Are you a thrill-seeker looking for your next adventure? Look no further than the creepiest spots in your state. From abandoned prisons to haunted hotels, there’s something for every brave soul to explore.
Step into the unknown and discover the eerie history behind rundown institutions and defunct buildings. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, the stories behind these creepy spots will surely send shivers down your spine. So gather your courage and embark on a journey to uncover the secrets of the most spine-chilling places in your state.
Alabama: Sloss Furnaces
Sloss Furnaces is a National Historic Landmark located in Birmingham, Alabama. It was once the largest manufacturer of pig iron in the world, operating from 1882 until 1971. However, the working conditions at the plant were deplorable, especially during the reign of graveyard shift foreman James “Slag” Wormwood from 1900 to 1906.
Wormwood pushed his workers to take dangerous risks to speed up production, resulting in the deaths of 47 workers. The foreman himself died on site, and his spirit is said to have lingered, leading to reports of suspected paranormal activity at the plant. Workers have complained of an “unnatural presence” and being pushed or told to “get back to work” by a mysterious voice. More than 100 reports of paranormal activity have been recorded by the Birmingham Police.
Alaska: Red Onion Saloon
The Red Onion Saloon, established in 1898, was a popular brothel during the Klondike Gold Rush. Today, it is known to be haunted by a resident ghost named Lydia, who reportedly worked there as one of the women. Guests have reported sightings of Lydia running down a hall into a room once occupied by the madame, as well as experiencing extreme cold spots and smelling her perfume. The Red Onion Saloon offers a Ghosts and Goodtime Girls Walking Tour, which provides a closer look at the establishment’s history and the stories of its ghostly inhabitants.
Arizona: Yuma Territorial Prison
If you’re a fan of eerie historical sites, Yuma Territorial Prison is a must-visit. Between 1876 and 1909, over 3,000 criminals, including murderers and thieves, were incarcerated here. The prison has a dark history, with over 100 deaths on the premises. Cell #14 is known to be particularly chilling as it was the site of a prisoner’s suicide. The “Dark Cell” is another unsettling spot where disruptive inmates were held in isolation. Although no one died in the Dark Cell, two inmates were transferred to an insane asylum shortly after their release. Visitors can explore the cell blocks, guard tower, and more to get a closer look at this infamous prison.
Arkansas: The Crescent Hotel
The Crescent Hotel, located in Eureka Springs, was once a luxurious resort when it first opened in 1886. However, due to tough economic times, it closed down in the 1930s. In 1937, it was purchased by Norman Baker and turned into Baker’s Cancer Curing Hospital, despite his lack of medical training. Baker’s cancer treatments were later discovered to be a scam. Today, the hotel has been restored to its original grandeur, but the spirits of Baker’s patients and other ghosts are said to still haunt the property.
Some of the most common ghost sightings include Theodora, a patient who fumbles for her keys outside of room 419, and Michael, an Irish stonemason who fell to his death while building the hotel. Nightly ghost tours are offered and end at the morgue, which is still intact from the hospital and is said to be a hotbed of paranormal activity.
Despite the dark history of the hospital, the Crescent Hotel remains a popular tourist destination for those interested in the paranormal.
California: Queen Mary
If you’re looking for a unique and historical place to stay in Long Beach, the Queen Mary is a must-visit. Originally built in 1936 as a luxury liner, the ship served as a troopship during World War II before being converted back to a passenger ship and retiring from service in 1967. Today, the Queen Mary is a floating hotel with a rich history and some reported ghostly sightings.
Guests can take part in a Haunted Encounters tour to learn more about the ship’s legends and potentially catch a glimpse of the lady in white, an engineer who died in the engine room, or even several children in 1930s-era garb. Despite its haunted reputation, the Queen Mary is a beautiful and elegant vessel with plenty of amenities for a comfortable stay.
Colorado: The Stanley Hotel
If you are a fan of Stephen King’s horror novel, The Shining, you may want to visit the Stanley Hotel in Estes Park, Colorado. This century-old hotel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is famous for inspiring King’s bestselling story. The hotel had fallen into disrepair by the 1970s, but it has been restored to its original splendor today. However, the eerie atmosphere that inspired King’s story still lingers in the hotel. You can take a nighttime ghost tour or book a “spirited” room with high paranormal activity, including the Stephen King Suite 217. Even if you don’t believe in ghosts, the hotel’s rich history and stunning architecture are worth experiencing.
Connecticut: Mark Twain House
You can step back in time and experience the life of one of America’s greatest authors at the Mark Twain House in Hartford, Connecticut. This National Historic Landmark was the home of Samuel Clemens, better known as Mark Twain, and his family from 1874 to 1891. During his time here, Twain wrote some of his most famous works, including The Adventures of Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.
Today, the Mark Twain House is a museum that offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the author and his family. The house is filled with original furnishings and personal belongings, giving you a sense of what life was like for the Clemens family.
While the Mark Twain House is a fascinating historical site, it is also said to be haunted by a “lady in white”. If you’re feeling brave, you can take part in the Graveyard Shift Ghost Tours offered in October. These tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the dark tales and Victorian traditions associated with the house, while also giving you a chance to experience its haunted history.
Delaware: Fort Delaware
Fort Delaware, located on Pea Patch Island, was utilized as a prison camp for Confederate soldiers during the Civil War. The conditions were reported to be atrocious, with up to 12,595 prisoners held at one time, and inmates having to sleep on cold stone floors with vermin due to the lack of beds and water. After being abandoned in 1944, it became a state park in 1951. Despite its dark history, Fort Delaware has become a popular destination for paranormal enthusiasts, with the dungeons supposedly being a particularly active location.
Florida: St. Augustine Lighthouse
The St. Augustine Lighthouse, completed in 1874 and still operational, is known for its haunted history. Visitors have reported encountering the ghosts of former keepers and their families, including the two young sisters Eliza and Mary who drowned nearby. Eliza has been seen wearing the blue dress she died in, while the laughter of the sisters can be heard at the top of the tower late at night. For those interested in the paranormal, the Dark of the Moon tour offers a unique opportunity to explore the lighthouse tower and the keepers’ house at night.
Georgia: Bonaventure Cemetery
Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah is a popular attraction for its stunning beauty and Gothic-style tombstones. Visitors have reported paranormal activity in the cemetery for years. Some say that the statue of a girl named Gracie, who died of pneumonia at age 6, cries tears of blood at night. Others claim to have heard sounds of children playing or to have seen statues smiling or grimacing at them. The cemetery is also known for its stately trees and lush Spanish moss, creating a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere. It is a must-visit destination for those interested in history, architecture, and the supernatural.
Hawaii: Hawaii Plantation Village
Hawaii Plantation Village is an open-air museum located in Waipahu, Oahu. This museum showcases the life of workers on Hawaii’s sugar plantations from 1850 to 1950. The plantation has 25 structures, some of which are original while others are replicas. About half of the structures are believed to be haunted, with reports of paranormal activity including a ghostly young girl in the Portuguese house, a choking ghost in the Okinawan house, and a wandering doll in the Puerto Rican house. During October, the plantation transforms into a haunted attraction with costumed actors, who are not allowed to work alone in the buildings due to the property’s paranormal activity.
Idaho: Old Idaho Penitentiary
The Old Idaho Penitentiary, constructed in the late 1800s by its inmates using sandstone quarried nearby, closed down in 1973 due to inhumane conditions that led to inmate riots. Nevertheless, the prison’s buildings still stand and are believed to be a hub of paranormal activity. The 5 House, where infamous prisoner Raymond Allen Snowden (also known as “Idaho’s Jack the Ripper”) was executed, is said to be the most active. You can visit the Old Idaho Penitentiary for tours on most days.
Illinois: McPike Mansion
Located in Alton, Illinois, the McPike Mansion sits atop Mount Lookout Park and is known for its paranormal activity. Many believe that the spirits of the original owners, Eleanor and Henry McPike, still reside in the home, along with other residents. Some have even reported sensing the presence of Native American ghosts and a possible Underground Railroad stop. In total, more than 11 spirits have been experienced throughout the mansion. Alton is considered one of the most haunted small towns in America, with other eerie locations including a Confederate prison, a school, and a church.
Indiana: The Story Inn
The Story Inn is a historic bed and breakfast located in Indiana. The inn was originally built in 1851 as part of the small mining town of Story, which was abandoned during the Great Depression. However, the inn was restored in the 1960s and now serves as a charming place for visitors to stay. The inn is famous for its resident ghost, the “Blue Lady,” who is said to be Dr. George Story’s wife. Guests have reported encountering her in the rooms above the restaurant, especially when a blue light is turned on. If you smell cherry tobacco, which was her favorite, it is believed that she has already come and gone.
Iowa: Villisca Ax Murder House
You can visit the Villisca Ax Murder House, where a gruesome crime took place in 1912. The Moore family and two overnight guests were murdered in their sleep, and the killer was never caught. The house has been restored to its 1912 condition and is now open for tours and overnight stays by reservation. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, including doors opening and closing on their own, pinching and shoving sensations, and unexplained cold chills.
Kansas: Sallie House
The Sallie House in Atchison, Kansas, is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a 6-year-old girl who died during surgery. The house, once owned by a physician, is now available for tours and overnight stays. Tony and Debra Pickman, former renters of the house, claimed that Tony was frequently attacked by the ghost, resulting in visible scratches on his back, chest, and arms. However, the ghost never harmed Debra or their baby. Atchison is considered the most haunted town in Kansas and attracts paranormal enthusiasts with its cemetery tours, haunted trolley rides, and ghost hunts.
Kentucky: Waverly Hills Sanatorium
Waverly Hills Sanatorium in Louisville was once a home to thousands of tuberculosis patients from 1910 to 1962. The facility was so vast that it had its own ZIP code, post office, and water treatment facility. Due to the high death toll, the building was equipped with a “Death Tunnel” where bodies were discreetly removed for burial to prevent panic among the residents. Today, Waverly Hills is known as one of the most haunted places in the world. Regular tours and paranormal investigations are offered, and ghost hunters have reported hearing slamming doors, seeing apparitions, and having objects thrown at them.
Louisiana: The Myrtles Plantation
As a bed and breakfast, the Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville is known for its haunted reputation. Chloe, a slave girl who poisoned her owner and his family, is the most famous ghost that roams the house. Guests have reported hearing footsteps on the stairs, the sounds of children playing, and a grand piano that repeats the same haunting chord until someone enters the room. Chloe’s apparition has been spotted wearing a white apron and green turban. The Myrtles Plantation is a popular destination for those seeking a spooky experience.
Maine: Mount Hope Cemetery
If you’re a fan of horror fiction, particularly Stephen King’s works, a visit to Mount Hope Cemetery in Bangor is a must. This cemetery is one of the oldest in the country and was the filming location for a scene in the movie adaptation of King’s novel Pet Sematary. King himself even made a cameo appearance in the scene as a minister presiding over a funeral. The cemetery also served as inspiration for some of King’s most iconic characters, including Carrie and Georgie. Many fans of the author make the pilgrimage to Bangor each year to visit the places that inspired him, and Mount Hope Cemetery is a popular stop on their itinerary.
Maryland: Antietam National Battlefield
As you visit Antietam National Battlefield, you will be stepping onto the site of the bloodiest battle of the Civil War. With 23,000 soldiers killed, wounded, or missing, this location holds a significant place in American history. While exploring the battlefield, some visitors have reported experiencing paranormal activity, including hearing gunfire or smelling gunpowder when no one else was around. Additionally, mysterious figures in Confederate uniforms and strange balls of blue light have been spotted at Burnside Bridge, where many soldiers were buried.
Massachusetts: The Lizzie Borden House
If you’re a fan of true crime and the paranormal, a visit to the Lizzie Borden House in Fall River is a must. The infamous house where Andrew and Abby Borden were murdered in 1892 has been transformed into a bed and breakfast and museum. Visitors can stay overnight and explore the house, which still contains many of the original furnishings. Many guests have reported hearing strange noises and seeing ghostly apparitions, adding to the eerie atmosphere of the house.
Michigan: Mackinac Island
Mackinac Island, located in Lake Huron, is known for its rich history and beautiful scenery. However, the island has a dark past, having been the site of two major battles during the War of 1812 and other violent events over the years. In addition, the island is believed to be a hotbed of paranormal activity.
One of the most haunted spots on the island is the Drowning Pool, where a witch hunt was conducted in the 1700s and early 1800s. The pool is said to be haunted by the spirits of seven women who were accused of being witches and drowned with rocks tied to their feet. Legend has it that if you visit the pool at night, you can hear their cries for help.
The Grand Hotel is another spooky spot on the island, reportedly haunted by an “evil entity” with glowing red eyes. Guests have reported strange occurrences, including doors opening and closing on their own and objects moving inexplicably.
Mission Point Resort is also believed to be haunted, specifically by a young college student who committed suicide. Guests have reported seeing her ghostly figure wandering the halls of the resort.
Despite its dark past and haunted reputation, Mackinac Island remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Minnesota: Wabasha Street Caves
During the Prohibition era, the Wabasha Street Caves in St. Paul were transformed into a speakeasy, attracting notorious gangsters such as John Dillinger and Ma Barker. There are rumors that the bodies of three gangsters who were killed in the caves are buried under the floors. Today, visitors can take a tour of the caves and witness the bullet holes from the incident. The Wabasha Street Caves offer a unique glimpse into the fascinating history of Minnesota’s underground nightlife during the 1920s and 30s.
Mississippi: McRaven House
If you are a fan of paranormal activity, then the McRaven House in Vicksburg is a must-visit destination. Built in 1797, the house has undergone several expansions, leaving the previous rooms untouched. The property served as a Confederate field hospital during the Civil War, and several former residents died in the home. Mary Elizabeth Howard, the lady of the house, is said to be the most active spirit. She died in 1836 shortly after childbirth in one of the upstairs bedrooms. McRaven offers haunted tours and ghost hunts year-round, providing a unique and eerie experience for visitors.
Missouri: Lemp Mansion
The Lemp Mansion in St. Louis was once the home of the wealthy Lemp family, who owned the Lemp Brewing Company. The mansion is now a restaurant and inn, but it has a tragic history. Over 60 years, at least four members of the Lemp family died in the house. Today, the spirits of the deceased are believed to haunt the mansion, and you can experience this firsthand on a weekly ghost tour.
Montana: Bannack Ghost Town
If you’re looking for a glimpse into Montana’s past, a visit to Bannack Ghost Town is a must. Founded in 1862 during the gold rush, Bannack was once a bustling boomtown that attracted many prospectors and businessmen. Today, the town stands as a preserved relic of Montana’s rugged history. You can explore the weathered structures and imagine what life was like for the inhabitants who once lived there. Don’t be surprised if you feel like you’ve been transported to a different time as you walk through the old saloon or hear the faint sounds of a piano playing in the distance.
Nebraska: State Capitol Building\
The State Capitol Building in Lincoln, Nebraska is a landmark with a spooky history. One urban legend involves the Christmas lights that used to decorate the dome. According to the tale, prisoners were tasked with hanging the lights in exchange for shorter sentences. Unfortunately, one prisoner reportedly panicked, had a heart attack, and fell to his death. Some people claim that you can still hear the prisoner’s sobs and screams near the building. Despite these spooky tales, the State Capitol Building remains an important symbol of Nebraska’s government and history.
Nevada: Mizpah Hotel
If you’re looking for a unique and historic hotel experience, the Mizpah Hotel in Tonopah, Nevada is a must-visit. Built in 1907 and renovated in 2011, the hotel has retained many of its Wild West features. One such feature is the Lady in Red, a resident ghost who reportedly met her demise on the fifth floor of the hotel in the early 20th century. You can book the Lady in Red Suite and enjoy high-thread-count bedding and a claw-foot tub, all while potentially experiencing a haunting.
New Hampshire: Mount Washington Hotel
If you’re looking for a unique and potentially spooky experience, consider staying at the Mount Washington Hotel in Bretton Woods. Built in 1902 by businessman Joseph Stickney, the hotel is rumored to be haunted by his widow, Carolyn, who still roams the property. Guests have reported sightings of her descending the stairs for dinner and lights turning on and off in one of the towers. For the best chance of seeing her, stay in Room 314, where her four-poster maple bed still resides. Some guests have even reported waking up to find her sitting at the end of the bed, slowly brushing her hair.
New Jersey: Pine Barrens
The Pine Barrens of southern New Jersey is a dense forested area that is home to the legendary Jersey Devil. As the story goes, the Jersey Devil was the cursed 13th child of a woman named Mother Leeds, who transformed into a creature with leathery wings, horns, and a forked tail shortly after birth. The creature is said to have killed the midwife before flying away and disappearing into the Pine Barrens. Over the years, many sightings of the Jersey Devil have been reported in the Pine Barrens and nearby towns.
New Mexico: Roswell
If you are interested in extraterrestrial life, Roswell is a must-visit destination. In 1947, a rancher named Mac Brazel discovered unusual debris in his sheep pasture, which many believe to be from an alien spacecraft. Despite government officials attributing the wreckage to a weather balloon, the incident has become a popular topic of conspiracy theories. Today, Roswell is home to a UFO museum, UFO tours, and a UFO festival, making it a hub for those interested in all things extraterrestrial.
New York: Rolling Hills Asylum
Rolling Hills Asylum was originally established in 1827 as a poorhouse to cater to unwed mothers, widows, orphans, the disabled, and the mentally challenged. Over time, the building was expanded to accommodate the criminally insane, resulting in a peculiar blend of personalities. Today, it is considered one of the most haunted buildings in New York State, with paranormal activity detected throughout the property. The graveyard is one of the most chilling places, with around 1,700 bodies believed to be buried there, many in unmarked graves. Visitors have reported seeing a 7-foot-tall shadow man, thought to be the spirit of an inmate named Roy, who suffered from gigantism.
North Carolina: Biltmore Estate
The Biltmore Estate is a popular tourist destination in North Carolina, known for its stunning architecture and rich history. Built by George Vanderbilt between 1889 and 1895, the estate boasts 250 rooms, including a library where George spent much of his time. Some visitors have reported seeing George in the library, while others claim to have heard whispers of his name from his wife, Edith. The estate’s haunting reputation only adds to its allure, drawing visitors from all over the world.
North Dakota: Fort Abraham Lincoln
Fort Abraham Lincoln, located in what is now Bismarck, was once the home of Lt. Col. George Custer and his wife Libbie. The Custer home, which was built in 1873, burned down in 1874 but was reconstructed in 1989. The Fort is now a popular tourist attraction, offering historian-led tours of the grounds and buildings.
However, the Fort is also known for its paranormal activity. Visitors and interpreters have reported seeing a woman in a black dress looking out of a second-floor window of the Custer House. Footsteps can be heard pacing the sergeant’s quarters in the Barracks, and a shadowy figure has been spotted stalking the Commissary at night.
Despite the reported hauntings, visitors on tours are unlikely to hear about them from the historians. If you’re interested in the history of Fort Abraham Lincoln and the life of Lt. Col. George Custer, a visit to the Fort is a must-see.
Ohio: Ohio State Reformatory
The Ohio State Reformatory, located in Mansfield, is a former prison that opened in 1896. The prison is known for its impressive architecture and is the filming location for several movies, including The Shawshank Redemption. The prison features the world’s tallest freestanding steel cell block, which stands at six stories high. Originally, the cells were designed to hold only one prisoner, but overcrowding led to violence and disease, which ultimately led to the prison’s closure. Today, visitors can participate in ghost hunts and attend the special Halloween event called “Escape From Blood Prison.” Many visitors have reported seeing shadowy figures, hearing unexplained footsteps, and even being grabbed or scratched while on the property.
Oklahoma: Stone Lion Inn
If you’re looking for a unique and eerie experience, the Stone Lion Inn in Guthrie, Oklahoma is worth a visit. Originally built in 1907 as the home of F.E. Houghton, the mansion served as a mortuary for eight years during the family’s financial hardship. Today, it operates as a bed and breakfast, but the embalming table from the mortuary days still remains on display. The inn is believed to be haunted by the Houghton family, including their daughter Augusta who died of whooping cough. Guests have reported mysterious noises and sightings of F.E. himself, smoking his pipe.
Oregon: Heceta Head Lighthouse
If you’re looking for a unique bed and breakfast experience, consider staying at the Heceta Head Lighthouse in Florence. The old lightkeeper’s quarters have been converted into charming turn-of-the-century rooms. However, be warned that you might encounter Rue, the wife of former lighthouse keeper Frank DeRoy. Legend has it that Rue’s daughter died tragically during their time at the lighthouse. Guests have reported unexplained scents of flowers or rose perfume, as well as mysterious imprints on their beds as if someone had been sitting there just moments before.
Pennsylvania: Eastern State Penitentiary
Eastern State Penitentiary, located in Philadelphia, was a state-of-the-art facility when it opened in 1829. It housed some of America’s most notorious prisoners, including “Slick Willie” Sutton and “Scarface” Al Capone. The prison was designed to inspire penance in its inmates, but in reality, its harsh conditions and strict punishments drove many of them insane. The residents were kept in solitary confinement, strapped tightly to chairs for days at a time, and forced to wear heavy masks that prohibited communication with one another. The prison is now in a decaying state, and many believe that the grounds are haunted by former inmates. Tours of the facility are available daily, and during Halloween Nights in the fall, visitors can experience a haunted house within the cell blocks.
Rhode Island: Providence City Hall
If you ever find yourself at Providence City Hall, you may want to keep an eye out for the ghost of former mayor Thomas Doyle. According to reports from staff, strange occurrences such as elevators operating on their own, furniture moving by itself, and unexplained whispers in empty rooms have been attributed to his ghostly presence.
South Carolina: Dock Street Theatre
Dock Street Theatre, a working performance arts theater, has a fascinating history, dating back to 1736. Despite experiencing fires and an earthquake, it still stands tall. The theater is known to be one of the most haunted places in Charleston, with two ghosts believed to roam the premises. The first ghost is the spirit of the famous actor Junius Brutus Booth, father of John Wilkes Booth, the man who shot Abraham Lincoln. The second is a nameless ghost, thought to be a prostitute.
South Dakota: Historic Bullock Hotel
If you’re looking for a unique and spooky stay in Deadwood, the Historic Bullock Hotel is the perfect choice. This hotel is said to be haunted by the town’s first sheriff, Seth Bullock, with apparitions, cigar smoke, and unexplained movements reported by visitors and guests. The hotel has been restored to its original grandeur and features luxury accommodations, a restaurant, and a casino. The period decor and original details, such as the staircase and skylights, provide the perfect backdrop for a haunted stay.
Tennessee: Bell Witch Cave
If you’re a fan of spooky tales, the Bell Witch Cave in Tennessee is a must-visit destination. According to legend, the Bell family was haunted by the witch for years, with strange occurrences such as unexplained animal sightings and eerie noises in their home. The witch allegedly even caused the death of John Bell himself. Today, visitors can tour a replica of the Bell family’s cabin and explore the cave that’s said to be particularly haunted. Whether you’re a believer in the supernatural or not, the Bell Witch Cave is sure to give you chills and leave you with a memorable experience.
Texas: Grand Galvez
If you’re looking for a hotel with a rich history and a touch of mystery, then the Grand Galvez in Galveston, Texas is the place for you. This hotel, also known as the “Queen of the Gulf,” first opened its doors in 1911 and has since been added to the National Register of Historic Places. Legend has it that the fifth floor is haunted by the “Lovelorn Lady,” who took her own life in room 501 after hearing that her betrothed had died at sea. Guests have reported experiencing cold breezes, doors slamming, and flickering lights, adding to the hotel’s enigmatic atmosphere.
Utah: Old Tooele Hospital
The Old Tooele Hospital is a former nursing home that has gained notoriety as a haunted attraction. According to former nurses, the hospital is inhabited by three ghosts: a nurse in white, a man in black, and a little girl. For those brave enough to explore the property, ghost tours are available. The hospital is also home to Asylum 49, a “full-contact” haunted attraction where visitors may be touched, grabbed, or even carried off into another room by cast members. This attraction is not recommended for those who are easily frightened.
Vermont: Emily’s Bridge
If you’re looking for a spooky spot to visit in Stowe, Vermont, Emily’s Bridge (also known as Gold Brook Bridge) is a must-see. Legend has it that a young woman named Emily hung herself from the rafters after her lover failed to show up for their elopement. Visitors have reported strange occurrences such as scratch marks appearing on vehicles, hearing footsteps, and seeing a white apparition. Keep your eyes peeled for any paranormal activity when you visit this haunted bridge.
Virginia: Peyton Randolph House
The Peyton Randolph House, constructed in 1715 and restored in the 1900s, is one of the oldest homes in Williamsburg, Virginia. However, it is also known to be one of the most haunted places in the area. Legend has it that a slave named Eve cursed the house due to the cruel treatment she received. Since then, several tragic incidents have occurred on the property, including the death of a Civil War soldier with an unknown illness, a boy who fell from a tree, a girl who fell from a window, and two men who shot and killed each other during an argument.
Visitors to the house have reported strange occurrences, such as hearing unexplained voices, seeing objects move on their own, and feeling touched or pushed. The Peyton Randolph House is a must-visit for those interested in the paranormal and historical significance.
Washington: Port Townsend
Port Townsend is a historic Victorian seaport in the United States and is known for its haunted places. Manresa Castle, a hotel in the city, is believed to be haunted by a woman who appears in the window at times. Fort Worden, a former military base, is also known for strange sightings and unexplainable sounds. The Municipal Jail, located within the 1892 Historic City Hall, is one of the eeriest spots in the city. The jail’s solitary confinement cell has an 8-inch opening where food was passed and through which one detainee is believed to have escaped. The cell has iron bars and rotted wood floors, adding to its eerie atmosphere.
West Virginia: Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum
At its inception in 1864, the Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum was designed to accommodate a maximum of 250 patients. However, by the 1950s, the asylum was housing nearly 2,400 residents in overcrowded and inhumane conditions. Many patients were admitted without any signs of mental illness, but the cruel treatment and experimentation they endured often drove them insane. Today, the asylum is believed to be haunted by the spirits of these mistreated patients. Visitors have reported seeing apparitions and hearing unexplained sounds such as screams. Regular paranormal tours and ghost hunts are offered at the asylum for those brave enough to explore its haunted history.
Wisconsin: The Pfister Hotel
If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in Milwaukee, the Pfister Hotel is the place to be. This historic hotel, which opened in 1893, is known for its opulence and elegance. However, some guests have reported supernatural experiences during their stays. Bryce Harper, a baseball player for the Washington Nationals, claimed that his furniture and belongings moved while he was sleeping. Brandon Phillips of the Boston Red Sox also reported strange occurrences, such as his radio turning on by itself. Despite these spooky stories, the Pfister Hotel remains a popular destination for high-profile guests and baseball teams alike.
Wyoming: Fort Laramie
Fort Laramie, established in 1834 as a private fur trading fort, became the largest military post on the Northern Plains before its abandonment in 1890. The fort is known for its alleged haunting by several ghosts, including the “Lady in Green”. Legend has it that the headstrong daughter of the man running the post disappeared one day and now appears every seven years on the nearby Oregon Trail, dressed in green and riding a black stallion. Another spirit believed to haunt Fort Laramie is Old Bedlam, a cavalry officer who sometimes tells visitors to “be quiet!”.
