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Ghostly Destinations: The Top Haunted Spots in All 50 U.S. States

From historic hotels and battlefields haunted by the spirits of the past to eerie asylums and abandoned prisons, the allegedly haunted places on this list have one thing in common: a long history of unexplained occurrences and chilling legends. While skepticism may prevail, the allure of these sites is undeniable, drawing visitors and paranormal enthusiasts seeking to explore the mysteries that shroud them.

It’s essential to remember that the claims of haunting are often based on folklore, urban legends, and personal experiences, and scientific evidence is typically lacking. However, for those who dare to explore the shadows and seek a brush with the unknown, these places offer an opportunity to delve into the eerie side of American history and folklore. Join us on a journey across the country as we uncover the most haunted places in each of the 50 U.S. states.

Alabama – Sloss Furnaces, Birmingham

Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham Alabama
Photo credit: Jimmy Rooney // Shutterstock.com

Sloss Furnaces was an industrial complex known for its iron production. Workers reportedly suffered accidents and fatalities, leading to claims of paranormal activity. People have reported hearing ghostly voices, seeing apparitions, and experiencing unexplained events within the site.

Alaska – Historic Anchorage Hotel, Anchorage

ANCHORAGE, ALASKA, USA - SEP. 21, 2019: Anchorage downtown aerial view including Alaska Center for the Performing Arts, Town Square Park and Hilton Anchorage Hotel building at night in Anchorage.
Photo credit: Wangkun Jia // Shutterstock.com

Guests have reported various paranormal experiences, including apparitions, unexplained noises, and the feeling of being watched. Some claim to have encountered the spirit of a former hotel manager.

Arizona – Bird Cage Theatre, Tombstone

Bird Cage Theatre Arizona
Photo credit: Jeffrey M. Frank // Shutterstock.com

This former theater and saloon witnessed numerous violent incidents during the Wild West era. Visitors and staff have reported hearing ghostly laughter, and gunshots, and seeing apparitions of cowboys and ladies of the night.

Arkansas – Crescent Hotel, Eureka Springs

Crescent Hotel sits on top of a ridge in the Ozark Mountains in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Built in early 1900's hotel is an historical landmark.
Photo credit: Bonita R. Cheshier // Shutterstock.com

The Crescent Hotel is said to be haunted by several spirits, including a ghostly nurse who tends to patients, a stone-throwing poltergeist, and a gentleman in Victorian attire. The hotel’s history as a hospital for cancer patients adds to its eerie reputation.

California – The Queen Mary, Long Beach

Aerial view of RMS Queen Mary ocean liner, Long Beach, CA.
Photo credit: GagliardiPhotography // Shutterstock.com

Once a luxurious ocean liner, the Queen Mary is believed to be haunted by various spirits. Guests and staff have reported ghostly apparitions, unexplained sounds, and encounters with a lady in white and a sailor.

Colorado – Stanley Hotel, Estes Park

Estes Park, Colorado, USA - February 21, 2016: A close up front winter view of the famous Stanley Hotel at Estes Park, Colorado, USA.
Photo credit: MHalvorson // Shutterstock.com

The Stanley Hotel inspired Stephen King’s novel “The Shining.” Visitors have reported paranormal activity in many areas, including the sound of piano music when no one is playing, apparitions, and ghostly children playing in the hallways.

Connecticut – Union Cemetery, Easton

Photo of a very old, vintage, antique tombstone (headstone) at the historic Grove Street Cemetery, one of the oldest burial grounds in New Haven, Connecticut, USA.
Photo credit: Garrett Photos // Shutterstock.com

Union Cemetery is known for its “White Lady” legend. People claim to have seen a ghostly woman in a white dress wandering the cemetery. There have also been reports of orbs and mysterious lights.

Delaware – Fort Delaware, Delaware City

Delaware Fort in Delware state with water surrounded
Photo credit: somaphotography // Shutterstock.com

This Civil War-era fort is believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers and prisoners. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps, ghostly apparitions, and feeling sudden drops in temperature.

Florida – Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine

St. Augustine, Florida - December 31, 2022: Crowds inside the Castillo de San Marcos National Monument fort
Photo credit: melissamn // Shutterstock.com

This historic fort has a long history of battles and imprisonment. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied voices, and footsteps, and seeing ghostly apparitions of soldiers and prisoners.

Georgia – Moon River Brewing Company, Savannah

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA - January 8, 2016: Savannah is the oldest city in Georgia. From the historic architecture and parks to the beaches of Tybee, Savannah attracts millions of visitors annually.Important information Editorial Use Only. Interested in using Editorial content for commercial purposes? Our commercial license with Asset AssuranceTM may be available to offer the legal coverage and peace of mind you need. Photo Formats 3024 × 2016 pixels • 25.6 × 17.1 cm • DPI 300 • JPG 1000 × 667 pixels • 8.5 × 5.6 cm • DPI 300 • JPG 500 × 334 pixels • 4.2 × 2.8 cm • DPI 300 • JPG moon river brewing
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The brewery is located in a historic building with a history of violence and duels. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures, experiencing unexplained cold spots, and witnessing objects move on their own.

Hawaii – ‘Iolani Palace, Honolulu

Iolani Palace in Honolulu, Hawaii, US
Photo credit: Richie Chan // Shutterstock.com

‘Iolani Palace is said to be haunted by the spirit of Queen Liliuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii. Visitors and staff have reported hearing her voice and witnessing unexplained phenomena.

Idaho – Old Idaho State Penitentiary, Boise

Boise, Idaho, USA, July/26/2020: Exterior of Old Idaho Penitentiary State Historic Site
Photo credit: David R. Daniel // Shutterstock.com

This former prison saw its share of violence and death. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied voices, seeing shadowy figures, and experiencing eerie feelings throughout the site.

Illinois – Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery, Midlothian

Bachelor's Grove Cemetery at sunrise
Photo credit: Alfredoguzmar // Shutterstock.com

Bachelor’s Grove Cemetery is known for its eerie reputation. Visitors have reported ghostly apparitions, mysterious lights, and unexplained phenomena, including phantom vehicles.

Indiana – Hannah House, Indianapolis

Long exposure of Indianapolis skyline at night under full moon
Photo credit: Lou Taylor // Shutterstock.com

The Hannah House is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a former owner’s daughter who tragically died in a fire. Visitors have reported hearing her cries and witnessing paranormal activity.

Iowa – Villisca Axe Murder House, Villisca

Villisca. Iowa. USA.
Photo credit: SevenMaps // Shutterstock.com

This house is infamous for a gruesome murder in 1912. People claim to have encountered the spirits of the murder victims and hearing children’s voices and footsteps.

Kansas – The Brown Grand Theatre, Concordia

Arkansas City, Kansas United States - August 15 2021: the ticket window of a historic theater on the main street
Photo credit: Sabrina Janelle Gordon // Shutterstock.com

The Brown Grand Theatre is believed to be haunted by the spirit of its founder, Colonel Napoleon Bonaparte Brown. Guests have reported hearing unexplained noises and seeing apparitions.

Kentucky – Perryville Battlefield, Perryville

Civil war battlefield cannon on grounds of Perryville Battlefield State Historic Site, Kentucky
Photo credit: Jordan Kercheff // Shutterstock.com

As the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Civil War, Perryville Battlefield is said to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died there. Visitors have reported hearing ghostly voices and seeing apparitions.

Louisiana – Myrtles Plantation, St. Francisville

St. Francisville, USA – December 2, 2022 - Creole cottage style historic home and former antebellum Myrtles Plantation built in 1796 in St. Francisville, West Feliciana Parish, Louisiana
Photo credit: Nina Alizada // Shutterstock.com

The Myrtles Plantation is known for its ghostly tales, including the famous story of Chloe, a slave girl believed to haunt the premises. Guests have reported ghostly apparitions and strange occurrences.

Maine – Portland Head Light, Cape Elizabeth

Portland, Maine, USA at Portland Head Light.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

This iconic lighthouse in Cape Elizabeth is said to be haunted by the ghost of a former keeper named Joseph Wilson, who died under mysterious circumstances. Visitors and staff have reported hearing unexplained footsteps and experiencing strange occurrences.

Maryland – Antietam Battlefield, Sharpsburg

Sun rising behind artillery near a wheat field at Antietam National Battlefield in Sharpsburg, Maryland. The battle at Antietam was the bloodiest single-day battle in American history.
Photo credit: Adam Parent // Shutterstock.com

Antietam Battlefield is believed to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who perished during the Battle of Antietam. Visitors have reported hearing cannon fire, seeing apparitions, and sensing a heavy presence.

Massachusetts – The Lizzie Borden House, Fall River

FALL RIVER, MA –5 MAR 2022- View of the Lizzie Border murder house, now a bed and breakfast located in Fall River, Massachusetts.
Photo credit: EQRoy // Shutterstock.com

The Lizzie Borden House is infamous for the unsolved axe murders of Andrew and Abby Borden. Guests have reported experiencing paranormal activity and hearing voices in the house.

Michigan – Mackinac Island

Marina on Mackinac Island
Photo credit: Michael Deemer // Shutterstock.com

This picturesque island is known for its Victorian charm and history, but it’s also said to be home to numerous ghosts. Locations like the Mission Point Resort and the Island House Hotel are said to have ghostly inhabitants.

Minnesota -Wabasha Street Caves, St. Paul

Saint Paul, MN - Sept 15 2022: Wabasha Street Caves entrance
Photo credit: Joseph Creamer // Shutterstock.com

These caves have a history dating back to the Prohibition era when they were used for illegal activities. Many believe the spirits of gangsters and their victims still haunt the caves. There have been reports of ghostly figures, strange sounds, and eerie encounters.

Mississippi – Longwood Mansion, Natchez

Natchez, Mississippi, United States - July 19 2009: Longwood Plantation Octagon House, an Antebellum Victorian Octagonal Mansion.
Photo credit: Dietmar Rauscher // Shutterstock.com

Longwood is a stunning, unfinished mansion that was abandoned during the Civil War. It’s said to be haunted by the ghost of its builder, Dr. Haller Nutt, who died before its completion.

Missouri – Missouri State Penitentiary, Jefferson City

JEFFERSON CITY, MISSOURI - JULY 22: Cell block of the Missouri State Penitentiary on July 22, 2014 in Jefferson City, Missouri
Photo credit: Nagel Photography // Shutterstock.com

The Lemp Mansion is believed to be haunted by members of the Lemp family, who faced tragedy and misfortune. Guests have reported ghostly sightings, footsteps, and eerie experiences.

Montana – The Copper King Mansion, Butte

Butte, MT USA - December 28, 2020: Red brick exterior with white trim on the Copper King or W.A. Clark Mansion in Butte, Montana.
Photo credit: Teresa Otto // Shutterstock.com

This historic mansion is believed to be haunted by its former owner, William A. Clark. Visitors have reported hearing footsteps and experiencing paranormal activity in the mansion.

Nebraska – Nebraska State Capitol, Lincoln

State Capitol of Nebraska, Lincoln
Photo credit: Joseph Sohm // Shutterstock.com

The Nebraska State Capitol building is said to be haunted by the ghost of a construction worker who fell to his death during the building’s construction. Workers and visitors have reported hearing strange noises and witnessing ghostly apparitions.

Nevada – Goldfield Hotel, Goldfield

Exterior view of the Goldfield Hotel sign in Goldfield Nevada. The hotel is abandoned and supposedly haunted. July 4 2018 - Goldfield, NV
Editorial credit: melissamn / Shutterstock.com

The Goldfield Hotel is believed to be haunted by various spirits. Visitors have reported ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and encounters with the ghost of a young girl.

New Hampshire – The Pine Hill Cemetery, Hollis

Hollis New Hampshire Colonial Cemetary
Editorial credit: Chet Mitchell / Shutterstock.com

Pine Hill Cemetery is known for the “Blue Lady” legend. People claim to have seen the apparition of a woman in a blue dress and experienced eerie phenomena in the cemetery.

New Jersey – The Spy House, Port Monmouth

The US flag flies over the historic Seabrook Wilson house in Bayshore Waterfront Park in Monmouth County New Jersey.
Editorial credit: Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock.com

The Spy House, also known as the Seabrook-Wilson House, is believed to be haunted by the spirits of British spies and Revolutionary War soldiers. Visitors have reported paranormal activity.

New Mexico – St. James Hotel, Cimarron

Cimarron, New Mexico / USA - Nov. 6, 2016: The historic St. James Hotel in Cimarron, New Mexico
Editorial credit: PhotoTrippingAmerica / Shutterstock.com

The St. James Hotel is known for its Wild West history and ghostly tales. Guests have reported ghostly apparitions, unexplained noises, and encounters with famous historical figures’ spirits.

New York – The Amityville Horror House, Amityville

AMITYVILLE, NY, USA - September 23, 2022: Well known residential home located at 108 Ocean Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701. Address was originally 112 Ocean Avenue. Editorial use only.
Editorial credit: John Arehart / Shutterstock.com

The Amityville Horror House is a famous residence located at 112 Ocean Avenue in Amityville, New York, USA. It gained notoriety due to a series of supernatural events and alleged hauntings that were reported by the Lutz family, who lived in the house in 1975. These events became the basis for the book “The Amityville Horror” by Jay Anson, which was later adapted into a popular film series.

North Carolina – Brown Mountain Lights, Morganton

Light Through The Clouds. Taken Overlooking Maggie Valley Maggie Valley, situated in North Carolina’s stunning Great Smoky Mountains, close to Great Smoky Mountain.
Editorial credit: Jordan Hill Photography / Shutterstock.com

The Brown Mountain Lights are unexplained lights that appear over Brown Mountain. The phenomenon has been witnessed for centuries and remains a mystery. There are several legends and theories about the origin of the lights. Some believe they are the spirits of Cherokee maidens or the ghosts of ancient warriors, while others attribute them to more natural causes like atmospheric conditions or gases.

North Dakota – Chateau de Mores, Medora

Historic home built by the Marquis de Mores in 1883 as a hunting lodge and summer home for his family and guests. In Medora, North Dakota.
Editorial credit: Randy Runtsch / Shutterstock.com

Chateau de Mores is believed to be haunted by its original owner, Marquis de Mores, and his wife. Visitors have reported ghostly encounters and strange occurrences in the mansion.

Ohio – Ohio State Reformatory, Mansfield

Mansfield, OH /USA - 08-23-2013: Former Ohio State Reformatory, AKA Mansfield Reformatory, is historic prison used as setting for famous film, Shawshank Redemption.
Editorial credit: Sandra Foyt / Shutterstock.com

This former prison is known for its oppressive atmosphere and history of violence. Visitors have reported paranormal activity, including ghostly apparitions and unexplained sounds. The reformatory gained international recognition as a filming location for the 1994 movie “The Shawshank Redemption.”

Oklahoma – Skirvin Hotel, Oklahoma City

Oklahoma, AUG 16 2023 - Aerial view of The Skirvin Hilton Oklahoma City
Editorial credit: Kit Leong / Shutterstock.com

The Skirvin Hotel is believed to be haunted by the ghost of a maid named “Effie.” Guests have reported encountering Effie and experiencing paranormal activity in their rooms.

Oregon – The Geiser Grand Hotel, Baker City

Baker City, Oregon, USA - August 29th, 2020: Geiser Grand Hotel and Restaurant building in the city center
Editorial credit: Victoria Ditkovsky / Shutterstock.com

This grand hotel is known for its opulence and its share of ghostly guests. Guests have reported seeing a lady in white, hearing footsteps in empty hallways, and other eerie experiences.

Pennsylvania – Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia

Pennsylvania - Eastern State Penitentiary, Philadelphia
Editorial credit: Zack Frank / Shutterstock.com

Eastern State Penitentiary is famous for its haunting reputation. Visitors and investigators have reported ghostly sightings, footsteps, and eerie experiences in the abandoned prison.

Rhode Island – The White Horse Tavern, Newport

NEWPORT, RI, USA - APR. 19, 2015: White Horse Tavern was built in 1673, is the oldest continuously operating tarvern of the nation in Newport, Rhode Island RI, USA.
Editorial credit: Wangkun Jia / Shutterstock.com

This historic tavern, which dates back to 1673, is one of the oldest operating inns in the United States. It is rumored to be haunted by various spirits, including a former owner named Anne who allegedly roams the building.

South Carolina – Old Charleston Jail, Charleston

Front view of the Old City Jail, Charleston, South Carolina as taken on 17th May 2012.
Editorial credit: Sonicpuss / Shutterstock.com

The Old Charleston Jail is known for its harsh conditions and the spirits of former inmates. Visitors have reported paranormal activity, including ghostly apparitions and unexplained noises.

South Dakota – Bullock Hotel, Deadwood

Deadwood, South Dakota, USA, June 6, 2018: Tourists walk down mainstreet in Deadwood, South Dakota outside the Bullock hotel.
Editorial credit: Gary C. Tognoni / Shutterstock.com

The Bullock Hotel in Deadwood is believed to be haunted by its former owner, Seth Bullock. Guests have reported encountering Bullock’s spirit and experiencing paranormal phenomena.

Tennessee – The Bell Witch Cave, Adams

Tennessee - The Bell Witch Cave, Adams
Editorial credit: Wayne Hsieh78 / Shutterstock.com

The Bell Witch Cave is associated with the famous Bell Witch legend. Visitors have reported hearing disembodied voices, witnessing objects move, and experiencing other eerie occurrences.

Texas – The Alamo, San Antonio

Exterior view of the historic Alamo shortly after sunrise
Photo credit: Dean Fikar // Shutterstock.com

The Alamo is a historic site known for its pivotal role in Texas history. Some visitors have reported hearing ghostly sounds and encountering spirits of those who perished in the battle.

Utah – Rio Grande Depot, Salt Lake City

Rio Grande Depot building in Salt Lake City, Utah, USA - June 27, 2023. The Rio Grande Depot was constructed in 1910.
Editorial credit: JHVEPhoto / Shutterstock.com

The Rio Grande Depot is believed to be haunted by the spirits of former railroad workers. Employees and visitors have reported paranormal activity, including ghostly apparitions.

Vermont – Emily’s Bridge, Stowe

Stowe, Vermont, USA at Emily's Bridge with fall colors.
Editorial credit: Sean Pavone / Shutterstock.com

Emily’s Bridge, also known as Gold Brook Covered Bridge, is rumored to be haunted by the ghost of a jilted bride named Emily. People claim to have heard her sobbing and experienced eerie phenomena.

Virginia – St. Albans Sanatorium, Radford

Fairlawn, Virginia, USA, 2/16/2020 St. Albans Sanitarium and Haunted House on a sunny blue sky day.
Editorial credit: Jason Lincoln Lester / Shutterstock.com

St. Albans Sanatorium is a former mental hospital known for its paranormal activity. Visitors have reported ghostly apparitions, unexplained sounds, and eerie encounters.

Washington – Northern State Hospital, Sedro-Woolley

Haunted Mental Hospital at Northern State, Washington
Editorial credit: Nomad_Photo / Shutterstock.com

This former mental hospital in Sedro-Woolley is known for its haunting history. While the hospital is no longer in operation, visitors have reported seeing apparitions, hearing cries, and feeling a sense of unease.

West Virginia – Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, Weston

Weston, West Virginia, USA, Weston State Hospital, also called the Trans Allegheny Lunatic Asylum, the largest cut-stone building in the United States May 26, 2009
Editorial credit: Malachi Jacobs / Shutterstock.com

The Trans-Allegheny Lunatic Asylum is known for its dark history and reports of paranormal activity. Visitors have reported ghostly sightings, footsteps, and eerie feelings.

Wisconsin – Pabst Mansion, Milwaukee

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DEC 29: The Pabst Mansion Museum, building designed by architect George Bowman Ferry on Dec 29, 2011 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, USA.
Editorial credit: MaxyM / Shutterstock.com

This historic mansion was once home to the Pabst family, of Pabst Blue Ribbon beer fame. Some claim that the ghost of Captain Frederick Pabst himself haunts the mansion, as well as other apparitions. Visitors can arrange tours of this mansion in Milwaukee.

Wyoming – Wyoming Frontier Prison, Rawlins

Sunny exterior view of the Wyoming Frontier Prison Museum at Wyoming
Photo credit: Kit Leong // Shutterstock.com

The Wyoming Frontier Prison is believed to be haunted by former inmates and staff members. Visitors have reported hearing ghostly sounds and witnessing apparitions.

10 of the Most Haunted Homes in the World with Bone-Chilling Histories

An eerie long exposure nighttime image of the legendary and historic LaLaurie Mansion in the French Quarter at the corner - New Orleans, Louisiana, USA - April 29, 2019
Photo credit: JustPixs // Shutterstock.com

Grab your flashlights, hold your breath, and explore the world’s most ghostly haunted house stories. Those houses where residents claim that they heard screams and other unexplained noises.

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The 13 Most Terrifying Places on Earth

Creepy old dolls in the abandoned Island of the Dolls, Xochimilco, southern Mexico City
Editorial credit: CassielMx / Shutterstock.com

In the far corners of the world, there exist places that seem to defy the boundaries of reality, where darkness and mystery converge to create an eerie, spine-tingling atmosphere. These are the 13 scariest places on Earth, each with its own haunting tale to tell.

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Top 10 Scariest Haunted Attractions Around the World. Do You Dare to Visit?

Ghost hands open the wooden door from the inside of the old dark room. Filled with spider webs
Editorial credit: releon8211 / Shutterstock.com

The world is full of thrill-seekers. Some satisfy their thrill cravings by watching horror movies, while others like the in-person experience. On an online platform, people have shared the scariest haunted attractions worldwide that will give you jump scares and goosebumps. Are you ready, thrill-seekers? Let’s dive in. 

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Adventurers’ Top 13 Picks for the Creepiest Places in America

Garnet Ghost Town in montana
Photo credit: matthias_miller // Shutterstock.com

America has many creepy places that will open your eyes wide open and provide a serious thrill. Read to find the 13 ever-seen creepiest places in America.

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10 Bone-Chilling Stories of Exploring Abandoned Buildings

Volterra, Italy - December 2016: Abandoned psychiatric hospital. It was home to more than 6,000 mental patients but was shut down in 1978 because its practices were deemed cruel. Volterra, 2016
Photo credit: Alessio Catelli // Shutterstock.com

Exploring creepy and abandoned places has been a common hobby for some people. But sometimes, these explorations leave people with bad experiences that they remember throughout their life. Individuals have recently shared some horrible experiences they had exploring abandoned places on an online platform.

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