the hour. Amazing atmosphere. Friendly staff. Highly recommend.

 My friends and I had such a great time! This was our first escape room and we were not disappointed! Perhaps in the future you could offer two escape rooms! Thank you so much!

 Disappointed by vendors moved outdoors despite September heat, no Waverly Hills tours (the whole reason I brought my anti-car-show husband), disorganized parking, poor vehicle curation, anime tuners & nearly stock daily drivers mixed with traditional Kustoms, fewer classics & unique builds, wasted prime parking at the iconic entrance (why was someone’s daily GMC up there instead of featured customs?!), & the loss of experience that made last year’s show worth returning f

 The walk through guide could have been more informative. And I felt his enthusiasm for what he was doing was lacking.

 Would have been nice to start in daylight to see the outside of the building too.

 Fantastic

 The building is awesome. Historically, I encourage anyone to check it out. If going for paranormal.. do a private investigation. There are way too many people included in public hunts. There is no way to capture anything because of the flashlight and noise pollution. Really had my hopes up, but found myself just annoyed that people just aren’t considerate enough of others.

 We definitely will be coming back with some Elvis music :-). Great event, would do it again in a heartbeat!!

 Awful experience. 0/10 they did not split groups up and it ruined the whole experience. Not only was there at least 50 people randomly walking through each floor but everyone was loud and obnoxious especially when walking past groups they see trying to catch evidence on camera & devices. Will not be back.

 the atmosphere has been ruined

 AWESOME! no other words!

 We got locked in the building and it was before 6am when the doors were locked. The investigation was supposed to be until 6am, so we are quite confused how we would get locked in. We were running around for 15 mins trying every exit. Luckily, banging on windows and flashing our lights,we got out.We were not late to leave so really not understanding locking up prior to the when the event actually ended. We heard nobody announce closing early.

 Again, it was a fantastic time in the building. We had a very small group so it was perfect for investigating. Our two guides for the night were very helpful with directions and explanations of activity, but respectful of our time in the building as well. This has been at the top of my wish list for decades and the whole experience did not disappoint. Thank you very much for such a great time.

 Wish it had been more organized and supervised than a free for all! The serious investigators had to deal with the thrill seekers running up and down the hallways laughing and yelling loudly. Trans Allegheny had structured supervised split up groups by floor that allowed serious investigators to work without all the contamination. Waverly could learn from them.

 Loved it!! Waverly never disappoints!

 There were a lot of people which I think may have ruined any chance of an encounter or seeing something spooky.

 The event was amazing

 We thought there were too many people. We will try to book a private investigation. We tried to book one NYE but it sold out. We will try again for next year.

 we had a great evening except for the beginning.

 The event was great. You basically get to go through and do your own investigations with other people doing they're own stuff.

 We had a great experience while we were investigating. However, the experience leading up to that night was not the greatest. We had no communication from any volunteers about our overnight since the end of April, which got fired. The new tour guide never reached out and then calls out sick the night if the investigation, 8/25/26. Thank goodness for the very helpful security guard Brando, otherwise we'd be out our money. No way of getting a hold of anyone either.

 We loved it, such an amazing place to visit, from chasing phantom lights to seeing full shadows in the halls it was definitely a experience our team will never forget. Thank you Waverly Hills for the great experience

 Great tour. My friend even caught a FBA!

 very good.

 Could not recommend enough!!!

 Sorta felt rushed at times. Otherwise it was pretty good

 It was nice seeing the place in both light and darkness.

 Event was good, but I feel it was too many people in s 2 hour time period.

 It was a great experience. I did see a few things while there. Our tour guides were excellent and it didn’t feel like “just a tour”. I really enjoyed this and hope to come back again sooner than later.

 The 4 of us stopped by on our way from NW Illinois to Gatlinburg TN. What an amazing site. The staff were all very welcoming & friendly. They were beyond knowledgeable & you could tell they all care about the sistaining & education of this great building. Our tour guide, Les was amazing. Clearly a man passionate about Wavertly. We truly enjoyed our experience. Thank you, The Mussmanns IL

 It was good, knowledgeable guide with Crystil. The dark parts were VERY dark - couldn't see your hand in front of you dark. And I got a picture of a shadow figure sitting in one of the chairs in the lobby! Very cool.

 Nicole was our guide and she was funny, informative, and really made the experience.

 The only feedback I have is to add chairs to some of the stopping spots and at the end, give the final speech back in the final hall with AC rather than in the underground tunnel. It was taxing in the heat after two hours on our feet.

 I liked the enthusiasm of the tour guides and their stories! I also felt like the tour was organized well. I didn't have a particularly spooky experience, so if you are worried about that, I would say to give a shot. The place is full of history, and it's an interesting time regardless.

 So worth it! Jacob was our tour guide and did such an amazing job with telling scary stories and history of the Sanatorium. It was my boyfriend’s first time going and needless to say he definitely got his fill of scare and curiosity. We had such a great experience and will definitely be coming back in the near future! Ps. After getting home we were going through our pictures from the night and discovered two photos with orbs and apparitions!

 awesome stroy telling

 When I was researching places to visit while in Louisville. I saw that Waverly was not that far. I bought my ticket when I went to the website.

 Daytime free roam would be a great addition to the events already offered.

 Would love to come back and visit!

 Our tour guide was awesome. She was knowledgeable about the history and lore. She was thorough and didn’t rush you through it.

 I really enjoyed it. My Grandmother past away their in 1953. First time I had been their.

 Would have liked the opportunity to transfer to tour date due to death in family, a call or email back as I requested would have been Appreciated even if the answer had been no. Very disappointing.

  The building itself and grounds are absolutely gorgeous…and hold so many emotions and energy. We loved the historical tour - the guides were fantastic and well-informed. Two suggestions: 1) smaller group sizes for a better experience - maybe let the guides each take a group instead of one massive group 2) sone different options in the gift shop - both my daughter and I wanted to buy stuff, but we don’t wear black t-shirts or sweatshirts; maybe stickers too?

 The history was great to hear. We loved hearing about the stories of the facility. Our group had in excess of 50 people and that was way too many and we suggest limiting the number.

 Brought a first time visitor with me, she wanted to see it while on vacation. She loved the history as well as the tour.

 this tour was also very crowded but being a historical tour it was good. Waverly was a beautiful place. Tina and Charlie are doing a great job.

 loved it!

 The historical tour was great. Our guide was very familiar with the complete history of this site, even sharing personal experiences. While the tour is 2 hours long, it certainly doesn't feel like it. Great place to visit, especially if the family enjoys abandoned history.

 I came here with my boyfriend as a stop along the way to Tennessee. Ever since I was a little girl, I have wanted to visit this building. I love the paranormal. I have been a ghost tour guide in my home town of Chicago, and I have traveled America visiting the most haunted places. To get the opportunity to come here was amazing and it did NOT disappoint. We took the historical 2 hour tour. Still was full of ghost stories and the guides were so knowledgeable and kind. 10/10

 I felt a smaller group would have made this a 5 simply because it was difficult to hear and for everyone to get close enough to what was being talked about at times. The guides were great! Simple directions on the website starting from the main road would be helpful, like turn into the golf course, first road on theleft. Even once we were in the correct location we didn't know because we weren't even sure the entrance was a road. We would return for one of the other events!

 all around great experience

 Our group had greater expectations of experiencing the paranormal. Jess was great, her stories and experiences were fascinating. We did not experience any paranormal events, even though we know Wavwrly Hills has been so active It was more like walking through a haunted house, complete darkness, with real bat interactions.

 Definitely a great place and I would come back.

 Waverly Hills was amazing! We had an incredible tour. We didn't feel like anything was skipped nor was it rushed. You could tell our tour guides really enjoyed their jobs. We did get lost trying to find the entrance. The address on the actual ticket is different than the address sent in the email. I re-read it a few times and still got confused, but it is easy to do and the staff was nice about it. Build extra time to be early so its not a problem for your group!

 Wasn't able to make it because the gates was locked and we couldn't get in multiple cars rode around the neighborhood trying to figure out how to get in

 I was a guest from Australia and having watched documentaries on YouTube, I had an idea of what to expect historically and still i felt this was a really enjoyable night with things I hadn't heard or seen so it was great to be able to be inside the place in a hands on way amongst the history. The grounds and facilities were also well taken care of.

 Repeat customer. Will repeat again. That sums it up.

 Every year at Waverly is different! We never know what to expect! Definitely record as much of your investigations as you can, for some awesome EVP's. Take tons of pictures too, we have captured some wonderful photos over the years!

 Amazing. It didn’t disappoint. We will be back

 I enjoyed the tour. Nicole was a great guide. It is a five story building, so plenty of stairs. The campus is expansive. Well worth it, but be aware you'll be mostly walking in the dark for two hours. Fascinating stories of lost souls. Great opportunity to encounter paranormal activity.

 See above 😊

 My husband and I I got this as a Christmas present and it did NOT disappoint! Crystil was our tour guide and was so amazing! I love that she shared her own experiences and took her time with the whole group! We even got to meet Tina and ask her questions while we browsed the gift shop options! Thank you for making such a cool place available to the people!

 Cristal

 Every moment was fantastic It was set at a great pace and we learned so much. We can’t wait to do it again

 My girlfriend and I had a great time during our tour. Our guide, Cristal, did an amazing job, and she clearly showed her knowledge about the building and its history. We are very happy about our experience! We will recommened to our friends and family!

 Best part of our trip. Very informative and worth every penny. We highly recommend this tour.

 Was a good time

 Very unorganized and was very rushed. The haunted house was ok but the workers don’t need to get in peoples faces and scream in their ear.

 It was our first time going and we definitely did not expect all the vendors and entertainment. It was a blast! The gift shop had some great merchandise too! It was such a fun experience with my son!

 Absolutely amazing. The haunted house lasted for quite some time. Mini tour was very short. The ball was nice and there were so many wonderful people there.

 The event it as poorly implemented as the website. Do not buy tickets, they will change the dates on you and refuse to contact you regarding the issue. This is all a scam.

 I think there was missed opportunities to scare. Had plenty of space where actors could have been & they were empty..

 We liked how they had the tents set up for everyone. It was raining and cold when we went so the tents helped with that. I also like how they put so much time and effort into doing this. We will definitely be back.

 Amazing! The mini tour and scare house were perfect. The atmosphere was great as soon as we got there! The scare house is one of the coolest I've ever been through. Will definitely be back to do the full tour, and to do the R.I.P tickets again next year!!

 The beginning show was awesome! The hard work and detail throughout the place was brilliant and we loved the 3-D glasses part! We will definitely be back!

 The haunted had was fun. The first part was exciting

 My family and I had the best time! My teenagers had never been to a haunted house before so they were nervous! They had the best time though and the actors were all so amazing!!! This was my second time coming and we will keep coming as long as we can

 Was absolutely amazing! The actors actually scared me a few times!

 Waverly Hills needs a photo op spot for post haunted house. Perhaps a ring light set up with timer where the users can text themselves the photo. OR a professional photo like medieval times captured outside the gates prior to the video start where guests can purchase a printed copy.

 Okay / I'd say average. The tour was fine - the presenters were strong in their knowledge and delivery. The haunted house was fun - nothing scary though. I was really hoping that it would be more than I experienced.

 I enjoyed my experience! The actors all did a great job! My only complaint was that large chunk of the haunt that was pitch black. For some that might be totally scary but for me it felt like a quick fix for a lack of budget or ideas? Every other part was awesome though! Definitely coming back next year!

 So much fun waiting around every corner.

 I don't think the mini tour was worth 40.00 but the haunted house was worth 20.00. I wont take the tour from here on out but I will be back for the haunted house.

 I have been taking tours at Waverly for many years, and I learn something new every time I come.

 Really really fun‼️

 This was a great event! The mini tour included with the RIP ticket was very informative and interesting. I would go again for sure!

 Haunted House was fun and the tour guides for the mini tour did great.

 Spectacular! Very well done!

 Worth the wait! And the wait wasn't very long. Very nice attraction.

 Aniknato

 The haunted house was decent, Been better in the past. Too many really dark places that was just walking around in total darkness

 Fun! It was busy but managed very well. The haunted house itself wasn't as spooky, it was more of a fun spooky experience. The beginning was different with the 3D glasses. I lie that they did something different than most haunted houses to stand out. It was long for only $20 per ticket and the wait wasn't terrible but we got there very early.